Bathroom renovation based on a design project: is it worth paying extra?

Bathroom renovation is one of the most expensive stages of home renovation. And when it comes to design projects, many people in Georgia ask themselves: is it worth paying more if you can “figure it out yourself”? This article provides figures, examples, comparisons, and tips to help you make a decision.

Advantages of bathroom renovation based on a design project

Over the past 2—3 years, demand for projects has grown in Tbilisi and Batumi — and not by accident. A well‐thought‐out design saves materials, time, and nerves.

1. Accurate visualization. You can see the result in advance — from the tiles to the placement of the plumbing fixtures. Important: in small bathrooms (3—4 m², typical for Tbilisi), the right layout saves up to 1 m² of usable space.
2. Detailed diagrams for craftsmen. A design makes it easier for the contractor to work: fewer mistakes, fewer “reworks,” fewer disputes.
3. Budget optimization. The designer selects affordable materials and shows where you can save money without compromising on quality.
4. Solving complex problems. For example: moving a riser, replacing a bathtub with a shower, hidden utilities. This is especially relevant in older houses in Tbilisi.

How much does a bathroom design project cost in Georgia?

The price depends on the company and the level of detail.

How long does it take?

• Basic project: 5—7 days.
• Full project: 10—14 days.

Cost of bathroom renovation with and without a project

To understand whether it is worth overpaying for a project, let’s compare the total costs.

Sometimes the project slightly increases the overall budget, but:

• fewer mistakes,
• accurate calculation of materials,
• time savings on construction,
• high‐quality results.

In 8 out of 10 cases, clients in Tbilisi say that the project paid for itself during the work.

When a design project is essential

1. Small space. Bathrooms measuring 2.5—4 m² are typical for older areas of Tbilisi, where layout mistakes can be critical.
2. Complex solutions. Underfloor heating, concealed installations, built‐in niches.
3. Expensive materials. When tiles cost 60—120 ₾/m², any mistake hits the budget hard.
4. You plan to rent out the apartment. Beautiful and functional bathrooms increase the rental value in Batumi and Tbilisi.

When you can do without a project

• Simple finishing without redevelopment.
• Budget up to 2500—3000 ₾.
• Standard solutions when you want “what’s in the photo.”

But it’s important to note that even in these cases, it’s advisable to make a layout and calculate the materials.

Mini‐cases from Tbilisi and Batumi

Case 1: Tbilisi, Saburtalo — small bathroom, 3.2 m²

1. Without a plan, the contractor started laying tiles by eye, resulting in misaligned joints and the need for rework.
2. Cost of correction: +420 ₾.
3. Result: we ordered a plan and saved 150 ₾ on materials.

Case 2: Batumi, apartment for rent

1. We created a design for 700 ₾.
2. Thanks to careful planning and proper lighting, the rental price increased by 70 ₾/month.
3. The design paid for itself in 10 months.

Common mistakes when renovating a bathroom without a plan

• Incorrect dimensions for cabinets and plumbing fixtures.
• Incorrect placement of electrical outlets and moisture protection.
• Complex tile patterns chosen “from a photo.”
• Poorly designed floor slope in the shower.
• Lack of technical drawings for contractors.

How to choose a designer or company in Georgia

What to look for:

1. Portfolio of real projects — preferably in Georgia.
2. Clear budget solutions, not just expensive options.
3. Detailed drawings, not just visualizations.
4. Guarantees to correct errors in the project.
5. Communication with craftsmen — is the designer willing to interact with builders?

Tips:

• Ask for examples of estimates and diagrams.
• Check how the designer solved small rooms — this is the most indicative point.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)