Plan a Bathroom That Works Beautifully, Every Day

Bathrooms are some of the hardest-working rooms in your home. They may be small in square footage, but they pack in the most decisions.

From cabinetry and tile to plumbing layout and fixtures, a well-planned bath remodel not only adds value, but transforms your daily routine into something smoother, simpler, and more enjoyable.

We’re here to help you design a space that feels just right with products that help bring it to life.

We specialize in the design and installation of cabinets, countertops, tile, and flooring and when it comes to plumbing, electrical, or other products for your bath, we connect you with our screened Contractor Referral Network so your project comes together seamlessly.

Why Planning Matters

Small Space. Big Decisions.

Every bathroom needs a smart, detailed plan with a team that knows how to make it all come together. Unlike other rooms in your home, bathrooms involve a unique combination of plumbing, electrical, tile layout, ventilation, lighting, and storage, all working together in a tight footprint.

Without a plan, it’s easy to:

  • Overspend on features that don’t solve the real issues
  • Choose finishes that won’t hold up to daily humidity or wear
  • Create a space that looks good…but doesn’t work well

That’s where we come in.

At Brunswick Kitchen & Bath, our team has helped hundreds of Brunswick County homeowners rethink their bathrooms and tile showers. 

We’ll help you:

  • Identify the best layout and features for your space
  • Prioritize your budget where it matters most
  • Avoid common mistakes that delay timelines or increase cost

Your bathroom might be small, but the transformation can be big.

Want help deciding what layout fits your home best?

Call us at 910.754.8364 or Email us at Info@BrunswickKitchenandBath.com to schedule a free consultation.

What Affects Price the Most?

Know What Drives Cost Before You Start

Bathrooms may be small, but the decisions add up fast and not just in square footage. From layout to tile selections, the choices you make will have a direct impact on your overall budget.

Here’s where most of your investment will go:

  • Cabinet Style & Construction
  • Countertop Material
  • Tile Selection & Layout
  • Plumbing Changes
  • Fixture Upgrades
Tip: Bathrooms may be compact, but planning them is not. Prioritize function first, then layer in style so every choice works for daily living.

Cabinet Style & Construction

Your vanity sets the tone for the space, both visually and financially.

  • Stock vanities are the most affordable and are great for quick upgrades or guest bathrooms.
  • Semi-custom vanities, like the ones we offer, provide better sizing, finishes, and functional upgrades like built-in organizers.
  • Fully custom cabinetry brings a premium look and perfect fit, but often at a higher price point or without the lifetime warranty.

Most of our clients land on semi-custom vanities as they deliver the right balance of style, storage, and price, with enough flexibility to make your bathroom both beautiful and functional.

Countertop Material

Your vanity top needs to handle constant water exposure, cosmetics, and daily use.

  • Quartz is a popular, durable, non-porous option for busy households.
  • Quartzite offers a natural stone look with more strength than marble.
  • Cultured marble offers integrated sink options and is often more budget-friendly.

In our showroom, quartz and quartzite are the top choices for bathroom countertops. They’re durable, easy to maintain, and available in colors and patterns that elevate any vanity style.

Tile Selection & Layout

Not all tile is priced equally and labor costs often increase with complexity.

  • Mosaics, stone, and decorative inlays elevate your space but require more time to install.
  • Large-format porcelain tile is often the most cost-effective and visually clean option.
  • Custom patterns (like herringbone) also increase labor time and trim requirements.

If you’re looking to save, reserve decorative tile for the shower niche or vanity wall.

Plumbing Changes

Keeping plumbing in place is one of the most effective ways to stay on budget.

  • Moving a toilet, tub, or shower often requires new rough-ins, permits, and extensive labor, especially in slab-foundation homes.
  • Upgrading fixtures without relocation still allows for visual and functional improvement with less disruption.

Fixture Upgrades

Your sinks, faucets, shower systems, and tubs make a big design impact, but can also add a big cost.

  • Freestanding tubs, rain showers, and wall-mounted faucets are luxurious, but often require structural and plumbing upgrades.
  • Smart toilets, touchless faucets, and dimmable lighting add modern convenience but require careful planning.
Tip: Keep plumbing in place whenever possible, as moving it can eat up a big portion of your budget quickly.

Vanities & Storage

The Vanity Sets the Tone and Solves the Clutter

Your vanity defines the style, flow, and functionality of your bathroom. And in many remodels, it’s the main source of storage so, the right vanity makes all the difference.

Stock Vanities

Stock vanities are an excellent choice for quick turnarounds. They come in standard widths (24″, 30″, 36″, etc.), with pre-set drawer and door configurations, and often include an integrated top.

  • Fast delivery and budget-friendly
  • Limited in size, finish, and storage options
  • Great for small baths or low-traffic areas
If you’re replacing an existing vanity in the same size, a stock option may be all you need.

Semi-Custom Vanities

Semi-custom vanities are the sweet spot for most bathroom remodels. They offer more finish choices, storage features, and sizing flexibility without the cost of full customization.

  • Choose your drawer/door layout, finish, and hardware
  • Add options like pull-out trays, tilt-out drawers, or linen towers
  • Made-to-order with moderate lead times

Semi-custom gives you flexibility and function especially useful in shared bathrooms or tight layouts.

Tip: Semi-custom vanities can be upgraded with custom hardware for a designer look without the custom price tag.

Fully Custom Vanities

Custom cabinetry is the best choice when you want a precise fit and a unique design. Perfect for awkward layouts, floating vanities, or creating built-in storage.

  • Endless options for style, finish, height, depth, and detailing
  • Allows for built-in hampers and tower storage
  • Higher cost and longer timelines, but completely tailored

We often recommend custom vanities in primary suites or aging-in-place remodels where long-term functionality matters most.

Want to explore styles, finishes, and configurations?

Call us at 910.754.8364 or Email us at Info@BrunswickKitchenandBath.com to schedule a free consultation.

Bathroom Countertops

Durable Surfaces That Handle Real Life, Beautifully

Your bathroom countertop sees water, soap, skincare, and toothpaste day in and day out. It needs to be beautiful, yes but also durable, low-maintenance, and scaled for the space.

Learn how to choose the right material for your vanity or makeup station.

Quartz

Quartz is one of the most popular bathroom countertop choices and for good reason. It’s non-porous, stain-resistant, and doesn’t require sealing.

  • Excellent for high-use bathrooms and kids’ spaces
  • Resists makeup, lotion, and water marks
  • Consistent coloring works well with modern and transitional vanities

Quartz is ideal for guest baths and family bathrooms where low maintenance is key.

Granite

Granite offers the beauty of natural stone with a high-end feel. Every slab is unique, which adds character but it does require regular sealing to resist stains and water marks.

  • Great for primary suites and luxury spaces
  • Handles heat (think curling irons) well
  • More variation in color and veining

We recommend darker granite finishes for a bold, grounded look in light-toned bathrooms.

Cultured Marble

Cultured marble is a cost-effective option that often includes integrated sinks, which makes cleaning easier and installation faster.

  • Seamless design with no undermount or caulk lines
  • Available in a variety of neutral tones and veining patterns
  • Typically used in budget-conscious or builder-grade projects

A smart upgrade from laminate with a smoother, cleaner finish.

Which Countertop Material Is Right for You?

Quartz, granite, marble, and quartzite each bring their own strengths to your bathroom remodel.
  • Quartz is non-porous and low maintenance with consistent color and patterning, making it a smart choice for vanities in busy households, rental properties, and guest baths.
  • Granite delivers a natural, one-of-a-kind look with excellent durability and resistance to everyday wear, perfect for primary baths and high-use spaces.
  • Cultured Marble offers timeless elegance with rich veining, though it requires regular sealing and care. It shines in powder rooms or design-focused bathrooms where beauty is the priority.
  •  
    Light-colored quartz is one of the most forgiving surfaces. It hides water spots better than darker polished finishes.

    Not all countertops are created equal.

    • Quartz is best for busy households that want durability and zero fuss in their bathroom vanities.
    • Granite adds bold character and stands up to daily use, perfect for primary baths and high traffic spaces.
    • Cultured Marble is prized for its elegance and veining, but it is more sensitive to water spots and etching, making it ideal for powder rooms or design driven baths.

    Want to compare countertop materials side by side?

    Call us at 910.754.8364 or Email us at Info@BrunswickKitchenandBath.com to schedule a free consultation.

    Tile & Flooring for Coastal Bathrooms

    Your Bathroom Floor Works Hard And So Should Your Tile

    The flooring and tile you choose in a bathroom set the tone for the entire space and have to stand up to daily wear, humidity, and cleaning. Our design team helps you choose materials that bring beauty and durability to both your floors and walls.

    Flooring Options for Bathrooms

    At Brunswick Kitchen & Bath, we offer five durable flooring options that hold up beautifully in the kinds of bathrooms we see every day. Ones that handle constant water, sandy feet, and the humidity of our coastal climate.

    Porcelain Tile is the most popular bathroom flooring material for a reason. It is durable, waterproof, and available in a huge range of looks.

    • Excellent for high traffic or full baths
    • Mimics stone, concrete, or even wood
    • Easy to clean and resistant to scratches

    In coastal homes, porcelain tile with a matte finish offers both safety and style.

    Ceramic Tile is a budget-friendly option with plenty of design flexibility.

    • Wide range of sizes and colors
    • Slightly less durable than porcelain but still waterproof
    • Best for powder rooms or low traffic baths

    A classic choice for vintage patterns, checkerboard layouts, or subway tile floors.

    Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is fully waterproof and warmer underfoot than tile, making it a great choice for upstairs bathrooms or spaces where comfort matters.

    • Fast installation and softer feel
    • Often more cost effective than tile
    • Wide variety of wood look finishes

    We often recommend LVP in family bathrooms where kids are barefoot and water is constant.

    Hybrid Resilient Flooring combines the durability of a rigid core with the comfort of vinyl, making it one of the most versatile waterproof options for bathrooms.

    • 100% waterproof with excellent dimensional stability
    • Rigid core resists dents and temperature changes
    • Available in wood and stone looks with realistic textures. A smart pick for bathrooms where you want the look of hardwood or stone with added comfort and performance in a humid coastal climate.

    Natural Stone (Marble, travertine, and slate) bring unmatched beauty but require sealing and regular maintenance.

      • Adds elegance and resale value
      • Unique variation in each tile
      • Requires slip resistant finishes or rugs for safety 

    Best used in primary suites or luxury guest bathrooms where style is the top priority.

     

    Shower & Wall Tile Options

    Glossy Ceramic

    Brightens the room and reflects light, great for walls and tub surrounds.

    Porcelain Wall Tile

    For a seamless, high-end finish across showers and accent walls, especially in large-format sizes.

    Mosaics

    Perfect for shower floors, niches, or accent bands. Adds grip and detail, but more grout = more maintenance.

    Natural Stone

    Striking in walk-in showers, but requires sealing and careful upkeep.

    Large format porcelain tile is popular in Wilmington and Brunswick County homes because it delivers a clean look and fewer grout lines, which means easier upkeep in our humid climate.

    Want help picking tile that’s beautiful and built to last?

    Call us at 910.754.8364 or Email us at Info@BrunswickKitchenandBath.com to schedule a free consultation.

    Tile Showers

    Make the Shower the Star of Your Bathroom

    A tiled shower often becomes the focal point of the bathroom. With the right design, it can turn daily routines into a spa-like experience while adding long-term value to your home.

    Why Homeowners Choose Tile Showers

    • Custom Design: From timeless subway to modern large-format porcelain, tile gives endless style possibilities.
    • Durability: Proper waterproofing makes tile showers last for decades.
    • Value: A tiled shower upgrade is one of the biggest resale draws in today’s market.
    • Flexibility: Fits compact bath layouts or can expand into luxurious walk-ins.

    Design Choices That Matter

    • Wall tile: porcelain, ceramic, or natural stone
    • Floor tile: small-format or mosaics for slip resistance
    • Accents: niches, benches, or decorative bands
    • Enclosures: frameless glass, partial walls, or curtains
    • Drain type: center vs. linear for both style and function

    Cost Considerations

    • Tile complexity and layout (straight stack vs. herringbone or mosaic)
    • Waterproofing system (a must-have investment)
    • Glass enclosures and trim packages
    • Labor intensity, which often accounts for the majority of cost

    In Brunswick County’s humid climate, porcelain is often preferred over natural stone. It’s easier to maintain and reduces the risk of mildew in grout lines.

    Ready to design a shower that transforms your bathroom?

    Call us at 910.754.8364 or Email us at Info@BrunswickKitchenandBath.com to schedule a free consultation.

    Fixtures & Features

    The Details That Make All the Difference

    Sinks, faucets, tubs, toilets: these are the elements you use every single day. Choosing the right pieces elevates your bathroom’s look and function, and it’s smart to select them early so your design flows seamlessly with layout and finishes.

    Sinks & Faucets

    Your sink and faucet choices influence both aesthetics and usability. 

    • Vessel sinks create height and sculptural appeal
    • Undermount sinks pair perfectly with stone countertops for easy cleanup
    • Faucet styles affect counter space and placement wall-mounted options free up room in compact baths

    Tubs

    The right tub can serve as a focal point.

    • Alcove tubs maximize use of smaller spaces
    • Freestanding tubs create sculptural appeal in larger baths
    • Drop-in tubs pair beautifully with decorative tile surrounds

    Toilets

    Even the most functional fixture has design considerations. 

    • Two-piece toilets are common and affordable
    • One-piece toilets offer a streamlined look
    • Comfort-height and dual-flush models improve accessibility and efficiency

    Pick your sink, faucet, tub and toilets early, since they directly impact vanity, tile, and countertop design choices.

    Want help choosing fixtures that fit your space and style?

    Call us at 910.754.8364 or Email us at Info@BrunswickKitchenandBath.com to schedule a free consultation.

    Lighting & Mirrors

    Function. Ambiance. Reflection. Done Right.

    Lighting is one of the most overlooked, but most important, parts of a bathroom remodel. It affects how the room feels and functions, from morning routines to evening wind-downs. Paired with the right mirror, your lighting choices can add style and warmth to even the smallest spaces.

    Vanity Lighting

    Good bathroom lighting starts at the mirror.

    • Horizontal bar lights above the mirror offer even top-down illumination
    • Vertical sconces on either side reduce shadows ideal for grooming
    • Dimmable fixtures allow for softer light in the evenings

    Avoid overhead-only lighting. It casts shadows that make daily tasks like shaving or makeup application harder.

    Mirror Options

    Your mirror is more than a place to check your reflection, it’s a design anchor.

    • Framed mirrors add warmth and visual interest
    • Backlit mirrors offer a modern, clean look with built-in lighting
    • Medicine cabinets provide hidden storage, perfect for smaller bathrooms
    • Full-width mirrors visually expand the space and reflect more light

    Want a contemporary look? Pair a floating vanity with a round backlit mirror for sleek symmetry.

    Ambient & Overhead Lighting

    Beyond the vanity, ambient light makes the space feel comfortable and well-balanced.

    • Recessed ceiling lights offer unobtrusive brightness
    • Flush mounts or semi-flush fixtures add style in larger rooms
    • Shower-rated recessed lights keep wet zones bright and safe

    Layering light (vanity, ambient, and accent) creates depth and flexibility in any size bathroom.

    Layered lighting (ambient, task, and accent) makes a small bathroom feel larger and more luxurious.

    Let us help you get the plan right, even before you shop.

    Call us at 910.754.8364 or Email us at Info@BrunswickKitchenandBath.com to schedule a free consultation.

    Tips & Planning Advice

    What Most People Forget (But Shouldn’t)

    There’s a lot to think about in a bathroom remodel but the best results come from planning ahead. Here are a few key considerations that can make your new bathroom easier to live with and more valuable in the long run.

    Tip 1: Plan for Storage Beyond the Vanity

    Towels, toiletries, cleaning supplies, they all need a place to go. Add a linen tower, recessed wall niche, or pull-out storage drawer to reduce clutter without sacrificing space.

    Tip 2: Choose Slip-Resistant Flooring

    Bathrooms are high-risk zones for slips and falls, especially when wet. Opt for matte, textured, or small-format tile on floors, especially in showers or spaces used by kids or older adults.

    Tip 3: Prioritize Proper Ventilation

    Humidity can cause mold, peeling paint, and premature grout failure. Always include an exhaust fan rated for your bathroom size (look for CFM specs).

    Tip 4: Add Smart Outlet Placement

    Think ahead about where you’ll need power. Install outlets near vanities for hairdryers and chargers, inside drawers for toothbrushes, and near the toilet if you’re planning a bidet seat.

    Tip 5: Think About the Future

    Even if you’re not remodeling for aging-in-place today, a few smart upgrades can save you a second remodel later. Consider comfort-height toilets, curbless showers, and grab-bar reinforcement behind the walls, even if you don’t install the bars now.

    Want us to walk you through these decisions?

    Call us at 910.754.8364 or Email us at Info@BrunswickKitchenandBath.com to schedule a free consultation.

    Ready to Plan Your Bath?

    Let’s Plan Your Bath Together

    Every bathroom remodel is different, but the best ones start with a plan. At Brunswick Kitchen & Bath, we help you navigate decisions with confidence. From vanities and countertops to tile and flooring, our team will help you create a bathroom that fits your life, your budget, and your style.

    For products and work outside of this scope, we’ll connect you with trusted contractors from our screened Referral Network, so you move forward knowing every detail is in expert hands.

    We’re here to make the process easier and the results better.

    Busy renovation seasons in Brunswick and Wilmington typically run spring through fall. Planning in the winter often means faster start dates and better scheduling flexibility.

    Ready to Start Mapping Out Your Remodel?

    Call us at 910.754.8364 or Email us at Info@BrunswickKitchenandBath.com to schedule a free consultation.