Planning a Bathroom Remodel in Houston? Start Here. 

A bathroom remodel is one of the most impactful ways to upgrade your Houston home, whether you live in a historic Heights bungalow or a contemporary townhome in Timbergrove.

However, great design doesn’t happen by accident, especially in Houston’s hot and humid climate. At Stearns Design Build, we’ve been remodeling homes in Texas for over 30 years, and we know what it takes to create bathrooms that are both beautiful and efficient, built to last. 

Here are seven essential considerations to guide your bathroom remodel in Houston: 

1. Ventilation: Don’t Skimp on Moisture Control 

Houston humidity is no joke. Without proper ventilation, bathrooms can quickly become a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Be sure to include: 

• A high-quality, quiet exhaust fan is properly vented to the outside. 

• Operable windows, when possible, especially in older homes. 

• Humidity sensors for automatic control. 

We often recommend fans with timers or integrated lighting to simplify daily use and ensure air circulation even after you leave the room. 

2. Tile Selection: Slip-Resistant and Durable ion: Don’t Skimp on Moisture Control 

Porcelain tile remains a favorite for its durability and water resistance. However, Houston homeowners should also consider slip resistance, especially if you’re planning an aging-in-place bathroom. Look for: 

• Matte finishes over glossy tiles. 

• Smaller tiles for shower floors (more grout lines = more traction). 

• Large format tiles for a clean, modern look with fewer seams. 

We can help you select tile that complements the architectural style of your home, whether it’s a mid-century ranch or a historic craftsman. 

3. Plumbing Layout: Efficiency Meets Elegance 

Older Houston homes often come with outdated plumbing. Updating your layout can improve function, but moving plumbing can increase costs. We work closely with you to weigh your priorities and help: 

• Determine if moving the toilet or shower is worth the investment. 

• Select water-saving fixtures without sacrificing performance. 

• Create layouts that feel spacious—even in small footprints. 

4. Lighting: Layer It Up 

Bathrooms in Houston homes often lack natural light, especially in townhomes or garden-style layouts. A layered lighting plan should include: 

• Overhead ambient lighting. 

• Task lighting at the vanity. 

• Accent lighting for architectural features or niches. 

We often incorporate dimmers for mood control and energy efficiency. LED fixtures also perform better in Houston’s heat compared to older incandescent bulbs. 

5. Storage That Works for You 

In older homes with limited square footage, storage becomes crucial. Consider: 

• Recessed medicine cabinets and wall niches. 

• Custom vanities with drawer organizers. 

• Tall linen cabinets to take advantage of vertical space. 

Houston homeowners often appreciate closed storage to reduce visual clutter and humidity exposure. 

6. Timeless Design, Houston Style 

Trends come and go, but we always recommend choosing materials and fixtures that will remain relevant for 10 years or more. In Houston, that might mean: 

• Natural tones and textures inspired by the Gulf Coast. 

• Statement tile in moderation. 

• Brass, matte black, or brushed nickel finishes that resist corrosion and offer character. 

We help you blend personality with practicality, especially if your home has historic or architectural significance. 

7. Plan for the Future (and the Climate) 

If you’re planning to stay in your home long-term, it’s wise to make your bathroom as future-proof as possible. That includes: 

• Walk-in or curbless showers. 

• Reinforced walls for grab bars (even if you don’t install them yet). 

• Anti-scald valves and thermostatic controls. 

Additionally, we build with Houston’s climate in mind—utilizing materials and construction techniques that withstand moisture, shifting soil, and temperature fluctuations. 

Not sure where to start with your bathroom remodel? Our expert bathroom remodeling guide guides you through everything so that you can move forward with confidence. Download here!

Ready to Remodel Your Houston Bathroom? 

Whether you’re updating a dated space or reimagining a bathroom from scratch, our design-build team brings decades of experience in Houston remodeling to the table. Let’s work together to create a bathroom that’s not only beautiful but also resilient, sustainable, and tailored to your lifestyle. 

Schedule a complimentary consultation with our Houston team today. 

Let’s design a bathroom you’ll love for years to come.