•Discover your bathroom tastes and needs.
•Learn how to personalize your space.

"Out with the old, in with the new." Such is the mantra of a homeowner looking to remodel. But it's possible not everything has to go. Perhaps a better saying would be "Out with the bad, in with the good."

Before you begin your remodeling project, take time to identify the features you do and don't like in your current bathroom. Figure out where your bathroom falls short, and you'll go further toward planning a bathroom that meets all your needs.

First things first...

Determine who will be using the space, and how they will use it. A kid's bath may need different features than a bath used primarily for a retiree. Likewise, a bath used by the entire family will need to please everyone.

Choosing fixtures

Do your current fixtures reflect the preferences of those using the bathroom? If you rarely take baths, you might consider upgrading to a luxury shower. Is the sink too high for kids to reach? Or perhaps the guest bath toilet is too low for resident grandparents. Tailor your fixtures to fit the bathroom's users.

Creating space

Does your bathroom make the most of the existing space? Measure the room's dimensions and decide what you want and what you need. Storage space is a necessity, and might take precedence over excess floor space. If you're looking for more open space, remove large wall and floor storage and opt for a smaller solution, like a petite vanity or a mirrored medicine cabinet. If you have the time and budget, annex an adjacent closet or hallway to expand the space.

Easy to clean

Consider choosing products that help facilitate easy cleanup, such as an undercounter sink and a sleekly designed toilet.

Ventilation

Assess your current ventilation system. Does the room feel damp after a shower or bath? Accumulated moisture can result not only in steamy mirrors, but also mildew on tile, loose wallpaper and blistering paint.

Lighting

Is the lighting sufficient for specific grooming tasks, overall ambience and safety? Would motion sensors or nightlights be helpful? Make sure your bathroom gives sufficient light where and when you need it.