90's bathroom renovation with floor-to-ceiling tiles

JohnPort

🖼️

The project:

After 30 years in our home, our bathroom was still stuck in the 90s and in need of a complete refresh. We wanted to create a modern retreat that felt calm and relaxing. It became a true family project, with all of us working every weekend for three months, and I’m so proud of what we achieved together. Finishing it in time for our daughter to get ready for her upcoming wedding made the renovation even more meaningful, turning a long‑overdue update into something special for our whole family.

- Materials:

https://www.bunnings.com.au/full-boar-1700w-18kg-30mm-hex-demolition-hammer-kit-fbdh-1650_p0096775

https://www.bunnings.com.au/earthwool-r5-0-ceiling-batt-210mm-x-580mm-x-1160mm-7-40m-11-pack_p0810605

https://www.bunnings.com.au/stanley-fatmax-xtreme-level-2-pack-60-200cm-fmht43684-1_p0848602

https://www.bunnings.com.au/bastion-20kg-concrete-mix_p0038287

https://www.bunnings.com.au/buildex-9g-x-32mm-class-3-fibre-cement-screws-500-pack_p0920030

https://www.bunnings.com.au/crommelin-15kg-pro-500-undertile-waterproofing-membrane_p0960532

https://www.bunnings.com.au/bremick-xtp-14g-x-50mm-t40-stainless-steel-316-bugle-batten-100-pack_p0575879

https://www.bunnings.com.au/james-hardie-1350-x-2400mm-6mm-3-24m-villaboard-lining_p0714263

https://www.bunnings.com.au/james-hardie-2-88m-villaboard-lining-2400-x-1200-x-6mm_p0714174

https://www.bunnings.com.au/siniat-30-x-2400mm-90-internal-angle-plaster-trim_p0730709

https://www.bunnings.com.au/diablo-6-5-x-165mm-rebar-demon-sds-plus-hammer-drill-bit_p0719437

https://www.bunnings.com.au/kango-80mm-cold-chisel_p0472216

https://www.bunnings.com.au/citeco-kneeling-board_p0479869

https://www.bunnings.com.au/taubmans-4l-white-easycoat-prep-sealer-and-undercoat_p0401022

https://www.bunnings.com.au/dunlop-310ml-white-matte-coloured-silicone_p0612072

https://www.bunnings.com.au/ryobi-18v-one-caulking-gun-tool-only_p0385366

https://www.bunnings.com.au/gyprock-csr-20kg-jointmaster-topping-compound_p0730841

https://www.bunnings.com.au/builders-edge-50mm-x-90m-plasterboard-fibreglass-joint-tape_p0730319

https://www.bunnings.com.au/maxisil-310ml-a2-white-acetic-cure-tile-silicone_p6652851

https://www.bunnings.com.au/davco-15kg-49-light-grey-sanitized-colourgrout_p6650022

https://www.bunnings.com.au/qep-10mm-x-3-0m-gold-l-shape-angle-tile-trim_p6650065

https://www.bunnings.com.au/dta-624-x-324-x-100mm-cflex-shower-wall-recess_p6710015

https://www.bunnings.com.au/dta-420-x-360-x-100mm-cflex-shower-wall-recess_p6710014

https://www.bunnings.com.au/91-x-18mm-2-7m-meranti-colonial-architrave-skirting_p0405033

- Tools:

• Demo tools: Demolition hammer, cold chisel, tile lifter, dust masks, heavy‑duty gloves
• Cutting tools: angle grinder, circular saw, multi‑tool, masonry blade (for slab cutting)
• Framing tools: spirit level, clamps, timber screws, drill/driver
• Carpentry tools: nail gun, hammer, square, measuring tape
• Insulation & sheeting tools: utility knife, screw gun, Villaboard screws
• Surface prep tools: gap filler gun, sanding blocks, sander
• Waterproofing tools: waterproofing brush/roller, primer applicator
• Finishing tools: paint rollers, brushes, caulking gun, stain and varnish applicators
• Installation tools: silicone gun, wrench, drill bits for fixtures

- Step 1:

Demolition

We removed all existing bathroom materials to prepare for the rebuild.

• Demolished walls and tiles
• Cleared old fixtures and fittings

- Step 2:

Structural & Slab Work

We opened the slab and corrected structural issues.

• Cut through slab for new plumbing routes
• Repaired timber framing
• Straightened and levelled all walls

- Step 3:

Plumbing Relocation

We repositioned all major plumbing to suit the new layout.

• Relocated drains for vanity, shower and bath
• Ensured correct fall and drainage alignment

- Step 4:

Feature Installations

We added new functional and design features.

• Installed niches for bath and shower
• Added insulation throughout
• Upgraded ceiling fan

- Step 5:

Wall & Ceiling Preparation

We rebuilt the internal surfaces for a smooth finish.

• Installed Villaboard on walls and ceiling
• Filled gaps and sanded walls

- Step 6:

Electrical Work

We upgraded lighting and electrical fittings.

• Installed downlights
• Fitted new electrical switches

- Step 7:

Waterproofing & Base Prep

We prepared the wet areas for tiling.

• Screeded shower base
• Applied waterproofing primer

- Step 8:

Painting & Carpentry

We completed the finishing touches before tiling.

• Painted ceiling
• Waterproofed walls and floor
• Installed architraves and window frames then stained and varnished

- Step 9:

Tiling & Sealing

We installed all tiles and ensured long-term protection.

• Laid tiles throughout
• Grouted and applied grout sealer

- Step 10:

Final Fit Out

We installed all new fixtures to complete the renovation.

• Installed bath, shower fittings, taps, vanity and shaving cabinet.

EricL

Hello @JohnPort

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your bathroom renovation project.

What a wonderful transformation! The new bathroom feels elegant, light and wonderfully relaxing, with the warm timber vanity, brushed brass fixtures and soft neutral tones all working beautifully together. Knowing it was a family effort over three months makes the finished result even more special, and what a lovely gift to have completed in time for your daughter's wedding. You should all be incredibly proud of what you've achieved.

Again, thank you for sharing such an amazing project.

Eric