10 Bathroom Renovation Ideas in Auckland: Small Space, Big Impact: My Top 10 Auckland Bathroom Ideas

One of my most memorable renovation moments happened about six years ago in Ponsonby. A client asked if we could fit a freestanding bath, double vanity, AND a walk-in shower into a tiny 3m² ensuite. I nearly choked on my flat white — but in the end, the challenge taught me that small spaces can spark the biggest creativity. In this article, I’m sharing my personal top 10 bathroom renovation ideas in Auckland, drawn from real projects I’ve worked on, where clever design made all the difference (you can see how I plan tricky spaces using my go-to room layout mockups).

1. Go Vertical with Storage

When floor space is tight, walls are your best friend. I often install recessed shelves between studs or run cabinetry right up to the ceiling. It keeps clutter off the floor and lets the bathroom breathe a little. The downside? You’ll need a skilled installer, especially for older Auckland villas with wonky walls.

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2. Floating Vanities

I love the sleek look and easy cleaning under a floating vanity. In many Grey Lynn renovations, this not only made the room seem larger but also allowed me to sneak in under-vanity LED strips for night-time ambience.

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3. Frameless Glass Showers

Clear glass visually extends the room. It’s a lifesaver in narrow bathrooms but be prepared for more frequent cleaning to keep water spots at bay.

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4. Light Colour Palette

Soft whites, warm greys, and pale timbers bounce light and create a calm, airy feeling. In Auckland’s sometimes gloomy winters, this makes a big difference. I mix in textured tiles so it doesn’t feel sterile.

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5. Smart Layout Planning

Before swinging a hammer, I map out every fixture position to maximise both movement and comfort. For a recent Devonport remodel, careful placement transformed a cramped box into a functional retreat — and my favourite trick was using a simple online floor plan to visualise options with the client in real time.

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6. Statement Lighting

No more single ceiling bulbs! I use layered lighting: recessed downlights for function, wall sconces for mood, and if space permits, a small pendant for personality.

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7. Heated Towel Rails

It’s pure Auckland winter bliss to wrap yourself in a warm towel. They also help with drying, which reduces dampness in small spaces.

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8. Large-Format Tiles

Fewer grout lines mean a cleaner, less cluttered look. In one Kingsland project, oversized tiles made the 2m-wide bathroom feel almost double its size — the trick is perfect alignment.

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9. Custom Shower Niches

They’re more elegant than corner caddies, and you can tile them to match or contrast with your walls. Just make sure the tiler gets the slope right so water drains properly. I once had to redo a niche because it became a tiny swimming pool for shampoo bottles!

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10. Underfloor Heating

It’s a little indulgence that’s worth every cent during cold mornings. Plus, it helps moisture evaporate faster, keeping mould at bay. For a recent bathroom in Mt Eden, pairing heated floors with a well-placed bathroom design preview meant we got the layout perfect before committing to materials.

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FAQ

Q: How much does a bathroom renovation in Auckland cost?

A: For a small to mid-sized bathroom, you can expect anywhere from NZ$15,000–$30,000, depending on finishes and fittings.

Q: How long does it take?

A: Typically 3–5 weeks for a standard remodel, but allow extra if you’re reconfiguring plumbing or dealing with older homes.