Homeowners in Marin and Sonoma counties often regret remodeling one bathroom at a time, according to Design Build Specialists, a design-build firm with over 40 years of experience in the region. The company has completed more than 500 bathroom remodeling projects and frequently sees clients return for a second bathroom just years after finishing the first, only to reopen walls and pay again for setup and permits.
The firm points to the area's housing stock, much of which was built between the 1940s and 1980s, where bathrooms often share plumbing cores or wet walls. When one bathroom is remodeled, the plumbing for the other is often exposed and of similar age, meaning problems like corroded supply lines or failing drains are likely to recur. Coordinating two or more bathroom projects can reduce duplicated overhead: demolition, containment, permits, plumbing rough-in, and tile orders can be consolidated. Homeowners also face only one disruption period instead of two.
However, the company notes that combining projects isn't always advisable. Homes with only two bathrooms may need one to remain functional, requiring staged work. Budget timing also matters, as Marin bathroom remodels can range from $18,000 to over $100,000. Design Build Specialists offers multi-bathroom remodel planning as a standalone service to help homeowners make informed decisions before committing to construction.
The firm emphasizes that a coordinated approach allows for cohesive design across bathrooms without matching everything, and helps divide functions deliberately, such as keeping a tub in the guest bath while adding a curbless shower in the primary. It also warns of common surprises like subfloor rot and outdated venting, which can be addressed in one change order rather than two when projects are combined. With over 700 water damage restoration projects completed, the firm is familiar with the hidden issues that bathrooms can conceal.
For those considering a multi-bathroom project, Design Build Specialists recommends starting with a plan rather than a bid. The company's Clarity Plan service establishes scope, cost, and sequencing without obligation. Homeowners can visit the Design Build office to discuss their home's specific needs. With a focus on existing homes and a track record of over 6,000 clients, the firm aims to help homeowners avoid the common regret of opening the same wall twice.
