Small bathroom renovation in old home in Sydney by Passion Built
- April 15, 2025
- Bathrooms

We were lucky enough to have our new bathroom fitted by Passion Built. The guys were super nice and the job was completed on time as agreed. Dylan and the team were professional, polite and courteous.
Good guys as well.
No problem at all with recommending them and to anyone.
Renovating a bathroom in an old home in Sydney
Passion Built is a licensed builder in Sydney that can renovate a bathroom in houses, apartments, townhouses, granny flats or commercial sites. For this apartment, Sydney, the scope of work given to our renovation team was given was to demolish the old bathroom, change the layout then build a new one.
The owner of this home wanted a new small bathroom design for their old home in Sydenham, Sydney, that was first built in 1960. The 1960’s interior design included dark brown floor tiles and very ornate fittings. The home owner wanted something more modern that included the replacement of an old combo bath & shower unit.
The interior design of this bathroom meant that we had to do some extra renovation work which included;
- Changing the plumbing and drainage.
- Building a new subfloor.
- Removing the old window.
- Dropping the ceiling to ensure a full tile down from the top of the roof could line up with the bottom of the window reveal.
- The use of epoxy grout for the tiling
- The installation of an electric opening window with touch screen control
All these intricate details can be included in a new bathroom renovation when you work closely with a renovation company like Passion Built. We can help you construct practically anything you like. It means you can create an incredible design that takes ideas from architects, designer homes or the latest renovation trends.
Given we are licensed builders we can also do things like remove or adjust walls, change ceilings or flooring and make major layout changes as well if they are needed. The design inspiration of this bathroom included New York style marble feature wall tiles laid in a vertical subway pattern, with subway floor tiles lined up to match the grout lines in the room from floor to wall.
Our bathroom renovation company in Sydney can completely renovate a bathroom to give it a more modern design. For this ensuite the existing layout was going to be retained with some slight changes to the plumbing & the wall where the old window was. So our renovation work was focussed on demolishing the old bathroom then re-instating everything using modern colours and materials.
We create the ability to custom build any type of bathroom design because we have licensed plumbers, builders, carpenters & tilers who work together to renovate any type of bathroom no matter what size or layout it is. We can even remove or adjust a wall if need be to create enough space so you can fit a bath tub, shower, toilet, washing machine and dryer – whatever you need really.
The products we installed in this bathroom included;
- ADP custom made wall hung vanity
- Greens tap ware and fixtures
- New York marble subway tiles
New subfloor for a bathroom renovation in an old home
Passion Built’s renovation scope of work included the full demolition of the old bathroom before we began any renovating. We stripped everything to get back to the bare brick walls so that could get access to the plumbing to make the required changes to the drainage as well as rebuilding the subfloor.
We also had to brick up the old window frame area and prepare the wall for the electric awning window that was going to be placed higher on the ceiling to let light into the bathroom. The benefit of doing this is it creates more usable wall space to install a larger vanity mirror and the new shower screen.
With all of that done it was onto the installation of the Greens Astro II Twin Rail Shower head in gunmetal, a custom made black ADP vanity, the Greens basin mixer & taps as well as the beautiful floor and wall tiles.
As mentioned earlier one of the materials specified was the epoxy grout which is becoming popular in modern bathroom renovations in Sydney. Here are some of the benefits of using this type of grout for your tiling;
- Resistance to water and stains: Epoxy grout is highly resistant to water and stains, which makes it ideal for use in wet areas such as showers and bathroom floors. It does not absorb moisture, which means it will not crack, discolour or develop mildew, making it a low-maintenance option.
- Durability: Epoxy grout is extremely durable and can last for many years without needing to be repaired or replaced. It is resistant to cracking, chipping, and fading, which makes it a great long-term investment.
- Versatility: Epoxy grout is available in a wide range of colours and can be used with different tile materials, including porcelain, ceramic, and natural stone. It can also be used for both indoor and outdoor applications, making it a versatile option.
- Easy to clean: Epoxy grout is easy to clean and maintain. It can be wiped down with a damp cloth or sponge, and does not require any special cleaning products.
- Aesthetics: Epoxy grout has a smooth, uniform appearance and can create a seamless finish between tiles. It also has a glossy finish, which can add an attractive shine to your bathroom design.
Changing the plumbing in an old home for a bathroom renovation
A lot of people think it is too hard to change the layout of their bathroom but it is actually quite easy. If you are just doing a simple makeover or a remodel then you are probably leaving everything where it is and just changing taps, new paint, new lighting and maybe a new vanity. It is a simple way to freshen up an old bathroom.
Although when you choose to do a complete bathroom renovation in Sydney you are starting with a blank sheet of paper and can then design anything you like. By completely demolishing your old bathroom you can get access to all the plumbing to be able to move pipes, tap locations, drain locations etc.
This means you can completely change the orientation and layout of your bathroom and install a toilet in a different corner of the room, have a larger vanity or even install a bath together with a shower. However, there are several things that you should consider before doing so:
- Cost: Changing the plumbing in your bathroom can be expensive, particularly if you need to move the location of your fixtures or change the layout of your pipes. You will need to budget accordingly and ensure that you have enough funds to cover the cost of the plumbing changes as well as the other aspects of your renovation. We can provide a quotation that outlines what it might cost and this will depend if the house is built on a concrete slab or timber floor boards as well as how extensive the changes are.
- Building codes and regulations: It is important to ensure that any changes you make to your bathroom plumbing comply with local building codes and regulations. You may need to obtain permits and have the work inspected by a licensed plumber or building inspector. This is particularly important for bathrooms getting renovated in units or apartments.
- Access to pipes: Depending on the age and design of your home, accessing the plumbing pipes in your bathroom may require additional work such as cutting through walls or floors. You will need to factor this into your renovation timeline and budget.
- Plumbing fixtures: If you plan to change the location of your plumbing fixtures such as your toilet, sink, or shower, you will need to ensure that the new locations are feasible and that there is adequate space to install them or more importantly, use them easily in their new placements.
- Timeline: Changing the plumbing in your bathroom can add time to your renovation project. You will need to factor in the additional time required for plumbing work when planning your renovation timeline.
Small bathroom renovation interior design ideas
Shallow vanity sink
Most people will choose a sink for their vanity that is quite deep, although when you think about it, why do you need a deep sink? By choosing to install a shallow sink in your bathroom you can save space under the countertop for extra storage while retaining the ability to catch water.
High mounted window
This has to be one of the smartest design choices for this bathroom renovation because it is so practical. Most windows in bathrooms are frosted to create privacy so therefore a large window isn’t used for the great view in most cases, but they do provide light.
By installing a high mounted window on the wall you can achieve your required natural lighting, but then gain the full use of the wall to install other furniture pieces. It creates more usable wall space while still getting natural light into the bathroom.
The use of an electric control means it can be opened easily to help with ventilation too.
Free site inspection, consultation & quote
It’s really easy to find out the cost to renovate. We offer an obligation free site inspection, consultation & written price quote so that you can work out all the costs before you commit to renovating.
Bathroom renovation before & after examples
If you would like to see more bathroom renovation examples, below are some more of the builds we have completed in Sydney. You can look through lots of photos and our design idea explanations to get inspiration for your bathroom. As you will see, each design is very different, proof that our renovation company can renovate any style or type of bathroom that you can dream of.
We are a bathroom renovator in Sydney that can custom design a bathroom in any size or shape, demolish your old rooms, then build a completely new one.

Apartment bathroom renovation to replace a bath with shower
A beautiful bathroom renovation in an apartment in Coogee, Sydney where we removed the old bath and replaced it with a walk in shower and Terrazzo-look tiles

Townhouse renovation in Padstow
A complete renovation on a townhouse in Padstow including the bathroom, kitchen and living areas

Making a bathroom larger & adding a toilet in Sydney
The owner of this home in Kogarah Bay wanted a bigger bathroom & to add a toilet. Our renovation included removing a wall and using the linen cupboard space, see how we did it
Get a new bathroom designed in your home
Designing a bathroom has never been easier with inspiration available from photos, interior design websites or videos. You can have a new custom designed and built bathroom for your house or apartment using inspiration from magazines, Pinterest or your interior designer.
New bathroom designs
Building a new bathroom or renovating an old one can definitely add value to your home, as long as the renovations are done properly and with the right materials. When considering a bathroom renovation, it’s important to ensure that you have all the necessary elements to make the space functional, including a shower, toilet, vanity and bathtub.
- A shower is a must-have for most people, as it provides a convenient and efficient way to get clean. Make sure to choose a shower that is large enough for two people and has enough headroom, if needed.
- Toilets are also important (no kidding right) and you should consider a model that is efficient, easy to clean and has a low profile to make the most of the space if there isn’t much room. Sometimes a concealed cistern system is a wise choice.
- Vanity units are essential for storing bathroom essentials and can be used to add extra counter space, too. Choose a vanity that matches the style of the bathroom and has enough storage space.
- Bathtubs can also add value to your home, especially if you have a larger family or enjoy relaxing in a warm bath. While they can take up a lot of space they are especially suited if the home needs to be used by a family with small children or it is placed in an ensuite to the main bedroom.
Choose your own materials
When renovating your bathroom, it is important to choose high-quality materials that are durable and attractive. This includes tiles, taps, shower heads and other fixtures. We always recommend a fresh coat of paint to give the space a new look and feel. Additionally, consider incorporating energy-efficient and eco-friendly features into your bathroom renovation, such as low-flow toilets, shower heads and taps which can help reduce water and energy usage.
These features not only help the environment, but can also lower your monthly bills.
Fixed price quotations
Regarding cost, bathroom renovations can range from a few thousand dollars for a basic renovation to tens of thousands for a complete overhaul. It is important to have a budget in mind and stick to it, so you don’t overspend. Renovating a bathroom to include a shower, toilet, vanity and bathtub can add value to your home, as long as the renovations are done properly and with the right materials.
Adding a bathroom with a combined laundry to a home can potentially add value to your home. However, the actual value added will depend on various factors such as the quality of the construction, the market demand in your area, and the overall appeal and functionality of the addition.
Here are some considerations:
- Increased Functionality: Adding a bathroom and a combined laundry to a garage can enhance the functionality of your home. This addition provides convenience and versatility, especially if there are no existing bathrooms or laundry facilities in the garage or nearby. It can be particularly attractive to potential buyers or renters who prioritise having these amenities readily available.
- Additional Living Space: Converting a garage into a usable space with a bathroom and laundry can effectively increase the liveable square footage of your home. This can be advantageous when it comes to property valuation and appeal. However, it’s important to note that converting a garage may impact the availability of covered parking, which could be a factor for some buyers.
- Market Demand: The demand for properties with additional bathrooms and laundry facilities can vary depending on the specific market conditions in your area. Research the local real estate market and consult with real estate professionals to understand the preferences and expectations of potential buyers or renters. Consider whether the addition aligns with the needs and desires of the target market.
- Quality and Design: The quality of the construction, finishes, and overall design of the added bathroom and laundry will significantly impact its value. Ensure that the space is well-designed, functional, and visually appealing. Using high-quality materials and fixtures will also contribute to the perceived value of the addition.
- Cost vs. Value: Consider the cost of the addition relative to the potential increase in property value. Evaluate whether the expenses involved in construction, permits, and any necessary modifications are justified by the potential return on investment. It’s advisable to get estimates from reputable contractors and compare them with the estimated increase in home value to make an informed decision.
Remember that adding value to a home is not solely dependent on a single renovation project. It’s essential to consider the overall condition of the property, its location, and other factors that influence market value. Conduct thorough research, consult with professionals, and weigh the costs and potential benefits to make an informed decision about renovating your bathroom.
Bathroom renovation contractor in Sydney
Renovations done in 21 days
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Renovate houses or units
Craftsmanship
We are known for our exceptional craftsmanship in creating modern, stylish, and trend-setting bathrooms. With an extensive background in bathroom construction, Passion Built specialises in catering to the unique preferences and needs of each client, ensuring the delivery of bespoke bathroom solutions for homes and units alike.
A spectrum of styles
Our expertise encompasses a broad spectrum of bathroom styles, allowing us to adeptly handle projects of any scale and complexity. Whether you envision a compact, efficient space or a luxurious, expansive bathroom, our team is equipped to bring your vision to life using a variety of high-quality materials. We take pride in our flexibility and creativity, ensuring that each project reflects the individuality and lifestyle of our clients.
Modern features
One of the hallmarks of Passion Built is our proficiency in incorporating modern features into our designs. This includes the construction of elegant walk-in showers and the installation of sophisticated free-standing baths, among other contemporary elements. These features not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your bathroom but also contribute to its functionality and comfort.

Design & construction
Understanding that a bathroom renovation is not just about aesthetics, we offer comprehensive services that encompass design, structural alterations, and full-scale construction. Our team works closely with you from the initial design phase, helping to conceptualise a layout that maximises space and efficiency. We are skilled in modifying floor plans, relocating walls, and even combining rooms to create a more spacious and inviting bathroom environment.
High standards
The demolition and construction phases are handled with the utmost professionalism and attention to detail. Our commitment to quality ensures that every aspect of the renovation, from the foundational work to the finishing touches, is executed to the highest standards. We coordinate all aspects of the project, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience for our clients.
Exceeding expectations
At Passion Built, we recognise that a bathroom is more than just a functional space; it is a personal retreat that should reflect your style and enhance your daily routine. Our dedication to excellence, coupled with our experience and versatility, makes us the ideal choice for transforming your bathroom into a space that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
Let us help you create a bathroom that is not just built, but passionately built to perfection.



