Bathroom Renovation Vol.1: Project Overview

Hey there u2014 DIY Dad here.

Starting the first-floor bathroom and laundry room renovation project. The room is at the top of the floor plan.

The floor plan.

The name “bathroom and laundry room” might make you picture just a sink and a changing area u2014 but in Japanese homes this space serves many roles: grooming storage, handwashing, laundry, changing, linen storage, and clothing storage all in one.

DIY Dad sat down and thought about what this family actually needs here. My wife’s top request: more storage. My own wish: a bigger vanity unit. So let’s see what we’re working with.

The room is sandwiched between the toilet and the bath u2014 no realistic way to knock through walls and expand the footprint. No layout changes. We’ll have to maximize storage within the existing space.

The plan: fit in both the vanity and the washing machine while squeezing out as much storage as possible. Here’s the full scope of work:

• Replace the rotted floor under the washing machine spot and finish with cushion flooring
• Replace the vanity unit
• Install a new washing machine drain pan
• Install a new under-floor storage compartment
• Replace all wall wallpaper
• Install a new ceiling access hatch
• Upgrade to wide-format switch plates
• Install the washing machine
• Install a slim storage rack and laundry stand between the vanity and washer

Ideally I’d have gone with a 900mm-wide vanity, but the space constraints mean settling for 750mm. To make up for it, I’m planning to fit a slim storage rack and laundry stand in the gap between the vanity and the washing machine u2014 both of which I already own from our previous apartment. That should help considerably with storage.

I’m also choosing a three-door mirrored medicine cabinet over a single mirror u2014 all three doors open to reveal shelving behind them, so it doubles as substantial storage. And the new under-floor compartment will add even more. Every dead space gets used.

If it turns out we need more, I can always add an overhead cabinet later u2014 I’ll hold off for now and see how my wife finds it over time.

That’s it for today u2014 see you next time!

u270fufe0f Originally published: November 23, 2016 (former Seesaa blog) / ud83dudd04 Rewritten: May 7, 2026

2026 Update from DIY Dad: How to Tackle a Bathroom Renovation

Bathroom and laundry rooms are trickier than other DIY projects because of the plumbing involved u2014 but if you know the key points, you can absolutely do it yourself.

The Full Scope of the Bathroom Renovation

• Remove switch and outlet cover plates
• Remove light fixtures and bath dryer control panel
• Remove and replace the vanity unit
• Replace wall wallpaper
• Replace floor cushion flooring
• Reinstall the bath dryer control panel

The trickiest part is the bath dryer control panel u2014 wired into the unit bath system, so incorrect wiring causes serious problems.

Removing the Bath Dryer Control Panel

• Turn off the circuit breaker
• Remove screws and ease the panel away from the wall
• Photograph the wiring extensively
• Label each wire with tape and a marker before disconnecting
• Reconnect in reverse order after the wallpaper is done

Choosing and Replacing a Vanity Unit

Dimensions are everything u2014 check depth, width, and height. Triple-check before ordering. Confirm supply and drain connection types as well.

What Matters Most (Landlord’s Perspective)

• Vanity with mirrored medicine cabinet for better storage
• Waterproof floor tiles last longer than cushion flooring
• Test the ventilation fan u2014 essential for mold prevention
• Caulk all joints thoroughly, especially around the vanity

After 15 years as a landlord: the cleanliness of the bathroom directly affects your occupancy rate. Tenants use this space every single day.

For Anyone Considering a Bathroom Renovation

Always confirm sizing and pipe types before starting u2014 a bad connection means an immediate leak.

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