Bathroom Buying Guide in Dublin

If your bathroom is old, awkward, or just not doing the job anymore, it might be time for a change. But buying a new bathroom in Dublin isn’t as simple as picking a few fixtures and calling a plumber. There’s layout to think about, water pressure, space, storage, and of course, the cost.

This guide breaks it all down clearly. From where to start, what to buy, and who to trust, here’s what you need to know before buying a new bathroom in Dublin.

Start with the space, not the style

Before thinking about tiles or taps, take a proper look at your current bathroom. Ask yourself a few simple questions:

Is the layout working?
Is there enough storage?
Does it feel cramped?
Where are the windows and radiators?
Where are the pipes running?

You might not need to move everything around. In many Dublin homes, keeping the toilet, sink and shower where they are saves on plumbing costs. But if the layout doesn’t work, now’s the time to change it.

Measure properly

One of the most common mistakes people make is guessing the space they have. Always measure the full floor area and wall height. Mark out where windows, doors, pipes and existing fixtures are. This will help you or your fitter make better choices.

If you’re replacing like for like, most standard-size fittings will do. But if you’re upgrading or want modern features like a freestanding bath or double sink, you’ll need to check if there’s enough room.

Think about how the bathroom is used

A family bathroom in a busy home is very different from a guest toilet or an ensuite in a one-bedroom flat. The bathroom has to match the people using it.

For example:

Families might need more storage, a bath for small kids, and easy-to-clean flooring
Couples might want a bigger shower and separate sinks
A main bathroom should feel spacious and practical
An ensuite might only need the basics done well

Knowing who will use it helps guide every decision after that.

Decide on your budget early

Prices for a bathroom can vary a lot depending on what you want. Some people do a simple update for under €4,000, while others spend €12,000 or more on high-end finishes and layouts.

Set a realistic figure and stick to it. A basic breakdown to keep in mind:

Fixtures and fittings: 30–40%
Tiling, flooring and finishes: 20–30%
Labour and installation: 30–40%
Unexpected extras: 10%

Always leave a bit of room in your budget for surprises. Sometimes there’s old pipework that needs fixing, or walls that need more prep work than expected.

What to include in your new bathroom

There are a few core items most people need. Here’s a quick list to help you decide what to include or upgrade:

Toilet (wall-hung or floor-mounted)
Basin and vanity unit
Shower (tray and screen, or walk-in)
Bath (standard or freestanding)
Taps and mixers
Mirror or mirror cabinet
Lighting (spotlights, LED mirrors, wall lights)
Heated towel rail or radiator
Extractor fan (essential in bathrooms without windows)

Choose fittings that match your water system. For example, if your water pressure is low, you might need specific taps or a pump for a power shower.

Choose your style – but keep it practical

It’s easy to get caught up in Pinterest and Instagram bathrooms, but keep your home and lifestyle in mind. Dublin houses come in all shapes and sizes, from tight terraced homes to new builds with spacious ensuites.

A few style tips:

Light colours make smaller bathrooms feel bigger
Wall-hung toilets and sinks create more floor space
Large tiles give a clean, modern look
Storage is just as important as style
Go easy on trends that might date quickly

Stick to a design that’s practical for everyday use. The wow factor matters, but comfort lasts longer.

Where to buy your bathroom in Dublin

There are lots of suppliers across Dublin offering full bathroom suites, parts, tiles, and furniture. Here are a few places that locals often use:

Tubs and Tiles (Santry, Ballymount)
TileStyle (Ballymount)
Sonas Bathrooms (Walkinstown)
Bath House (Coolock)
Davies (North Road)
Right Price Tiles (multiple locations)
B&Q or IKEA (for budget-friendly or DIY options)

Always compare quotes and check if prices include VAT and delivery. Some suppliers also offer design support or discounts if you’re buying everything together.

Finding a bathroom fitter in Dublin

Even the best bathroom suite will fall flat if the installation isn’t done right. Choose a local fitter with good reviews, proper insurance, and real experience with plumbing and tiling. Ask for examples of recent work, especially in similar properties.

Things to ask your fitter before they start:

Is all labour included in the quote?
Does the quote include removing the old bathroom?
Will they coordinate any electrical work needed?
How long will the job take?
Do they handle disposal of waste and rubble?
Are they comfortable with your chosen supplier or tiles?

A full bathroom usually takes five to seven working days to complete. Be wary of anyone promising it quicker unless it’s a very simple job.

What to expect during the work

Once the work begins, your bathroom will be out of action for a few days. It’s good to plan ahead if it’s your only toilet or shower. Make sure everything you ordered has arrived before your installer starts, as delays can be costly.

A standard fitting timeline might look like this:

Day 1–2: Remove old bathroom, prep floors and walls
Day 3–4: First fix plumbing and electrics, start tiling
Day 5–6: Fit new bathroom suite, finish tiling
Day 7: Seal, test everything, and clean up

Some delays are normal, but if things are running days behind, it’s worth checking in with your fitter.

Common mistakes to avoid

Here are a few things that can cause unnecessary headaches:

Buying a bathroom without measuring properly
Choosing style over practicality
Forgetting about water pressure and system compatibility
Picking tiles without checking slip rating or water resistance
Going for the cheapest quote without checking the fitter’s experience
Not leaving enough room for proper ventilation or extraction

Avoid these early, and the whole job will run much smoother.

Final checks before signing off

Before you hand over final payment, test everything. Turn on all taps, flush the toilet, test the shower pressure, check for leaks, and inspect the sealant lines. Look at the tiling in natural light to catch any gaps or issues. A good installer will have no problem walking through these checks with you.

Keep all receipts, guarantees and any product manuals in a safe place. You’ll need them if something ever goes wrong.

Buying a bathroom in Dublin – in summary

Getting a new bathroom fitted is one of the most satisfying changes you can make to your home. When done properly, it improves comfort, value, and even energy efficiency. It takes planning, patience and a bit of research, but it doesn’t need to be stressful.

Stick to these basic steps:

Measure up and plan your space
Set a realistic budget
Choose practical, quality fixtures
Use a reliable local fitter
Don’t rush the job

If you’re based in Dublin and looking for help choosing or fitting a new bathroom, speak to someone local who understands the common issues with older pipework, water pressure and tight spaces.

Get it done right the first time, and you won’t be thinking about your bathroom again for years.

FAQs

How much does a new bathroom cost in Dublin?

On average, a full bathroom replacement in Dublin costs between €5,000 and €10,000 depending on the size, quality of fittings, and labour involved. Budget options may come in lower, while luxury bathrooms can go higher.

Can I move the toilet or shower to a new spot?

Yes, but moving plumbing lines will add cost. It’s often more efficient to keep the layout similar unless there’s a strong reason to change it. Always check with your plumber or bathroom fitter before finalising your design.

Do I need planning permission to renovate a bathroom?

No, you don’t need planning permission to replace or upgrade a bathroom in your home, as long as you’re not extending or changing the external structure. However, if you live in a listed building, check with your local authority.

How long does it take to fit a new bathroom?

Most standard bathrooms take between 5 and 7 working days from start to finish. Complex layouts or large amounts of tiling may take longer. Always agree a realistic timeline with your fitter before work begins.

What’s the best type of flooring for a bathroom?

Porcelain tiles are a popular choice in Dublin homes as they’re water-resistant, hard-wearing, and easy to clean. LVT (luxury vinyl tile) is another option that’s warmer underfoot and less slippery.

Can I reuse my existing bath or toilet?

You can reuse items if they’re in good condition and compatible with your new layout. However, many homeowners prefer to upgrade everything at once for a cleaner finish and longer-lasting results.

How do I know if my water pressure is strong enough for a power shower?

Your plumber can carry out a simple pressure test. If the pressure is low, a pump may be needed. Dublin homes with gravity-fed systems often benefit from pressure boosters when upgrading to modern showers.

Should I tile the whole bathroom or just certain areas?

That depends on your style and budget. Many people tile wet areas like the shower and bath walls, and use paint or waterproof wall panels elsewhere. Full tiling gives a clean look but costs more in labour and materials.

What’s the most important thing to get right in a bathroom?

Good plumbing layout, proper waterproofing, and solid fitting work matter more than expensive tiles or taps. Focus on getting the structure right first. The finishes can always be upgraded later.

How do I find a reliable bathroom fitter in Dublin?

Ask for recommendations from neighbours, check online reviews, and always ask to see previous work. Make sure they’re insured, experienced with bathrooms, and able to coordinate plumbing, tiling, and electrics if needed.

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