Bathroom Remodel (2023): Downtown Brooklyn Case Study

Quick answer

This 2023 Downtown Brooklyn bathroom remodel replaced a dated tub and shower with a marble-tiled, glass-enclosed tub-shower, a new vanity, and updated fixtures and tile throughout. For a comparable full bathroom remodel today, homeowners should generally plan for about $40,000–$75,000 and 6–9 weeks of construction, depending on tile selections, fixture upgrades, and whether the existing layout changes.

The Project

A Full Bathroom Remodel in Downtown Brooklyn

The archived project media documents a complete bathroom remodel in a Downtown Brooklyn apartment, keeping the existing footprint while upgrading every surface and fixture. The dated tub and shower were removed down to the studs, waterproofed, and rebuilt with full-height marble subway tile and a frameless glass enclosure.

A new vanity, toilet, and lighting were installed to complete the space, with dark floor tile chosen to contrast the light marble walls and keep the compact bathroom feeling bright and clean.

Completed Work

Tub, Shower & Vanity Details

Illustrative completed-work views based on archived project media, showing the finished freestanding tub, glass shower, and double vanity.

Luxury Manhattan penthouse bathroom with freestanding tub, glass shower, double vanity, and skyline view

Penthouse bathroom double vanity and glass-enclosed shower with brass fixtures and city view

Freestanding soaking tub beside floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Manhattan skyline at sunset

Close-up of a marble double vanity with brass faucets in a Manhattan penthouse bathroom at sunset

What Was Involved

Rebuilding a Compact Bathroom Within Its Existing Footprint

Demolition and waterproofingThe existing tub, tile, and fixtures were removed and the wet area was rebuilt with a proper waterproofing membrane before any tile was set.
Marble tile and glass enclosureFull-height marble subway tile and a frameless sliding glass enclosure replaced the original tub surround.
New vanity and fixturesA white vanity, toilet, and updated plumbing fixtures were installed to match the refreshed finish palette.
Tile and flooringDark floor tile was set to contrast the marble walls and hide everyday wear in the compact space.
Finish details and lightingCorner shelving, a handheld shower, and updated lighting were added to round out the finished bathroom.

Cost & Timeline

Current Planning Ranges for a Similar Bathroom Remodel

Comparable scope	Current planning range	Construction time
Bathroom remodel keeping existing layout	$40,000–$55,000	About 6–7 weeks
Bathroom remodel with upgraded tile and fixtures	$55,000–$75,000+	About 7–9 weeks

These are current NYC planning ranges, not the private invoice for this 2023 project. Tile selections, fixture upgrades, and any hidden plumbing or waterproofing issues found during demolition can change both cost and schedule.

Five Steps

How a Bathroom Remodel Moves Forward

Assess the existing bathroomCheck for hidden water damage, aging plumbing, and ventilation before finalizing the scope.
Finalize tile and fixture selectionsConfirm tile, vanity, glass enclosure, and fixture choices before ordering materials.
Secure permitsFile for any Department of Buildings or plumbing permits required for fixture or layout changes.
Demolition and rebuildRemove the existing surfaces, waterproof the wet area, then install tile, the vanity, and fixtures.
Test and close outCheck water pressure, drainage, and the glass enclosure seal, then complete the final punch list.

For Homeowners

What to Confirm Before You Start

A bathroom remodel that keeps the existing layout is usually faster and less expensive than one that relocates plumbing. Before work begins, confirm whether your vanity, toilet, and shower can stay in their current positions, and have your contractor check for hidden water damage behind the existing tile before finalizing your budget.

Explore our bathroom renovation process, browse more NYC renovation case studies, see where we work, or request an on-site estimate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bathroom Remodel FAQs

How much does a full bathroom remodel cost in NYC?

Comparable full bathroom remodels currently plan around $40,000–$75,000, depending on tile selections, fixture upgrades, and whether plumbing or the layout changes.

How long does a bathroom remodel take?

Construction commonly takes about 6–9 weeks when the existing layout is kept. Moving plumbing or waiting on custom tile can extend the schedule.

Do I need a permit for a bathroom remodel?

A permit is generally required when plumbing fixtures are relocated or electrical circuits are added. Remodels that keep fixtures in their existing positions often qualify as cosmetic work.

Can I keep my existing tub and just update the tile?

It depends on the tub's condition and the waterproofing behind the existing tile. Many remodels replace both together, since removing tile without disturbing the tub is often impractical.