Bathroom Design Ideas

A new bathroom is a significant project in the scheme of house renovation and re-designs, so don’t jump into it without ample thought and research.

Don’t underestimate the areas that you need to think about and consider. When I was renovating our bathroom there were so many considerations I wasn’t able to list them in order of importance, instead I initially focused on the overall look and ambience that I wanted to create; that is a great place to start your research if you haven’t already established your new look. The second area to consider is plumbing as costs can mount quickly when moving a bathroom to the other side of the house.

Do you want a sleek ultra-modern shiny look with a lot of chrome and glass? Perhaps if you have an older house and the French Country or the Shabby Chic style is more the look you would like to portray. Either way, the points you will need to consider are still the same.

I have listed below some areas that really need to be considered when researching bathroom design.

Flooring: A hardwood floor can look great in a bathroom, but consider the implications if the bath overflows, or just the general day to day wet and steam a bathroom produces. In colder climates some homeowners prefer a bathroom-specific carpet, yet in the warmer climates, usually only floor tiles would be considered.

Lighting: Whilst most bathrooms contain recessed lights, or a combination heat/fan/light system, don’t go past a glorious chandelier. I renovated my small bathroom with an all white look with a large crystal chandelier hanging down. It offers a dramatic look that works with a modern style as well as the French Country and Shabby Chic look.

Don’t forget natural light as well. Perhaps during this bathroom renovation it is the time to install a larger window in the bathroom to allow in more light and ventilation.

Walls: Most homeowners opt for wall tiles either floor to ceiling or half way up. If you are after a more dramatic look why not think about some funky wallpaper, just ensure that you don’t use an uncoated paper as it will not last the distance.Re-tiling a room yearly really is not an option, however re-wallpapering a room is.

Bath Tub: Do you want a separate bath tub from shower, or do you need to put the shower over the tub?The variety of bath tubs on the market today is fantastic, no matter the style of your bathroom there will be a beautiful bath to suit. Remember all those sunken baths in the 70s, maybe they’ll make a comeback? Whatever bath tub you decide on, do your research and look at all options before making your decision.

Bath Tub & Basin Faucets: Where do you start to think about this vital component of your new bathroom? I think the best place is to decide what you want the faucets and taps made from – chrome, brass, aged brass, etc. That will then narrow down your options.Also, just because the first two options you looked at were $500 each, don't think that all faucets are that price.Research always pays off, and I am sure you will be able to source what you need within your budget. Having said that make sure they are made to a quality that will last the distance.

Toilet: Is the toilet going to be in the bathroom, or does space allow you to install it in a separate room? The most important aspect of this decision is the plumbing. Will new plumbing have to be laid?

Electrical Outlets: How many do you need and where do you want them?Shaver sockets need to also be considered. Ensure that you comply with local regulations regarding the distance required between water outlets and sockets as water and electricity definitely don’t mix. Some countries won’t even allow electrical sockets in the bathroom, so ensure you know your local laws.

Storage: Think about what you plan to store in your bathroom. Will the towels need to be housed there or do you have a linen cupboard for them? If toiletries are all you need to consider with bathroom storage, then consider a vanity with draws and cupboards underneath. If you are one of the lucky ones with a large bathroom space, then consider built-in cupboard to hide everything away, or even an elegant armoire of you have a vintage style bathroom.

I dream of the day I can have a bathroom the size of a large bedroom complete with open fireplace, a large claw foot bath in the middle of the room and a big comfy sofa … ah keep dreaming.