For many years, a completely fitted bathroom was for the wealthy; it was only until the mid-20th century that this room became universal and still it was mainly a damp cold room just serving its purpose! Thanks to modern technology and the availability of new materials a bathroom has become a room where one can feel pampered. Whether it is the use of a rain shower or a jetted bathtub, the advance in technology makes this possible; taps are more efficient and available in different styles whereas rooms may be easily heated. The numerous varieties of wall and floor materials together with the different styles of bathroom fixtures expand the design possibilities for aesthetics, comfort and efficiency.
The bathroom has indeed become one of the most important rooms of the house as it is the room where one can switch off and wash away all the stress of the day; the following are tips you should consider when designing a bathroom.
1.The bathroom style and your needs;
The décor should complement and reflect the design scheme of the rest of the house. What effect are you after; do you want to relax and take long baths or would you rather take an invigorating shower…or both?! Your needs will determine what fixtures you require for example a separate bath and shower or combined? Is this the main bathroom you are designing or the en-suite? Both rooms need storage space but if the main bathroom will be used by the majority of the family members then it is obvious that more storage space is required in this room.
2.The space and planning
Now that you have listed all your requirements, you need to measure out and draw up a plan of your room. You can find online models where you can print out fixtures to scale. I always use this method with my students and it works😊 Cut out the models to the same scale of your plan and start shifting the fixtures on your plan. This way you will know whether you may fit all your wish list or not! Do you have enough space to cater for you list? If not start prioritizing and be realistic! Would you need to carry out any plumbing or structural alterations to fit in your requirements? If so would you still be within your budget?
pic taken from clubhousebarberini
3.Surfaces and Lighting
The surfaces with which you cover your floors and walls will heave a significant impact on the bathroom’s atmosphere. There are ample materials to choose from such as ceramic tiles [with different patterns, colours and textures], glass tiles, glass, granite, concrete, slate, paint and the list goes on.
A bathroom needs both task lighting and ambient lighting. Therefore, you need bright light for clear illumination and subtle warm light for relaxation.
pic taken from clubhousebarberini
4.Fixtures and appliances
You are spoilt for choice as these come in any shape, finish, dimension or colour. Your activities will determine what you should opt for. Be realistic; some materials are more practical than others.
5.Storage and accessories
Bathroom storage is essential for making day to day items accessible; ideally you provide space for clean towels and dirty linen and other toiletries that are used daily.
Accessories add-on that extra touch to the room make it look complete!
pic taken from clubhousebarberini
