When designing a bathroom, remember that function is as important as aesthetic appeal.
When it comes to designing your bathroom, it's easy to become overwhelmed by all of the lighting, flooring and fixture options available. These choices can help you customize your space to your needs and tastes if you take the time to remember a few key considerations when planning your bathroom's design.
Efficiency
A primary goal in your bathroom design should be the overall flexibility and efficiency of your bathroom. This means giving consideration to the location and relationship of the elements within your bathroom. Linen closets or shelving that will house towels and bath or shower items should be located near the bath or shower to prevent having to move around your bathroom when wet. The location of light switches and electrical outlets should be located where they are most needed. An outlet near the vanity, for example, is a must. Also consider the size of your bathroom when selecting fixtures. A large tub and vanity in a small bathroom will leave very little manoeuvring space and your door will require a minimum of 32 inches of clearance in order to fully open.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Keep in mind when selecting your bathroom fixtures how easy they'll be to clean. Some surfaces are easier to maintain than others. Showers should be designed to drain fully to reduce the potential for mold and mildew. Although a cast iron tub is a beautiful element, it can be harder to clean than the more modern fiberglass or porcelain surfaces. Ensuring your bathroom has adequate ventilation will also aid in preventing buildup of mildew or mold. Textured flooring or carpeting in a bathroom will require more cleaning effort than smooth surfaces as well. Your plan should eliminate hard-to-reach places and utilize materials that don't require a host of special cleaning products.
Flooring
Flooring is perhaps one of the most difficult design choices to make when designing your bathroom. Remember that the floor will be wet frequently, so the surface of the flooring should be slip-resistant. There are some choices such as marble that aren't ideal for a bathroom. The glossy finish is extremely slippery and could be a hazard if you have children or older family members. Vinyl flooring is low maintenance and is available in a slip-resistant finish. Ceramic is also an ideal bathroom flooring choice that provides a waterproof surface that can be given a non-slip finish.
Plumbing
If you are remodeling an existing bathroom, remember that the location of the toilet waste and other plumbing may affect your overall design. In most homes, the toilet waste is in a fixed position and moving the toilet means you have to examine whether the waste is vertically or horizontally exiting the home. Your tub and shower may be moved as well, but again, the plumbing will have to be adapted to the new location. You may have to hire a plumber to do this part of your remodel and that can impact your overall design budget. It may be easier and less expensive to leave the toilet where it is and design your space around it.
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