Basic
Personal spa or repository for old wet towels? The bathroom makeover begins with the practical and progresses to the sublime. Real considerations for bathroom design are plumbing layouts, necessary functions, space, location and who will use it. The perfect shower curtain really belongs last on the list when you are designing a new or renovated bathroom.
Plumbing Sets Parameters
The existence of plumbing or architectural features that can't be moved will determine the layout of the bathroom. If a new bathroom or extensive renovation permits design freedom, then the only restriction is building codes. Be sure your contractor --- or you --- follow them to avoid costly do-overs. If you are locating fixtures according to the plumbing already there, changing the style of the fixtures could give you a whole new look. A window is another design driver that might dictate placement of the fixtures. Consider how natural light will fall on the mirror before finalizing the decor.
Function Dictates Design
Let the use determine the look. A bathroom to accommodate handicapped users needs a wider door, special rails and particular heights for fixtures. A young child's bathroom needs fixtures low to the ground and child-sized, or built-in or movable props to help a short person access the standard-height toilet and sink. A family that prefers baths over showers can minimize the shower equipment --- maybe just a flexible shower head that is part of the tub faucet with no extra curtain or enclosure. Or a separate shower stall could help ease the morning rush hour.
Materials
Since the bathroom is wet or damp a lot, you should take into account high humidity when selecting materials for floors, walls and fixtures. Tile flooring is standard; you can use small penny tiles, large terra cotta or slate style, or anything in between. Tiles that fit snugly together minimize the problems of grout staining and mold. If the floor is wood, use a good high-gloss floor paint that will resist moisture to make it easier to clean. Under-floor heating is particularly nice in tile or stone-floored bathrooms. The fixtures are most always porcelain, but you may opt for a glass or stone bowl for the sink. There are some spa tubs made of concrete or stone. Be sure your home can support the weight before choosing one of those. Walls can be covered in fabric, wallpaper, tile, paneling or paint. Tile and high-gloss paint are easiest to wipe down. Fabric or wallpaper will survive longer if they have a clear protective coating, either from the manufacturer or applied after installation. Bead board or other wood paneling is attractive but can crack or warp over time.
Space and Location
A tiny powder room tucked into a corner or under a stairwell should accommodate a pretty or elegant small sink with a mirror over it for quick guest touch-ups. The commode can be sleek and modern or an antique look, but it has to be compact. Think simple and small when providing hand towels, towel bars and lighting. A too-big bathroom (is there such a thing?) can be divided with a separate shower stall or a separate vanity area with double sinks. Install separate lighting for each area. When locating a new bathroom choose an area out of the main traffic flow for privacy. Be sure the door can open freely, whether it opens in or out.
Style
Style is the fun part, but it hinges on the important decisions of layout, use and affordable materials. Grown-ups' en suite bathrooms might reflect the desire for a serene retreat with natural materials, soothing, monochromatic color scheme, elegant faucets and fixtures and the addition of a shower/sauna, Jacuzzi or soaking tub. An unusual sink set into an antique chest or a metal stand can express some personality. Lighting on dimmers, so it can be bright for grooming and soft for bubble baths, is a good idea. Children's bathrooms are rubber ducky land. They should have easy-to-reach towel bars, toilet paper holders and mirrors. You'll probably add step stools, bright towels and a colorful bath rug. A non-skid mat goes in the tub and a clear shower curtain swimming in goldfish or wearing a world map is fun. A guest powder room can look like Louis XV had at it or benefit from a few exotic souvenirs from your travels. Turn tribal masks or Parisian menus into wall art and theme the room to match.
Tags: bathroom design, powder room, separate shower, separate shower stall,