The Ultimate Guide to Bathroom Design
The Ultimate Guide to Bathroom Design
One of the rooms used most often by people at home is the bathroom. Yet spending a lot of money on what is usually one of the smallest rooms in the house may not be high on everyoneâs list. But did you know? There are many ways to improve the look and feel of the bathroom. Itâs also true that a new bathroom design does not have to break the bank.
Simple bathroom design tweaks
Unless the bathroom is in dire need of extensive work, a redesign project is possible on a tight budget. Simple things can make a big difference, such as a new shower curtain, or even a shiny new toilet bin. If you have a broken bathroom rack, you can buy a new one with a shiny chrome finish for under ÂŁ30. Also, changing out the taps on the sink and bath, as well as the shower head can make the bathroom look much better. These simple ideas will give the impression of a more thorough bathroom makeover.
More ambitious design ideas and budgets
If youâre looking at a more extensive bathroom redesign, plan on spending more money. A coat of paint can revive a dull room, but resurfacing the walls requires more of a commitment for example.
Lighting is an important consideration in any bathroom design. Aim to provide adequate light to every important part of the bathroom. Using light fittings with the correct IP ratings is also important for safety. So, consider the bathroom IP rating zones, and consult an electrician.
Consider your flooring. A good bathroom floor will be waterproof and long lasting. Laminate flooring can be great for the bathroom and makes a good first impression on your guests. For a more up-market design, tiled flooring is your piÚce de résistance. They last longer and offer many design possibilities.
Big changes, such as moving walls and plumbing increases the disruption and cost. Make sure the changes are out of necessity and be mindful of your budget.
Be realistic about your new bathroom
Before starting any renovations, look at many different bathroom designs. Your goal is to find the bathroom that fits your house and your family.
The biggest problem with published bathroom designs, is that they do not fit all spaces. While some may be close to the same size, you will need to be realistic about what is going to fit in your new bathroom.
Including a freestanding bath, and double sinks may look good in a photo, but wonât fit into many bathrooms. Take inspiration and style ideas from magazines and websites. Then, scale the ideas to fit your space.
Collect your bathroom ideas into a project
For many people, the cost of completing a bathroom refit is too high to complete at once. It may be that splitting the project into phases is more manageable. When phasing a project aim for minimal disruption between jobs. So, before any planning can take place, you need to make a final decision on your style ideas. Lock those down to avoid an uncoordinated look.
By this point you should have a theme, and you are likely ready to look at brands and products. A trip to a show room gets you âhands-onâ with a variety of product types. Take some pictures, then continue your research online. It may be tempting to buy at this stage. Donât.
Gather all your ideas and photos. Group them into matching sets and exclude the ones you are less keen on. When you think youâre done, leave it alone for a day or two. Itâs easy to lose objectivity when spending a lot of time on a project. So, come back to it with fresh eyes and review your choices.
Consider the long-term before making your changes
Do you have a future-proof bathroom design?
One of the main reasons for renovating or moving to a new house is a change in family size or circumstances. New additions to the family put more pressure on the home, and your finances. If it is likely the family is going to change, include that in your plan. Add extra storage for toiletries, baby products, medicines, and towels. Be sure you can commit the finances to complete the job. Plan a little extra budget in case of the unexpected.
Often the idea of a redesign is far more appealing than the cost and disruption of seeing it through. If after looking it over a few times, you find yourself questioning the plan, itâll be time for a rethink.
You may also want to get a second or third opinion to see if all parts of the plan make sense. Think functional as well as aesthetics. Towel rail within reach of the bath or shower for example.
Once you start, stick to the plan
Once under way, making last minute changes can be very disruptive to the project. While changing a paint colour wonât end the world, itâs about the only change that wonât get problematic. When involving contractors, problematic means expensive.
Itâs not uncommon for a renovation plan to have a few last-minute tweaks. Usually for technical or structural reasons in the event of an unexpected find. Itâs impossible to plan for everything but stand firm on your chosen design. Where adjustments are necessary, usually they wonât take work very far off track.
Planning a bathroom remodel on paper is challenging. Previewing the finished design without artistic skills would be a matter of imagination. Design software can bridge the gap between simple layout planning and visualisation. With a huge range of design tools every type of user, which bathroom design software do you choose? There are distinct types design tool suitable to a bathroom redesign:
General 3D design software, for example AutoCAD, Google Sketchup, FreeCAD.
Purpose-built interior design tools, including Planner 5D, Space Designer.
Proprietary software e.g. Ikea, Villeroy & Boch, B&Q.
Depending on your level of skill or how much you are willing to learn, your mileage will vary with each tool type. Letâs go over each type of design software in some more detail.
General 3D design software
3D computer aided design (CAD) software, as the name suggests exists for all 3D design purposes. Its general nature means you can expect lots of options, tools, and advanced features. They are capable of very accurate designs and can produce very realistic 3D previews. CAD software ranges from completely free (Sketchup & FreeCAD), to very expensive (Autodesk). Financial cost aside, even free design software requires a learning and time commitment. Its general nature also means starting from scratch. Every wall, tap, basin, and towel needs to be either 3D modelled or downloaded. General purpose CAD software is suitable for professionals, and serious hobbyists.
Purpose-built interior design tools
Interior design software shares many of its features with general purpose tools. They can produce the highest quality 3D visualisations and have many options. The biggest difference is the feature set. There are few unnecessary features thanks to the specialised tool-set. This makes the learning the software somewhat easier. You will still have to download or create 3D models of the furnishings yourself. Or you can use the provided placeholders, making approximate visualisation more accessible. Advanced interior design software also includes other useful features. Project cost estimates for example. The costs can vary from free (Space Designer), to around ÂŁ250 for an advanced paid option like Smart Draw. Purpose built interior design software is perfect for interior designers, and individual users.
Proprietary 3D design tools
Some interior design retailers, for example Ikea and B&Q offer their own design software. Designed to be simple to use, these online tools can help you get a good idea down in a short time. Based around promoting their product range these tools are often less refined. The lack of options can also make it impossible to exactly reproduce your design. As proprietary tools are free to use they can be great during the early stages, or for a simple one-shop design.
Donât want to dive into 3D design? Like many others before you, you can pay someone else to do it.
Do you need a bathroom design service?
(Get someone else to do it)
Now, what if youâve decided your bathroom needs a new look but it looks like too much hard work? Are your designs falling a little short of perfection? If youâve never done anything like this before it could be a good idea to hire a bathroom designer.
You might think that interior design is for the rich and famous. Or for eccentric types who like to live in a (grounded) plane in the woods. While that is also true, there are lots of home design services built around people with your exact needs.
Another consideration is your design vision. A good interior designer will work with you to realise your vision. Even if you donât know what that vision looks like⊠yet. The entire process should begin with a meeting between you and the designer. This is your opportunity to show the designer your ideas, magazine snips, and sketches. In turn, after some time the designer will come back to you with some options. With the help of your feedback, youâll receive a design that you love.
Another thing that you will need to discuss is the budget. Some designers have go-to brands and contractors to hand. This allows them to provide a more accurate quote and end-to-end service. Affiliated design services often provide free design to sell their product catalogue. They also tend to up-sell. An independent designer may be more flexible but are less likely to offer discounts.
Take your time and look at all available options before committing your budget to a service.
Ask to see a portfolio of work
Choosing a bathroom designer need not be a minefield. An experienced designer will have a high-quality portfolio of work to show.
A portfolio can be a good reflection of the designerâs style and professionalism. So, pay attention to the portfolioâs presentation. A tatty or disorganised design portfolio indicates a lack of attention to detail. You want your designer to have pride in their work and you should expect to see the same in their portfolio.
What should look for when it comes to a professional bathroom design portfolio? First, you want to be able to see clear pictures of before and after the remodel. Look for every detail. Beware of portfolios that only have pictures taken from a certain angle.
Using a design service can be a wise investment
Coming up with a unique design to fit an odd-shaped, small, or multi-function bathroom is hard. You need a design that works for everyone, without friction, in a style that suits. A professional designer can offer their expertise and experience, saving you a headache.
A designer needs to consider many factors to meet your requests. The size and shape of the room is only a start and there are many other considerations. Existing plumbing, electrical wiring, window and door location, and basic construction for example. These will determine how much the room can changed within your budget.
An experienced bathroom designer will be able to set your expectations early on. Having a clear understanding of what you can achieve with your budget will help you to get the most from it.
Many bathroom designers include the design for free to secure the installation job. High-end designers and specialists may charge for each individual service.
Ensure your bathroom design estimate is all-inclusive
When hiring someone to work on your home, ask for a material and labour estimate. Take the time to go over the estimate with the contractor to be sure of what the price includes. In most cases, a bathroom design estimate will include a margin of error. The estimate should also say how much the contractor can adjust the price for design changes. It will also state if customer must approve all changes.
Most contractors are honest people. They depend on positive references and testimonials to get more work. They will try to offer an accurate bathroom design estimate for the job. Unfortunately, there are some that will under-estimate to get the contract. They then try to add things into the price without consulting the owner. Check the reviews before hiring.
Allowing the contractor to make small adjustments to the project up to a price limit is normal. But, make sure that pre-agreed limit applies to the total cost of the job and not on individual phases. This mistake can be costly, leaving the homeowner with little control over the costs.
All contract specifications should be exact
Estimates should include a material specification for everything. It is not enough for example, to stipulate the use of a granite counter top. The estimate must also state the material dimensions. So, maintaining the quality and consistency of the build, avoiding last minute changes.
Pros and cons of painting vs wallpaper vs tiles
Last but by no means least, the walls bear the greatest influence over the look of your bathroom. Whether you paint, tile or wallpaper depends the look you want for your bathroom. Your choice also decides the level of difficulty, time required, and cost. Itâs also important to consider maintenance. How you care for your walls will differ depending on your choice.
Most well-known paint brands offer paint with the durability required for bathrooms. Bathroom paint is less porous and offers improved mould, steam, and moisture resistance. Bathroom paint is available in soft or satin sheen, or gloss in every colour imaginable.
Paint is the easiest and cheapest of the options. Expect to pay about ÂŁ2 per square metre, and you will likely need two coats. Primer is not always required but is useful if painting over a poor surface or covering a dark colour.
Not as durable as tiles, bathroom paint will keep its mould resistance for up to five years. Although some more expensive paints are washable, most are not. You may have to cover any scuffs and stains with a fresh coat of paint.
Paint gives your bathroom a block-colours which open a bathrooms perceived space. You can take paintâs simplicity from elegance to vibrant extremes for any mood you desire.
Larger spaces become more âcosyâ and enclosed with patterned walls. If you are going for patterns wallpaper is one of the two options available to you. Printed wallpaper is available in any style and design you can imagine. And with custom wallpaper options available your imagination is the limit.
Bathroom wallpaper tends to be vinyl coated for a water resistant, washable finish. Although water resistant, wallpaper adhesive generally isnât. Over time, in a humid or steamy room the adhesive will fail, and your paper will need replacing.
Some people find wallpapering challenging, especially with repeating patterns. Preparation is important, remove existing wallpaper first and measure out your strips. Allow extra length per strip to allow for aligning your pattern. Be aware of any stretching or shrinking.
Bathroom wallpaper costs more than painting. A quality wallpaper costs around ÂŁ3 per square metre and youâll pay more for designer brands. How long will your wallpaper last? That will depend on several factors. Humidity, paper and adhesive quality, and temperature range will determine your wallpapers longevity.
If youâre looking for the highest quality patterned finish, then choose bathroom tiles. Tiles offer the best in durability as they are waterproof and cleanable. A well tiled bathroom wall will last for decades. Occasional re-grouting and anti-mould treatments will keep your tiled wall in perfect condition.
Tiles are the most expensive option. At around ÂŁ15 to ÂŁ30 per square metre, the initial cost is much higher than paint or wallpaper. You may also need to add in the cost of a professional.
Tiling a wall requires more time and skill than wallpapering and painting. Most homeowners will choose to hire a professional to avoid the risk of mistakes. Special tools are also required for cutting tiles, grouting, and spacing. Quotes for professionals vary depending on where you live and the quality of the tiler. Expect to pay at least ÂŁ20 per square meter, and ÂŁ35-ÂŁ40 per square meter is not uncommon in 2018.
Although a high initial price, consider it an investment. Well maintained tiles will outlast paint and wallpaper, bringing the long-term cost down.
Making your bathroom child-friendly
Children have special attention and needs. Yet, redesigning a whole bathroom to be child friendly is not the best solution. Children grow up and you also might consider reselling the house. Consider all your childrenâs needs, together with functionality and safety. There is no need for profound changes. You can do a great job working with adaptations for a normal adult bathroom. Children can be curious. Look from a childâs perspective and you may find many potential dangers within the bathroom.
Children and high voltages do not mix. If you live in the UK itâs enough to have a qualified electrician check your power sockets. A certified power outlet has safety features making accidental electrocution close to impossible.
It may be tempting to use plug socket covers to prevent curious fingers, but this is not advised. Supplying a cover gives your child the means to bypass the built-in safety measures and is dangerous.
If you live elsewhere, please check the government approved advisory on this subject.
Keep electrical devices such as hairdryers, shavers, and straighteners out of reach.
Image from Exeter Childrenâs Centres Facebook
Remove potential risky objects
Keep medication and harmful substances out of reach of children. This includes nail polish & remover, hairspray, cleaning agents, medicines, and toilet & air fresheners. Keep them locked away, on a high shelf or in medicine cabinet cabinet.
Small objects that pose a choking hazard, and sharps such as scissors must also be out of reach.
A step stool is simple adaptation so that children can reach the sink. This help promote a routine of hygiene from an early age. Include an adjustable mirror by the sink.
Toughened glass shower doors, if slammed, can shatter. Opt for a sliding shower door or a shower screen without doors, with plenty of space to get in and out. Supervise small children.
Avoid dangerous slips and falls in the bathroom. Consider a mosaic or tumbled marble floor for a more tactile finish. A trusty alternative is the non-slip mat, or high-grip rubber-duck bath stickers.
Be careful with hot water
Thermostatic taps and showers go a long way to controlling the water temperature. To completely avoid scolding hot water, adjust the boiler or water heater temperature. Note: If using a hot water storage tank, store hot water at or above 60°C to prevent Legionella.
The TMVA recommend the following temperatures at application:
44°C for an unassisted bath fill,
Easy toilet flush & soft close seat
Consider the type and placement of your toilet flush. A top-mounted flush button may be out of your childâs reach. Becoming a potential climbing hazard. Choose a front-mounted flush button or handle and test that it is easy to activate.
Another step to a child-proof bathroom is a soft-close toilet seat. Heavy toilet seats slam closed if knocked. A potential hazard for an adventuring child, and annoying for everyone else. Soft-close seats do not slam shut. They close at a steady and slow pace with little noise or force.
Buying your bathroom furnishings
Careful selection of your bathroom furnishings can improve your bathrooms appeal. With many styles to choose from there are endless combinations that can work for you.
You could choose something as simple as replacing your towel holders. Or you could go as far as a new heated towel rail and walk in shower. And the design of modern products makes installation less of an epic mission. Also, if you plan to tackle your bathroom project a product at a time, consider the order of your tasks.
Considering the order of your design project
The order in which you replace or install your bathroom products is vital to the success of your project. Luckily the reasons for following an order make simple sense when you think about them.
For example, itâs likely the flooring will need replacing. If not for the design, to fix the areas where the old units used to be. Fixed units will have to go down first as these need plumbing and wiring. Next, the flooring, cut around the units, followed by any other furnishings. Itâs important not to lay the flooring before any fixed units. In the event of a leak, you do not want the hassle of removing your units to pull up the floor. Also, youâll likely replace your flooring due to wear before your basin or toilet.
Measure twice and cut once
Whenever working on a design project, double check all measurements before ordering anything. It is always best to draw a floor plan with every measurement. You want to make sure that your furnishings fit into the existing space before you spend your money.
Vanity units â A stylish storage solution
Your bathroom not only needs to look stylish, it needs to be functional too. So itâs essential to incorporate storage into the space so it remains clutter free and organised. Vanity units provide an excellent storage solution. They are available in a huge range of sizes and designs to enhance any interior. A vanity unit combines a basin with storage, keeping toiletries and clutter hidden.
When choosing a new vanity unit, itâs important to choose one that meets your requirements. One with enough storage space that enhances the design of your bathroom too. The size is one of the most important things to consider when choosing a vanity unit. Is your bathroom spacious or is it compact? Can the existing layout accommodate a vanity unit, or will you need to redesign the space so you can fit one in? Whether your bathroom is small or large there will be a vanity unit to fit the space. Modern and traditional styles of vanity unit are also available.
A vanity unit with a basin and toilet is another option you may consider. Known as combination units, they create a coordinated look. A combination unit includes the storage, basin, toilet pan and concealed cistern.
Choosing a vanity unit thatâs too big will make your bathroom feel crowded. So, if your bathroom is on the small side, opt for a slimline one to maximise space. Corner bathroom vanity units are also great for en-suites and cloakrooms. If youâre lucky enough to have a large bathroom, why not choose a vanity unit with double basins for a luxury look?
Contemporary walk-in showers
Walk-in showers have become a very popular option for those renovating their bathroom. Theyâre perfect for creating a sleek contemporary look. Walk-in showers feature a glass panel and a low-level shower tray. They are also low maintenance and easy to clean. One end is open to the room, which is where thereâs space to dry off, with the opposite end the showering area.
For the less mobile, walk-in showers are a practical showering solution with no door or step. Also theyâre ideal for replacing an existing bath that rarely gets used. If you lead a busy lifestyle, a walk-in shower provides a quick and convenient way to freshen up at the end of a long day.
Take a look at our video guide where we show you how to install a walk-in shower. If youâre not confident or experienced at DIY, we recommend calling in a professional.
When redesigning a bathroom, the toilet can often get overlooked. There are many styles to choose from including modern and traditional. All available as wall hung or back-to-wall designs.
Close coupled toilets (cistern attached to the pan) are the most popular design. They are easy to fit and come in a wide range of styles. If youâre after something contemporary, a wall-hung toilet may be the best option. A wall-hung toilet is also ideal for a smaller bathroom as it maximises floor space.
Take a look at our buyerâs guide to toilets to help you choose the perfect one.
Watch our video guide where we show you how to install a toilet. If youâre not confident or lack DIY experience, we recommend calling in a professional. Find more in-depth instructions in our how to fit a toilet guide.
Top tips for choosing bathroom taps
Bathroom taps are available in a range of classic and contemporary styles. When choosing new taps, itâs important to take into consideration the design of your bathroom. Consider also the water pressure to ensure the best possible performance.
The majority of taps feature a chrome finish to blend in with any bathroom decor. There are also other options available. Black, nickel and brushed steel for example. Your new taps should be easy to use too. Especially if you have young children or someone elderly living with you. Taps with lever handles are a good option. You could also choose a monobloc tap. Monobloc taps have one lever handle to control both the flow and temperature of the water.
Adding the finishing touches with bathroom accessories
Finishing touches with accessories bring the look of your new bathroom together. Often overlooked, accessories are essential in creating a functional bathroom. Theyâre also available in modern and traditional styles. Letâs look at some accessory ideas.
Toilet roll holders & toilet brushes
Toilet roll holders and toilet brushes are handy accessories for any bathroom. When choosing a toilet roll holder and toilet brush, consider the style of your space. A toilet roll holder with decorative details is perfect for a traditional bathroom. And clean, geometric shapes are a great option for contemporary spaces.
Toilet brushes have always been an afterthought, often hidden behind the toilet. Investing in a good quality toilet brush means it will stand the test of time so you wonât have to replace it very often. Toilet brush holders are available in wall mounted designs to free up floor space. Made from chrome plated brass or ceramic, they ensure long lasting durability.
Towel rings & towel holders
One way in which you can keep towels tidy and organised is with towel rings and towel holders. A towel ring provides a stylish and practical way to keep a hand towel close to the basin. For bath towels, you may want to choose a single or double towel holder. Make sure to fit one close to the bath or shower so you can grab a towel straight after.
A shower caddy or basket is a great way to keep shampoo bottles and other toiletries organised. Choose a design that fits into the corner. When choosing a shower basket, check that itâs made from brass to prevent it from rusting.
For those who are less mobile, shower seats offer a more comfortable way to shower. You can move a shower stool or bench wherever theyâre needed. For a more permanent solution, a folding shower seat will fix to the wall in your shower. Youâll find shower seats in a range of styles to match your bathroom.
Soap dishes & soap dispensers
Soap dishes and dispensers will keep the basin area tidy. To make the most of the space around the basin itâs a good idea to choose a wall mounted soap dish or dispenser. These come in many styles, so youâll have no trouble in finding one to suit your bathroom design.
Hundreds of ways to accessorise
The range of bathroom accessory options donât stop there. Consider glass shelves as a way of displaying your perfumes. Coiled hair-dryer holders look classy. Wall mounting a toothbrush and tumbler holder frees basin and unit space. And robe hooks keep the floor clear.
Bigbathroomshop.co.uk is a UK bathroom retailer since 2007. Experts in home heating, lighting, and bathroom furnishings & accessories. We are proud to bring you quality interior design and bathroom how-to guides. MoreâŠ
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