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.
Too many renovators underestimate what needs to be considered when designing their new bathroom. 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 it can be quite expensive to move bathrooms to another part of the house.
There is the sleek modern design look of chrome and glass?If you have an old house you may want to keep your bathroom to conforming to that era and a Shabby Chic or French Country look would suit. Either way, the points you will need to consider are still the same.
As mentioned, there are many areas to consider when researching bathroom design, below I have listed some that I considering important.
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.When plannign your bathroom renovation, it may be a good idea to install larger windows for extra 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.Wallpaper is also an options if you like a regular change of scenery as it is relatively easy to remove and it won’t cost the earth to replace.
Bath Tub: Do you want a separate bath tub from shower, or do you need to put the shower over the tub? These days the array of bath tubs available is fantastic, from the vintage look claw foot bath, to the more modern stand alone tubs. 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.Bathroom faucets can cost well up into the hundreds of dollars each, but there are cheaper options so shop around to find one in your budget.As always, don’t purchase the first you see, there are always lower priced good quality options available. 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?You also don’t want to forget shaver sockets.Your local area will have regulations that you must comply with in regard to electrical outlets, so check what they are and do the right thing, as water and electricity 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 you be storing towels in the bathroom, or will they be house elsewhere? If it is just toiletries to be stored, then a larger vanity with under-storage may suffice. 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.
