Planning and Designing a Bathroom
For most homeowners, the design and planning of a new bathroom can be a very daunting process. However, it need not be. If you are renovating an existing space or building from scratch, it is useful to consider the following questions: who, what, where and how?
Who is going to use the bathroom may seem rather simple when it comes to bathrooms, but the answer can have a significant impact on project plans. A bathroom that is used from time to time, by guests, will probably be very different from that which is used mainly by children on a daily basis.
Once you have worked out who is mainly going to be using the bathroom, where is usually the next point to consider. This is often an easy question to answer. In a new construction, the master bathroom often adjoins the bedroom, with guest’s and children’s bathrooms often adjoining their respective bedrooms. In existing homes, the bathroom will often have to remain where it is.
One of the most important aspects of bathroom design is what, which certainly depends on the who and where. A master bathroom suite may contain a spa, toilet, his-and-her vanity units, and a floor made from more exotic materials such as marble or bamboo. A family room that receives a lot of traffic should be equipped with basic equipment and durable flooring.
Keep the proportion of the room in mind so as not to fill the space with a large bath only to find yourself trying to cram a vanity and toilet into the remaining space. Think about what equipment is needed (toilet, shower, wash basin) and what are the extra options you want to include (towel warmers, bidets, steam bath). Also a vital aspect to consider is do not forget to budget adequately!
Now we come to the question of how. This includes both the style of the bathroom and the technical aspect of the work required. Think about the style you prefer. Do you want a sleek contemporary room, or a cozy cottage style? Home design magazines and show homes are a good way to get ideas and inspiration. It is useful to take notes on what features and designs you like and features you do not like.
Bathroom remodeling should not be boring or stressful. Once you come up with a plan, it’s just a matter of following through with it and having fun.