Knowledge Hub: Guides
New Bathroom Considerations
The idea of designing your new bathroom can be an equally exciting and overwhelming prospect. Whether you’re building a new home or remodelling your existing bathroom, there are many things to consider for creating a functional and stylish space that meets your needs.
Here are some key things to remember when designing a new bathroom:
Determine your budget
Before you start any bathroom design project, it’s essential to determine your budget. Knowing how much you wish to spend on the project will help you prioritise your needs and help you decide on bathroom products and finishes that fit your budget.
Assess your needs
Consider who will be using the bathroom and what their needs are. For example, do you need a bath or just a shower? Will the bathroom be used by children, older people or people with mobility issues? Assessing future needs will also help you design a functional and practical bathroom that stands the test of time.
Choose your layout
The layout of your bathroom will depend on the size and shape of your space and what you need to include in the room. The main limitation will be your soil pipe location; the cost versus benefit usually doesn’t add up to move the toilet location too drastically without good reason. One of our designers can help you create a functional and visually pleasing layout that maximises your space.
Select your bathroom products
Selecting bathroom products involves a comprehensive approach balancing functionality, aesthetics, and practical considerations. We recommend choosing high-quality products that fit within your budget. You may also wish to look out for products with energy-efficient and water-saving features. Compare and evaluate brand reputation for reliability and customer support, and consider warranties or guarantees offered by manufacturers. Space considerations, ease of installation, and personal preferences are crucial in making well-informed decisions for a bathroom that combines utility and style.
Choose your materials
Select durable, moisture-resistant and easy-to-clean materials that are suitable for wet environments. You may also want to explore sustainable options for an environmentally friendly approach. Popular options include ceramic or porcelain tiles, natural stone, and waterproof vinyl or laminate flooring. Consider the colour and texture of your materials and how they will fit into the overall design of your bathroom. A carefully considered palette of materials will result in a well-designed bathroom that seamlessly combines functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
Plan your lighting
A well-lit bathroom can create a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. Designing lighting for a new bathroom involves carefully considering various elements to ensure functionality and aesthetic appeal. We recommend including natural light sources as much as possible and incorporating additional task lighting around mirrors, which is essential for specific activities like shaving or putting in contact lenses. General ambient lighting establishes a well-lit environment, while accent lighting adds visual interest.
Add storage
Well-planned storage solutions contribute to a neat and visually appealing environment and streamline daily routines by providing easy access to essentials. Proper storage minimises clutter, facilitates cleanliness, and optimises available space, making it particularly valuable in smaller bathrooms. Tailoring storage to personal needs adds a custom touch, while aesthetically pleasing solutions enhance the overall design. In the long term, investing in thoughtful storage adds value to the home and ensures flexibility to accommodate future changes in lifestyle or preferences.
Think about ventilation
Ventilation is a crucial aspect of bathroom redesign; we recommend adding an extractor fan or upgrading and relocating your existing one. Adequate ventilation controls moisture, preventing mould growth and structural damage. Additionally, proper ventilation removes unpleasant odours, enhances indoor air quality, and prevents interior damage to ceilings and painted walls.
