Bathroom Basics - Design

Bathrooms aren’t really what they used to be up until 5 years ago. This particular market segment has exploded at an unprecedented scale. People are no longer looking for just utilitarian spaces. They are trying to create a retreat that calms their nerves and feeds the senses. Almost all of us have seen a bathroom somewhere and thought—“I want one just like that in my home !!”

Of course,when you get down to it, remodelling your bathroom is a major exercise .It’s messy and guaranteed to give you more than a couple of headaches. But when it’s done you will forget the pain and enjoy the pleasure. In the interim, get ready for your life to change drastically for a couple of weeks at least. This is why a bathroom redesign project requires the will long before you find the way. You need to figure out almost every aspect before the first strike of the hammer.

In terms of square foot cost, bathrooms are perhaps the most expensive rooms to design/remodel, so planning is essential. As with everything, knowing just how far your wallet will take you is half the work done. The costs can completely spiral out of control if you don’t keep your finances in check. The one thing you cannot compromise on is the quality of plumbing/electrical. The rest is variable. 

Figure out what you need Seems like common sense, but often people do not assess their functional needs, design potential and limitations ahead of renovating and going on a shopping spree. It is important to plan everything right down to the last detail and then work on a budget. This will allow you to use your creativity and imagination sensibly, while keeping the cash outflow in control.

Don’t compromise on the basics It is imperative that you get competent people to do the job. A mistake in a bathroom is not so easily fixed. The more ingenuous the technology and design you use, the greater the need for a professional to do the job.

Configure your space Think about how you can maximise floor area, and increase space for movement. The door should not obstruct, the cabinetry panels should open easily, keep counter space appropriate for the area and use. Put a full length mirror on the back of the door. A good layout can completely transform even a small bathroom.

Use colour and pattern effectively. Use subtle colour tones to make a small space look bigger, or take it 180 degrees and opt for drama and glamour. Soften the place with an interesting blind and colourful towels and a bath rug. Be careful when you choose tiles—the bathroom should not look overcrowded. Keep the cabinetry in light colour tones if the space is small. Use reflective surfaces to open up a small space. Tiles with patterns need to be used carefully, highlighters often work better.

Colours can be monochromatic in small spaces, and if you have plenty of natural light then your options widen considerably. Powder rooms could take a healthy dose of colour if you create a luxurious/trendy setting.

Keep it bright and cheerful. Using the right type and positioning of lighting can change the bathroom completely. Often bathrooms are poorly lit.Maximise natural light. Ceiling fixtures for overall illumination need not be basic—think about pendant lights or even a cove.

Vanities and mirrors with task lights and even the shower area needs to be well lit.Use wall sconces for that added interest. Recessed or hidden lights appropriately placed can also create warmth. A mirror need not just be functional but an effective style statement as well. Air flow is equally important. There is nothing worse than a badly ventilated bathroom.

Plan your storage Regardless of square foot area, a bathroom always has a lot of items that need to be stored. You need to plan two kinds of storage—hidden and exposed. Organize things so that they are easy to reach but not necessarily in full view. Vanities, wall hung cabinets, mounted shelves or racks—whatever the modes of storage ensure that the functionality does not detract from the aesthetic. Minimise the clutter. Less is more.

Safety first Plan the electrical carefully. Install grip handles where required. Make sure you have slip resistant floor tiles. Use tempered glass for shower panels.

Trends have a short shelf life. Unless you have the money to re-do your bathroom every couple of years you must cater for the fact that your tiles, sanitary fittings and layout have to last you a really long time. So think about that when you design look at the longevity of the visual. Like your plumbing, your bathroom design has to stand the test of time.

Shop style When you are out shopping for tiles and fittings, find what is appropriate for your particular space. Coordinate your faucets and fittings. Shower areas afford lot of options these days. You could get a cubicle installed or get glass enclosed shower areas. Fittings with water jets and rain showers are quite the rage as well.

Keep it flexible. One of the ways you can bring the costs down and also allow for a change every few years is to use wall tiles in the shower area which can be enclosed and use paint and textures on the other walls. 

Separating wet and dry areas will give you greater flexibility in the long run. Use simple tiles if you are on a tight budget and liven the place with an interesting mirror, art work and accessories. Build the style quotient with good towels, soaps, candles, mirrors and art.

Bathe in luxury If you are willing to splurge, then the options are almost limitless. You could even go beyond uber luxe sanitary fittings and tiles and indulge in wired in speakers, ambient lighting, seating, flat screen TV and of course recreate a spa in your own home. Bubble up.

Whatever your budget, you can create the perfect retreat that will make you flash your pearly whites every morning regardless of which toothpaste you reach for. Start the day on a cheerful note. In your bathroom.