Bathroom renovation can be equal parts exciting and daunting. We’re sharing some tried and tested bathroom design tips, to help you out.
Anyone who has watched The Block bathroom renovation week knows, the task has its fair share of challenges. One of these can be making sure your bathroom layout makes the most of the space you have available while looking and feeling balanced.
Let’s talk about the art of balancing space with bathroom design, and how to make your bathroom layout the best it can be.
Picture your new bathroom
And we’re not just talking about colours or tiles … yet. Every successful bathroom renovation begins with a clear vision. Before thinking about details like taps and vanity styles, multiple people at once.
Think about who’s using the bathroom, when they’re in there, and if it gets a bit hectic with multiple folks at the same time. Maybe you’ve got teenagers fighting for mirror space while you’re getting ready for work, or toddlers trying to brush their teeth while you have a shower … the list goes on.
If you nail the basics of understanding what everyone in the house needs and how your bathroom can help deliver, these basics will make the whole design and layout chat with your builder much easier.
Maximizing Bathroom Space
You want to have enough space to enjoy your new bathroom, as well as have it be visually appealing – but you also want to maximise the available space in addition to the floor plan. How?
Choose the Right Fixtures
When it comes to fixtures like vanities, sinks, toilets, and showers, consider their sizes and shapes carefully. Wall-mounted fixtures can create an illusion of space by freeing up floor space. Compact and streamlined fixtures can be your best friends in a small bathroom. Whether you wall mount or floor mount can also be influenced by the height of your ceiling.
Optimise Bathroom Storage
Bathrooms can sometimes be tight on space, so you need smart storage solutions unless you’re happy to store items elsewhere in your home. Think about what you want to store in the bathroom and consider shelves, cabinets, or even under-sink organisers to store toiletries, towels, and other essentials. If you have the space to store elsewhere, you could consider having a vanity which doubles as a design element. Whatever you choose, make it suits your unique needs.
Let there be light
If you’re fortunate enough to have natural light, embrace it! It not only looks bright and airy, it serves a purpose by letting in warmth and visibility (great for anyone doing make up or using tweezers!)
If natural light isn’t available, it might be an option to make windows bigger, or add a skylight. For those who value privacy but still want the sunshine, frosted or textured glass is a great solution. Be sure to complement the natural light with layered artificial lighting – like recessed lights, vanity lights, and ambient fixtures. These can enhance the mood and functionality of your space.
Use Mirrors Strategically
Mirrors are an essential design feature for bathrooms for more than one reason. Obviously they are functional for grooming, but used the right way they can also create a sense of spaciousness, making smaller bathrooms feel larger, while also adding aesthetic appeal and personalisation through various styles and frames. They enhance the overall mood by reflecting design elements, and can be used to incorporate storage solutions
Choose a Timeless Color Palette
Opting for a timeless color scheme in your bathroom ensures a design that remains versatile and doesn’t become outdated. This doesn’t mean all white – you can check out a range of tones and mix pops of colour on a neutral base. These colors can create an inviting atmosphere in your bathroom without limiting your design options or using trends that may lose their appeal over time.
Creating Balance in Design
Achieving balance within your bathroom goes beyond just making efficient use of space. It’s about crafting a design that feels harmonious and visually pleasing. Here are our top design tips to help you strike that balance:
Blend Function and Aesthetics
Your bathroom should serve its practical purpose while also reflecting your personal style. Consider the aesthetics of fixtures, lighting, and accessories to create a cohesive design that doesn’t sacrifice functionality.
Symmetry matters
Symmetry plays a significant role in bathrooms by fostering balance and visual harmony. It’s all about arranging elements like sinks, mirrors, and lighting evenly on both sides of a central axis in your bathroom design. This balanced setup not only adds to the bathroom’s aesthetics but also boosts functionality. When everything is neatly aligned, it promotes an organized and calming atmosphere, making the space feel more put-together
Embrace Texture and Materials
Introduce depth and character into your bathroom by playing with various textures and materials. Incorporate elements like textured tiles, natural stone or wood to add visual interest and warmth to the space, creating a harmonious blend of materials that elevates the overall design.
Select Cohesive Materials
When choosing materials for your bathroom, aim for a cohesive look. Matching or complementary tiles for the floor and walls, along with a consistent colour scheme, can create a sense of unity.
Prioritise Comfort and Safety
Balance also extends to comfort and safety. Make sure your bathroom layout allows people to move around easily and consider features like slip-resistant flooring and grab bars.
Summary
Achieving balance and space optimization in your bathroom renovation takes thought and time. Start with a clear vision, maximise your space with practical choices, and create a harmonious design that reflects your personal style. Remember every bathroom is unique, so adapt these tips to suit your specific needs and preferences. With careful planning, a keen eye for detail, and the professional builder your bathroom renovation can turn your space into one that’s only beautiful but also incredibly functional.
