Plan your bathroom layout the proper way

Johannes van Graan Johannes van Graan
homify Classic style bathroom
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Bathrooms have certainly come a long way since the first flushing toilet was invented in 1596. Once a purely practical space to take care of “business”, the modern-day bathroom is now a place of tranquillity and a personal haven to many homeowners. No surprise, then, that many bathroom renovations work on briefs stipulating spa-like spaces and fixtures / furnishings bent on making the room not only more practical, but also relaxing.

But if you find the idea of planning a bathroom layout daunting, don’t fret. It’s all about proper preparation right from the start, which is what we’ve done to ensure your bathroom layout is done easily and stylishly…  


1. Measuring your bathroom layout

Similar to how you need to measure and do rough sketches when buying new furniture for your living room, so should you approach a bathroom layout. Carefully measure the space, as accurate dimensions are crucial – and include everything from windows and chimney breasts to doors.

With your measurements in place, do a rough sketch of your bathroom and include to-scale cut-out shapes of the loo, basin, shower, etc. Rearrange them until you find a layout that works for you and offers adequate legroom for moving about.

Also consider how your bathroom layout will work if there’s more than one person in there at a time. 


2. Planning your bathroom layout: A statement bath layout

Want your free-standing bath to be the main focal point? Place it in the centre or near an architectural feature like a window. Should space be at a premium, consider a smaller slipper bath or a Japanese-style dunk bath. 

Always listen to the professionals when planning your layout and before purchasing new pieces – for instance, check if your floor will be able to handle the weight of a cast-iron bath if that’s what you’re dreaming about. And should your bath be placed near a window / wall, ensure one can easily get around / under it for cleaning. 


3. Planning your bathroom layout: An over-bath shower layout

Not enough space for both a bathtub and a shower? A family-sized bath can also double as a shower enclosure. Just install an electric shower above your bath or swap the existing faucets for ones that include a hand-held shower mixer. Just be sure that your water pressure can accommodate the pressure, though. Complete the design with a glass screen attached to the bath’s side. 

And we firmly recommend getting a professional for this task if you’re not a seasoned DIYer!

4. Planning your bathroom layout: A bath and shower layout

Any bathroom should be focused on practicality; thus, if your household prefers showering to bathing, think about bringing in a shorter bath for the occasional soak (or washing the dog) and using the available legroom for a spacious walk-in shower. 

On the other hand if you prefer taking a bath, a corner shower cubicle can be a good use of space and will allow for a full-sized fitted or free-standing tub. 

homify hint: Not only are ‘his and hers’ sinks extremely on trend, but they’re also very practical for families with children. And if you’re struggling with bathroom space, we suggest a trough-shaped sink with wall-mounted taps. And always consider shelves and cabinets (with doors) to keep that cluttered look at bay. 


5. Planning your bathroom layout: A shower room layout

It might be a very big project to tackle, but opting for a wet room can treat your bathroom to some serious style, plus give it a contemporary look. To accomplish this, the entire room must be tanked (waterproofed) because there is no shower enclosure (the water drains away via a floor outlet). If your budget is small, we suggest an almost invisible low-level tray with an all-glass screen for a sleek alternative. 

homify hint: Want to treat your long, narrow bathroom to a shower? Section off the one end with a glass screen or doors to create a walk-in design. Bi-fold doors will also help save on space.  


6. What to keep in mind when planning a bathroom layout

Of course various factors must be considered when planning a bathroom layout, regardless of which design you opt for. Keep the following in mind:

• Flooring: It’s important to opt for a water-resistant surface that won’t be slippery when wet. Although various materials can be considered, porcelain tiles is a great option due to it being low in maintenance, stain-proof and easy to clean. 

• Lighting and home automation: Think about your bathroom lighting from a practical point of view. For instance, the last thing you need when rushing in the mornings is a dark and dingy space. And consider how the illumination levels can also ensure a relaxing ambience. What’s crucial is positioning a main fixture in the centre of the room to provide the required brightness for everyday tasks like showering. Some homeowners then opt for task lighting around mirrors (ornamental wall sconces, mirror cabinets that incorporate lighting, etc.) for activities like applying makeup and brushing teeth.

• Heating and ventilation: To avoid a damp space (which will inevitably be the result of a room subjected to wetness and humidity), ensure a window and/or suitable extractor fan in your bathroom to help bring in fresh air. 

• Sanitaryware and layout: When it comes to deciding what must go where, think about how you use your bathroom fixtures and in what order. For example, it’s often recommended to place the basin nearest to the door, as it’s usually the last stop in most bathroom routines. Thinks like the loo and other fittings can be located further into your bathroom. 

• Storage: A crucial element for any bathroom. Think about what you need to store out of sight to help you decide what you need to purchase, i.e. do you need a floor-to-ceiling cabinet with doors or will a simple medicine cabinet be sufficient for your lifestyle?

We think this is the perfect opportunity to see The best (and worst) bathroom flooring ideas

Which layout is ideal for your home’s bathroom(s)?

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