Creating a new bathroom or updating an existing one is one of the most exciting home projects there is. Your bathroom is a sanctuary, so make sure it gives you a great start to every day. This page highlights the main things to consider in creating a bathroom that’s not just functional, but brings you daily joy!
Think carefully about your bathroom layout
You should start by working out what does and doesn’t work in your current layout. How much space is available?
Measure the room carefully and plan it out on squared paper. Try different layout options or ‘zoning’ to see what gives you the most space.
Bear in mind, too, that if you’re updating a bathroom it’s simpler from a plumbing point of view to keep the suite in its current position. Do try to keep the toilet in the same place as it involves large pipework which can be expensive. Moving the bath or sink could mean taking up the floor for additional pipework, which means extra hassle – and extra cost.
Factoring in storage is very important – ideally around the sink or as part of a sink unit. This is even more important in a family bathroom. You’ll need a mirror over the sink too, and don’t forget to allow room for a radiator and clearance around the doorway.
What’s your style?
So now you’ve got the functionality sorted, it’s time for the fun part – styling! What kind of bathroom will suit your taste best? A minimalist, clutter-free space or French Country chic? A sleek, fully tiled wet-room, or a traditional Victorian style bathroom featuring a freestanding bath?
Bold prints are in fashion for bathrooms at the moment – whether it’s with tropical style wallpaper, patterned floor tiling or impactful window blinds.
Check out Pinterest, Instagram and online home sites for ideas or buy a few magazines. Work out your colour palette and save pictures and links for things that take your fancy.
Above, Bali Gloss White Wall Hung Basin Drawer Vanity 1000mm -left Handed
Types of bathroom suite
Once you decide on your overall style you can start choosing a bathroom suite – and there’s never been more choice. Whether you want to make a statement with a vintage style bath or shower, or an uber-modern suite, there’s plenty on offer. We have suites to suit all budgets, from ‘essentials’ to designer, so set a maximum cost before you begin so that you know what you’re aiming for.
If you’re buying a bath, it makes sense to consider a suite as the toilet, basin and bath will share design features that help visually tie the room together. It might be a standalone bath suite or one with a P or L shaped bath if you want to include a shower.
In a smaller bathroom, you might want to go for a shower enclosure, plus a sink and toilet. There are lots of sink/toilet suites to explore.
Or, you can buy separately to achieve the perfect look for you. Perhaps a vanity unit will be perfect for your new room. These add visual interest as well as handy storage, and come in a huge variety of styles, with many different colours and wood effects.
Bathroom flooring
Getting your flooring right is essential in creating the dream bathroom. Tiling is the most popular choice – but remember that it can be cold on the feet unless you’re going for underfloor heating. You should also make sure that the tiles are non-slip, to avoid any accidents when wet.
There’s a wealth of choice in floor tiling, whether you want a bold print, a marble effect or a stone floor. Prices vary widely so do your sums and set a budget. You’ll also need tile adhesive and grouting, which adds to the cost.
Vinyl flooring or lino is worth considering and comes in a vast range of styles. It’s more economical than tiles and warmer underfoot. You can create all kinds of effects from wood flooring to a tiled look–through to more unusual options including grass, pebble or sand-effect floors.
If you have other ideas, such as real wood flooring, laminate or carpeting, these need careful research to make sure they don’t become damaged by water.
Lighting and sound
The lighting in your new room has an important role to play. Most of us like a well-lit, bright bathroom as it gives a clean feeling and is a big help when applying make-up or shaving. But equally, it can be nice to have lower lighting for a relaxing bath.
New smart lighting controls let you pre-set various options to make it easy to create the right ambience for your mood.
Many people are now including a sound system in their bathroom too. It’s great for those who love singing in the shower!
Heating your bathroom
There’s no fun in entering a cold bathroom on a winter morning. This is a room that needs to be cosy. Radiators are an important choice for your new bathroom – they are as much a style feature today as anything else.
Choose from a heated rail to keep your towels warm and stowed away or make a feature of it with a vertical panel, oval or even a glass radiator.
Above, Barcelona Matt Black Straight Heated Towel Rail 1800x600mm
Bathroom storage
So now you’ve got the functionality sorted, it’s time for the fun part – styling! What kind of bathroom will suit your taste best? A minimalist, clutter-free space or French Country chic? A sleek, fully tiled wet-room, or a traditional Victorian style bathroom featuring a freestanding bath?
Bold prints are in fashion for bathrooms at the moment – whether it’s with tropical style wallpaper, patterned floor tiling or impactful window blinds.
Check out Pinterest, Instagram and online home sites for ideas or buy a few magazines. Work out your colour palette and save pictures and links for things that take your fancy.
Electricals
When planning your bathroom, spare a few moments to think about whether you’ll need an electrical supply, as this will need professional attention. You might like a lit mirror or a power point for shavers and electric toothbrushes.
Building regulations also require some bathrooms to have an extractor fan – and these are important in preventing mould and dampness. This will also need professional installation and certification.
Character
Once you’ve considered all these elements in creating your bathroom, all that’s left is to make sure it conveys the style you’re aiming for. This usually comes down to a few little touches that make all the difference. In a French country style bathroom, for example, you might include a chandelier light fitting or a pitcher of faux roses.
Consider adding a couple of pictures or decals to the walls, or introducing a luxurious bath mat or rug. A couple of plants can add a natural touch or, if you have an ultra-modern theme, you can add industrial style towel rails or hooks. Now too is the time to buy new towels that match your colour pallet or bring in a touch of contrast.
We’re all done! All that’s left now is to sink into that bubbly bath or get singing in the shower!
