Bathroom design is a more meticulous art than you might think. Given such a small space to work with, even in the case of oversized master bathrooms, every design choice made during bathroom remodeling matters. Without proper planning and preparation, bathroom remodeling can be an extensive process.
To help you save time by creating a plan, here are 10 bathroom design principles every homeowner should consider before proceeding with a remodeling project.
1. Simplify
Your instinct may be to overdesign, making every feature a statement. However, it’s better to keep it simple when working with small spaces. Focus on high-quality, neutral pieces that serve a purpose, and include only elements you will use.
For example, a guest bathroom likely doesn’t need a large bathtub. Opting for a shower conversion can free up valuable real estate and create a more elevated experience. Another common mistake with bathroom design is installing dual sinks, which can result in losing valuable counter and storage space in small bathrooms.
2. Function First
Above all, your bathroom should be functional. It serves several critical hygiene purposes, and you want to make it a pleasant experience for your household and visitors!
If you have young children, the tub/shower combo in your second full bath may still be useful. But once they’re out of the house or old enough to bathe themselves, we suggest revisiting that shower conversion idea.
It also may be time to think about whether a walk-in tub is right for you. If you have older family members in the home or personally intend to age at home, a walk-in tub makes bathing safe and comfortable — all while taking up less space than a jacuzzi tub!
3. Pick Your Palette
With the more significant practical elements out of the way, let’s look at your bathroom’s design. Your bathroom’s color palette should be soothing and relaxing, and preferably not too dark for the sake of task functionality. Some popular bathroom colors include:
- Blue
- Green
- White
- Soft gray
- Taupe
Have one primary color you focus on in your bathroom, and think about whether an accent color would be a good way to add a bit more character. For example, if your primary color is something very neutral like white or soft gray, add a splash of blue or green with towels, toothbrush holders, and soap dispensers. You can also look for countertops that have green or blue tones to them and blend nicely with your main color.
4. Strategize Storage
Bathroom storage is vital for keeping your countertops clear and everything nicely organized! Consider whether you prefer more drawer or cabinet storage and how you can best optimize the space you have. If you have extra space to work within your bathroom, this could be your chance to incorporate some fun built-ins for towel storage.
5. Embrace Natural Light
Your bathroom will need a nice blend of practical and relaxing lighting, and natural light is a great place to start. If your bathroom is against an exterior wall, consider how you might maximize natural light while maintaining your privacy. Some great strategies to add more natural light include high-up windows that are far above eye level, or using tinted glass or textured glass similar to what you might have on your shower door.
It may be time to look into window replacement options to upgrade your current windows and allow for better natural light.
6. Add Quality Artificial Lighting
While natural lighting is ideal, it won’t serve you well every minute of the day (or night). You’ll also need a good mixture of artificial lighting, providing both task lighting for getting ready and ambient lighting for those calming pre-bedtime baths or showers.
7. Add a Fun Design Element
So, how can you make your bathroom stand out while keeping it simple? Create a focal point! One show-stopping design element, like a dramatic mirror, subway tiling, or a vibrant accent wall, will instantly take your bathroom up a notch without making it overly busy. This is your chance to have fun with the space and explore unique renovation ideas!
8. Think About Maintenance
When choosing all the elements your bathroom remodel, consider what it will take to maintain those elements and whether you are up to the task. For example, smaller tiling means a lot more grout to clean compared to solid surfaces or oversized tiles. Using more sensitive materials for fixtures and countertops like wood, iron, and real marble will require careful attention and may need to be repaired or replaced frequently due to moisture damage.
9. Enhance the Planes
Bathrooms are made up of angles and planes. By leaning into your bathroom space’s horizontal and vertical planes, you can make it feel more organized, comfortable, and spacious all at once. Our team is happy to offer recommendations if you’re unsure where to start!
10. Find the Right Remodeling Team
If you’re ready to upgrade your bathroom, our number one golden rule is to find a bathroom remodeling company that you can trust to do the job right! We understand how every renovation you undertake as a homeowner is an investment in your quality of life, and we want to help make your life the best it can be!
From walk-in bathtubs to shower conversions and everything in between, when you team up with Rolox Home Services for your bathroom remodel, you can rest assured the results will be nothing short of perfection. Contact us today for a free estimate!
