A Guide to Designing Your Bathroom

Home décor can be enhanced by custom cabinets and shelving to create a clean and organized look in your bathroom. While not every bathroom can be as grand as those popular in the ornate 80s, there are many new ideas entering the market that can benefit any bathroom. With inventive fixtures, personal touches, attractive color schemes, and intelligent design, even small bathrooms can look and feel much better.

Investing in a new or remodeled bathroom is a smart idea as it can increase the value of your home and improve your family’s quality of life. A second full bathroom can relieve morning congestion and add comfort, while even a simple redecoration project can add safety measures and refresh your spirits. Personalizing your bathroom design is key, so take the time to configure the space and make a list of must-haves, nice-to-haves, and unnecessary items.

Whether you are starting from scratch with a newly constructed bathroom or remodeling an existing one, the design process will vary. It’s important to plan out the entire project before beginning any renovations. If you’re on a budget, there are still ways to design a beautiful bathroom that meets your needs and desires.

Hiring contractors for a bathroom renovation can be costly, but negotiating prices and explaining your expectations can help. There are also specialty bathrooms that can be functional and fun, and designing a bathroom for all family members can be a challenge but worthwhile. Whatever your bathroom design needs may be, it’s important to consider layout imperatives and get inspired by new ideas.

Living in a narrow condo that’s wider than it is long? Want to add more space to your bathroom? Check out different bathroom layouts according to the size of the room. Adequate lighting and ventilation are essential in any bathroom. Learn how windows and other sources of light and ventilation can enhance the design of your bathroom. Creating a harmonious bathroom requires balancing different fixtures. Discover how to use color, texture, and space to make your bathroom look more spacious. To personalize your bathroom design, consider the size, configuration, and style. Before starting your project, think about what you like and dislike about your current bathroom. Sit down with family members and identify the current problems you want to solve. Start gathering ideas from home design and decorating books, magazines, and websites, and create a scrapbook to help professionals understand your needs and tastes.

If you’re planning to redecorate your bathroom, it’s important to consult with bath design professionals to discuss your needs and preferences. When speaking with them, expect to answer questions about your lifestyle and how you intend to use the space. You can also use a scrapbook to show the designer the styles you like. By doing your research beforehand, you’ll be able to have a more productive discussion with the designer. Additionally, be open to unexpected suggestions as they may be the perfect solution for your home.

If you’re building a new home, you have more flexibility with designing the bathroom than if you’re remodeling an existing one. When building from scratch, you can choose the size, location, and configuration of the bathroom. You can also choose to have a half bath or powder room in a nearby area. The overall size of your house and lot will determine the number and size of bathrooms you can have.

Remodeling your bathroom involves major changes that may take the space in a whole new direction. You can change the configuration and size of the bathroom to add more space or to make it more accessible. This may include relocating fixtures, moving doors and windows, or taking space from nearby closets or bedrooms. While the existing size and layout of your home will impact how much you can change your bathroom, your needs and budget should guide your decisions.

If you’re looking to improve multiple bathrooms, you might want to consider tackling them all at once. While creating a luxurious private bathroom for you and your partner, you could also add a spacious and safe second bathroom for your children. Remodeling can help you love your bathrooms as much as you love your property and neighborhood.

The renovation process involves making significant changes while still maintaining the overall look and feel of your existing home. Renovation is a good option if your home’s structure is sound and you like its style. If your home has historical significance, any upgrades must be done with respect for the existing style and structure. Bathrooms have changed a lot over the past century, so renovation must preserve the best of the past while still providing comfortable and functional bathrooms for modern lifestyles. Annexing a small bedroom could provide the extra space needed for a bathroom. Vintage-looking fixtures and fittings can give your bathroom a nostalgic style with modern performance.

Replacement, or “changeout,” involves removing old fixtures and replacing them with new ones in the same locations. Since most of a bathroom’s space is taken up by fixtures, replacing outdated pieces can dramatically improve the look and function of the space. However, replacing fixtures won’t solve bigger issues such as lack of space or storage, inconvenient access, or poor location within the house. Depending on the differences in profile between old and new fixtures, surrounding areas may require repairs or replacements of wallcoverings, tile, flooring, and molding. Many people choose to plan a replacement and redecoration project together. Simple fixture replacements may not require a building permit and can be done by a competent handyperson. However, larger jobs that involve replacing a built-in bathtub or significantly altering the space will require more skill and experience. Replacement can also involve leaving the existing sink or tub but updating the fixtures for a fresh look.

Redecoration is a cheaper and easier option than remodeling or renovation. It involves sprucing up the space without tearing anything down. Depending on what you have done, redecoration can cost less than or as much as replacing all fixtures. If your bathroom already suits your needs but you want a more fashionable appearance, redecoration may be the way to go.

Designer showhouses, sponsored by local charities, provide a great opportunity to witness innovative bath redecorations. Designers usually do not invest in new fittings or wall and floor surfaces. Instead, they focus on imaginative or stunning wallcoverings, faux finishes, window treatments, shower curtains, towels, and other accessories that complement the room’s decor theme.

If you are bored with your tile walls, laminate vanity top or knotty pine sink cabinet, there are special products available at your local hardware store to repaint them to match your newly painted or papered upper walls. You can even refinish your old bathtub with hardware store products similar to nail polish. However, meticulous preparation of these surfaces is critical, but these treatments are an economical way to freshen up your bathroom quickly.

It is essential to manage your expectations and budget before embarking on any bathroom renovation project. Even the ultimate bath is only a small part of your life, so keep things in perspective. It is unlikely that you can spend limitless amounts of money on a new bathroom, so it is essential to design a bathroom on a budget.

The bathroom is usually the most expensive room in the house to remodel. This is mainly due to the variety of skilled labor required from plumbing and electrical contractors, carpenters, and other experts. Materials also take their toll on the cost. Therefore, it is advisable to take your time at the beginning to ensure that each decision reflects your tastes and meets your needs.

To avoid financial stress, it is necessary to decide if you need high-end solutions for each case. Plan as much as possible in advance to avoid costly changes in the middle of the project. Make a list of everything you would like to have in your new bathroom, divide this list into things you genuinely need and things you could live without for now. Shop and plan for the essentials first before adding up the costs of the nice-to-have items.

It is crucial to anticipate what features can easily be added and what cannot. For example, it is best to install reinforcements for a grab bar before tiling the walls, even if you do not need the bar now. However, you can decide to add a towel ring at any time since it does not need reinforcement.

To learn more about decorating or remodeling your bathroom, visit Bathroom Decor, Decorating a Bathroom, Kids Bathroom Decorating Ideas, and Home Decorating Tips.

Tips for Saving Money on Bathroom Renovations

Prioritize the essential structural needs and floor plan before selecting luxurious materials for your new bathroom. Although you can replace a faux-marble laminate or cultured marble countertop later, it’s crucial to ensure the sink placement is suitable from the start.

The costs of a new bathroom mostly consist of labor and materials. To save money on both, invest your time in doing some of the work yourself. For instance, you can remove old fixtures, pull up flooring, and steam wallpaper before the workers arrive. However, make sure you know how to shut off water pipes and locate wiring and pipes beforehand.

Save Money on Labor

By discussing with your contractor beforehand and specifying what you’ll do and what they’ll do, you can save significantly on labor costs. Ensure that the agreement is in writing and that they deduct the cost of your work from their bid. You can also do the finishing touches such as painting the walls and cleaning up the debris, which will save you a considerable amount of money.

Save Money on Materials

If you cannot afford luxurious materials like marble countertops or imported fixtures, prioritize the ones that matter the most to you. You can also use artful substitutes for the rest, such as hand-painted wall and floor tiles and custom vanity and storage cabinets in high-end, furniture-grade woods.

If you want to create a luxurious bathroom but don’t have a huge budget, there are ways to achieve a similar look without breaking the bank. For example, you can find fixtures and fittings that mimic the appearance of more expensive designs. You can also opt for marble tiles or a laminate countertop with a faux-marble pattern instead of using costly marble slabs. Handmade, custom-colored, imported ceramic wall tiles can be used as accents rather than throughout the entire bathroom. Luxury flooring can be achieved with ceramic tiles that have a faux-marble look or with handsome vinyl flooring. Custom cabinetry can be achieved with stock cabinets and by replacing ho-hum hardware with novelty cabinet door pulls. Fancy faux finishes can be done with do-it-yourself stenciling and faux-finish kits, or with wallcovering that gives the look for less. When planning your bathroom, keep in mind that appropriate upgrades can return as much as 70 to 90 percent or more of their cost at resale time, making it easier to get your asking price on the home.

The value of your home can be increased by upgrading basic fixtures and windows. Ceramic tile is a better investment than laminate, and porcelain sinks are more timeless than cultured marble ones. It’s important not to exceed 10% of your home’s current market value on bath improvements and to avoid making strong fashion statements with flooring and countertops. Keep fixtures simple and choose neutral colors for installed products. For an adventurous scheme, use bright colors or patterns in accessories.

If you plan to stay in your home for a long time, consider “universal design” for the bathroom. This design accommodates every family member at every stage of life and can include features such as contrasting color tiles, wider aisles, and no-scald faucets. If you have allergies or ecological concerns, you can even specify hypoallergenic products.

Before hiring professionals for a bath remodel, research design solutions and products online, in home improvement stores, and in magazines.

If you are planning to buy bath fixtures or are renovating your bathroom, it is important to educate yourself beforehand. This will help you get an idea of the available options and the cost, and avoid any unpleasant surprises. Hiring professionals for bathroom renovation can be expensive, so it is important to choose wisely. You can hire an architect, an interior designer or a building/remodeling contractor depending on your needs. However, it is important to ensure that they are licensed and apply for permits to avoid any legal issues in the future. It is also advisable to work with a bath dealer who can sell and install the fixtures. Safety is crucial, so make sure that the professionals you hire are familiar with building codes and the plumbing, wiring, and structural aspects of the job. Mistakes in this room can be costly or even deadly, especially with the combination of electricity and water.

When planning your bathroom, design services can either be a separate fee or included in the price of the products used. Be cautious of dealers advertising “free design services” as the quality may not meet expectations. Independent designers can specialize in bath design and offer their services for a fee or a fee plus a markup. Certified Bath Designers have been qualified through education, experience, and testing and have extensive knowledge of design principles and construction. Designers may charge a fee plus markup or a consulting fee and may require a retainer upfront. They may oversee contractors or provide a complete package from design to installation. If you want to act as your own contractor, be aware of building codes and legal language and understand the basics of each function. Building code enforcement protects against unscrupulous or shoddy work.

When you hire someone for a technical job, such as a renovation project, it is important to trust their expertise and their ability to work within your budget. As they will be working in your home and around your family, it is important to ensure that they are trustworthy. Before beginning any renovation work, it is important to take the necessary steps to prepare for the changes that will occur. If you are planning a bathroom renovation, visit the recommended websites for more information on decorating and remodeling your bathroom.

Preparing for a bathroom remodeling project involves more than just selecting fixtures and paint colors. It is important to research the professionals you are considering hiring by checking with the attorney general’s office and local Better Business Bureau for any unresolved complaints. For contractors, ask to see their property damage, liability, and workers’ compensation insurance policies, and check that they are still in force before work begins. Additionally, ask for photos and references from clients for whom they have completed bathroom renovations to ensure their expertise and professionalism. Lastly, it is important to have a good rapport with your chosen professional and trust their knowledge, honesty, and reliability, as they will be around your family and home for a while.

Make sure to receive a comprehensive quote from the professional including details about the work, specific products to be used, costs, starting and completion dates, and terms of payment. Even for smaller jobs, ensure that the basics are covered in writing as it is your money and your home. In a remodeling project aimed at increasing storage space, the homeowners installed modern cabinets that reach the ceiling to maximize every inch of space. When remodeling your only bathroom, losing it even for a few days can be challenging. To avoid this, consider installing a second bath before disabling the first one or renting a portable toilet booth. Hold a preconstruction conference before work begins to go over details, schedules, and contact information. If there are delays, consider adding a penalty clause to the contract.

When hiring contractors for bathroom remodeling, it’s important to keep in mind that the estimated start and completion times may be subject to delays due to unforeseen problems. It’s recommended to plan for a buffer period of around a month to account for such issues. Before the work begins, ensure that your family is informed and any necessary preparations are made. This includes coordinating the placement of a dumpster and finishing any pre-demolition work. During the job, ensure that the work area is contained and that debris is removed daily. If changes to the project are desired, ensure that they are handled through signed change orders and carefully reviewed. At the end of the job, accompany the contractor on a walkthrough of the project to ensure all details have been taken care of and make the final payment. Finally, when choosing fixtures and fittings, avoid a patchwork approach to ensure a cohesive and beautiful end result.

To choose the right bathroom layout, it is important to consider plumbing and mechanical aspects that can impact your choices and budget. Learning the basics of decorating, including color, line, and shape, can help you create a bathroom that is both functional and visually appealing. The type of bathroom you are renovating will also influence your design ideas, whether it be a master bath, family bath, or kids’ bath.

To design a bathroom that meets your needs, it is essential to consider the room’s size, shape, and who will use it. The master bath is typically the largest and can feature luxurious amenities such as a separate soaking tub and shower, full-length dressing mirrors, and gold-plated fittings. The family bath, on the other hand, is shared by all family members and should have easy-to-clean surfaces and plenty of storage. Kids and teens should have their own closed storage space to keep clutter out of sight.

To learn more about bathroom decorating and remodeling, check out resources like Bathroom Decor, Decorating a Bathroom, Kids Bathroom Decorating Ideas, and Home Decorating Tips.

To make a bathroom appear more spacious, you may opt for a clear shower curtain or door, but if privacy is a concern, an attractive opaque shower curtain may be preferred. If possible, it’s best to have a separate compartment for the toilet with a second entry door from the common hallway to ensure maximum privacy. If this isn’t feasible, placing the toilet away from the bathroom door and screening it with a half-high partition is another option. Installing a towel ring or bar at the right height for each family member, along with hooks for robes, can help prevent confusion and make the space more organized. It’s also recommended to choose a calming color scheme that appeals to everyone and is suitable for color-coding towels for each family member. Adding an alarm clock to the bathroom can serve as a gentle reminder to share and can add character to the space.

When designing a bathroom for children and teenagers, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and personal space. Implementing universal-access principles can help create a bathroom that’s suitable for all ages. A double vanity is ideal, and if possible, a separate stall shower and tub is recommended. A showerhead that slides up and down on a pole is also beneficial for children of different heights and wheelchair users. To avoid conflicts, each child should have their own space for towels, robes, and personal care items. Color-coding towels and storage bins can also minimize mix-ups. Opt for a color scheme that appeals to both sexes if the bathroom is shared. Geometric stripes and plaids in lighthearted tones are timeless and refreshing. Use tile, scrubable vinyl wallcovering, or enamel paint on walls for easy cleaning and maintenance. A full-length safety glass mirror and towel hooks at appropriate heights can be beneficial for children of different ages. Safety precautions such as slip-resistant flooring, rounded corners on countertops and cabinets, and grounded electrical outlets are necessary for any bathroom. Installing grab bars, antiscald faucets, and pressure-balancing valves can also prevent accidents and injuries. A sudden surge of hot water can cause third-degree burns in just a few seconds, especially in young children with thinner skin.

When it comes to dangers in the bathroom, poisoning and drowning are some of the most common hazards for children. Installing safety latches on lower cabinets and the toilet lid can prevent accidents, and reminding teenagers to keep their personal care items in upper cabinets can also help.

A powder room or half bath can be a versatile addition to any home, whether it’s in the basement, near the den or home office, or off the dining room. Depending on its location, it can be decorated elegantly or whimsically with ornate mirrors, high-end wallcoverings, and embellished towels. To save space, a good-looking pedestal sink is a good choice, and large mirrors can help expand the space visually.

Specialty bathrooms are becoming more popular in today’s homes, and can be created in newly constructed homes or carved out of existing areas like unused guest bedrooms or hallways. The master suite is one example, where the bathroom is incorporated into the overall bedroom area behind a door that leads to the common hallway. To create a cohesive look, both the bedroom and bathroom can share a design scheme with the same motifs and color scheme.

When designing a suite, it’s recommended to avoid placing fixtures on the wall shared with the bedroom to minimize noise from a pressure-assist toilet or shower. Sound can be further buffered by positioning bath cabinets and bedroom closets on opposite sides of the shared wall with the bed on the far wall. It’s ideal to locate the bath on an outside wall to allow for a window and ensure that the walkway between the bedroom and the bath is easily accessible, wide, and free of obstructions for safety purposes.

For couples who rush to get ready for work at the same time, a shared bathroom can be challenging. Thus, a private toilet compartment is becoming a popular feature in bigger baths. The location of the waste stack determines where the toilet can be placed. A separate compartment is feasible if it’s on a far wall and in a corner. The compartment wall should run the full height of the room and extend at least 3 feet in front of the toilet and a foot on each side, with more space for universal accessibility. An easily accessible artificial light source and a skylight or small window should be installed, and an exhaust fan is necessary if there’s no operable window. A pocket door makes privacy easier without sacrificing floor space. If a private compartment isn’t possible, designs that include a half-high partition or a tall, hinged screen covered in fabric can be considered.

For those who exercise regularly, an exercise room bath can be a great option. All bathroom fixtures should be placed on perimeter walls, and the door should be offset to allow space for one or two pieces of exercise equipment in the free area. Nonslip floor tiles and ample ventilation systems should be planned.

Some laundry appliances are now being located near where dirty clothes first accumulate, such as the bedroom or bathroom, instead of the basement. If the house is shared with children, it may be better to place the laundry equipment in the kids’ bathroom or a nearby guest bath.

Combining a bathroom and laundry room is a practical and space-saving solution. The same water supplies can be used for both appliances and nonporous, nonslip tile flooring can create a cohesive look. If space is limited, a stacked washer/dryer unit may be a good option, although it may have limitations in handling larger loads. Adequate overhead storage should be provided for laundry supplies and clothes sorting. A pocket or folding door can conceal the laundry area, but access from both ends may be desirable.

Adjacent Closet

Having closets between a bedroom and a bathroom is a logical choice. A dressing room area with roomy closets adjacent to a bathroom is a luxurious option worth considering. The necessary space can be found in a hallway closet, an unused area of the bedroom, or even a corner of the bathroom, provided they are connected. It is important to communicate your requirements to your architect, contractor, or designer to make the most of the available space. After the basic space is created, consult a professional closet design firm or explore the closet fittings section of a home store to maximize the closet space. These ideas can be applied to other closets as well.

There are several well-established bathroom configurations. Basic bathroom layouts are discussed in the next section.

To learn more about decorating or remodeling your bathroom, visit:

• Bathroom Decor
• Decorating a Bathroom
• Kids Bathroom Decorating Ideas
• Home Decorating Tips

Bathroom Layout Imperatives

This layout saves time and money by placing the plumbing against one wall. A 537-foot bathroom is spacious enough for a powder room and a half bath, and can also be used as a kids’ bath if storage is planned accordingly. However, it may not be enough for a master bath with additional fixtures or a shared family bath. Mirrors and clever cabinetry can create the illusion of more space. Additional space can be created by taking a few feet from an adjacent closet or unused area, or by adding a mini-addition. Even a small addition of 18 inches can make a significant difference in the bathroom.

Deciding on the Location for Your New Bath

When it comes to installing a new bath in an existing home, it can be more challenging than remodeling a bath or adding one to a new house. This is because the plumbing and mechanical requirements behind the wall need to be installed within an already existing wall and won’t be known until the wall is opened up.

This challenge becomes even greater when you’re putting the bath on an upper floor or in the basement. Although it’s possible for a professional to make it work, it’s important to be aware of the issues.

If you’re planning a basement bath, you need to factor in special considerations for below-grade plumbing. A space of about 16 square feet (30375 inches) is sufficient for a toilet and sink, but if you want to include a shower or tub, you’ll need about 35 square feet (537 feet, which is the size of a standard bathroom).

Building codes allow for ceiling heights of 84 inches for basement baths, which is 6 inches lower than other living areas. This is useful if your ceiling height is restricted by pipes or ductwork.

The most important factor to consider when installing a basement bathroom is the location of the drains and vent stacks. Getting hot and cold water to the space is easy, but pumping wastewater out may be difficult.

All bathroom fixtures must drain into the main drain line, which is a 3- to 4-inch diameter pipe that enters the basement through the floor above and exits the basement through a wall or the floor.

Installing a new basement toilet may require cutting through a concrete floor, which can be a difficult task. Additionally, new fixtures can only be located a certain distance from the existing drain line and extensions must slope down at a rate of at least 1/4 inch per foot.

If you’re using a two-wall bathroom layout, make sure there’s enough space between bathroom fixtures.

If it’s not possible to tie into existing lines below floor level, you’ll need a sewage ejector. This is an electric pump attached to a holding tank that pumps sewage up through a discharge pipe into the main house drain. Although sewage ejectors are fairly expensive, they’re not much noisier than pressure-assist toilets.

You’ll also need to tie new drains to existing vent stacks or install a new stack, which is often located alongside the exterior of your house in an inconspicuous location.

A new upstairs bath also needs to tie into the existing main drain line and vent stack, but this is usually easier to accomplish as upper floors and walls are not made of concrete. Additionally, gravity works with you in moving waste downward.

Regardless of where you plan to install your new bath, it’s important to consult experts if you’re not familiar with plumbing and mechanical engineering. Save your energy for choosing fixtures and decorative treatments!

This bathroom is designed to save space and features a three-wall layout.

Important Factors to Consider When Installing a Bath

If you’ve ever wondered why many bathrooms are placed back-to-back or why professionals advise against moving fixtures, it’s because of the plumbing and mechanical systems that are hidden from view.

The plumbing system for a bathroom, known as “back-of-the-wall” systems, involves a multitude of pipes to ensure fresh water, hot water, and waste water are properly routed. This includes vent stacks to maintain pressure and prevent sewer gas from entering the house. Even if your bathroom is on a higher floor, the system must still route up to the roof and down to the ground level. Therefore, it is important to understand that the fixtures are just one part of a complex system. If you want to learn more about the plumbing system, detailed information is available, but it is crucial to respect the complexity of the system and the building codes in place to ensure safety. If you are remodeling your bathroom, consider the cost of moving fixtures and changing the layout, as it is much more complex than simply moving a piece of furniture in a bedroom. Most bathrooms follow one of three basic layouts.

There are three main layouts for a bathroom: one-wall, two-wall, and three-wall. A one-wall bathroom has the toilet, sink, and shower/tub combo aligned along one wall, making for a long, narrow bathroom. This layout is often used in small spaces or powder rooms. A two-wall layout has the toilet and sink on one wall and the shower/tub combo (or separate shower and tub) on the other. A three-wall layout has the toilet on one wall, sink on another, and shower/tub combo on the third. This layout is often seen in master bathrooms with multiple fixtures. After deciding on a layout, it’s important to consider lighting and ventilation. Installing a ventilating fan is important to replace stale air and reduce humidity in the bathroom. It’s also important to plan for adequate electrical access.

Lighting in the Bathroom

Having adequate lighting in the bathroom is not only important for aesthetic purposes, but also for safety reasons. It is recommended to have general lighting for navigating around the room, task lighting for shaving or hairstyling, and mood lighting in some bathrooms. Lighter-colored walls and surfaces can maximize the effect of available light. Theatrical mirror lighting is a popular solution that can handle more than one job.

Comfort and Safety in the Bathroom

Installers have a legal obligation to comply with building codes, which ensure the safety of your bathroom. The National Kitchen & Bath Association has developed a list of 41 guidelines that are essential for bathroom safety and comfort. These include clear space at doorways, in front of toilets, and around sinks, as well as shower doors that open into the bathroom and safety rails next to tubs. Universal access is also important, as it increases livability for everyone, not just those with disabilities.

Once the basic safety features are determined, you can personalize your bathroom with intriguing decor. It is important to balance self-expression with design principles that appeal to the human eye and psyche.

Intriguing Bathroom Decor

After ensuring that your bathroom meets your physical needs, you can focus on choosing decor that is both intriguing and functional. By using basic design principles, you can express yourself while still creating a room that appeals to the senses. For more information on bathroom decor and remodeling, check out the links provided.

A well-designed room can outperform a more expensive one if it follows principles of design. It doesn’t matter if your bathroom is big or small, these principles should be applied. Balance is important and refers to the equal weighting of objects in a space. Symmetrical balance involves having objects mirrored on each side of an imaginary line, while asymmetrical balance creates equal mass on both sides of an imaginary center point. Color, shine, texture, and other elements also affect visual balance. Rhythm is the quality of pleasing repetition in a piece of music, artwork, or environment. The human brain seeks out repetitive patterns to make sense of an environment, resulting in pleasure. By applying these principles of design, even a small room can have big appeal.

To create a rhythm in your design, repeat a sequence of colors, shapes, lines or motifs with “rests” of contrasting colors and shapes. For instance, black and white repeated over and over creates a simple rhythm, while a more complex pattern might involve green, blue, ivory and crimson. Using advancing, bright colors like red in smaller proportions than cool or neutral colors is also a tried-and-true design technique. In a bathroom, mixing the shine of smooth ceramic with the matte richness of limestone or the fluffiness of cotton towels can create two rhythms of texture and color that add further interest. The most eye-catching, large item in a room is usually the focal point, such as a bay window, fireplace, TV, or armoire. You can amplify the natural focal point or create an alternative one by using elements that catch the eye, such as brighter colors, mirrors, lighting, or objects with movement. The balance, rhythm, and emphasis principles should work together for an appealing and interesting design. By using color, shape, and texture, a bathroom can appear light and airy or warm and soothing.

For more information on renovating or decorating your bathroom, visit the following:

• Bathroom Decor
• Decorating a Bathroom
• Kids Bathroom Decorating Ideas
• Home Decorating Tips

Using Color, Texture, and Space in the Bathroom

Combining blue and yellow creates an energetic design that breaks up the monotony of an all-white bathroom. Blue items visually recede while yellow advances, providing balance and rhythm.

Design elements in your bathroom can help you achieve balance, rhythm, and emphasis. These elements occur naturally together, and with practice, you can make small corrections to create maximum eye appeal.

Color

The most compelling element in design is color. While there are entire books written on how to use color, there are a few basic techniques worth noting:

Light colors reflect light and create a larger, airier space. Dark colors absorb light and create a smaller, denser space.

Contrasting colors break up space and make the area look smaller, while the same or similar colors unify the space and make it look larger.

Warm colors, such as red, orange, and yellow, reflect light and appear closer and larger. Pastel versions of these tones, such as pink, coral, peach, and cream, also reflect light and create warmth. Cool colors like blue, green, and violet absorb light and appear farther away and smaller.

To create a spacious and calming atmosphere, opt for a light color scheme with pastel cool tones. However, some people prefer pastel warm tones for their complexion-enhancing qualities, while others use dark, rich colors to create a cozy space. The choice is yours!

When you want to highlight special features or create visual excitement, use bright, advancing colors.

If your bathroom has a window, consider the room’s exposure to the sun. North and east light is cool, while south and west light is warm.

Artificial lighting also affects color. Fluorescent light provides a cool blue-green tint, while incandescent light provides a warm yellow-red glow. Cozy up a chilly space with jonquil yellow paint or cool down a warm space with iced lilac or aqua.

Choosing Colors

When it comes to choosing colors, it’s important to understand how they relate to each other. Imagine a color wheel where colors appear in a specific order, starting with red and ending with red-violet. This is the same order in which colors appear in a rainbow. By adding white to a color, you can create tints, while adding black will create shades.

Using this information can help you create a color scheme that works well together. Start with a color you love and plan your room using one of the following proven schemes:

• Monochromatic: This scheme uses various shades and tints of the same color throughout the room. It’s a sophisticated approach that works well with natural materials and neutral colors. You can also use this scheme to create a Victorian look using shades of red.
• Analogous: This scheme uses colors that are next to each other on the color wheel, along with their shades and tints. For example, blue-violet, blue, and blue-green can create an underwater fantasy bath.
• Complementary: This scheme uses colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel, along with their shades and tints. The most appealing schemes use one color in a much lighter version than the other. For example, pale pink plus evergreen creates a lovely scheme.
• Split Complementary: This scheme uses the colors on each side of its opposite. For example, blue-green plus orange and red can create a tropical flair.
• Double-Split Complementary: This scheme uses two colors on each side of a color, plus the two colors on each side of its complement. This is a sophisticated scheme often seen in designer fabrics.
• Triad: This scheme uses three colors that are equidistant from each other on the color wheel. For example, red, blue, and yellow can create a cheery kid’s room.

Using these schemes can help you create a cohesive and visually appealing room.

Having a pure white bath gives a clean, spacious and airy look to the room. This is because white or very pale colors reflect light, making the room appear larger. White is especially useful for small spaces.

All of the color schemes can be mixed with lots of white to give a refreshing look or with accents of gray or black to create drama. Most of them can also accept neutral tan, brown and taupe accents, along with the green of living plants. Experiment with color chips to see what looks best to you. Then, choose one color to be the dominant color (usually the lightest shade), and use it liberally. Pick another color as the secondary color (often a midtone) and one or two other colors as tertiary accent colors (usually the brightest or darkest tones).

Try to organize the bath clutter in all its many colors. Some people even pour shampoos into containers that match their bathrooms to keep the “visual chatter” down. Try it, and you’ll find the whole space more visually relaxing.

Texture and Pattern

Everything in the bathroom has a visible texture as well as a color, so it’s important to be aware of it. Since a bathroom needs to be water-resistant and easy-to-clean, almost all surfaces are hard and smooth: glazed ceramic wall tile, marble or laminate vanity tops, porcelain fixtures, metal fittings, glass, and mirror. To provide a contrast, consider unglazed or matte-finish tiles for floors (safer, too!) and tumbled marble for walls. Fluffy towels and cozy rugs secured to the floor with rug pads or nonslip tape are easy ways to add texture to any bathroom.

Texture and pattern may appear together or separately. A vanity cabinet made of oak, with its coarse, pronounced grain, introduces more texture and pattern than smooth-grained maple; faux-finished or antiqued cabinets have the same physical texture as those painted a solid color but offer more pattern. Both texture and pattern affect the visual “busy-ness” of a room, and more makes the space look smaller.

Line and Shape

Line and shape occur in the bathroom as design elements that affect how the room appears. For example, the vertical lines of wall cabinets, windows, the shower stall, and doors can make a room look taller; horizontal lines in the edges of the vanity and tub can make it look broader. Floor tiles contribute to line as well: Tiles laid diagonally make the floor appear larger than those laid parallel to the walls.

The lines on the floor and walls lead the eye to the focal point — the tub.

The traditional 537 bath with an 8- to 10-foot ceiling is taller than it is broad, so creating an illusion of height is seldom necessary. If you’re fortunate enough to have a larger bath, use the same techniques you would for a bedroom or other room to keep height in balance with other dimensions.

Shape is less of a problem in bathrooms than in other rooms. Elsewhere, you’d have to make sure to include a round table or oval-backed chairs to relieve the too-rectangular aspect of windows, doors, and storage furniture. But fortunately for visual appeal (and safety), most bath fixtures have rounded sides that contrast nicely to the squared-off shape of the room. Obviously, the more drawers, divided-light windows, towels, and tiles in the room, the more rectangular and square elements there are. Balance these with cathedral-topped cabinet doors, Palladian windows, round drawer pulls, and other curvy elements.

The Role of Space and Form in Bathroom Design

Architects use space and form to create balance in bathroom design. Space, or voids, are important in creating asymmetrical balance, and can have a real presence in the room. If fixtures are all located on one wall, without any balancing cabinetry or area of interest on the opposite wall, the space and form will feel out of balance.

Form includes mass and shape, which can be modified through visual techniques. A small bathroom with a shower/tub combo can feel even more cramped with a dark, busy shower curtain taking up most of one wall. Replacing the curtain with a clear liner or glass door can help the mass recede to the far shower wall. White cabinets can also help make a bathroom feel less massive than natural oak cabinets of the same size.

The unique shape of a bathroom can also allow for adequate cabinet and counter space, even if it seems odd, such as a tub hidden behind a rounded wall.

When designing a bathroom, it’s important to consider the placement of eye-level masses in the room. A shower stall or tub set behind the door or on the opposite wall can make a bathroom look larger than the same form set close to the entryway. A sink, even in a vanity, is below eye level and can work well along the right side of a room near the door. Toilets are an exception and may need to be screened or enclosed with a partition if out of sight.

If moving fixtures to the most visually appropriate walls isn’t possible, visual techniques such as color and line can help create balance. Mirrors can also be used abundantly to fool the eye, bring in more light, create a sense of depth, or draw attention to a focal point on the opposite wall.

Additional Resources

• Bathroom Decor
• Decorating a Bathroom
• Kids Bathroom Decorating Ideas
• Home Decorating Tips

About the Author

Mary Wynn Ryan is an experienced author and interior designer, with a focus on home design and decorating. She has written numerous books and articles on the subject, and is the president of Winning Ways Marketing, an editorial and marketing consulting firm.

FAQ

1. What are some important factors to consider when designing a bathroom?

When designing a bathroom, it’s important to consider the size and layout of the space, as well as the plumbing and electrical systems. You should also think about the needs and preferences of the individuals who will be using the bathroom. Other factors to consider include the style and aesthetic of the bathroom, the type of fixtures and materials that will be used, and the amount of storage space needed.

2. What are some popular bathroom design styles?

Some popular bathroom design styles include modern, traditional, rustic, and coastal. Modern bathrooms often feature clean lines and minimalist design elements, while traditional bathrooms tend to be more ornate and decorative. Rustic bathrooms often incorporate natural materials and textures, while coastal bathrooms may feature a light and airy design with nautical accents.

3. What are some important features to include in a bathroom?

Important features to include in a bathroom include a toilet, sink, and shower or bathtub. Other features that may be included depending on the size and layout of the space include a separate vanity area, a linen closet, and additional storage cabinets or shelves. It’s also important to consider lighting and ventilation when designing a bathroom.

4. How can I make a small bathroom feel larger?

To make a small bathroom feel larger, you can use light-colored paint on the walls and ceiling, install a large mirror to reflect light, and choose fixtures that are scaled appropriately for the space. You can also use open shelving or a pedestal sink to create the illusion of more space. Consider installing a pocket door or using a shower curtain instead of a glass door, as these can also help to save space.

5. What materials are best for bathroom flooring?

When choosing bathroom flooring, it’s important to select a material that is waterproof and slip-resistant. Some popular options include ceramic tile, porcelain tile, vinyl, and natural stone such as marble or granite. Each of these materials has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose one that best fits your needs and budget.

6. How can I add storage to my bathroom?

To add storage to your bathroom, you can install shelves or cabinets above the toilet or sink, use baskets or bins to organize toiletries and towels, and add a freestanding storage unit such as a tower or etagere. You can also consider adding built-in storage such as recessed shelves or a medicine cabinet.

7. What are some eco-friendly bathroom design options?

Some eco-friendly bathroom design options include using low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads to conserve water, choosing energy-efficient lighting fixtures, and using sustainable materials such as bamboo or reclaimed wood. You can also consider installing a water-saving gray water system to reuse water from the sink or shower for flushing the toilet or watering plants.