Planning the bathroom: 10 common design mistakes - and how to avoid - A renovated bathroom is a simple way to add value to your home, so it is a draft common overhaul to take. It is also one that can go very wrong if not carefully planned. Start by understanding the basics: your budget, lifestyle, and space and available products. Next, consider what you want to achieve. "It's really important to think of home you have and the look you are trying to create," advises Neil Curtis Ripples. "Depending on the style of the building, you do not necessarily want to be too trend-led. It is essential to think about what works for your home and the style you want to achieve
Take a look at 10 bathrooms that get just right -. And discover errors each example swerved to cause as beautiful and functional spaces
professional advice from :.
Neil Curtis Ripples
James Bassant Astro Lighting
Barbara Payne Bisque
Alice Dunbar Harvey Maria
Nina Tarnowski Graham & Brown
Take a look at 10 bathrooms that get just right -. And discover errors each example swerved to cause as beautiful and functional spaces
professional advice from :.
Neil Curtis Ripples
James Bassant Astro Lighting
Barbara Payne Bisque
Alice Dunbar Harvey Maria
Nina Tarnowski Graham & Brown
McCollum Interiors
Error 1: Select incompatibilities
more on the space you are working with before you look at the products: in this way you will avoid falling in love with something that is incompatible with your home. Neil Curtis, senior designer at Ripples, suggest looking at your water pressure and how water is supplied to your bathroom. This way you make sure to choose items such as faucets and showers that will work with - and maximize -. What you already
The construction of your home will also affect the products you can use. "If we try to wall hang a product, then it is important that you ensure that it can be attached to your walls properly," says Curtis. "Some homes may not be able to support the weight of a product, so it is absolutely essential that this is considered.
Access to the building is also important. "We always ask about access to a building," adds Curtis. "It is essential that I understand exactly how someone will get the products in their bathroom.
The choice of a new shower? Learn more about water systems and water pressure
more on the space you are working with before you look at the products: in this way you will avoid falling in love with something that is incompatible with your home. Neil Curtis, senior designer at Ripples, suggest looking at your water pressure and how water is supplied to your bathroom. This way you make sure to choose items such as faucets and showers that will work with - and maximize -. What you already
The construction of your home will also affect the products you can use. "If we try to wall hang a product, then it is important that you ensure that it can be attached to your walls properly," says Curtis. "Some homes may not be able to support the weight of a product, so it is absolutely essential that this is considered.
Access to the building is also important. "We always ask about access to a building," adds Curtis. "It is essential that I understand exactly how someone will get the products in their bathroom.
The choice of a new shower? Learn more about water systems and water pressure
JLB Property Developments
Error 2: not considering the lifestyle
"When I design a bathroom, I really need to understand the lifestyle of my clients. That is why it is important to visit their first homes, "says Curtis . "I ask my clients how they use their bathroom, which uses it and how long they spend there. By asking these questions, I can begin to build an understanding of their needs. "
For example, if you have young children, Curtis suggests looking at the bottom line bathroom. If you are future proofing, we recommend easy access shower stalls (as shown), lower baths, baths with a small seating area inside, wet bathroom floors with access to level and thermostatic showers.
Without a thorough reflection on the way you live, the bathroom will feel uncomfortable. "It does not feel like a natural extension of your home and lifestyle," says Curtis. "There may be a lack of storage, it may be difficult to clean and, more importantly, it might not be a relaxation area.
Find ideas for designing an en suite multi-generational
"When I design a bathroom, I really need to understand the lifestyle of my clients. That is why it is important to visit their first homes, "says Curtis . "I ask my clients how they use their bathroom, which uses it and how long they spend there. By asking these questions, I can begin to build an understanding of their needs. "
For example, if you have young children, Curtis suggests looking at the bottom line bathroom. If you are future proofing, we recommend easy access shower stalls (as shown), lower baths, baths with a small seating area inside, wet bathroom floors with access to level and thermostatic showers.
Without a thorough reflection on the way you live, the bathroom will feel uncomfortable. "It does not feel like a natural extension of your home and lifestyle," says Curtis. "There may be a lack of storage, it may be difficult to clean and, more importantly, it might not be a relaxation area.
Find ideas for designing an en suite multi-generational
Randell design Group
error 3: Not preparing for painting
most paint mistakes boil down to poor preparation. "You must ensure that your walls are clean, dry and free of dust and debris before starting to paint, said Nina Tarnowski Graham & Brown. "This will ensure your paint is not affected by dirt on the walls and it has a smooth, clean finish.
"Another preparation step is often overlooked use painter's tape. It may seem a tedious task, but using tape to create clean straight lines creates a professional finish. Nothing betrays an amateur painter more paint on fixtures and door frames
For a long lasting finish, you need two things :. good quality and good quality tools painting. Tarnowski recommends the use of a moisture-resistant paint for bathrooms because it helps prevent mildew. 'Painted matt interior that you normally use when decorating are not designed to withstand the heat and humidity found in bathrooms, "she explains. "Over time, the paint may start to peel and flake.
skimp on the tools is another common mistake. "Spend a little more on your brushes and rollers will really get a good quality finish," she adds. "Brushes poor result in loose hairs being left visible and obvious brushstrokes in your painting.
most paint mistakes boil down to poor preparation. "You must ensure that your walls are clean, dry and free of dust and debris before starting to paint, said Nina Tarnowski Graham & Brown. "This will ensure your paint is not affected by dirt on the walls and it has a smooth, clean finish.
"Another preparation step is often overlooked use painter's tape. It may seem a tedious task, but using tape to create clean straight lines creates a professional finish. Nothing betrays an amateur painter more paint on fixtures and door frames
For a long lasting finish, you need two things :. good quality and good quality tools painting. Tarnowski recommends the use of a moisture-resistant paint for bathrooms because it helps prevent mildew. 'Painted matt interior that you normally use when decorating are not designed to withstand the heat and humidity found in bathrooms, "she explains. "Over time, the paint may start to peel and flake.
skimp on the tools is another common mistake. "Spend a little more on your brushes and rollers will really get a good quality finish," she adds. "Brushes poor result in loose hairs being left visible and obvious brushstrokes in your painting.
Astro Lighting
error 4: Selecting a poorly lit mirror
"most of us could do with a little flattery of the department of lighting that we meet in the first thing bathroom mirror. If the only light source is the ceiling above the mirror, the effect is to create shadows on the face. They not only lower our self-esteem, they make it difficult to apply makeup or shave, "says James Bassant from Astro Lighting.
The bathroom mirror is the most commonly underlit or poorly lit area. "Mirrors can only reflect light, not create, so choose an illuminated mirror or splash-proof lights to go on each side bassant c CONTINUES. "If you really want a large mirror, there are lighting options surface mounted. And remember, always have a light source on each side of the face, if possible.
"most of us could do with a little flattery of the department of lighting that we meet in the first thing bathroom mirror. If the only light source is the ceiling above the mirror, the effect is to create shadows on the face. They not only lower our self-esteem, they make it difficult to apply makeup or shave, "says James Bassant from Astro Lighting.
The bathroom mirror is the most commonly underlit or poorly lit area. "Mirrors can only reflect light, not create, so choose an illuminated mirror or splash-proof lights to go on each side bassant c CONTINUES. "If you really want a large mirror, there are lighting options surface mounted. And remember, always have a light source on each side of the face, if possible.
Error 5: Ignore style when tile
regarding the tiles, the style of your bathroom will affect your options. "If you're looking for a contemporary finish, then I suggest we look rectified tiles, said Curtis. 'One has rectified tile factory cut edges to give a square edge 90 degrees. It allows you to place the tiles close and get a closer grout model. The square edges create a clean finished appearance, which is on site for a contemporary bathroom.
'Alternatively, if you have a small bathroom, then I suggest that we try to use larger tiles to create a greater sensation. "For a small bathroom, Curtis also advises lighter colors. Do also consider how grout color will work with your chosen tiles.
Finally, think about the furniture finishes in the bathroom. Want complement or contrast the furniture?
regarding the tiles, the style of your bathroom will affect your options. "If you're looking for a contemporary finish, then I suggest we look rectified tiles, said Curtis. 'One has rectified tile factory cut edges to give a square edge 90 degrees. It allows you to place the tiles close and get a closer grout model. The square edges create a clean finished appearance, which is on site for a contemporary bathroom.
'Alternatively, if you have a small bathroom, then I suggest that we try to use larger tiles to create a greater sensation. "For a small bathroom, Curtis also advises lighter colors. Do also consider how grout color will work with your chosen tiles.
Finally, think about the furniture finishes in the bathroom. Want complement or contrast the furniture?
Interior Therapy
error 6: choosing an unsuitable radiator
Although traditional style radiators scale remain popular, today's market offers a wide range of interesting designs models , shapes and sizes. "Chrome models are still mostly in bathrooms, but polished stainless steel towel rails are now often used because of their durability," says Barbara Payne Bisque. "High-quality versions do not rust, making it an excellent choice for areas with high levels of condensation does.
painted options are increasingly popular, as colors can be tailored to the tiles. "Go for a high quality finish, as cheaper options run the risk of flaking due to moisture in the air. An exhaust fan will also help fight against this problem, "advises Payne.
The bathrooms are often the smallest room in the house to avoid choosing too radiator that will dominate space . On the other hand, if you feel you will not get enough use a heater to justify the presence of, consider a dual fuel option. "These can be connected to the central heating system through the winter when the heating is on," Payne explains, "then go to power through the summer to ensure you have dry towels throughout the year. "
Although traditional style radiators scale remain popular, today's market offers a wide range of interesting designs models , shapes and sizes. "Chrome models are still mostly in bathrooms, but polished stainless steel towel rails are now often used because of their durability," says Barbara Payne Bisque. "High-quality versions do not rust, making it an excellent choice for areas with high levels of condensation does.
painted options are increasingly popular, as colors can be tailored to the tiles. "Go for a high quality finish, as cheaper options run the risk of flaking due to moisture in the air. An exhaust fan will also help fight against this problem, "advises Payne.
The bathrooms are often the smallest room in the house to avoid choosing too radiator that will dominate space . On the other hand, if you feel you will not get enough use a heater to justify the presence of, consider a dual fuel option. "These can be connected to the central heating system through the winter when the heating is on," Payne explains, "then go to power through the summer to ensure you have dry towels throughout the year. "
Town House Interiors
Error 7: Neglecting finishing touches
I always suggest to my clients that they should keep a small amount of the budget to allow the final touch, 'advises Curtis. "These will really help to improve the bathroom once we finish the design and it is installed. It is important to think about doors and door handles, lighting, window seals, blinds or shutters and painting, too. Sometimes things like that can be neglected and they make a huge difference. "
I always suggest to my clients that they should keep a small amount of the budget to allow the final touch, 'advises Curtis. "These will really help to improve the bathroom once we finish the design and it is installed. It is important to think about doors and door handles, lighting, window seals, blinds or shutters and painting, too. Sometimes things like that can be neglected and they make a huge difference. "
Inge Clemente Photography
error 8: Do not spend enough
as in all aspects of life, you usually get what you pay for. "The cost reduction will inevitably have a longer-term impact Curtis said. "If you spend more on a product, you will usually find it more innovative and directed design and, above all, better quality."
Spending the money on the installation must also be a high priority. Word of mouth is often the best way to find a reliable installer. "Talk to design companies and to seek recommendations online and from friends and family," suggests Curtis. You should also look wallets, have an idea of how the design-savvy installer is, and ask questions about the composition of the bathrooms, they worked on - for example, do they have the experience of creating something similar to the style you're after, or work with sanitaryware and finishes that go into your slice of budget?
as in all aspects of life, you usually get what you pay for. "The cost reduction will inevitably have a longer-term impact Curtis said. "If you spend more on a product, you will usually find it more innovative and directed design and, above all, better quality."
Spending the money on the installation must also be a high priority. Word of mouth is often the best way to find a reliable installer. "Talk to design companies and to seek recommendations online and from friends and family," suggests Curtis. You should also look wallets, have an idea of how the design-savvy installer is, and ask questions about the composition of the bathrooms, they worked on - for example, do they have the experience of creating something similar to the style you're after, or work with sanitaryware and finishes that go into your slice of budget?
Ripples Bathrooms
error 9: Not planning lighting in layers
bathroom, like all other rooms in the house, to the benefit of lighting in layers . These keep the room to meet your changing needs.
'An illuminated mirror and lights on each side of the mirror are perfect examples of the work of lighting, "says James Bassant . 'Uplights recessed floor are perfect to set the mood, and if you have space for a Greek urn or any decorative item and shed some light on it to bring it to life, "he suggests .
'The combination of lighting options with separate switch allows you to create the perfect setting for a wake-me-up morning routine or moment relaxing soak right into the evening. This flexibility can have a dramatic impact on the pleasure of a bath can give. "
bathroom, like all other rooms in the house, to the benefit of lighting in layers . These keep the room to meet your changing needs.
'An illuminated mirror and lights on each side of the mirror are perfect examples of the work of lighting, "says James Bassant . 'Uplights recessed floor are perfect to set the mood, and if you have space for a Greek urn or any decorative item and shed some light on it to bring it to life, "he suggests .
'The combination of lighting options with separate switch allows you to create the perfect setting for a wake-me-up morning routine or moment relaxing soak right into the evening. This flexibility can have a dramatic impact on the pleasure of a bath can give. "
Harvey Maria
error 10: the choice of vinyl flooring cheap
extremely easy to clean and maintain, flooring good quality vinyl is both highly resistant and much more hygienic than many other materials. Unlike ceramic tile, vinyl is soft and warm underfoot while being much less slippery. Vinyl also offers a range of colors and patterns to help you create a space that fits your home.
"The flexibility of a vinyl floor is often an immediate indication of the quality," explains Alice Dunbar Harvey Maria. "The more flexible the ground, the more likely it will rip and tear over time. luxury vinyl tile (LVTS) are too rigid to roll, which means they are much more durable and durable than many products on a roll.
"An inferior design will be less detailed and you can find the color is less accurate or prone to fading over time," continues. "This could easily get rid of the regime of your entire bathroom.
Discover more inspiring ideas for your bathroom floor
Tell us ...
Have you made mistakes during design your bathroom? Or all actions have proved to be winners? Please share your experiences in the comments below.
extremely easy to clean and maintain, flooring good quality vinyl is both highly resistant and much more hygienic than many other materials. Unlike ceramic tile, vinyl is soft and warm underfoot while being much less slippery. Vinyl also offers a range of colors and patterns to help you create a space that fits your home.
"The flexibility of a vinyl floor is often an immediate indication of the quality," explains Alice Dunbar Harvey Maria. "The more flexible the ground, the more likely it will rip and tear over time. luxury vinyl tile (LVTS) are too rigid to roll, which means they are much more durable and durable than many products on a roll.
"An inferior design will be less detailed and you can find the color is less accurate or prone to fading over time," continues. "This could easily get rid of the regime of your entire bathroom.
Discover more inspiring ideas for your bathroom floor
Tell us ...
Have you made mistakes during design your bathroom? Or all actions have proved to be winners? Please share your experiences in the comments below.