Design

Design & Layout

Good design and layout are both equally important for a bathroom to function well and look great.

Whether your bathroom is large or small, it is essential to plan adequate space to enter, complete your actions, and exit comfortably. To achieve this aim, a bathroom’s layout should concentrate on item placement, including the bath, shower, vanity and toilet, to ensure that the space available is used effectively. We will work with you to ensure the functionality of your bathroom is the most effective for the space available.

While layout is very important, design is the visual style that gives a bathroom its own personality and feel, and includes the selections of colour, textures, features, finishes, and accessories.

A perfectly laid-out bathroom won’t work unless the finishes and fixtures complement the style of the house. On the other hand, a bathroom designed with only beauty in mind will generally not be functional. It’s our job to ensure you get both beauty and functionality in your new bathroom.

Technical Aspects

Bathroom design includes a number of technical aspects, as well as some applicable Australian Standards, but as a general rule the design needs to make allowances for:
  • Enough space between each major fixture for easy movement
  • Ventilation and heating requirements
  • Adequate drainage
  • Appropriate general and task lighting, taking into account placement near mirrors
  • Safe access into and out of bath, with hob, steps or handrails if needed
  • External and internal doors should be placed as not to conflict with each other
  • Outside access to bath or shower taps
Aesthetic Aspects

As most bathrooms are within small spaces, the correct choice of colours and materials is essential. To make the room appear larger, you can use light coloured tiles or have the floor tiles laid diagonally, while the generous use of glass (larger windows, glass bricks, skylights) will help the room stay light and bright while simultaneously diffusing natural sunlight.

Bathrooms today are designed as a place of relaxation and refuge, so make sure your choice of fittings and fixtures help to create this mood. A dimmer switch is a perfect choice and allows you to adjust the lighting for shaving, applying makeup, or simply relaxing in your spa with a glass of wine at the end of your day.

Storage

In a small room, your design must be smart in the way it utilises available storage space. Concealed cupboards and the maximum use of nooks and crannies are ways to enhance storage while maintaining smooth, clutter-free lines. As most bathroom storage is generally within the vanity unit, ensure you choose the right unit for your needs. You should also allow for storage of soaps and shampoos in the shower by using glass shelving or chrome baskets.

Safety

As bathrooms are wet rooms, certain safely aspects must be considered. Non-slip surfaces should be installed throughout, and power points and heated towel rails must be placed away from any water source. Towel rails and toilet roll holders should be positioned appropriately and, if necessary, grab rails and steps should be used for safe entry/exit into the bath or spa.

It is always a good idea to include an emergency lock release if locks are being used on the bathroom door, and if children will be using the bathroom, ensure the hot water is set to a maximum of 50 degrees Celsius.



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