1. PLAN YOUR BATHROOM SPACE IN ADVANCE
It's really important to plan your bathroom space properly before you begin work as it'll determine where the main elements are positioned. Where plumbing and electrics end up going, what areas get natural light and ultimately, it's the difference between an adequate bathroom and a wonderfully functional bathroom that you want to spend time in.
2. THINK ABOUT BATHROOM DRAINAGE
It's not very glamorous, but bathroom drainage is very important to the finished look and practicality of your bathroom. A well-planned bathroom design will enable all pipework to be integrated and hidden away. Unless you like the exposed pipe look of course! And if you consider it before you begin, it'll help with any unexpected changes and costs down the line.
3. CONSIDER A WALK-IN SHOWER
Showers are delightful things. It's important you get it right when planning for a new one. You might have a large bathroom and you're lucky enough to fit in a separate bath and shower or perhaps space is limited and you're after some simple small bathroom shower ideas, regardless, there are some things to think about in order to make your new walk-in shower work as hard as possible.
4. DECIDE ON YOUR BATHROOM FLOORING
'If you have the budget for it, electric underfloor heating can make a huge difference to how the space feels underfoot on a cold morning. Good systems can be programmable to come on before you wake up, or linked to smartphone apps for you to control remotely,' says Barry. 'Install over a compatible debonding mat before laying tile bedding and floor tiles.'
5. THE IMPORTANCE OF FIXTURES AND FITTINGS
There's no point thinking carefully about all practical stuff if you're going to forget about the finishing touches! Modern bathroom trends include matching fixtures and fittings, so if you want black brassware consider getting black towel rails (including black valves), a black flush plate, etc. The same goes for gold brass, copper, chrome, and so on.
6. DON'T FORGET BATHROOM STORAGE
Everyone wants a tidier bathroom and bathroom storage ideas are essential to prevent clutter and create a calm bathroom.
7. THE KEY TO BATHROOM LIGHTING
Bathroom lighting ideas are more than just functional; lighting sets the mood and can make you feel refreshed in the morning and relaxed in the evening. The potential for dimming the light is useful for different moods and definitely worth considering - think ‘relaxing bath’ vs ‘getting ready to go out’ vs ‘middle of the night trip to the bathroom’.