Choosing the layout of your bathroom is the most important part of your bathroom remodel. When deciding your layout, there are many factors to take into consideration. This includes the overall color scheme, plumbing fixtures, cabinets, choosing the right size tub for your space, and the list goes on. There is no exact recipe for the best bathroom layout, but the key is to look beyond your space. As you consider the layout of your bathroom, take advantage of every square inch. But if you need a guideline, here are some other factors and tips to consider when planning your bathroom remodel and designing your overall bathroom layout.
Add Functional Zones in Your Bathroom
Worried about the space in your bathroom? By organizing functional zones around a central space, you give your bathroom more open space no matter its size. Space planning depends on the way you use your space daily, and your lifestyle. However, keep in mind that your design also needs to accommodate your existing plumbing, hookups, drains, etc. Although layout options may be a little more limited with existing bathroom features, below are some functional areas you might want to include in your design.
● Vanity
The vanity is a main staple in any bathroom. A vanity area includes countertop space, cabinet storage, a mirror, and a sink or two.
● Shower/Tub Combination
Usually a main feature still in many full bathrooms is the shower/tub combination. It’s a functional, affordable way to incorporate a shower and tub in the same space. It’s ideal for a home to have at least have one tub, as it’s important for resale, and this traditional feature fits that requirement and your budget at the same time.
● Tub
One of the most frequent mistakes people make when remodeling their bathroom is picking a tub that is either too big or too small for their space. Make sure the tub you choose doesn’t overpower the space in your room or leave you feeling closed in. Invest in a smaller, deeper tub that still has room for two without taking up unnecessary space.
● Feature Shower
Instead of incorporating a tub into the master bathroom, homeowners are choosing to use the floor space they have, to expand their showers. More than ever before, showers are getting bigger. You’re not walking into a cramped space; you’re walking into a spacious area that includes seats. A feature shower also adds an element of design to your bathroom with the option to create beautiful floor-to-ceiling tile inside.
● Toilet
The toilet is the most used fixture in your bathroom, but also the one element of your bathroom you don’t want to make your design focal point. The toilet can easily be tucked away behind the entry door, placed beside a vanity alongside a wall and partially hidden, or closed in a dedicated room. A dedicated room for your toilet is more ideal in larger master bathrooms, but half-walls can also be incorporated to help hide the toilet space in larger full or master bathrooms where an open feel is preferred.
Tips to Pull Your Bathroom Layout Together
Depending on the size and shape of your bathroom, you need to plan a design that incorporates the features and functional areas you need. Every inch counts in the bathroom. As you plan your bathroom remodel, below are some tips to help you create a layout that will work best for you.
● The Toilet Dictates the Design
Whether you’ve decided to gut your space completely or revamp it cosmetically, the position of an existing toilet can set the tone for your entire design. This is due to the 4-inch stack drain that is hard to move. Your goal should be to keep the toilet as close as possible to where it already is placed. Of course, you can move it, but it will increase the price of your remodeling project.
● Consider the Number of People
Consider how many people in your home are going to use this bathroom. This can help you decide how many vanity sinks you’ll need, how many drawers and cabinets for storage, whether you want a tub or shower, or if you don’t need one. You want to design for function first, and then add elements of design later.
● Think About Storage Space
When looking at your bathroom, how much storage do you have? Is there enough room to store your towels, linens, and other bathroom essentials? Storage space is something you need to take into consideration when designing your bathroom layout. Also factor in how much storage you need for each person in your family that uses the bathroom.
● Create More Space
Although you may want to incorporate as many things as you can into your bathroom design, there are actual rules and regulations for your bathroom you need to follow. Toilets need 30 inches of space, and showers need at least 30 x 30 inches. The centerline of a sink should be at least 20 inches off the wall, and if you have multiple sinks, there should be 36 inches in between.
● Overlap Space
If you’re working with a small bathroom, one way to follow space requirements while still fitting in necessary plumbing fixtures, is to overlap the clearance. For example, the floor space for the entrance of your tub can also double as part of the floor space around the toilet.
● Keep the Space Open
Keeping the space open will make your bathroom appear larger. Don’t worry about the toilet area. You can keep your space open while still keeping the toilet out of sight. In this situation, you can get creative and still have a sense of privacy and separation without feeling cramped.
Bathroom Remodel in New Jersey
At Cabinets Direct USA, we can help you with your bathroom remodel. We offer a wide selection of exquisite cabinets and countertops for you to choose from to complete your bathroom layout. Contact us today to schedule a free design appointment, or visit one of our six showrooms throughout New Jersey to get started on your bathroom remodel.