Are You Making These Common Bathroom Design Mistakes?
Learn about the importance of proper lighting, smart storage solutions, and the impact of thoughtful fixture placement. Avoid the 9 common bathroom design mistakes described in this blog, to create a space that meets your needs and enhances your daily routine.
Many homeowners unknowingly make common design mistakes that affect the overall functionality and aesthetics of their bathrooms. You may have chosen fixtures too large for a space, or the lighting setup may have created harsh shadows. It is easy to overlook small details such as ventilation and storage, leading to a cluttered bathroom. If you have ever felt that this space needs to be corrected, you might be making some of these frequently committed design errors.
9 Key Bathroom Design Mistakes and How to Fix Them
The insights in this blog will guide you in identifying and rectifying common bathroom design mistakes, ensuring your space is functional and stylish.
-
Oversized Fixtures
Choosing fixtures that are too large for the area makes the bathroom feel cramped and uncomfortable. For instance, installing a large freestanding tub in a small bathroom overwhelms the space, making it challenging to move around.
To rectify this, ensure all fixtures are proportionate to the room’s size. Measure your space accurately and select fixtures that enhance functionality without compromising visual appeal. Opt for sleek, space-saving designs that maximise the available area while maintaining a stylish look.
-
Door Placement
Placing the bathroom door directly facing the toilet could be less aesthetically pleasing and can create an awkward layout. Instead, improve the room’s flow by positioning the toilet to the side or behind the door. This arrangement enhances privacy and creates a more welcoming entry. Use pocket / sliding doors if space is limited, as they can save room and provide a clean, unobstructed look.
-
Neglecting Ventilation
Proper ventilation is important to prevent mould and mildew buildup in the bathroom. To manage humidity effectively, relying on just a window may not suffice. Installing an exhaust fan is a practical solution that keeps the bathroom dry and healthy. Ensure the fan is right sized for your bathroom and is installed properly.
-
Inadequate Storage
Not incorporating sufficient storage can lead to a cluttered and disorganised bathroom. Beyond vanity drawers, consider vertical storage solutions such as wall-hung cabinets, floating shelves, and recessed shelving. These options maximise storage space without occupying valuable floor areas, keeping the bathroom neat and functional. To organise smaller items and maintain a tidy appearance, use baskets and bins.
-
Poor Lighting
Relying solely on overhead lighting creates harsh shadows and an unwelcoming atmosphere in the bathroom. To rectify this, adopt a layered lighting approach. Incorporate task lighting around mirrors for grooming, ambient lighting to provide a soft, overall glow, and accent lighting to highlight specific features. This multilayered approach ensures your bathroom is well-lit and inviting, enhancing its functionality and aesthetic appeal.
-
Ignoring the Floor
Enhance visual interest with patterned or textured tiles, instead of sticking with plain tiles. Transform the look of the bathroom floor – with options such as mosaic, herringbone, or geometric patterns – making it a standout feature that complements the overall design. You can significantly elevate the room’s aesthetic by investing time in choosing distinctive floor designs.
-
Overly Basic Hardware Finishes
Traditional chrome fixtures are a safe – but often uninspiring – choice. To rectify this, explore other finishes such as brushed gold, matte black, or copper. These add a unique touch and elevate the bathroom’s style, providing a modern and sophisticated look. You can create a visually appealing and cohesive space that reflects your preferences, by selecting customised hardware finishes.
-
Rushed Selection of Wall Tiles
Choosing the wall tiles in a hurry can impact the bathroom design. To avoid this, take your time to select tiles that complement existing fixtures and finishes. Ensure a harmonious look by considering size, colour, and texture. Create a mood board or consult a design professional to take informed decisions and achieve a cohesive aesthetic.
-
Not Creating Separate Zones
Failing to create distinct zones for different functions in larger bathrooms leads to sub-optimal layout. Rectify this by creating defined areas for bathing, dressing, and toilet use – with partitions, screens, or strategic placement of fixtures. This zoning approach enhances the room’s functionality and provides a more organised and visually appealing space, effectively serving each area’s specific purpose.
Conclusion
From ventilation issues to insufficient storage, any design mistake can affect your experience in the bathroom. With careful planning and attention to these 9 key elements, you can transform this space into a stylish, comfortable, and efficient sanctuary. Remember, small changes lead to big improvements, making your bathroom a better place to start and end your day.