Practically Speaking: How To Balance Form And Function In Your Bathroom

Creating a beautiful bathroom is one thing, but have you considered all the practicalities in your design as well?

We asked our experts to share the things that can be easily over-looked in a bathroom renovation, so that you don’t make these mistakes in your bathroom sanctuary. Before you start, ask yourself these five questions:

1. DO YOU LOVE THE LAYOUT?

All the best products and finishes in the world count for nothing if you don’t get the layout right. Check and double-check your measurements to make sure all your products fit in the space and that you have enough room to complete your daily tasks. Can you undress for the shower without bumping the vanity? Do you hit your knees on the bath when you sit on the toilet? You get the picture!

What’s the first thing you see when you enter the room? It should be the most beautiful element, like a free-standing bath… not the toilet. We offer a 3D modelling service at our Caroma on Collins Flagship stores and would love to help you perfect your layout.

2. IS IT FUNCTIONAL FOR YOU?

Your bathroom should be functional for you, not your tradies. It pays to be on-site when crucial decisions need to be made, like the height of your shower rail or where your toilet roll holder is positioned. There’s nothing wrong with hopping in the shower to check your head doesn’t touch the overhead rain shower, or sitting on the toilet so you know the toilet roll will be in reach. There are standard heights for many things, like vanities, but if it doesn’t suit your family and the way you use your bathroom, speak up and have it changed before it’s too late to do so.

3. WHERE WILL YOUR WASTES GO?

Floor wastes can be a trip hazard so think about where you could position them to prevent this. A clever way to hide a waste is to position it under a wall-hung vanity and no one will even know it’s there. Speak to your tiler about the best positioning for your wet room waste. Chances are the professionals will have some great advice on the best waste and fall of the tiles for effective drainage.

4. HAVE YOU SORTED YOUR STORAGE?

A cluttered benchtop will detract from your lovely new bathroom, so don’t forget to create a place for everything… and keep everything in its place. If your vanity storage is not enough, perhaps consider a mirrored shaving cabinet to provide extra face-height storage. Or include additional shelving for storage and display.

5. IS YOUR BATH CRAMPING YOUR DESIGN?

Renovators regularly try to fit freestanding baths in spaces that don’t accommodate functionality and cleaning. Your bath should be at least 200mm from a wall and at least 300mm from either end to allow a mop to access. If you don’t have the space, a solution is a back-to-wall bath that gives the aesthetic of a free-standing bath, but with the functionality for cleaning. If a bath is making your bathroom feel over-crowded, think again. Do you really need it? If your family doesn’t use a bath, there’s no hard and fast rule stating you must have one. Freeing up the space for a large double shower could be a much better outcome for your family.