Designing Bathrooms for Difficult Spaces

Bathrooms often come in various shapes and sizes, with all being dependent in the shape and plan of the building project.  Quite often a room is not designed for the bathroom but the bathroom is designed for the room, harnessing the space you have to work with.

Whether your bathroom is large or small, an attic or a cloakroom, a very small space or an ensuite you need to make sure that every centimetre of the space is used wisely. It is essential that any bathroom design should allow you ample space to enter, complete your activities and exit comfortably. Unfortunately, all too often, we see some washrooms which haven’t been thought out by the architect or builder and are difficult and to navigate around.

Here are a few tips to help you utilise your space and create additional ambience:

Maximise Storage Space

Every bathroom regardless of it size or functionality needs to is ensure there is ample storage space.

Concealed cupboards provide a popular way of creating storage and can be installed into small nooks and crannies that would otherwise be unused and wasted.  Not only are they out of the way, but they are the perfect hiding spot for anything you would rather keep private. These cupboards help to keep your small bathroom clean and clutter free, whilst also remaining very stylish and modern.

Bathroom furniture can be an effective storage space for everyday bathroom items such as your soaps, hair care products, beauty products, and dental products. It is important to include aesthetic solutions such as recessed mirror cabinets or glass shelving especially in a small or difficult space to allow your bathroom to be easily maintained whilst yet remaining stylish and functional.

Use mirrors to create space

Having a mirror positioned in the right place can be a fantastic addition to any bathroom. Mirrors double as artwork, whilst creating the illusion of spaciousness that is absolutely vital for any small space. Functional as well as fetching, a mirror will reflect natural light and create a bright and carefree atmosphere.

Mirrors are a decorator’s best friend when it comes to maximising space in a small bathroom, especially when teamed with pure white, wraparound surfaces on walls, floor and ceiling.  Ensure the bathroom is both functional and welcoming by considering built-in lighting at the outset, before your mirrors are installed.

Choose the right Bathroom Accessories

It is essential to choose the right bathroom accessories to provide the functionality and style to suit your washroom.  The location of where you place your accessories will dramatically affect the space in your bathroom.

Regardless of the type of bathroom you have, or your accessories you choose, if they are not serving a purpose and adding to the functionality and embodiment of your washroom then they just become clutter and do more harm than good.

Choosing the right fixture and fittings can aid in creating that atmosphere. Dimmer switches are another aesthetic feature that can add both style and functionality to a bathroom, as this will allow you to adjust the lighting for various tasks such as applying makeup, shaving, or simply relaxing in the bath with a glass of wine at the end of a long day!

Make colours & patterns count

A dash of colour can do wonders for a small space. Choosing a feature wall is a great way of adding verve and vibrancy, generating a colour contrast that’s full of character. Stick to lighter shades as dark colours will make the room feel claustrophobic. Florals can light up a plain design, while blue creates a peaceful, on-trend aura that’s ideal for a bright and sunlit bathroom.

Vertical stripes on the walls are just one of the many ways that patterns can be used to great effect. They make the bathroom feel larger, while unbroken horizontal lines can also help to add a sense of continuous space. In the same vein, hardwood floors which stretch from wall to wall are a great choice.

Add the personal touch

No bathroom is complete without a few personal touches, and just because yours may be an unusual shape doesn’t mean you can’t add some style.  A bathroom has to reflect the people who use it so don’t be afraid to make it an extension of who you are.

There are lots of ways to change things up a little, transforming the feel of the room in the process; use candles to create your own personal ambience after a stressful day, use stress-free aromas to help you and your partner unwind.

Plants are an efficient way of brightening up your bathroom, helping to bring the outdoors indoors, generating a sense of openness which goes beyond your bathroom’s dimensions. They add depth and soften corners wherever you place them, creating a truly natural atmosphere

Summary

Whilst some bathroom spaces may look and feel difficult, by being clever with your choices, you can transform a bathroom into a unified, personalised space that you enjoy spending time in.

To find out more, visit your local BATHLINE bathroom showroom and allow our showroom team to assist you in making a difficult job easy.