Bathroom design for improved space

There's nothing more exciting than choosing the big things for a new bathroom: the vanity, the toilet, perhaps a clawed-foot bathtub, the taps and spouts - it can all be very involved. However, sometimes it can be so involved that the little things go unnoticed - until you have to use the bathroom, that is. Space can be the key element between success and failure in bathroom design. Bathroom Ideas grabs the tape measure.

Bathroom layout: Convenience = space

Most people don't have a massive space to work with when it comes to the bathroom so making sure everything has a place will go a long way to making your daily routines easier - especially if your bathroom is used by a big family.

First, it's useful to think about where things will go and if you want to look at them. Creating a wall unit for appliances like shavers and hairdryers with power points inside can reduce clutter and make sure they're always ready to go. It also means you can shut the door on them, keeping the bathroom looking clear and minimalist.

In the shower, building in a niche that will hold all of the toiletries will keep them off the floor. Likewise, having a rack over the bath can keep clutter form the bath edges and add a lovely touch.

Using mirrors can create a sense of space. Try shopping around at antique or second hand shops for some unusual styles. In addition, having the right towel rack is important for design cohesion - and of course practicality; racks need to be close to the sink and shower (or one close to each) to avoid wet floors. It's a good idea to ensure that there's enough room for towels for the whole family too.

Fundamental bathroom design: The big ticket items

Depending on the size of your family, and the size of your bathroom, a lot of thought needs to go into how the vanity, toilet, bath and taps will fit into your daily routines. For instance, do you have space for two sinks so that more than one person can use the bathroom at the same time? If not, why not install one long sink with two taps? How about the bath - do you need one, or is a shower going to allow you more space to move? And does your toilet need to be in the bathroom? If so, perhaps a decent privacy divider would allow the bathroom to be used by more than one person at a time?

When it comes to your bathroom's vanity unit, you might be better off just buying the sink and having a cabinet custom made, especially if you can build it into the wall. Whatever you decide, make sure there's plenty of room to keep your most regularly-used items close at hand.

For bathrooms, there is no truer saying than, "everything in its place and for everything a place". It's a good idea to plan how you want your bathroom to work before you call the fitters in. Ask your local bathroom supplier for ideas if you're not sure, and do as much research as possible before you buy.