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 Bathroom Design - Explanations and Advice |
The more time you spend at the preparation stage identifying your needs and desires, the more successful your bathroom project will be.
Planning
Your ideal bathroom
Before you start selecting tiles, sanitaryware and fittings, it is important to spend time assessing all of your requirements. Make a list of the things you like about your current bathroom and the things you would like to change. Visit showrooms and look through books and magazines for inspiration. Think about a friend’s bathroom that you like or the bathroom of a hotel that you have stayed in – what features appeal to you most?
Size and layout
Is your bathroom big enough? If not, is there any way you can extend it or move it to another room? If you have a large household do you require an additional cloakroom or shower room to ease congestion in the morning?
Are you happy with the current layout of the space or would you prefer to re-arrange the sanitaryware? Would you like to include a bath and a shower, and is there enough space to accommodate the two?
Prioritising your needs and desires will give you food for thought and a point from where to start. Every household is different, so don’t be led by what’s in fashion. A well-designed bathroom is a perfect balance of function and aesthetics and these are unique to the individual.
User requirements
The age and ability of the users will also affect your requirements. Safety features such as thermostatic controls for showers and anti-slip finishes on tiles, the bath and shower tray will benefit everyone, but are especially important if the room is to be used by children or the elderly.
Design and decoration
A new bathroom is a big investment so choose your colour scheme and fittings wisely. Will you still be enamoured by your purchase in 10 years’ time? If you are intending to move home in the near future, will it appeal to potential purchasers? The bathroom and kitchen are both major selling points. Natural coloured tiles and white sanitaryware are always a safe option, as they will not date. You can always add a personal touch with brightly coloured towels and accessories.
The essential elements
Lighting and heating should also be considered from the outset. Include at least two different light sources, task lighting and ambient lighting, and use dimmer switches to create atmosphere. Radiators, underfloor heating and heated towel rails will add warmth to the space. And don’t forget about ventilation to keep your new bathroom steam free.
Sanitaryware and baths come in an endless variety of shapes, sizes and styles to suit all installation requirements and design preferences. From the smallest wall-mounted corner basin to generously proportioned double-ended baths, each piece allows you to express your individuality and transforms your bathroom from a purely functional space into a personal haven.
Basins
Although your choice of tiles and colour scheme set the tone of your bathroom, it is the sanitaryware and fittings that determines its design style. Modern wall-hung basins in graphic shapes will give a clean look to contemporary spaces, while Art Deco style pedestal basins add an element of grandeur to traditional bathrooms.
Basin made from stone, glass and resin have become increasingly popular. Signalling a move away from the all-white suite, they add another layer of texture and colour to the bathroom environment.
Your choice of basin will also influence the style of tap that you put with it, so consider both elements at the same time. Counter-mounted vessel basins will require a wall-mounted or high tap so that the water is delivered in the optimal position.
Vanity units provide storage space below the basin. For a contemporary look opt for a wide wall-hung model with a surface mounted basin.
If you have the space, double basins are a practical choice for multi-user households. They add symmetry and create a focal point in the bathroom.
Baths
While showers are a great way to start the day, taking time out to luxuriate in a warm bath is hard to beat. Ergonomics are key to a relaxing bath. Visit a bathroom showroom, take off your shoes and try them out. Is it long enough? Wide enough? Does it support you back?,br>
Whatever the size of your bathroom there is a bath to suit your lifestyle – from large double-ended models with centrally mounted taps to corner baths and roll top baths. If your space dictates that you need a small bath then consider an integrated bath filler – these allow you to fill the bath without a spout taking up precious space.
Acrylic and pressed steel are the most common materials used today – both are strong and durable, however the manufacturing process used to form acrylic baths allows for wider variety of shapes and designs.
For a nostalgic look choose an enamelled free-standing cast iron bath with ball and claw feet. Or make a statement with a large stone bath – although check first that your floor will be able to cope with the additional weight.
If your bath is also your main showering area then look out for models specifically designed to cope with this. They are the same length as a standard bath but are wider at one end to create a comfortable showering area. Usually these are available as left or right hand options to cope with different bathroom layouts.
WCs and bidets
For a cohesive look, your choice of WC and bidet should match the style of your basin. If you have chosen a wall-hung basin, then choose a wall-hung WC and bidet to complement it.
WC styles include: close-coupled – where the cistern and pan are attached to one another, and back-to-wall – where the cistern is concealed in the wall or bathroom furniture. Wall-hung WC’s are similar in style to back-to-wall models only the pan is suspended from the wall, rather than being floor-mounted.
Dual-flush WCs play an essential role in water saving. These are activated by a push button or activation plate and allow you to select the amount of water used for each flush – usually 3litres or 6litres
Showers
A daily shower is now central to our health and well-being. As consumers look towards extra-large showerheads and body jets to satisfy their needs, the area within the bathroom environment dedicated to showering continues to grow.
A luxurious shower is now high on the wish list of every renovation project. To ensure that you enjoy the full potential of your new shower, take time to choose a tray and enclosure that will enhance its looks and be convenient and comfortable to use.
Shower trays
Today there is a tray shape to suit all installation requirements – from squares and rectangles to pentangles, quadrant shapes and circles. These are offered in a range of sizes to suit both small and large bathrooms.
The vast majority of shower trays are made from acrylic or enamelled steel and come in a variety of sanitaryware shades. It is also possible to find trays made from fireclay, solid surface materials such as Corian, wood and stone – designed to complement other areas of your bathroom.
For safety, many manufacturers offer anti-slip finishes as standard or as an optional extra. This gives extra grip under-foot and is worth considering if you have chosen a large shower tray, or if the shower is to be used by children or the elderly
Shower Screens and enclosures
The shower screen should always be chosen at the same time as the tray to ensure they are compatible with one another. The current trend for frameless glass enclosures introduces a modern feel to the bathing space. The lack of frame also makes them a good choice for small bathrooms as visually they ‘disappear’ into the surrounding area.
Alcove enclosures are designed for use with U-shaped showering areas – where the shower area comprises three walls and a door. Doors can either be bi-fold, sliding or hinged. Hinged doors are now the popular choice as they allow a cleaner look due to the fact that they do not require a frame at the top or the bottom of the unit.
Many manufacturers also offer a range of double-width units featuring wet and dry zones. These feature a walk-in screened area for showering and an adjacent drying area, often with a slatted wooden board.
Understated glass screens, paired with large trays, are used to prevent splashes rather than enclose the entire shower area – creating a spacious walk-in or walk-through wet area. This re-creates the look of a wet room but is a more practical choice for a main bathroom.
Floor and wall tiles create the background for your bathroom. They bring colour and texture to the surfaces and set the tone of the space. Available in a number of materials, sizes and finishes, there is a tile to suit every style of interior.
Walls
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are the most popular choice for walls. Large format porcelain tiles give a contemporary look, while small hand-glazed ceramic tiles will give a rustic feel and are best suited to traditional spaces.
Floors
Your choice of bathroom flooring should combine looks with practicality. As the surface will often get wet it is important to choose a finish that is both anti-slip and water resistant.
Ceramic and porcelain tiles
Ceramic tiles come in an endless range of colours and finishes. By using two different designs you can highlight different zones in the bathroom, e.g. introduce a bold band of colour behind the basin or choose a different tile for a walk-in shower.
Due to its resilience, porcelain tiles are now available in sizes up to 1m – ideal for a large modern bathroom. The tiles can be butted up close to one another allowing for almost invisible grout lines.
Stone
Natural stone tiles complement traditional and modern settings. They can either have a polished finish or a honed finish and should be sealed after they have been installed. Due to their weight, you should seek advice if you are planning to use natural stone tiles on walls, as it may be better to use a stone-effect porcelain tile instead.
Mosaics
Available in glass, ceramic and natural stones, mosaic tiles can bring pattern it the bathroom. They come in sheet form and in a choice of sizes and colours, with the latest designs replicating decorative wallpapers.
Vinyl, Linoleum and rubber
These are all suitable choices for use on the floor and offer a number of benefits. Linoleum has anti-bacterial qualities making it a good choice for the bathroom, while rubber comes in wide range of bright colours and textured finishes. Modern vinyl tiles replicate a number of natural materials including stone, glass and metal. Wood-effect vinyl tiles are a practical alternative to the real thing, which is likely to get damaged in wet areas. Another benefit of these materials is that they are warmer underfoot their stone or ceramic counterparts.
Lighting and more
Being able to alter the ambience of your bathroom is yet another way of personalising the space. Lighting and sound can help us to wake up in the morning or unwind at the end of the day, while heating brings comfort to the bathroom environment.
Lighting
A good lighting scheme will be flexible enough of create a number of moods, whatever the time of day. It should be planned after you have decided where the sanitaryware, bath and shower are going to be located. Look to include at least two sources of lighting on separate circuits – task lighting above or around the mirror, and ambient lighting for the rest of the space. Additional feature lighting over the bath, within recessed shelving or even in the shower floor, will create atmosphere and allow you to benefit from a number of different lighting scenarios.
The light fittings you select should be designed specifically for the bathroom environment. Safety requirements will depend on which area within the space you intend to have the light installed. Consult a qualified electrician, who will be able to advise you on local regulations and the suitability of products
In addition to completing the overall look of your bathroom, accessories and storage solutions bring added functionality to the bathing space and convenience to its users.
Bathroom accessories
Towel rails, soap dispensers and robe hooks add the finishing touches to a bathroom. For a cohesive look, choose a tap manufacturer that offers a wide range of accessories. This will ensure the surface finish of your taps and accessories are a perfect match.
Within the bathroom environment, the location of accessories is about balancing design preference with accessibility. Take time to consider their positioning as fixing them requires drilling into the bathroom tiles.
Towel rails
should be placed within arm’s reach of the bath and/or shower and robe hooks outside the shower door. Wall-mounted soap dispensers and beaker holders will help keep the basin area clean and tidy.
Mirrors
No bathroom is complete without a mirror. They let us watch ourselves perform daily routines such as applying make up, shaving and brushing our teeth and reflect light around the space.
Many designs incorporate either LED or halogen lighting – activated by a soft on/off button for gradual illumination, while some include a heat pad behind the glass to automatically demist the surface.
Mirror-fronted cabinets now offer a variety of discreet storage options – some are designed to be recessed into the wall, so that it is virtually impossible to tell that there is a cabinet behind the mirror.
Recessed storage
Storage recesses in the shower area ensure gels and shampoos are accessible without infringing on the space. Recessed shelving in other areas, e.g. above a wall-hung WC, create a focal point in the room and an additional opportunity to personalise your space.
Bathroom furniture
Once limited to small vanity units, today’s bathroom furniture comes in a plethora of design styles and offers a storage solution for every situation. From bright glossy lacquer finishes to pale woods, units range from small cubes to long stretches of cupboard and drawer units.
Wall-hung styles will enhance a minimalist bathroom and provide a place to hide away the essentials, leaving only the beautiful on display. Many manufacturers also produced ranges designed specifically for small bathrooms and cloakrooms, where space is limited.
Taps
From traditional pillar taps to state-of-the-art single lever mixers, the variety of design styles on the market ensures there is a tap to suit every style of décor.
Design styles and finishes
Taps are the hardest working pieces of equipment in the bathroom and should be a primary consideration from the outset of a project.
As well as delivering water to the basin or bath, they reflect light around the bathroom acting as design highlights within the space. Therefore your choice of tap design and location will influence the final look of your bathroom.
Taps are now available in a host of styles. From modern sculptural mixers designed to complement pure, minimalist spaces, to classic styles designed to enhance traditional and period style rooms.
Chrome is the most popular finish due to its ability to work with all styles of interior. It is easy to clean and its reflective qualities bring light into the bathroom environment.
Matching taps to sanitaryware
Choose the right model to match your basin. Sanitaryware comes in a exhaustive range of design styles, shapes and sizes, so check that the basin and the tap complement one another.
Many basins come pre-drilled with a set number of holes. If the basin has three holes, then you will need a three-hole basin mixer.
Vessel basins sit on the surface of a unit or shelf and will require a tap with a high spout, or a wall-mounted tap where the spout reaches to the centre of the basin.
What should I look for?
Look out for a solid metal tap body, ceramic discs in the cartridge and a deep plated finish. A quality tap will last a lifetime so choose a design with timeless appeal.
It is false economy to buy a cheap tap, as you will only have to replace it in a few years time. If your budget is tight, try and save money elsewhere in the bathroom.
Safety and water-saving features
Temperature limiters allow you to set a maximum water temperature via an internal mechanism – this should be done at the time of installation. They save energy and are a benefit if you are planning a bathroom to be used by children or the elderly.
To save water, replace the mousseur at the end of the tap’s spout for one that restricts the flow. Not all manufacturers offer flow restrictors, so check before you buy your tap.
Single-lever mixer taps
Also referred to as monobloc taps, single-lever mixers are designed for installation in a single hole in the basin surround. They feature a lever handle mounted on the top or the side of the tap to control both the water temperature and flow. The hot and cold water is then mixed in an internal cartridge before it reaches the spout. Choose a tap with ceramic discs and a wide operating angle, for smooth and precise control.
Two-handle mixer taps
Like single-lever mixers, two-handle taps are installed in a single hole in the basin rim. They feature independent controls for the hot and cold water supplies.
Three-hole taps
Featuring individual controls for the hot and cold water, three-hole taps deliver the mixed water via a central spout. Available in a variety of designs, this style works well in both contemporary and traditional settings.
Electronic taps
Two types of electronic tap are available. Sensory-controlled (touchless) taps sense the presence of the user, e.g. by using infrared light. One-touch taps require the user to touch-start the water.
Pillar taps
Due to their authentic look, pillar taps are often chosen for traditional settings. They deliver the hot and cold water supplies independent of one another.
Wall-mounted taps
For vessel style basins, or when there are no tap holes in the sanitaryware, choose a wall-mounted tap. As they are installed in the wall directly above the basin, the pipe work must be concealed in the wall prior to tiling.
Bath Taps
For many people the sole function of a bath tap is to fill the bath. Others will require a tap that can also control an over-bath shower (bath/shower mixers), allowing the user to divert the water between the bath tap and the shower.
Combined bath/shower mixers
Available with or without a thermostat, bath/shower mixers are the simplest way of showering over the bath. They can either be exposed or built-in. A diverter valve allows the user to switch between bath filling and showering. For safety and comfort it is always best to choose a model with a thermostat.
Deck-mounted combinations
These are designed to be mounted either on the rim of the bath or a tiled bath surround – ensure you choose the right product according to your situation. For the latter the spout needs to reach over the edge of the bath.
Available in three-hole, four-hole and five-hole typologies, they combine a bath spout and a handshower. One or two handles or levers control the water and a diverter enables you to switch between the shower and the bath.
Integrated bath fillers
These are mounted inside the bath and act as a water inlet, overflow and pop-up waste control.
Floor-mounted bath taps
Created for use with freestanding baths, floor-mounted taps feature pipe work from the floor in the same style and finish as the tap itself. Many models are supplemented with a handshower
Shower Mixers
Mixer valves and thermostats blend the hot and cold water supplies and control the water flow to the showerhead. Thermostatic valves are more expensive, however they offer a number of beneficial safety features in return for the additional cost.
Shower thermostats
For safety and comfort, a thermostat is an essential part of every shower. It allows you to pre-set a preferred water temperature and maintains it for the duration of your shower.
A thermostat will adjust the water supply to the shower within the fraction of a second, should there be a change in the temperature or pressure of the supplied water – for example, if someone were to flush a WC elsewhere in the home.
A good thermostat will have a built-in safety feature to prevent the temperature for accidentally being raised above 38 degrees Celsius. Many also incorporate a diverter valve that allows you to switch between two shower outlets.
Water-saving features include Eco buttons that always start the shower at a reduced flow rate. These require the user to push a button on the control to increase the flow above a certain level, usually around 50 percent.
Manual Shower mixers
Mixer vales work in the same way as basin taps and can either be single control or dual control. They do not react to drops in water pressure or changes in temperature.
Style and fixing choices
Thermostat and mixer valves can either be concealed (built-in) or exposed. With concealed models, the valve is located in the wall behind the tiles with only the controls and faceplate on show – this gives a clean, contemporary look. With exposed models the valve is externally mounted and connected directly to the shower hose.
Concealed models give you the freedom to locate the shower controls wherever you choose. If you are planning a large walk-in shower, then locate the controls close to the entrance. This way you can turn the shower on without getting hit by an initial rush of cold water.
Digitally-controlled thermostats
The latest development in showering is the introduction of digital thermostats. These are operated by remote control – unlike a conventional thermostat, where the controls and the valve are connected to one another – allowing you to locate the thermostat wherever you choose. Individual user buttons allow you to pre-set your preferred water temperature and flow rate. Wireless technology ensures that there are no electrics in the shower area.
Diverter valves
If you have more than one shower outlet (for example a handshower and a head shower) you will need a diverter valve. This allows you to divert the water between the two outlets. If you have a third outlet you may also require a stop valve.
The number of showerheads you can have working at once depends on both the water pressure and the volume of hot water available. For further advice consult your showroom.
Showering has come a long way since the days of attaching a rubber hose to the bath faucet. They are now an essential part of every modern home. With so many choices available, even the smallest of spaces can accommodate an area for showering
Style and features
Extra-large showering areas combining both a handshower and head shower are now the preferred choice of the style conscious consumer. They are both stylish to look at and convenient to use. The choice of two showerheads provides a flexible showering arrangement.
Over-bath showers
Choose an over-bath shower if you only have one bathroom and space is limited. Many manufacturers now produce baths specifically designed to accommodate a shower, so there is no need to compromise on style, quality or performance.
The baths are same length as a standard bath but are wider at one end to create a comfortable showering area. Many designs incorporate a shower screen.
Shower Areas
Enclosed showers
Shower trays come in a variety of shapes and sizes and when paired with either a screen or door will create a surround for your shower. Choose as large an enclosure as you have space for – you will not regret it as there’s nothing worse than banging your elbows on the frame when you are washing your hair.
Wet rooms
A wet room is essentially a large showering area without a tray or enclosure. The space must be properly prepared or ‘tanked’ before it is tiled to ensure that it is completely watertight. Ideally the area should be zoned to include wet and dry areas.
Walk-in wet areas
Combine a low entry shower tray – where the height of the tray is flush with the floor – with a frameless glass screen and create a walk-in wet area.
This will give a similar look to a wet room but is a more practical solution for a main bathroom, as the screen and tray will prevent the water from permeating other areas of the room.
Water pressure,/b>
Before purchase, check that your water pressure is compatible with your choice of shower. For optimal performance, many showers require a minimum flow pressure of 1.0 bar.
Shower Controls
A great shower is the sum of many parts working together. From mixing the water to delivering it to the showerhead, investing in quality components will transform your morning shower into an enjoyable and exhilarating experience.
The essential components
First you will need a shower faucet (mixer valve) to mix the hot and cold water. Mixer valves are available with or without a thermostat and can be either concealed (built into the wall) or exposed.
Most head showers are used in combination with a concealed mixer. The water pipe containing the mixed water is concealed in the wall behind the tiling until it reaches the showerhead.
Hand showers can be used with either concealed or exposed mixers. You will require a shower hose and a riser bar or shower holder to attach the shower to the wall. A riser bar is the preferred choice if the hand shower is your only shower as it lets you adjust the height of the showerhead.
User requirements
Choose a handshower that offers a choice of different spray patterns. This allows each user to personalise their experience.
Riser bars are ideal for multi-generation households as the height of the shower can be altered to suit both children and adults.
Shower controls
Concealed mixers or thermostats give you the freedom to locate the shower controls wherever you choose. If you are planning a large walk-in shower then locate the controls close to the entrance, so that you can turn the shower on without getting hit by an initial rush of cold water.
The controls should be easy and intuitive to use. Look out for levers and handles which move smoothly with little effort.
Mixer valves and thermostats blend the hot and cold water supplies and control the water flow to the showerhead. Thermostatic valves are more expensive, however they offer a number of beneficial safety features in return for the additional cost.
Shower thermostats
For safety and comfort, a thermostat is an essential part of every shower. It allows you to pre-set a preferred water temperature and maintains it for the duration of your shower.
A thermostat will adjust the water supply to the shower within the fraction of a second should there be a change in the temperature or pressure of the supplied water – for example, if someone were to flush a WC elsewhere in the home.
A good thermostat will have a built-in safety feature to prevent the temperature for accidentally being raised above 38 degrees Celsius. Many also incorporate a diverter valve that allows you to switch between two shower outlets.
Water-saving features include Eco buttons that always start the shower at a reduced flow rate. These require the user to push a button on the control to increase the flow above a certain level, usually around 50 percent.
Manual Shower mixers
Mixer valves work in the same way as basin faucets and can either be single control or dual control. They do not react to drops in water pressure or changes in temperature.
Style and fixing choices
Thermostat and mixer valves can either be concealed (built-in) or exposed. With concealed models, the valve is located in the wall behind the tiles with only the controls and faceplate on show – this gives a clean, contemporary look. With exposed models the valve is externally mounted and connected directly to the shower hose.
Concealed models give you the freedom to locate the shower controls wherever you choose. If you are planning a large walk-in shower, then locate the controls close to the entrance. This way you can turn the shower on without getting hit by an initial rush of cold water.
Digitally-controlled thermostats
The latest development in showering is the introduction of digital thermostats. These are operated by remote control – unlike a conventional thermostat, where the controls and the valve are connected to one another – allowing you to locate the thermostat wherever you choose. Individual user buttons allow you to pre-set your preferred water temperature and flow rate. Wireless technology ensures that there are no electrics in the shower area.
Diverter valves
If you have more than one shower outlet (for example a handshower and a head shower) you will need a diverter valve. This allows you to divert the water between the two outlets. If you have a third outlet you may also require a stop valve.
The number of showerheads you can have working at once depends on both the water pressure and the volume of hot water available. For further advice consult your showroom.
Showerheads come in a choice of design styles and sizes to suit all installation requirements. A good showerhead will offer a variety of different spray patterns to the suit the needs and mood of the user.
Handshowers
From the simple to the sublime, handshowers come in a variety of shapes, sizes and design styles. Your chosen handshower should feature internal pipes leading to each of the shower nozzles, this will guarantee an even spay pattern.
Choose a model with silicone nozzles. These prevent the build-up of limescale and can simply be wiped clean with your hand or a cloth. Finally, before you purchase your handshower check that it is comfortable to hold and that it offers a number of spray patterns – switching between these should be effortless.
Head showers
Head showers can either be fixed to the wall or to the ceiling. Many manufacturers also offer a range of shower arms, enabling you to benefit from a direct overhead spray.
Extra-large, ceiling-mounted showerheads are becoming increasingly popular – these tend to be modern in their design and provide a wider all-encompassing spray.
Obviously the larger the head, the more water it requires, so check with your showroom or plumber that you will have an adequate supply of hot water to cope with the demand. Compare manufacturers to find out how many litres their head shower uses per minute – some are much more efficient than others.
Side showers
Side showers, sometimes referred to as body jets, are small showerheads positioned on one or more of the walls within the shower area. Each delivers a focussed jet of water to target a specific part of the body. Although their position is set at the time of installation, a ball-joint lets you pinpoint the spray.
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