What To Consider When Planning A Bathroom Layout

Regardless of the type of fixtures you buy for your bathroom, the overall layout is a key aspect that will influence its functionality. Poor layouts are not only unattractive, but can also lead to accidents. However, before you settle for any particular layout, you must answer several critical questions.

Questions To Ask Before Choosing A Layout

You shouldn't just make your choice of layout based on looks; rather, you must consider various critical factors:

1. What Functions Will It Serve?

The particular purpose your bathing space will serve will greatly determine your choice of fixtures, as well as the layout to adopt. If your sole intention is just having a very basic facility, you can very well do with a powder room or shower room. On the other hand, you might want a place that accommodates multiple activities, such as applying makeup and providing laundry facilities.

With multiple functions, your layout must be well-planned so that separate sections are demarcated for specific functions. You also need to ensure proper placement of specific facilities to provide an aesthetically appealing look, instead of making the room appear disorganized.

2. How Many People Will It Serve?

A room that is intended to serve a large family will definitely be drastically different from one suited to a couple or a single homeowner. Apart from having facilities that are large enough to accommodate a large number of users, the layout must also have sufficient space to accommodate movement within the room. You would also need to consider the issue of privacy.

Each person has varying needs that must be accommodated, especially people with disabilities. In such cases the design should comply with standards of accessibility, based on the Australian Standard AS 1428.1-2001, Design for Access and Mobility.

3. What Do You Want To Include?

You might have in mind specific items that you intend to store in your bathroom. This would necessitate installation of storage facilities that can effectively accommodate such items, while maintaining a spacious look. To achieve this, you can take advantage of innovative storage solutions, including: vanity cabinets, over-door shelving, wall-mounted shelves, recessed medicine cabinets and corner shelves.

4. How Energy Efficiency Is It?

Energy efficiency doesn't just serve environmental conservation purposes; it's also the ultimate solution for long term cost savings. Fortunately, you can easily achieve this by checking for products that possess a high rating under the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme.

5. How Much Do You Intend To Spend?

A 2014 survey by the Australian Housing Industry Association (HIA) reveals that a bathroom renovation costs an average of $15,122. Whether you spend more or less than that amount, will depend on the type of fixtures you install and the type of layout you adopt. You can easily cut down on your costs using efficient layouts, such as positioning all plumbing facilities against one wall.

6. What Are Your Personal Preferences?

Ultimately, your personal preferences can still out-weigh all rational planning. You may still want to splurge on at least one thing, such as a hydro therapy bath, that will give you a truly relaxing experience in your bathing space. However, make sure that you limit your personal indulgences to only a few items so that you don't overspend.


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Babak enjoys creating beautiful bathroom remodels. His ideas can help you achieve truly satisfying results. The best fixtures can be sourced from ACS Bathrooms. Visit http://www.acsbathrooms.com.au/products.html for the best bathroom fixtures to install in your home.