Designing a bathroom is an exciting yet challenging endeavour. It's a space where functionality meets aesthetics, and getting the balance right can make all the difference. Here are ten essential tips to guide you through creating a bathroom that is not only beautiful but also practical.
1. Build a Mood Board Before Anything Else
Before diving into purchases and paint swatches, start with a mood board. This visual tool helps you gather inspiration and clarify your vision. Use it to compile images of bathrooms you love, color palettes, materials, textures, and fixings. Platforms like Pinterest or even a physical corkboard can help you organize your ideas. Having a mood board not only sets the tone for your project, but allows you to narrow down on your vision and provide a kick-off point for your build.
2. Set a Budget
Establishing a budget is a crucial first step in your bathroom design journey. Tiles can range from $20AUD per square metre to $200+ AUD per square meter, so knowing how much you are willing to spend helps you make informed decisions and prioritize expenditures. It also ensures you don't overspend on one aspect at the expense of another. A clear budget can guide your choices in materials, fixtures, and finishes, ensuring you stay within your financial limits while still achieving your dream bathroom.
3. When Buying Tiles, Visit a Physical Showroom
Tiles are a significant aspect of bathroom design, affecting both aesthetics and functionality. While online shopping offers convenience, it's crucial to visit a physical studio to see the tiles in person. This allows you to appreciate their texture, color, and finish better. Photos can be deceiving, and seeing the tiles up close ensures you make an informed decision. Many showrooms will also let you take home samples, which we’ll cover in the next tip.
4. Take Home Samples to See Them in Your Home's Light
Lighting dramatically impacts how colors and materials appear. What looks perfect under showroom lighting might not work as well in your space, so we suggest taking tile samples home to see how they look in your bathroom's natural and artificial light. Testing samples in your environment will also provide more context as to how they’ll look with the rest of the house, and will help you avoid regretful decisions before they happen.
5. Invest in a Quality Vanity
The vanity is often the focal point of the bathroom, drawing the eye as soon as you walk in. Investing in a high-quality vanity can elevate the overall look of the space. Consider both aesthetics and functionality—choose a design that complements your style and offers ample storage. A well-chosen vanity can serve as a statement piece while keeping your bathroom organized. Pair it with something like a Heated Towel Warmer to really complete the look.
6. Mix and Match Tiles
Don't be afraid to mix and match tiles to add interest and depth to your bathroom. Combining different textures, patterns, and tile sizes can create a unique and personalized look. For example, a soft-pink subway tile on the wall paired with a neutral, large format terrazzo tile on the floor can be a great way to bring colour into the bathroom without overdoing it. Compliment with gold or brass fixings for a luxury look, or finish with timber for a more beachy vibe. The possibilities are endless, so don’t rush the process!
7. Balance Costs with Strategic Tile Placement
Building on tip 6, if you have your heart set on a pricey tile, consider using it strategically. Place the more expensive tile on the vanity wall or as an accent, and use a more affordable option for the other walls. This approach allows you to incorporate luxurious materials without blowing your budget. It also highlights the feature areas, making them stand out even more.
8. Coordinate with the Rest of Your Home
Your bathroom should feel like a cohesive part of your home. Consider the color scheme and style of adjacent rooms to ensure a harmonious transition. Matching or complementing colors and materials can create a sense of continuity, making your home feel more unified and thoughtfully designed. This reason is also why it’s super important to bring samples home during your planning stages (as we mentioned in tip 4).
9. Consider Heating Accessories
10. Experiment with Funky Light Fittings
Lighting is a key element in any bathroom design, affecting both functionality and mood. Don’t shy away from experimenting with unique and stylish light fittings. Funky pendants, sconces, or even a statement chandelier can add personality and flair to your bathroom. Good lighting enhances the overall ambiance and highlights your design choices.
Designing a bathroom involves a blend of creativity, practicality, and personal taste. By following these ten tips, you'll be well on your way to creating a space that is not only functional but also a beautiful reflection of your style. Remember to plan thoroughly, choose quality materials, and don’t be afraid to follow your gut and stand out from the crowd. Happy designing!
