Bad bathroom layout: 13 bathroom design mistakes to avoid, according to experts |

13 bathroom design mistakes to avoid, according to experts |

Given the functional nature of what is often the smallest room in the house, it’s easy to see why bathroom design mistakes happen. Either, we’re too preoccupied with where the plumbing goes and whether the electrics are up to code that we play it too safe with our design choices, or we focus so much on one dream feature (roll-top bath anyone?) that we forget about useful things like storage space.

There’s nothing wrong with being adventurous with your bathroom ideas, as Diane Hyde, marketing manager at Craven Dunnill Jackfield explains. ‘If you’re looking to experiment with bold colors and decors and inspired layouts and patterns, the bathroom is the perfect space to make a distinctive design statement that is uniquely individual.’ 

Although many people focus on avoiding or fixing important bathroom remodel mistakes, design mistakes are just as important to rectify so that you can have a spa-like sanctuary within your own home.

Here, experts offer their advice for avoiding bathroom design mistakes and creating a bathroom to impress.

Before diving into bathroom design options, consider what kind of space you would like your bathroom to be. Whether it be a spa-like retreat or an exciting hotel-type statement, setting your intentions before a redesign will ensure that your space will have a luxury and coherent final look. 

1. Having solid wood flooring

(Image credit: Quick-Step)

Any plans for sanded back wooden floorboards should probably be shelved if the room in question is a bathroom. While wood isn’t a total no-no, solid wood could prove problematic. As Havwoods Brand Ambassador, Simon Myatt is well placed to know why. 

‘As a rule, wood flooring is not the most practical of floors to use in any set environment, so we’d avoid using solid or reclaimed wood boards in the bathroom,’ he warns. ‘If you are set on introducing wood bathroom flooring, then an engineered board option is the best. The multi-layered construction of an engineered plank means it is far less susceptible to warping in areas where moisture is present and temperatures fluctuate. This means your floor is less likely to stain, swell, shrink, cup or gap.’ 

If you’re considering underfloor heating – and we think you should – engineered wood is the only way to go. ‘Due to its stability, most engineered wood flooring is suitable for installing over underfloor heating, which is not the case for solid wood,’ Simon explains. 

Havwoods has a strong range of engineered timber, or you could consider, Cascada an engineered wood from Quick-Step with a water-repellent coating that protects the surface and edges against dirt and moisture. It also has a watertight click system to stop any water from seeping through the planks.

2. Squeezing in a separate bath and shower

(Image credit: Polly Eltes/Future PLC)

According to Barrie Cutchie, Design Director at BC Designs, ‘sales of freestanding baths have increased by 50% since the start of 2020 and remain high on everyone’s wish list when it comes to bathroom renovations’. But are they always a good idea? Not necessarily. 

If your bathroom is a limited size, it’s best to be realistic about the ‘bath versus shower’ debate. If you’re going to use a shower over a bath 90 per cent of the time, trying to fit in both a freestanding bath and a separate shower cubicle is a bad idea. You’ll either end up with too small a shower – and if you’ve never tried washing in a claustrophobic cubicle, believe us, it gets old VERY quickly. Or you’ll end up with a very cramped, unusable space in general, with the bruises to prove it.

There are solutions. Over-bath showers can be stylish, particularly vintage models. Or you can simply focus on luxurious shower room ideas, for example, a wet room-style design with multiple shower heads. 

If you have a large main bedroom, you could always pop a bath in there instead, but do factor in the plumbing work and whether your ceiling can take the weight. Or you could steal some space to make your bathroom bigger. Just don’t try to do too much in a small room.  

3. Assuming a small bathroom needs compact features

(Image credit: Raili Clasen Design and Chad Mellon Photography/Victoria + Albert Baths)

‘It is easy, particularly in compact bathrooms, to opt for key elements that are too small,’ says Emma Joyce, brand manager, House of Rohl. ‘For example, the sink and toilet need to be large enough to be both comfortable and practical. A small sink will save space, but you may end up with water on the floor while washing and shaving. These are high use areas so focus on the functionality of the product and ensuring it is fit for purpose.’

‘Countertop basins are increasingly popular as they make a design statement without taking up much space. They can work well atop a compact wall-mounted shelf or compact vanity unit. Wall-mounted taps complete the look, offering space-saving functionality paired with sleek design.’

4. Choosing hard-to-clean finishes

(Image credit: Future/Polly Eltes)

It may look great in the showroom, but there are certain features and finishes that could be the undoing of your bathroom long term, given the time and care needed to look after them.

Bathroom tiles are a particular minefield. Mosaic tiles may look pretty in theory, but all that grout will need plenty of cleaning, and will quickly look unsightly when mildew and mold get a chance to build up. Porous natural stones like travertine or limestone or marble are again beautiful to look at, but they can be easily stained by your bathroom beauty and hair care products, and if not treated properly, prone to water damage. 

Take the same care when it comes to sanitaryware and bathroom faucets. That black basin might look stylish, but will it show water marks? Copper sinks and taps are also renowned for staining easily, whereas a brushed steel finish is almost impervious to finger marks.

5. Overlooking lighting fixtures 

(Image credit: Lights & lamps)

Inadequate bathroom lighting is one of the most common bathroom design mistakes. Bathroom lighting needs to be both functional for everyday use and also able to set a mood for a relaxing experience – placing one ceiling light in the center of the room is no longer enough for a luxury bathroom look. Consider a range of bathroom lighting ideas to set the right tone. 

‘People are becoming more adventurous in the design of their bathrooms,’ explains Niki Wright, co-founder of lights&lamps. ‘Designing lighting that complements those schemes and pushes the boundaries of what is “normally” seen in these spaces is another trend we will continue to fulfil.’ 

‘Lighting is one of the most important elements of interior design as it can completely transform the look and feel of a room. Layer lighting and use multiple light sources to make a room flexible and versatile,’ suggests Martin Waller, founder of Andrew Martin. ‘Choose bold pieces featuring structural shapes, interesting texture, or colored glass to make a style statement, even if the lighting is switched off.’

Making sure you have the correct standard of lighting is also another mistake commonly made – and not planning bathroom lighting properly could have dangerous results. ‘First of all, you need to adhere to the zones and use the relevant IP-rated lighting,’ warns Scarlett Hampton, co-founder of lights&lamps.

6. Relying on a window for ventilation

(Image credit: Future/Paul Raeside)

An open window is unlikely to be enough to ventilate a bathroom, particularly not one ensuite with a bedroom. And having inadequate ventilation could prove disastrous – not just for your decor but for your health. The mold, mildew and rot that build up in a damp, humid bathroom can damage woodwork, grout, brassware and furniture, but worse, they can trigger asthma and other breathing and allergy issues. 

Dave Johnson is Head of Technical at The Underfloor Heating Store and explains that moist rooms like bathrooms and kitchens ‘are at the greatest risk of mould infestation due to the high amount of steam and moisture produced in both’. He advises that simply opening the bathroom door to the house won’t cut it. ‘Allowing the moisture to travel into different rooms will cause more issues in sites that are typically safe and dry,’ he explains. 

So the best way to combat the issue is with an exhaust-style bathroom fan that pulls the moisture from the air and releases outside through an outside wall. It won’t bring fresh air in, so you will still need to open that window if you have one. 

‘Wall- and ceiling-mounted fans are the most popular options, says Homes & Gardens’ Editor and experienced renovator Lucy Searle. ‘The latter will pipe air to the outside through ducting, and many will double as lights or Bluetooth speakers, which potentially makes them a more attractive retrofit purchase. Braun, Panasonic and Delta are good brands to consider.’ 

To work out the extraction rate of the fan you need in CFM (cubic feet per minute), you can do a simple calculation based on the measurement of the room. So say your bathroom is 8ft long by 5ft wide and has a ceiling height of 9ft. Then just multiply 8 x 5 x 9 by 0.13 to get the minimum CFM extraction rate – in this case 46.8. If you have a lot of ducting, you’ll need a slightly higher extraction rate. Don’t go too far over the required CFM rate, as you may end up with a noisier fan than necessary. 

7. Not embracing floor tile trends

(Image credit: Simon Bevan)

Neglecting the bathroom floor is a common bathroom design mistake and missed creative opportunity that can take away personality. Rather than sticking with traditional white tiled flooring, consider playing with popular bathroom trends and select an interestedly patterned tile or chose characterful tiles that could move up the wall for added visual effect.

‘Bringing texture up onto the walls through tiles adds tactility and allows light to beautifully reflect off the glazes, bringing vitality to a space, explains Diane.

8. Sticking to the same old hardware finishes

(Image credit: Paul Raeside)

Chrome hardware is a popular finishing choice for bathrooms, but it is not the only one. Different hardware finishes can change the character of the space, for example, copper finishes can add a chic touch, while black suggests a sleek, more modern look. Gold, on the other hand, can ooze opulence and fits well into many pre-existing bathrooms. 

‘Think about who is going to be using the space and whether you want it to be simply functional or somewhere you want to spend a lot of time,’ advises Yousef Mansuri, director of design for C. P. Hart. ‘With the lines between contemporary and traditional design becoming more and more blurred, the ‘Cool Classics’ trend offers a way to update looks by using more modern finishes. Alternative plated finishes are available on a selection of our brassware ranges, but the options do vary.’ 

What’s more, consider different finishes for sink basins, such as this copper wash basin, for an alluring textural addition to your bathrooms.

9. Shying away from ‘personality’

(Image credit: Simon Bevan)

The biggest and most common bathroom design mistake is creating a lackluster room that lacks personality. The bathroom does not have to be a white or monochrome area that sits apart from the rest of your home, instead, bring elements of your personal style into the bathroom to create a home that is coherent and not disjointed. 

Consider introducing textures or colors that could be found in other areas of your home for a fluid, effortless finish, or be adventurous. In small bathroom ideas, for example, stay away from stark whites and utilize dark, moody colors or playful patterns that can be used to great effect as a conversational starter to impress guests. Bold schemes work well in small spaces as they can enhance the dramatic appeal. 

Another way to add personality is by infusing the space with functional items that also look beautiful. Put elegant or traditional shaving kits, or guided brushes on display but hide bulky appliances and make-up in clever bathroom storage.

10. Rushing to choose tiles

(Image credit: Craven Dunnill)

‘Tiles are beautiful pieces of art on their own and have the power to utterly transform a room,’ says Diane.

Choosing the right tiles can make or break a bathroom, so choosing the right size, color, and material should take time. Selecting a grout color could change up the look of your bathroom or alter the overall appearance of your tiles too, so consider taking extra time to plan your tiling choices.

‘If you know you love color, then make a statement by going bold with your tile choice,’ suggests Fredi Maria Rees, designer at C.P. Hart. ‘Add colorful tiles in certain areas of the room, for example around the shower area. Small format tiles can also be used to create a feature wall; adding some texture to the space. We like using 60x60mm floor tiles paired with small wall tiles for depth and dimesion,’ she adds 

11. Going basic with mirrors 

(Image credit: Anna Stathaki)

The bathroom mirror is somewhere many people spend a lot of time. It is not only a practical bathroom feature but also one that can make a huge difference to the final look and feel of your room, even having the ability to affect how big or small the room looks. ‘Mirrors have long been a creative design tool of interior designers for their versatility and ability to make a statement in almost any room of the house,’ says Owen Pacey, founder of Renaissance London. 

Be bold with your bathroom mirror ideas – they should enhance the design of your room, as well as be large enough to see your reflection clearly. The area around the mirror should also provide the proper illumination for applying make-up or shaving. 

‘Statement mirrors come in all shapes and sizes. From Italian gilt mirrors of golden acanthus leaves to 1970s Murano glass in the glossiest pinks, emeralds, and sapphires, vintage mirrors are true conversation starters,’ Owen continues. ‘They also serve the purpose of reflecting large portions of the room back at you, increasing space perception for a more generous feel.’

12. Forgetting to accessorize

(Image credit: Future)

Because the bathroom is often seen as purely functional, it can be easy to forget to accessorize the space. Adding décor pieces through functional items as well as purely decorative adds another layer to the space and can contribute to the relaxing, spa-like retreat many people are looking for. 

‘The bathroom is the place to bring in soft and nurturing textures. They are also key to creating a spa-like feel in your bathroom. Nothing says spa quite like a fresh stack of plush towels placed over a towel bar, rolled in baskets, or stacked neatly on a shelf.’ suggests Joanna Ross, general manager of Design at Sheridan. 

‘It’s important for your towels to be incredibly soft and superiorly absorbent, but longevity is also imperative. Colors are also key and have the ability to transform a room. Whether it’s adding a pop of color with a bold red or toning down a bathroom with a calming blue.’ she adds.

13. Putting wall paneling everywhere

(Image credit: Future / Michael Sinclair)

Wood panelling and cladding has long been a popular choice for bathrooms – and particularly traditional ones. It’s the perfect antidote to the cool minimalism of wall-to-wall tiles, but should again be approached with caution. 

Bathroom paneling should be made of MR (Moisture Resistant) MDF and treated with a primer before painting to protect it from water damage. it should not be used in a shower area, because while treated MDF is impervious to water, it’s not likely to stand up to direct contact from a shower – instead will likely warp and the paint will peel.

If MDF panels don’t appeal, you could also consider porcelain tiles with a wood finish. Thanks to contemporary manufacturing methods, they are surprisingly realistic, and are also a good alternative to wood bathroom flooring.

There’s no definitive answer to the question of what to pick first, but it’s a good idea to think about what type of bathroom this will be, and then you can focus on its features. 

In a family bathroom, both a bath and good storage will be essential, so it’s good to pick these out first, then look surfaces and hardware that complement your choices. 

In a master en suite, you might want to focus on a luxury shower, matching basins, or luxe tiling as your first design choice. 

A cloakroom or powder room can present an opportunity to have fun. Pick out tiling, a feature faucet, lighting or even a bathroom-friendly wallpaper as the jumping-off point of your scheme. 

Starting with the item you have your heart set on will lead to a bathroom you will love to get ready in each day.  

In what order should I buy things for my bathroom?

Two things will hugely influence the order in which you buy things for your bathroom. They are the lead time on the fixtures and fittings you’ve chosen, and then the order of the remodel. 

Lead times can vary hugely. Expect longer lead times on bespoke furniture, natural stone products like countertops, some tiling, freestanding baths and designer basins. Deliveries can delay things, too, depending on where in the country (or the world) the product is coming from. 

Fragile items such as tiles, glass cabinets and shower screens could arrive damaged, so you may want to order these early in case they need to be replaced.

Bathroom remodels generally happen in an order similar to that below, although it’s worth checking in with your contractors well before ordering and work begins:

1. Make good the plumbing and electrics
2. Add ventilation
3. Plaster or skim walls and ceiling if necessary
4. Install bath (if fitted), shower tray and/or tanking
5. Tile or lay floor and wall coverings 
6. Install toilet, furniture, bath (if freestanding), basin(s) and taps
7. Paint and wallpaper
8. Install lighting and heating (e. g. towel rail)
9. Add finishing touches, such as window treatments, mirrors and wall holders

If you have plenty of storage space, you can obviously wait until everything has arrived before you start your remodel. Also, remember that in order to ready the electrics and plumbing for your heating and sanitaryware, your contractor may want the products on site from the get go. 

Otherwise, stagger deliveries to fit in with that timetable.

Items such as wall cabinets, window treatments, mirrors, and other finishing touches, can arrive late into the project. 

for a successful design |

Avoiding bathroom layout mistakes will ensure that you create a bathroom design that is just as practical as it is beautiful.

The bathroom is often one of the smallest rooms in the home, and yet, it is a space that serves so many functions; your bathroom layout ideas need to be carefully thought through in order for you to get the most out of this busy space. 

From incorrect fixture sizes to ignoring ventilation and the importance of good lighting and storage, we ask the experts to share with us their biggest bathroom layout mistakes to avoid – and how to get it right, instead.

Our bathrooms are no longer purely functional spaces where we simply come and go. Over the last few years, bathrooms have transformed to become hubs of stylish visual interest and statement modern design, with many bathroom ideas exploring the importance of creating a relaxing retreat in the home where we can comfortably spend more time and unwind.

Of course, there is much to think about when designing a bathroom, and our collection of the eight bathroom layout mistakes to avoid will only help you on your way to creating a truly stand-out space in the home.

1. Over-cluttering the space

(Image credit: Future PLC)

‘One of the most common mistakes when planning a bathroom layout is over-cluttering the space. While it is important to have all the essential elements of a bathroom in the room, it is also important to avoid the temptation of cramming too much into a small space. Too much clutter can make the room feel cramped and stuffy, and it can be difficult to navigate around,’ advises Jeanette Fusco, interior designer at HiHomePicks.

From towels to toiletries, to keep your space clean and clutter-free, everything must have its place, meaning that bathroom storage ideas are essential when planning your bathroom layout.

James Lentaigne, creative director at Drummonds also supports this and states, ‘in the bathroom, it’s important to keep toiletries easily accessible. Each area of the bathroom – sink, bath and shower – should feature some form of storage in order to keep toiletries close to hand when needed.’

Interior Designer, HiHomePicks

For over a decade, Jeanette has been an interior designer for private residences and businesses, as well as working as an expert consultant at online furniture retailer, HiHomePicks.

2. Incorrect fixture sizes

(Image credit: Devon & Devon)

‘Another common mistake is choosing the wrong fixtures for your bathroom. Bigger isn’t necessarily better when it comes to fixtures, especially in small bathrooms. Too large of fixtures can make the room feel cramped and insubstantial, while too small of fixtures can make it look unfinished and uninviting. Choose fixtures that are the right size for your bathroom and that complement the overall design and size of the space,’ says Jeanette Fusco from HiHomePicks.

From choosing the right size bathtub to saving space with a combined bath and shower, having the correct right-sized fixtures can make all the difference for your bathroom layout.

3. Putting the toilet in the wrong place

(Image credit: Future)

Barrie Cutchie, design director at BC Designs, says, ‘one thing we always advise not to do is to place the toilet in direct view of the door leading into the bathroom. This can often be the first thing people see, and you can make a much better impression with a beautifully designed bathroom vanity unit that showcases the design of the room, making the bathroom into much more than a purely functional space.’ 

Founder, BC Designs

Barrie Cutchie founded British bathroom brand, BC Designs in 1999. Barrie is an award-winning designer who has been at the forefront of bathroom design for over 30 years.

4. Not considering ventilation

(Image credit: BC Designs)

As the steamiest room in the home, having good ventilation is crucial for preventing mold build-up in a bathroom – as well as for keeping design features such as bathroom wallpaper ideas intact!

Barrie Cutchie explains, ‘think carefully about ventilation. The bathroom is the most humid room in the house so a breeding ground for mold. Make sure you have good ducting. Sometimes – especially in a large bathroom, you may even have to have two bathroom ducts – one near the shower and another near the toilet.’

5. Leaving enough room between each zone

(Image credit: Richard Powers)

‘People can often try and fit too much into a bathroom and not leave enough space between products and each separate zone. This can make them difficult to use, hard to clean and spoil the aesthetics of the space. 

For example, for a toilet, you’ll need at least a 45cm gap at either side and 76cm in front so that it is easy to clean and use. When it comes to the gap between a shower and a toilet, you need to make sure that whoever is using the shower can do it safely and comfortably. If space is tight, a wet room will be much easier as it doesn’t require fixed shower screens that take up considerable room,’ advises Barrie Cutchie.

6. Ignoring the importance of drainage areas

(Image credit: Katie Davis Design Photograph: Kerry Kirk)

Of course, you cannot have a fully functioning bathroom without the right drainage. Your bathroom layout will need to be carefully planned around your drainage areas so all of your fixtures sit in the right place.

Lee Reed, head of design at Easy Bathrooms, says, ‘water drainage can be a huge headache in bathroom design, and homeowners can particularly fall foul to this when they are doing up their bathroom themselves. It happens when the water drainage pipe does not align with the plumbing drain, which can lead to bad odors. To avoid this bathroom remodel mistake, make sure you measure the bath and shower correctly before purchase and installation. ‘

For the perfect balance of practicality and beauty, Eric Bramlett, property expert and founder of Bramlett Residential also advises, ‘don’t overlook the importance of concealing things like pipes and wiring. While these elements are necessary, exposed pipes or wires can detract from the room’s polished appearance. Consider using recessed shelving or strategically placed bathroom tile ideas to hide these components within the walls or ceiling. This will create a more cohesive and visually appealing bathroom that you’ll love spending time in.’

Head of Design, Easy Bathrooms

Lee has worked with Easy Bathrooms for over 9 years, and has previous experience working for multiple bathroom brands in the UK, such as TC Bathrooms and Pangea Bathrooms.

Founder, Bramlett Residential

Eric Bramlett is the founder of Austin-based, award-winning real estate firm, Bramlett Residential. Along with extensive real estate experience, Bramlett also has a background in interior design, and helps his clients visualize and create beautiful spaces within their homes.

7. Poor lighting

(Image credit: Jon Day)

‘Poorly placed lighting can make a room feel dingy and dark, while too much lighting can be overwhelming. For your bathroom lighting ideas, plan for both task and ambient lighting in the room. Task lighting can provide illumination for shaving and grooming tasks, while ambient lighting can add a warm, inviting feel to the space. Consider adding a dimmer switch to the lighting as well, so you can adjust the lighting depending on the task at hand,’ says Jeanette Fusco from HiHomePicks.

Making the most of the natural light that floods into your bathroom is also another factor to consider when planning the layout and lighting ideas for your bathroom. For example, having your bathroom mirror ideas or a sink or vanity area placed near a window will perfectly illuminate these spaces; ideal for when grooming and checking your reflection.

8. Having too much open space

(Image credit: Neptune)

‘Another of the biggest layout blunders to watch out for is leaving too much open space in the bathroom. This can make the room feel vast and unwelcoming. Instead, try to create distinct zones within the bathroom for different functions and ensure there’s adequate storage to keep clutter out of sight,’ says Eric Bramlett from Bramlett Residential. 

From introducing bathroom seating ideas such as occasional chairs and ottomans to zoning the space through bathroom rug ideas, simple additions such as these can transform the feel of your bathroom layout, and help to make a cold, open space feel more homey and inviting.

Delphina Delft Blue Rug

The washable Delphina Delft Blue Rug by Ruggable is available in 7 different sizes and 3 finishes, and features a pattern of a web of intricate floral vines, inspired by the ancient Greek city of Delphi.

Shell Washable Rug

Crafted from 100% recycled polyester, this washable rug is available in 3 different colorways and 9 sizes, and has a extraordinarily comfortable, soft pile.

Emilia Gray Indoor/Outdoor Rug

This versatile gray rug has been designed for both indoor and outdoor use, and is available in 10 different sizes.

FAQs

Can a bathroom layout be changed?

A bathroom layout can be changed, but moving fixtures such as sinks, toilets, bathtubs and showers that require drainage, may mean you will have to adapt your existing plumbing – which can be an expensive process, so always take this into consideration when making big changes to an existing bathroom layout.

What is bad feng shui for bathroom?

The principles of feng shui in interior design draw on an ancient Chinese practice that focuses on arranging a room so it can achieve harmony and balance.

Bad feng shui in a bathroom would be caused by examples such as too much clutter, insufficient lighting, and leaving your toilet seat and toilet door open.

From the colors you use for your bathroom paint ideas, to having the right storage, there are many ways you can avoid bad feng shui in a bathroom, as we explore further in our analysis on bathroom feng shui.

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Designing a bathroom is no mean feat, it is a process that requires extensive planning and research in order to create a space that embodies a beautiful blend of style and functionality, and learning the bathroom layout mistakes to avoid will only help to bring you one step closer to your dream design.

5 layout options for a small bathroom in a panel house — INMYROOM

Re-planning

Together with a professional designer, we understand the nuances of redevelopment of a small bathroom and look for optimal solutions that will satisfy the needs of different types of residents

mine – a fairly common phenomenon, both in the old fund and in new buildings. However, it is quite possible to make a bathroom more comfortable if you know a few rules and principles for its redevelopment.

On today’s example – a two-room apartment in the 83 series – together with designer Diana Maltseva, we will consider 5 options for planning a bathroom and a bathroom without expanding them to the adjacent territories.

Diana Maltseva – interior designer, graduated from the British Higher School of Design. Her passion is to create modern and functional American style interiors that combine traditional decor with a sense of convenience and casual luxury.

The very first question to ask yourself before remodeling a bathroom is how many people live in the apartment now or will live in the foreseeable future? Despite the obvious advantages, combining a bathroom can also have disadvantages if more than 3 people live in the apartment. For example, in the morning and in the evening, a “queue” to the bathroom may form.

Also, when thinking about expanding a bathroom, evaluate the resources (valuable square meters) that can be used. And remember that you can expand the bathroom only at the expense of non-residential premises of the apartment (entrance hall or corridor).

Taking into account the peculiarities of the layout of a two-room apartment in the house of series 83, an increase in the area of ​​​​the bathroom due to the corridor and the hallway inevitably entails the conversion of one of the isolated living rooms into a walk-through, since it will be necessary to organize a passage through it to the kitchen. Such a solution is also possible if the family is small and one bedroom is enough in the apartment. But today we will consider 5 options for planning a bathroom and a bathroom without expanding them to the adjacent territories, therefore, keeping 2 isolated rooms in the apartment.

Option No. 1: we don’t do redevelopment and install a washing machine in the bathroom

Task: separate bathrooms available in old typical houses of mass series, as a rule, are small and do not even allow to place a washing machine. Not every housewife will want to install a washing machine in the kitchen, which significantly reduces the useful volume of the cooking room. Therefore, the main reason why they think about combining a bathroom is the desire to install a washing machine.

Solution: if more than 3 people live in the apartment and the task is to install a washing machine in the bathroom, there is an option to place it without combining 2 rooms. You might consider the following budget option for solving this problem: install a small washing machine under the sink. Today, there are various types of specially designed sinks on the market with a washing machine installed under it. As for the decoration of a small room, it is not recommended to use large tiles and many decor options. The most successful option is one or two of the same type of tile and moderate decor.

Who it’s for: this solution is ideal for renters and therefore not willing to invest in redevelopment. It will also be comfortable for families with more than 3 people, as it involves separate use of the bathroom and toilet.

Pros and cons: is the most budget option of all possible, quick to implement, and also does not require redevelopment approval. A full bath, although taking up much more space than a shower, provides complete relaxation. Also, the bath is indispensable in families with small children. The disadvantages of the solution are the lack of storage space, cramped bathroom and toilet.

Option #2: think over storage space and choose compact furniture

Task: create more storage space for household chemicals, bath accessories and cosmetics; place a washing machine, a basket for dirty laundry, but at the same time keep the toilet and bathroom separate.

Solution: we leave the bathroom separate, while replacing the toilet with a hanging one. This type of plumbing is very popular today. Outwardly – it is more aesthetic and elegant than the floor. All communications are hidden, there are no deformations on the floor, the bathroom space is visually saved, and the compact toilet bowl harmoniously fits into any interior. The installation system takes up less space than a conventional toilet. And in the niche formed above it, you can place built-in shelves for storing stocks of toilet paper and plumbing care products.

In the bathroom, we replace the bathtub with a compact shower cabin. This solution allows us to save space and allocate additional storage space. Cosmetics can be placed in a flat mirror cabinet above the sink or hang a larger model above the washing machine, which is built under the countertop. And don’t forget the gels and
shampoos – for ease of use, they should be located near the shower
cabins, they can be placed on shelves inside the cabin itself.

Thanks to the installation of a shower cabin, there is also a place for additional special furniture for the bathroom – it can be a cabinet, racks, columns, or additional shelves, and a full-wall mirror above the countertop will visually increase the space.

Suitable for: this solution is perfect for a young person, a girl, a family without small children or an elderly couple.

Pros and cons: more storage space in both rooms; the bathroom can accommodate a built-in washing machine. On the downside, the lack of a bath is likely to be inconvenient for families with small children or those who like to take a bath to relax.

Option 3: install a baby bath and think carefully about the storage system

Task: For a family with small children or those who are planning to replenish the family in the next year or two, it is worth considering what will be more practical and convenient for them: a bath or a shower with a deep tray? Many make their choice in favor of the bath, as it is more convenient for bathing. And it will be more interesting for a child to splash around in it. How do you install a bathtub at the same time, but still have enough space to store the same baby supplies that a baby needs?

Solution: A small bath is suitable for this task. The comfortable size of the sitting bath is 120×70 cm – this will be quite enough for bathing a child. The washing machine is installed under the table top, which also serves as a “changing table” for handling the baby after water procedures. Shelves for storing children’s supplies can be placed in the same place, above the countertop, and for the main things, racks and hanging shelves above the toilet bowl located along the wall are suitable.

Pros and cons: installing a compact bathtub, if the family needs one, allows for more efficient planning of a small bathroom space. This solution certainly takes into account the needs of a small child, for whom bathing is an important daily routine. The downside is the impracticality of the bath for adult family members. Sitting baths are taken exclusively while sitting, which cannot be said about showers and ordinary baths.

Option No. 4: equipping 2 full-fledged bathrooms and taking into account the needs of different generations in the family

Task: take into account the needs of a family with more than 3 people or families with different generations and at the same time a similar schedule. What if parents and an adult child need to leave the house at the same time in the morning for school and work, and there is limited time for getting ready?

Solution: in a situation where a bathroom may be needed by different people at the same time who are inconvenient to use it together, it is better to leave it separate. Moreover, both the installation of a second toilet in the bathroom area and a small sink in the bathroom will be convenient. The minimum size of the toilet cabin is 80×120 cm, and for comfortable use, the center of the toilet bowl should be no closer than 40 cm from the wall. These parameters are important to consider when placing an additional washbasin in the bathroom. It is important to consider that for comfortable use of a bathroom of this configuration, if you want to install an additional sink, you need to slightly expand it by moving the wall towards the bathroom.

Pros and cons: instead of one – we get 2 full bathrooms at once. This solution will allow different family members to use the toilet comfortably and at the same time. Moving the wall between the toilet and the bathroom will allow you to additionally install a small washbasin in the first zone. And the installation of a compact shower cabin, instead of a bathtub, will also allow you to accommodate a toilet bowl in the bathroom area. Installing a second toilet certainly limits storage space. And it requires the installation of a compact washing machine under the sink or its transfer to the kitchen area.

Option #5: spacious
bathroom

Task: to make a spacious bathroom for a bachelor or a young family by introducing an interesting design solution in a limited area.

Solution: we combine a bathroom and a bathroom. At the same time, we have a spacious shower cabin in the former bathroom area. The cabin can be equipped with a steam generator (hammam function), massage nozzles and a built-in radio. An interesting option is to abandon the use of an unsightly pallet and arrange a shower drain right in the floor; use glass doors instead of doors or leave the entrance open altogether.

We place the hanging toilet bowl on the shower partition wall. Despite the convenience of a bidet, we do not install it in this planning solution – it requires a lot of space and is suitable only for very spacious bathrooms. In addition, a hygienic shower completely replaces a bidet and allows you to conveniently draw water into a basin or bucket for household needs.

Pros and cons: the room has become larger, which means that it is easier to beat it on your own or with the help of a designer: color, zoning, non-standard partitions, placement of special lighting. The designer will help and competently design the entire space. In this case, your bathroom can turn out, even at relatively low material costs, a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing room in which it is pleasant to be. The cost of a designer’s services is low compared to the total cost of renovating a bathroom, and the same materials can create a completely different aesthetic that you will enjoy every day. The disadvantages of this planning solution include only the need to contact a qualified specialist to equip such a shower cabin.

Unsuccessful apartment layouts

Photo: Atyanova Natalia / DOMOSTROYRF

The layout of an apartment is one of the most important selection criteria when buying. Many in our country grew up in typical housing that could hardly be called comfortable: tiny kitchenettes, walk-through rooms, cramped hallways, small balconies. That is why, when acquiring new housing, you want to distance yourself as much as possible from such planning imperfections.

The time when cities were built up with the same type of houses is over: now every developer is trying to find his own individual concept and achieve the best combination of price and quality. However, the problem of unsuccessful layouts has not gone away – moreover, they are found even in new buildings with very expensive apartments.

Understanding that the layout is uncomfortable does not always work out right away – sometimes, in order to feel all the “charms”, you need to live in an apartment for a while or try to make repairs in it. Diana Lyubashevskaya, director of the architectural bureau PointPro Architects (Rostov-on-Don), told DOMOSTROYRF.RU about how to avoid such disappointments. She presented the most unfortunate layouts offered by modern developers and gave advice for those who want to choose a comfortable apartment.

“Inconveniences” of modern apartments

• Communications in the center of the apartment

It is very inconvenient when ventilation shafts or sewer risers are located near the entrance – this prevents changes in configurations, makes redevelopment and repair very difficult.

• Elongated rooms

Carriage rooms almost always look uncomfortable, and creating a beautiful interior in them is problematic even for a designer. The far part of such a room is usually poorly lit, and the walls near the windows do not make it possible to conveniently organize storage.

• Private residential areas are closer than family areas

For example, the doors to the bedrooms are literally next to the entrance to the apartment. An atmosphere of a “passage courtyard” is created; it will be difficult to fully relax in such rooms due to constant noise.

• Load-bearing walls in the center of the apartment

When load-bearing walls encircle literally every room, this greatly limits the possibilities for repairs. It is simply unrealistic to make redevelopment in such an apartment, because the demolition of a load-bearing wall is a violation of the law, because it is dangerous for the building.

• Small hallway

The climate in Russia is predominantly harsh, the amount of warm clothes and shoes is appropriate. There should be enough space in the hallway to store them, especially if several people live in the apartment. After a spacious closet for coats and down jackets is placed in the tiny hallway, it will be possible to enter it only sideways.

• Very large hallway

If you do not live in a palace, but in an apartment of a modest area, then a hallway the size of a room is hardly needed. Such excessive splendor is inappropriate and impractical.

• Limited windows

Clients of architectural firms often want to remake a one-room apartment into a two-room apartment, a two-room apartment into a three-room apartment, etc. natural lighting.

• Small bathroom without expansion

According to the law, it is possible to expand the “wet zone” only at the expense of the corridor. If the bathroom and the corridor are small, then life is uncomfortable, and nothing can be done about it. In such a bathroom, you can’t put either appliances or furniture for storing accessories.

• Complex room geometry

It is difficult to furnish such a room even for a designer, let alone “amateurs”. In geometrically complex rooms, “dead zones” are often formed that do not carry any functionality. It turns out that the buyer paid for the area, but cannot use it for his own benefit.

• Dead zones

Some apartments have little-functional nooks and crannies – when the load-bearing structures are rebuilt from the enclosing walls. Even for storage, it is difficult to use such an area; as a result, it either simply “disappears” or causes discomfort.

Advantages of modern apartments

Photo: Atyanova Natalia / DOMOSTROYRF

• When choosing an apartment, you should pay attention to a number of characteristics that usually make housing comfortable, cozy and easy to arrange.
• Flexible layouts. Families tend to expand, so it is convenient when the layout of the apartment allows you to change the functionality of the premises. Flexibility is, first of all, the absence of load-bearing structures and engineering communications in the middle of the apartment;
• Simple shapes and proportions of rooms. Such a room can be well designed even on its own, and the designer will “squeeze” the maximum of aesthetics and functionality out of it;
• Quality materials and well executed construction work. If everything is done “a blunder”, during repairs it is often necessary to “compress” an already modest space;
• Possibility of arrangement of utility zones. Apartment buyers are increasingly coming to the conclusion that the living space should not be cluttered, so having space for a dressing room and a mini-laundry room is a big plus;
• Large balconies. There you can place a storage area, organize a beautiful lounge area, study or creative workshop.