Designing Your Perfect Bathroom
CityLife HOMELIFE
Designing Your Perfect Bathroom
Few rooms in your home are as important for making the most of your precious relaxation time as your bathroom. This private space is one for downtime in the bath after a long day at work without any distractions.
Beginning a bathroom project can be daunting, particularly if you have never undertaken one before.
Whether you are looking to give an existing bathroom a new lease of life, or wanting to create a new bathroom from scratch, here are some tips for planning the perfect bathroom.
BUDGET
Set a budget to work with. This factor will determine the entire project and enable you to prioritise where you spend and where you save. It does not have to be set in stone but is a great guide.
WANT vs. NEED
With your budget set the next step is to ask yourself what are my main priorities for my bathroom. Do you want an extra large bath tub with a separate shower ? What are the components you need for
this bathroom to be serviceable?
SEEK IDEAS AND INSPIRATIONS
Not sure what creative look you like and need a little inspiration? There are loads of images on the internet, glossy home magazines, even pop into one of Cairns’ bathroom shops− these too are filled with ideas and the staff are on hand to answer your questions.
NAIL FLOORPLAN
Measure everything to ensure your layout fits together. The last thing you want is your bathroom door banging against your toilet bowl every time it’s opened or hitting your head on the sink getting up. You really want to maximise your space where you can.
LIGHTING
You need to determine a suitable lighting plan depending on how you prefer to enjoy your bathroom. This really creates the mood. Do you want a bright space, or a nicely dim relaxation space with natural lighting? Your preference will determine both the number and type of lights you install.
VENTILATION
By overlooking the ventilation in your bathroom, you will be sorry later. That’s because poor ventilation in a room that contains a lot of moisture is a recipe for disaster. Not only will you likely experience a build-up of mould on your walls, you’ll also have the headache of constant condensation on your windows, mirrors and shower cubicles.
One of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to ensure your bathroom has adequate ventilation is by installing an opening roof light. Also, unlike many exhaust fans, they are completely silent while they are removing all that unwanted moisture.
COLOUR
Colour has the power to energise and to soothe, to wake you up and calm you down. If your aim is to create a relaxing atmosphere, consider using warm colours like reds, purples and browns.
If you’re looking for something a lot fresher that leaves you feeling energised before a long day at work, consider crisp white, pale blues or yellows.
Remember that it’s not just your walls that will add colour. Bathroom suites, wooden cabinets and tiles all add their own colour splashes.
STORAGE
How much storage do you need? Will a couple of shelves do the trick, or do you need a large cabinet?
FLOORING
Bathroom floors need to be hardworking, impervious to water, and slip-resistant, but they also need to be attractive. There is a wide range of different materials you can use for your bathroom floor, including vinyl, natural stone, wood or laminate. Your choice will all come down to your personal taste and available budget.
