BATHROOM RENOVATION TIPS

Renovating a bathroom can seem overwhelming. Where do you start? There is so much more to it then just choosing some tiles, tapware and toilets. If you're keen for a stress free bathroom renovation, take the time to do the leg work beforehand. Here's my top tips for bathroom renovations;

DETERMINE YOUR PRIORITIES

Ask yourself why are you renovating this space? First, what features must my bathroom have? What elements are absolutely essential to the renovation? For example, you may want a larger shower recess. This is your primary reason for doing the reno. Secondly, what would be nice to have? What is desirable, but not going to stop the renovation pushing forward. For example, his and hers seperate basins. Can these items be included - space and budget permitting? And finally, what’s on your wish list? For example, a bidet. Try to incorporate all your essential items, then if budget and space permits, start adding in desirable and wish lists features. Once you have your priorities locked in, decision making will be easy.

SET A BUDGET

Next, set a realistic budget. Talk to builders, interior designers and friends who have recently renovated to get an idea of how much you can expect the renovation to cost. This will be easy if you've already locked in your priorities. The cost will depend on the size of the bathroom and the extent of the renovation.

CONSIDER THE LAYOUT

Now take some time to consider the layout of the space. What's works well in the existing space. What doesn't work. What are we willing to sacrifice to make this space more functional. In allocating space, make sure you allow space for drying off, place towels within reach of your bath or shower, consider how the room might function with more than one person in the space and the proximity of the toilet to the basin for hand washing. Ensure there is adequate bench space for things like hair straighteners or your collection of perfumes. And don't forgot power points for electric toothbrushes and hairdryers.

LET THERE BE LIGHT

Its so important that you have good lighting within a bathroom for things like skin checking, shaving or applying makeup. Poorly placed lighting can create shadows. Bright lighting is often preferred for mornings and getting ready for the day. And then you might want lower lighting if you’re using the bathroom during the night. Ensure there is sufficient natural or artificial night for your needs. Perhaps incorporate under bench LEDs or dimmable lights for lighting overnight.

PICTURED: ABOUT SPACE EPSY WALL LIGHT

STORAGE

Next think about what you'd like to store in the bathroom. How much storage do you need? Who uses the bathroom? In addition to the usual toiletries and personal items, consider if you like to include storage for some other non bathroom related items such as cleaning products, linen or medicines.

PICTURED: TIMBERLINE ELWOOD VANITY

VENTILATION

Ensuring there is adequate ventilation will prevent your bathroom from deteriorating over time. Good ventilation prevents the growth of mould.

DESIGN STYLE

And finally make sure the overall design style works in with the rest of your home. Connect your spaces but using complementary colours, fixtures and fittings.