Elevate Your Home with Stunning Bathroom Designs
In follow on to last week’s blog about designing your primary bedroom, guess what’s next. Yep, your main bathroom. Let me help you discover your primary bathroom design inspiration for your home with stylish fixtures and innovative layouts.
When it comes to designing your main/primary bathroom, it is essential to create a luxurious retreat that not only complements your personal style but also offers functionality and comfort. Whether you’re starting from scratch with a new build or looking to renovate, my thoughts and comments will help guide you through the key elements of your main bathroom design, from layout considerations to stunning design ideas. Discover how to transform your bathroom into a serene oasis that you’ll love spending time in without breaking your budget.
LAYOUT AND SPACE OPTIMIZATION. To begin your main bathroom design, it’s crucial to consider the layout and optimize the available space. Start by assessing the dimensions of your bathroom and identifying the best placement for each product and feature. Consider the flow of the room and ensure that there’s enough space for easy movement.
WET ROOM. One popular layout today is the “wet room” design, where the shower area is integrated into the rest of the bathroom without a separate enclosure. There is often a curb-less or low-curb entrance that may be partially or fully glass-enclosed or have a pony wall to provide some level of separation and contain splashes. This open concept creates a sense of spaciousness and modernity. Just make certain you have waterproofed all the walls and floors and improved drainage requirements, as these will add to the cost vs a standard bathroom. Locating storage and linen cabinets outside of the bathroom is one way to deal with the moisture.
With shower trends leaning toward a more seamless look and luxurious experience, it’s no wonder wet rooms are also seeing an uptick in popularity. And with an increase in demand, so too goes the return on investment. “Installing a wet room can also make your home more valuable when it comes time to sell, which makes it a no-brainer renovation project.”
Alternatively, if you prefer a more traditional approach a separate shower and bathtub can be positioned strategically to enhance functionality and aesthetic appeal. Most of my designs incorporate the traditional approach using enclosures adding a greater sense of privacy.
LUXURIOUS FIXTURES AND FEATURES. Should you choose to elevate your design, the use of rich looking fixtures and accessories will certainly add value. Invest in high-quality materials and finishes that exude sophistication and durability. Consider installing a statement bathtub, such as one that is free-standing as the primary focal point in your bathroom. These tend to be more on a contemporary vein and come in all shapes and sizes. They can also be integrated into a traditional/transitional interior. A claw foot, soaking tub is used more in historical, craftsman and cottage style homes. All of the above will create a wonderful sense of style and aesthetic.
For your shower, opt for a rain showerhead, but make certain you have an additional standard, angled wall-mounted showerhead to complement it. Your water heater may have a hard time keeping up with the demand of the rain showerhead due to the large cascade of flowing water. Also, make certain you have the proper water pressure to accommodate this feature, you don’t want to install one only to discover your showerhead dribbles rather than pours. A great alternative is the use of multiple adjustable showerheads providing a true spa-like experience, which is always my go-to choice. Additionally, installing a heated towel rack and underfloor heating will add a touch of luxury and ensure your bathroom is cozy throughout the year.
LIGHTING AND AMBIANCE. Proper lighting is crucial in any main bathroom design. Incorporate task lighting at your sink and makeup cabinet, accent lighting perhaps on a dimmer to create an inviting atmosphere, and ambient lighting for example under the primary cabinets. On trend are beautiful sconces no matter your style, there’s something for all.
One of the best ways to add lighting is naturally. Add some windows, skylights or French doors to allow sunlight to enhance the overall aesthetic and a connection to the outdoors. One of my favorite designs is to make the bathtub the central focus above which I add a large window that’s approximately the same size as the tub. Naturally, you will need to ensure you have privacy options in place such as draperies, woven wood blinds, or even frosted glass.
STORAGE SOLUTIONS. A well-organized primary bathroom enhances the overall functionality appeal. Ample storage solutions will keep your space clutter-free and maintain a sense of tranquility. Custom built cabinets and under-counter shelving offer both practicality and style as a must have.
Adjacent to your sinks, consider installing vertically tall cabinets or shelving units. This will maximize storage utility without occupying valuable floor space. Another great use of space is integrating hidden compartments using recessed cabinets behind mirrors such as found with medicine cabinets. Functional and easy to access.
FINISHING TOUCHES AND PRSONALIZATION. To truly make your bathroom design unique, select high-quality faucets, hardware, cabinets, mirrors, shower walls and enclosures and countertops for that touch of elegance. Also, there is an abundance of designer sinks available for your choice. The right flooring is essential, such as travertine or hardwoods. A couple of well-placed rugs in front of your sink and counter will not only add comfort on the feet but will most certainly add complementary style to the overall look you’re trying to achieve. Please, please, whatever you do don’t carpet your bathroom—it’s a breeding ground for mold and other nasty surprises, including difficulty with the value of your resale.
You might also wish to add a few natural elements such as small plants and scented essentials to bring a feeling of relaxation and tranquility. Plants are wonderful accessories and thrive in the moist environment of a bathroom. If you prefer, add one or two artificial plants to give the same effect.
ACCESSIBILITY FOR SPECIAL NEEDS. One thought in designing your bathroom is keeping it accessible. As we grow older, consider adding grab bars, non-slip flooring, and a curb-less shower to ensure safety for everyone, making the space user-friendly for individuals with disabilities or special needs.
CONCLUSION. Designing a primary bathroom is a rewarding endeavor, especially one that you create from the beginning or as a DIY refurb. By carefully considering the layout, incorporating luxurious fixtures, optimizing lighting and implementing smart storage solutions, you can achieve a stunning space that reflects your personal style and enhances your daily routine. With attention to detail and a focus on personalization, your main bathroom will become a true retreat, where you can unwind and recharge in style.
I trust you found these design ideas along with the various photos inspirational and motivational in your quest for your extraordinary bathroom. My goal has always been to provide you with those tips and helpful hints that have served me well over the past five decades of my design experience in achieving YOUR ULTIMATE LIFESTYLE.
Please feel free to reach out and comment on what you have found in this blog. And remember, I wish you nothing but the best and remain RELEVANT in all you do.
Your Number One BoomerGal, Connie.
A special note of thanks to photos provided by Better Homes and Gardens.