18 okt The biggest pitfalls when designing a small bathroom
Your day can begin and end completely relaxed in your bathroom. But does your small bathroom lack the perfect layout, or are you looking for an update? Be sure to keep the following tips in mind so you don’t fall into these 6 common pitfalls.
Pitfall 1: Fixating on the current dimensions
Does your bathroom have the desired dimensions, or could it be smaller or larger? See if you can move a wall or take some space from another room. Look beyond the current situation and make the most of the available space.
Pitfall 2: Clinging to the current layout
Is the current layout of your bathroom logical? Critically assess the bathroom based on your wishes. Even in a new build, you don’t have to blindly adopt the existing layout.
Consider which arrangement fits your needs. For instance, do you want a toilet in the bathroom, or is there an option for a separate toilet? The choice of sanitary fixtures also determines your layout. Think about:
- Single or double sinks
- Standalone sink or a complete unit
- Shower-toilet instead of toilet + bidet
- Shower dimensions and space-saving shower door
- Pocket or foldable door
- Medicine cabinet
- Storage for towels, toiletries, and shower items
- Washing machine
In other layouts of your bathroom, a different door or door direction is often more practical.
Pitfall 3: Leaving old plumbing and electricity in place
In my experience, many people are hesitant to tackle old water and electrical lines. There’s no need to be; it’s often much safer to replace them. Nowadays, you can use flexible hoses for water and electricity, allowing access everywhere. To conceal pipes, you can create a false wall or install a dropped ceiling with integrated lighting.
Note:
Metal components must be grounded, and outlets must always have a grounding wire.
According to NEN standards, the bathroom is divided into zones. The packaging for bathroom lighting indicates the suitable zones, so you know exactly where you can place the light in relation to a water source.
Showerhead from above versus showerhead from the side:
Lift the shower floor or create a thicker wall behind the sanitary fixtures if extra space is needed for plumbing or electrical installation.
Pitfall 4: Thinking only about beautiful materials, not ventilation
Atmosphere is, of course, very important in the bathroom, and you probably first think of beautiful materials. However, just as important for the comfort of your bathroom is ventilation, especially for a small space.. A typical shower uses up to 50 liters of water. Not all of this moisture goes down the drain; it also lingers as water vapor. This vapor can lead to mold.
Good ventilation requires fresh air to be brought in and moisture to be expelled. A window that can be opened is ideal, but that’s not always comfortable in winter. Moreover, bathrooms located in the center of a house often lack windows.
In both cases, the solution is effective mechanical ventilation. Many ventilation systems today come equipped with a timer as well as a moisture sensor, which is perfect.
Note: When installing the bathroom, don’t forget to check that the sealent is smooth and free of cracks or holes. This way, water won’t get trapped behind the edges, potentially causing mold or leaks.
A bathtub does not have a small footprint with the amount of warm water needed. Is it really a must? Then make sure to check how much warm water your installation can provide. Instead of a tub, consider opting for a double sink or washing machine.
Don’t hesitate to use a variety of lighting and tiles to make a small space more interesting. And my suggestion: adding more color wouldn’t hurt!
Pitfall 5: Signing a quote immediately
Let’s say you want to purchase your new bathroom from a single supplier. You’ve prepared well, know what you want, have the measurements of the bathroom along with some inspiring photos, and you’re ready to go. In one day, you visit several bathroom suppliers.
By the end of the afternoon, you’re tired and eager to finalize the bathroom. At the latest supplier, you’re warmly welcomed, offered coffee and treats… Now it’s time to make a decision. Stay cool; never sign a quote unless you’re truly convinced of your choice. Take the quote home and check the next day if you’re completely happy with your decision.
Note: If the bathroom supplier is providing all the materials and installing everything, they will need to assess your home to give an accurate price.
Pitfall 6: Online shopping
There’s a lot available online that you’ll love. You can buy all your sanitary fixtures yourself at competitive prices and delivery times. Keep in mind, though, that feeling materials and checking colors is much easier in a second-hand shop or showroom. Is it really necessary to buy everything new? Old materials, like second-hand tiles, sinks, or doors, often give a special vibe to the bathroom.
If you decide to shop online, always calculate a few extra days for delivery and carefully check the items immediately after they arrive.
When you’re renovating the bathroom yourself and installing everything, you probably have a good idea of the costs. However, if you hire an installer, the costs will be much higher than just the purchase of sanitary fixtures and floor and wall finishes.
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