How to build style and functionality into your bathroom design

Traditionally, bathrooms are one of the smallest rooms in your home and have long been simply a functional space that has not garnered much attention. Today, however, bathrooms have been elevated to highly curated spaces that not only evoke personal taste but customized lavishness.

Day-to-day needs

Whether it’s a “spa-like” retreat you’re after or a timeless, classic design that is big on functionality, today’s bathrooms are delivering large on style. Beautiful porcelain tiles that create stylish patterns on your floors and walls, quartz, porcelain or marble countertops and showers, custom cabinetry designed to fulfil all your storage needs, walk-in showers, elegant soaker tubs that not only deliver on beauty and style but comfort and relaxation… these are the makings of a great bathroom oasis. However, a good bathroom design isn’t just about style, it’s also about functionality and your design should bring together all that is the best of what you envision, while still maintaining the needs of day-to-day living.

However, many of us reside in what is considered a “small space,” whether we are urbanites, condo dwellers or empty-nesters who have down-sized, we find that our square footage is at a premium. This doesn’t mean that we must forgo a beautiful and luxurious aesthetic in our homes, it just means that a bit more thought and consideration should go into the designs and planning. A small space bathroom can be just as impressive, even if you are resolved to only having a tub-shower combo, and space does not afford you a large vanity with double sinks.

With all that is available to us today, it’s easy to be inspired when you’re contemplating a renovation. The tile selections are endless, offering different shapes, an abundance of colours, finishes and patterns. Bathroom faucets and fittings available in a multitude of metallic finishes and colours – even red, blue and purple to name a few. Fantastic wallpapers and feature wall options, to add a pop to the space. And a virtually limitless selection of vanity options, including the movement towards the resurgence of recycled furniture as a vanity; a nod to sustainability.

Character and personality

Today’s bathrooms are no longer just a practical space, they are rooms with character and personality that are intended as much for general usage as they are for relaxation. Style and luxury are not determined by the size of your space, but the design. Be inspired by all that you see, but also be realistic in your planning about the size of your space and budget. A good bathroom design, with the best quality finishes your budget permits, will be able to deliver all that your heart desires, while still creating a wonderfully luxe, relaxing and inviting room that reflects your individuality and needs for years.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when designing your bathroom:

- Do some research and create a realistic budget. Though it’s a small room, a bathroom renovation tends to be more expensive than many believe
- Look to purchase the best quality that your budget allows
- Your tub is intended for relaxation, so when shopping, get in it and check out the comfort level
- Colour is a wonderful addition to any space, but use it wisely, as you will be with it for a while
- Wood is a wonderful addition to any bathroom, adding warmth and a great organic vibe