Bathroom Layouts
Bathroom layouts are one of the biggest challenges for do-it-yourselfers and decorators alike. Getting the most out of every inch of this highly used, often small space requires some trial and error.
It is rare that one is happy with the first draft of a bathroom layout. Remodeling magazines, books and websites spark ideas that send you back to the plan over and over again.
It doesn’t seem to matter whether you are building a bathroom from scratch or remodeling an existing space, making all the pieces fit takes plenty of pondering.
If you want to renovate your bathroom, your fist step should be to examine problems in your current bathroom layouts. Is the room so narrow that the vanity takes up too much space? Would wall-mounted storage work better? Does the toilet prevent the door from opening completely?
You can fix small annoyances like this by removing the door and it on the opposite doorjamb. There are some things you can’t change easily, such as location of tub and toilet.
If, after trying numerous bathroom ideas on paper, you can’t resolve problems without relocating these fixtures, you might consider having a professional re-plumb to allow you to move them.
It is also important to consider who will be using the space when drawing bathroom floorplans and layouts. If two people will share the bathroom, what must you do to meet their need for privacy?
A Jack and Jill-style layout works well in this situation. This floor plan creates three separate rooms within one bathroom. Two are vanity rooms equipped with sinks and mirrors. The third area houses the shared toilet and shower/tub.
Separate entrances from each bedroom into each vanity room provides a sense of privacy. Other bathroom layouts compartmentalize the master bath, allowing two people to share a bathroom while providing each with privacy.
Creating bathroom plans is a cyclical process made up of three parts. Evaluating your needs and options, using paper and pencil to visualize placement of cabinets and fixtures, and finally, double-checking your plan for efficient flow and use of space.
The steps are not always taken in a particular order. Instead, you will probably find yourself going back and forth between the steps as you work out vital details regarding clearance and heights.
Although the task might seem daunting at first, designing and bringing your own bathroom layouts to life is a highly satisfying project, and the best way to make sure your bathroom reflects your personality.
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