A new bathroom is a significant project in the scheme of house renovation and re-designs, so don’t jump into it without ample thought and research.

Don’t underestimate what needs to be planned and considered when designing your new bathroom. When I was renovating our bathroom there were so many considerations I wasn’t able to list them in order of importance, instead I initially focused on the overall look and ambience that I wanted to create; that is a great place to start your research if you haven’t already established your new look. The second area to consider is plumbing as it can be quite expensive to move bathrooms to another part of the house.

What about an ultra modern look with alot of chrome and glass?Older style houses often suit the Shabby Chic or French Country design style. Either way, the points you will need to consider are still the same.

I have listed below some areas that really need to be considered when researching bathroom design.

Flooring: A hardwood floor can look great in a bathroom, but consider the implications if the bath overflows, or just the general day to day wet and steam a bathroom produces.There are bathroom specific carpets that are popular in colder climates, where warmer climates usually will only use floor tiles.

Lighting: Whilst most bathrooms contain recessed lights, or a combination heat/fan/light system, don’t go past a glorious chandelier.  I renovated my small bathroom with an all white look with a large crystal chandelier hanging down. It is a very dramatic effect that appeals in a modern style as well as the fashionable French country look.

Don’t forget natural light as well.When plannign your bathroom renovation, it may be a good idea to install larger windows for extra light and ventilation.

Walls: Most homeowners opt for wall tiles either floor to ceiling or half way up. If you are after a more dramatic look why not think about some funky wallpaper, just ensure that you don’t use an uncoated paper as it will not last the distance.Re-tiling a room yearly really is not an option, however re-wallpapering a room is.

Bath Tub: Do you want a separate bath tub from shower, or do you need to put the shower over the tub?The variety of bath tubs on the market today is fantastic, no matter the style of your bathroom there will be a beautiful bath to suit. Remember all those sunken baths in the 70s, maybe they’ll make a comeback? Whatever bath tub you decide on, do your research and look at all options before making your decision.

Bath Tub & Basin Faucets: Where do you start to think about this vital component of your new bathroom?  I think the best place is to decide what you want the faucets and taps made from – chrome, brass, aged brass, etc. That will then narrow down your options.  A word of warning, bathroom faucets can be ridiculously expensive and it is easy to fall into the trap of thinking – “gee, this is inexpensive, it’s only $300”, because the last two you liked were $800.Good quality and lower price options are available, so do your research. Having said that make sure they are made to a quality that will last the distance.

Toilet: Is the toilet going to be in the bathroom, or does space allow you to install it in a separate room?  The most important aspect of this decision is the plumbing.  Will new plumbing have to be laid?

Electrical Outlets: How many do you need and where do you want them?Don’t forget to consider shaver sockets.  Ensure that you comply with local regulations regarding the distance required between water outlets and sockets as water and electricity definitely don’t mix. Some countries won’t even allow electrical sockets in the bathroom, so ensure you know your local laws.

Storage: Think about what you plan to store in your bathroom.Will you be storing towels in the bathroom, or will they be house elsewhere? If you only want to store toiletries, then you could consider a large vanity with storage cupboards below. If you are one of the lucky ones with a large bathroom space, then consider built-in cupboard to hide everything away, or even an elegant armoire of you have a vintage style bathroom.

I dream of the day I can have a bathroom the size of a large bedroom complete with open fireplace, a large claw foot bath in the middle of the room and a big comfy sofa … ah keep dreaming.