Small bathrooms with all the advantages of a bigger version!
If there’s one room in the house where it’s important to feel at ease, it’s the bathroom. That’s why you need to think carefully about its layout as if your well-being depended on it… because when it comes down to it, let’s be realistic, your well-being does depend on it. Contrary to popular belief, there’s nothing insurmountable about designing a small bathroom, quite the contrary! Whether it’s your family bathroom, the en-suite in the master bedroom, a downstairs loo, or a guest bathroom… it just needs a little attention. Here are some tips to help you create your own little haven of peace.
When it comes to furnishing, it’s important to take your time when choosing the units that will make up this bathroom. They will need to be compact but with maximum storage space and, if possible, multifunctional: a pedestal basin, integrated towel rail, secret drawer, compartment with flap… The smallest space should be put to use to organise storage as far as possible. Wall-mounted furniture frees up floor space and allows two units to be installed – one at the top and one at the bottom – giving twice as much storage and taking up a minimum amount of space. And don’t forget that wall-mounted units make housework much easier!
Regarding the colour of your units, anything goes! Light or dark, natural or fanciful… It’s about instinctively following your personal taste and wishes. After all, you’re the one who’ll be spending time in their company. On the other hand, what can’t be haphazard is your choice of colours for the floor and walls. To create a feeling of space, choose light colours for the paint and bright wall tiles. You should also choose light and pastel shades for the flooring… But there’s nothing to stop you adding more intense tones here and there, or more elaborate materials such as premium terrazzo or river stone…
A mirror or two to play with the depth of the room and can give the impression of a larger area and some plants to bring life. There are no rules that say you can’t have pictures on the wall, as long as they’re damp-resistant, and a bench or stool, which as well as giving you somewhere to put your clothes, can be used to stack towels…
Edgar – Pink solid teak and premium terrazzo vanity unit
Lastly, it makes sense to declutter your bathroom. If you’re dealing with small spaces it’s best not to leave things lying around: it gives a visual impression of a larger room. So, get rid of the things you don’t actually use and any toiletries and beauty products that are past their sell-by date. For example, replace that set of decorative pots displayed on a shelf, and replace them with rolled and stacked towels: they look great and it’s practical too!
When it comes to lighting, think small ceiling light, spotlights or wall lights. An imposing ceiling light could counteract your efforts to visually enlarge the space. And of course, as with all rooms in the house, give free rein to your creativity by adding your personal touch… Whether it’s a decoration made by your children or one of the watercolours you painted on holiday, nothing is verboten because it’s your bathroom!