The Bathroom
The bathroom is usually the first room you visit in the morning and the last room you visit before heading to bed at night, so it pays for this room to be functional, aesthetically pleasing and easy to clean and maintain.
Renovating a bathroom or planning a new bathroom requires foresight and good thoughtful planning. A large proportion of Australian home buyers consider a good bathroom to be among the top things they look for when purchasing a home.
Renovating a bathroom sounds exciting but sometimes the project can be daunting, expensive, time-consuming and frustrating. There are many factors to consider when embarking on a bathroom renovation or designing a new bathroom, so to help you in the planning phase here’s a list of factors and items to take into account:
Budget-Know your budget range. Your budget will dictate whether you embark on a full bathroom renovation or a simpler refresh. Obtain trade quotes and costings for materials prior to commencing any work. Without a solid budget, you may end up incurring additional costs that weren’t in your initial plan.
Layout-Utilize your space. Consider the amount of space you are working with as you plan the layout and draft a floor plan if you can. Manage the space you are working with and have realistic expectations for what adjustments can be made to the room. Do you need more storage options? Do you want to add a bath tub? Do you want a larger shower recess or vanity cabinet with two basins? Consider window and door positions, plumbing and electrical outlets, do you want to keep them in the same location or relocate them? What will you achieve if you relocate plumbing and electrical outlets?
Timeline-Most bathrooms are small spaces but renovations can take more time than you anticipate. Depending on the extent of the renovation, the project may take several weeks to complete. Do you have a second bathroom you can utilise during the renovation? If not, consider hiring a portable ensuite. If you are not able to project manage the trades and order of works involved then hiring a contrator to do so could reduce the length of the renovation time, saving you money and your sanity.
Ventilation-Bathrooms that lack proper ventilation promote growth of mould, mildew and other microorganisms that can pose health risks and cause extensive damage to ceilings, walls and cabinets. Ventilate your bathroom naturally through windows which promote the free flow of air. Install exhaust fans to remove moisture from the air following a shower or bath, place an exhaust fan directly over a shower for best results.
Lighting-Good lighting in a bathroom is essential. If natural light is limited, a good artificial lighting plan is vital. Ceiling lights are the main source of light, usually positioned in the centre of the room. Vanity lighting can incorporate a single fixture above the vanity or wall mounted lights either side of the mirror or mirror lighting. Vanity lighting illuminates the workspace to make grooming tasks easier. Without adequate lighting a bathroom can be impractical and dangerous.
Waterproofing-Each state in Australia has different regulations for waterproofing that should be abided by, knowing which applies to where you live is a fundamental requirement. Waterproofing your bathroom occurs in the initial phase of the renovation or new build, there must be a waterproof barrier surrounding both the floor and walls to protect the structure from moisture and future problems. Waterproofing adequately is a must!
Future Proofing-When designing a bathroom it is important to consider the long-term. Consider your current needs and the potential for changes in the future. Accessibility is vital. Hobless shower recesses eliminate trip hazards and walls can accomodate grab rails.
Call in the professionals-Enlist qualified tradespeople where necessary. The professionals required for a bathroom renovation are plumbers, electricians, plasterers, tilers and builders. You may opt to DIY your bathroom renovation but know when to bring in the pros.