This bathroom renovating article, part 2 of a 3 part series, will be discussing bathroom design, colour and lighting. These are three equally important parts of the layout of any room as each should support the other. Countless bathroom design ideas are available on the internet and in design magazines, selecting a layout that will fit your style, space and budget can be simple and an enjoyable process.
Last week we touched on planning and consulting specialist bathroom suppliers and plumbers. This week we'll be looking closer at bathroom designs, decorating and bathroom layouts.
CHOOSING YOUR STYLE Style, as you may well know, is usually an individual issue. Select a bathroom style which will go well with your's but bear in mind, bathrooms are best kept clean, simple and stylish. Relaxing settings in bathrooms may be accomplished using the right paint colours, lighting, including candles, paintings and carefully chosen accessories. Keep your overall décor in mind when you decide on bathroom furniture, be certain that pieces compliment one another.
Have a look at several bathroom designs. With hundreds of bathroom styles and design ideas available online, choosing a layout that matches your personal style, space and budget can be simple and an enjoyable task. Look at friends' houses for bathroom design ideas while you visit them, visit homes for sale, check out design publications, and also the Internet for inspirational ideas.
POINTS TO INCORPORATE INTO YOUR DESIGN The following points should form part of your planning phase: design, plumbing and sanitary fittings, tile work, electrical installation, ceiling, flooring, wallpaper, and painting. Also be sure to enquire at your local Council's Building Department on whether you require approved plans for alterations to the house.
If you need to address the challenge of compact bathrooms and the requirements of those with mobility problems, look at installing walk in baths or oversized showers as part of your renovation.
A good bathroom needs proper ventilation and plenty of natural light - bathrooms should be fresh, clean and enjoyable areas. If you have an internal bathroom with no windows, invest in proper extraction and have your extractor on a delay switch. This way it keeps extracting fumes a minute or so after you've switched off the light.
Bear in mind shape, size and layout when choosing sanitary fixtures, often oval or rectangular basins will be more suited to small bathrooms. Aim to accommodate the space you've got by re-decorating it in a practical way. Make sure to have enough space for storage and towel rails.
COLOUR SCHEMESColour in bathrooms is very important, find some inspiration from photographs and architectural magazines and request the help of reputable paint suppliers. Particularly in more compact spaces you ought to select lighter colours such as white, off-white and cream, and tones that will compliment each other.
Should your existing bathroom has timber panels and cupboards, a white stain and new handles can give an instant contemporary feel. Be sure to use suitable sealants that can handle humidity and mould.
In larger bathrooms a bright or dark accent colour, for instance on a mirror frame or picture, can draw one's attention to a focal point. If space allows, add a chair in a corner and create an interesting sitting space.
LIGHTINGThe most effective lighting necessitates a combination of different kinds of lighting effects, based on the area and the use of each portion of the room. Even smaller bathrooms can have some ambient- or mood lighting, providing general, soft illumination for the entire room.
A dedicated vanity light, centre above your vanity mirror, is a great way of spreading an even light over your face for make-up and general grooming. Visit a reputable lighting supplier to find out more about battery operated models – this way there's no need for expensive electrical work.
Down lights on a dimmer switch and spread over the ceiling can give a good general light. Try and avoid putting a light above the foot of your bath as this will irritate the eyes when you soak in your bath tub.
If the budget allows, invest in a heated towel rail, there are different shapes and sizes, and some models have built-in energy saving features.
NEXT WEEKIn the concluding article, we will be looking closer at designs for small bathrooms and include some floor plans for different layouts and ideas for small spaces. If there are any specific information you require, please visit our Facebook Page.
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