Space planning effectively when renovating can be difficult and bathrooms in particular can be quite tricky due to plumbing clearances and size of space.  Interior Designer, Lisa Worth, shares with us her top tips for getting a beautiful yet functional bathroom.



TIPS:

• Start with your toilet location and work from there. Toilets are tough to move.  Stay within existing joists to avoid bulkheads.  Where possible, prevent the toilet from facing the entry door for esthetic and privacy reasons.
  
  
• Keep your plumbing labour costs down by keeping water supply/drains along one wall for the sink, toilet and tub and keep essential functions within the same area.
  
  
• Never place plumbing for fixtures on an exterior wall due to weather temperature changes.  If you absolutely must locate them on exterior walls  ensure the contractor straps the wall, which can reduce vital space.
  
  
• Shower enclosures: These days everyone wants a large shower.  Consider a neo angle layout to take advantage of perimeter wall space and increase circulation.
  
  
• Bathtubs: They're lovely under a window (the views, natural light). Check the height from the underside of the window casing is to the floor.  If it is under 20" building the tub into a deck will not be possible and you will need to consider a freestanding model.
  
  
• Maximize your vanity length - double sinks for a master bathroom are a big selling feature.  
  
  
• If your space is limited, a conventional swing entry door can waste up to 9 square feet of room.  By making allowance for the "swing," you waste up to 3 ft. x 3 ft. of room.  Add a pocket door  instead to save you valuable floor space.