A Step-by-Step Guide
Designing a new bathroom can be an exciting and rewarding endeavour, as it allows you to create a space that not only serves a practical purpose but also reflects your personal style and preferences. Whether you’re starting from scratch or renovating an existing bathroom, this step-by-step guide will help you navigate the design process effectively and ensure that your new bathroom is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. For Victorian Bathroom Design, we are able to blend so many of the intricate details of the period into modern creature comforts to achieve the dream bathroom design for you.
Step 1: Define Your Goals and Budget
Before you dive into the design, it’s essential to establish your goals for the new bathroom and set a realistic budget. Ask yourself questions such as:
What are your must-haves and nice-to-haves?
How many people will use the bathroom regularly?
Do you want a spa-like retreat or a functional space?
What is your budget for the project, and are you willing to make any compromises?
These answers will serve as the foundation for your bathroom design and guide your decision-making throughout the process. At Edward & Greaves, we can talk you through the entire process, what you should consider, what costs are involved and so much more.
Step 2: Determine the Layout
The layout is a critical aspect of bathroom design. Consider the existing plumbing and electrical connections, as repositioning them can significantly impact your budget. Some common bathroom layouts include:
Single-wall layout: All fixtures are along a single wall.
Galley layout: Fixtures are arranged along two opposite walls.
U-shaped layout: Fixtures are along three walls, creating a U-shape.
L-shaped layout: Fixtures are positioned along two adjacent walls.
Open concept: Minimal walls and dividers for a spacious, contemporary feel.
Choose a layout that suits your space, budget, and functional requirements. It should also facilitate smooth traffic flow within the bathroom.
If you are starting from scratch with a completely new bathroom, you will have a lot more design freedom. However if you are looking to renovate an existing Victorian Bathroom, there may be plumbing fixtures and fittings that you either want to retain or have to work around. This is where we may request a site visit to inspect in more detail.
Step 3: Select Fixtures and Materials
The choice of fixtures and materials greatly influences the overall look and feel of your bathroom. Consider the following elements:
Bathtub or shower: Decide whether you prefer a bathtub, a shower, or a combination of both.
Sink and vanity: Choose the style, size, and materials that match your aesthetic.
Toilet: Opt for an efficient and stylish toilet that fits the available space.
Flooring: Do you want mosaic Victorian Tiling or a more simplistic Victorian style.
Wall coverings: Consider tile, paint, or wainscoting for the walls, keeping in mind moisture resistance.
Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting for different tasks, including ambient, task, and accent lighting.
Cabinetry and storage: Select storage solutions that suit your needs and complement your design.
Step 4: Colour Scheme and Style
Choosing a colour scheme and style is where you can really showcase your creativity. Your choices should align with the overall mood you want to create. While there are more common colours used in Victorian bathrooms, you have complete freedom when it comes to the design of your new bathroom.
When selecting colours, consider both the wall colours and the fixtures’ finishes. Keep in mind that lighter colours can make a small bathroom feel more spacious, while darker shades can create a warm ambiance.
Step 5: Plumbing and Electrical Considerations
Ensure your bathroom design accounts for plumbing and electrical needs. Plumbing considerations include the placement of water supply lines, drainage, and ventilation. Electrical considerations involve safe and convenient placement of outlets, switches, and lighting fixtures. Hiring a professional plumber and electrician may be necessary to ensure compliance with local building codes.
Step 6: Accessibility and Safety
If your bathroom will be used by people with mobility challenges or young children, consider accessible design elements such as grab bars, nonslip flooring, and a curbless shower. While we all want to achieve the very best in bathroom design, safety should always be a priority in bathroom design to prevent accidents and ensure a comfortable space for everyone.
Step 7: Plan for Storage
A well-designed bathroom includes sufficient storage for toiletries, towels, and other essentials. Consider built-in storage solutions like wall-mounted cabinets, floating shelves, or under-vanity drawers to keep your bathroom organized and clutter-free. There are so many Victorian era design influences that have filtered into modern bathroom design so it is very easy to incorporate sufficient storage options into your bathroom that look the part and do not take away from the designs overall look.
Step 8: Source Materials and Hire Professionals
This is where our experience and connections can really help you. From the core features like Clawfoot Bathtubs to grand toilets and even tap designs, we can advise you on them all.
Designing a new bathroom is an exciting project that allows you to create a space that reflects your style and meets your practical needs. By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure a successful bathroom design that is both beautiful and functional. At Edward & Greaves, we are Victorian Bathroom Design and Fitting Specialists. Based in Edinburgh, we can help you to achieve your new dream bathroom. Call us today to begin the conversation.
