Professional Bathroom Design: Tips from a Professional

We asked professional designer Anna Simonova how to turn a practically functional space into a comfortable and beautiful relaxation room.

Anna SimonovaExpertDesigner and founder of the interior studio «Anna Simonova».1. Design the bathroom based on your needs

When planning a bathroom, it's important to understand that this space is for performing a 'ritual', not just a room you enter and exit. 

You must understand that each person has their own habits and characteristics, which should not be forgotten when planning the space. For example, some people don't need a jacuzzi bathtub that takes up half the room – a small basin is enough. Water calms, and people should feel comfortable. 

For some it's important to brush teeth next to a loved one, so a double sink is needed for their morning harmony. Others need a bidet, and others just need a mini-shower next to the toilet. All of this affects the layout and total area.

By the way, many don't know what else can be designed besides a shower cabin – a shower corner can replace it, all depending on needs and personal preferences.

Design: Anna Simonova2. Avoid Common Mistakes in Design

For example, don't forget about the overall aesthetics of the design. When clients ask me to lay out tiles, I tell them that's not my job. Any store employee can do it, and they don't care how you live there. Create an atmosphere – that's what matters most.

Don't forget about lighting scenarios: in a dark bathroom, it will be simply inconvenient.

Plan ahead what you want to store in the bathroom: only cosmetics or also laundry supplies? For everything, you need to find a convenient place.

Also, align your preferences with the height and age of family members. Is it convenient for a child to get into the bathroom? Is a grab bar needed for elderly parents? Will your husband bump his head on a shelf in the shower? All of this should be considered during the planning stage.

Learn 6 ways to save on tiles in a bathroom.

Design: Anna Simonova3. Carefully Choose Sanitary Ware

Sanitary fixtures should be from good brands such as Dornbracht, Villeroy & Boch, Duravit, Roca... These companies don't just create toilets and sinks. They create a philosophy that clients want to live by. In addition, their sanitary fixtures are convenient, aesthetic, and durable.

It's important to pay attention to sizes and dimensions: fit everything into a small bathroom so it appears spacious and functional, and in a large bathroom leave enough free space.

Design: Anna Simonova4. Don't Ignore Trends

For example, the 60s style is currently in fashion – strict and minimalist: minimal decoration, interesting color combinations and shapes, furniture with complex shades of green, orange, and even pink. The style is a bit naive and playful. All of this was well presented at the Maison & Objet exhibition in Paris in January.

Design: Anna Simonova

Also read:

• How to easily coordinate: 6 changes in bathroom layout
  
• 4 ideas for small bathroom layout in a new building
  
• Bathroom design: 5 tips that work well together
• Ergonomics of a small bathroom: numbers and useful tips