Australians are increasingly facing the challenges associated with renovating a small bathroom, with many thinking that they have to sacrifice on the look of their dreams to pave the way for functionality.
However, Reece Bathrooms’ Daniela Santilli challenges this sentiment, saying a rise in space-saving sanitary ware and accessories mean homeowners are achieving both aesthetic and functionality goals.
Here are her top tips for Australians to consider if planning a small bathroom renovation:
Do: maximise storage
In a small bathroom, storage space may be scarce. But fear not! There are many ways you can utilise the small amount of storage space you do have.
Firstly, utilise integrated storage solutions. To do this, opt for vanities with drawers that provide ample room for organising essentials. For example, the Kado Era vanity has customisable configurations, so that you don’t have to sacrifice on the design of your dream bathroom for practicality.
Mirror cabinets are another example. Combining two essentials, mirror and storage, mirror cabinets add a stylish unit to your bathroom. The Kado Neue can be semi recessed into the wall for a more seamless and streamlined look, appearing less intrusive in the space.
Don’t: use massive hardware
Given it’s a small space, a lot of room will be taken up by essentials – think shower, bath, and toilet. So don’t use big, overbearing hardware to further clutter the area. Instead, use hardware that is specifically designed to be minimalist, and space-saving.
Opt for a separate hand shower on a bracket paired with an overhead shower. This setup will free up wall space to create an open feel, yet still delivers the same functionality as a twin rail shower.
Vertical heated towel rails are also clever solutions for small bathrooms. The Mizu Soothe Vertical Heated Towel Rail utilises wall height instead of horizontal space. This frees up floor space, creating a more open feel.
Do: make the most of your dormant wall space
A compact floor plan is key in both enhancing functionality, whilst maximising your space. Back to wall and back to corner baths, such as the Posh Solus Freestanding Bath offers a freestanding bath look, but has a compact configuration and design, making the most of a limited floor area.
In-wall toilets, such as the Roca Ona Back to Wall Rimless Pan Toilet Seat will give you more freedom and space, whilst still keeping the typical projection of a toilet being integrated into the wall.
And do not forget about shower niches. Though they are a small detail, they further save space by adding an extra bit of storage into an otherwise unused space.
Don’t: forget lighting
Lighting plays a key role in opening up a room, as well as creating ambience. Bright lighting often opens up a room, making it seem more spacious, whilst dark, dim lighting can shrink the room.
LED mirrors with adjustable settings, such as the Kado Aspect 800mm Round Led Mirror will add extra lighting to your bathroom. The Led mirror also reduces the need for wall sconces, further freeing up wall space and making the room feel less cluttered.
Ultimately, a small bathroom renovation comes with its challenges in the lack of space. The ultimate strategy, is to maximise the space you already have. Remember these dos and don’ts to create your dream bathroom.
All the products mentioned can be found at Reece Bathrooms.
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