20 questions to ask before you plan your bathroom

Build the bathroom of your dreams with some help from our handy guide

Pop quiz: What’s the average amount of space required for a toilet? How much does a basic bathroom remodel cost? And how do you pick out the right finishes? Consider the following collection of tips before beginning the work. You’ll be happy you prepared.
 

Q1.    Where do you begin?
Planning is the key. Bathroom remodelling depends on details, processes, options and decisions that require chalking out in advance. Always hire a professional for this.
 

Q2.    What should be the design approach?
It needs to be a place where you can get dressed and look spot on and if you feel terrible, you can unwind and find some solace – so keep it simple.
 

Q3.    What’s the average amount of space required for a toilet?
This will vary as per the site conditions, but a 40 to 50 sq ft area is the average space needed. Plan a layout to maximise space utilisation.
 

Q4.    How much would a bathroom cost?
The size of your bathroom and the quality of materials you want to use can affect the cost of a remodel. It is important to put your expectations into perspective and get a professional quote. If you have a budget in mind, the cost can be worked backwards.
 

Q5.    Where can one bring down costs?
Opt for simple, inexpensive wall tiles to bring down the cost, as they will occupy more area than floor tiles. Choose good quality, anti-skid tiles for the bathroom flooring as the quantity is less. Never compromise on the plumbing and electrical work.
 

Q6.    How do you save space?
If you’ve got a tight space, consider a corner sink based on how your bathroom or shower door swings open. Use drawers under counters and camouflage a thin vanity cabinet behind the mirror.
 

Q7.    What is the most ideal layout?
Ideally a door opening along the length and not the width of the bathroom is more efficient in a rectangular space. Wet and dry areas should be segregated – a shower cubicle can help contain splashing water.
 

Q8.    How should you plan storage?
Design a functional shampoo niche. Make it a design feature by building it with unique tiles. Acrylic drawers under your washbasin can house trays with nitty-gritties.
 

Q9.    How does one make a statement within a budget?
As bathrooms are usually smaller spaces, splurging on a few higher-end materials and finishes can make your space seem incredibly luxurious. For instance, you can consider adding highlighters to a small portion of your bathroom or a shower cubicle with inbuilt body jets.
 

Q10.    What should be the height of the WC and washbasin?
The ideal height of WC seat should be 16” to 17” from the floor and the washbasin around 32” to 33” from the floor.

Q11.    Where and how should you place the Nahani Trap?
It is always advisable to have a minimum of two Nahani traps – one near the WC area to drain off any spillage and another in the shower area.
 

Q12.    How do you light up a bathroom?
The best approach to a well-lit space is to incorporate layers of task, accent, ambient and decorative lighting.
 

Q13.    What would be an easy way to care for floors?
Impervious ceramic tiles are waterproof and ideal for bathroom use. Tiles designed for floors are extremely durable; they resist water, stains, wear and are easy to care for. Select slip, stain and grout resistant tiles for easy maintenance.
 

Q14.    How do you keep it hygienic?
Reducing mold and mildew begins with removing moisture. Sunlight is the best cure, so larger windows are recommended.
 

Q15.    How do you keep the bathroom dry?
There are several ways to do this – installing an exhaust fan, a louvered window and / or a steeper floor near the drain to allow quicker drainage of water.
 

Q16.    How do you merge the bathroom floor with the room outside if the finishes are not the same?
The two spaces can be differentiated with the help of a stone ledge. This will help keep it clean and dry.
 

Q17.    How do you choose a WC?
Select a style that works best with your bathroom. Using a wall hung WC occupies lesser space and allows you to clean under them, while the floor mounted ones can accumulate grime and dirt around the periphery. Hence make an informed decision before choosing.
 

Q18.    How can you style a bathroom?
Bring in small succulents or even one large indoor plant to induce some warmth.
 

Q19.    How do you keep it organised?
Place a laundry basket for used clothes, use a tissue box, roll and place small napkins next to the washbasin and place a dustbin underneath.
 

Q20.    What else should one keep in mind?
Plan for universal design features, such as wider door openings and installing grab bars no matter what age you are.