Do you happen to own an ensuite bathroom?
If so, the chances are high that you are looking for a handful of professional design ideas. Ensuite bathrooms are unique due to the fact that they are capable of saving a significant amount of space as well as providing you with all of the modern amenities that you have come to expect.
Still, it can be tricky to appreciate the options at your disposal when dealing with a decidedly limited amount of floor space. Are there any worthwhile suggestions to keep in mind? Let’s take a quick look at how you can transform any en suite environment into a truly stunning location.
Try to Adopt a Minimalist Approach
This first ensuite bathroom tip is arguably the most crucial, as it will determine how effectively the suggestions outlined below are implemented. When dealing with a somewhat small space, the “less is more” mentality is generally the best approach to take. Otherwise, your ensuite bathroom will appear cluttered and even confining.
We are not only referring to bathroom furniture in this sense. The type of decor should also enter into the equation. A small ensuite bathroom can be complemented by smaller paintings or a handful of statement art pieces. Not only will this save space, but it will provide your ensuite bathroom with a bit of much-needed personality.
Choose the Right Colour Scheme for Your En Suite Room
An En Suite bathroom is naturally defined by a limited amount of floor space. This is why it is important to make the most out of what is available. Colour plays a crucial role in this sense. Darker tones will naturally cause a small ensuite bathroom to appear even tinier.
It is therefore prudent to choose light hues when painting a small space. The same holds true when choosing the most appropriate floor tiles (such as those found within a wet room). Whites and off-whites are generally great tones. Additionally, choose a semi-gloss paint formulation. This type of paint is easy to clean, it is highly resistant to mould and its sheen helps to reflect ambient light. On a final note, make certain that the paint in question is suitable for bathroom use.
Make the Most Out of the Natural and Artificial Light Within Ensuite Bathrooms
There are many bathroom lighting ideas that are perfect for any home and this next suggestion certainly rises to the top of the list. Small bathrooms will always benefit from the presence of natural light. Therefore, choose lighter curtains when selecting window dressings. Assuming that additional wall space is available, install one or more mirrors. These will help to provide ample natural light and of course, they also serve highly functional purposes.
In the same respect, small bathrooms should also take advantage of the latest lighting fixtures. this can make all the difference in the world between a welcoming environment and one which appears gloomy. High-hat lights are an ideal solution, as these can bed installed so that they are flush with the ceiling. Choose LED bulbs as opposed to traditional incandescent models. LED units provide a much crisper source of light and they will last for much longer. Thus, you can also save money in regard to energy costs over time.
Choose Sensible Bathroom Furniture and Accessories
Many ensuite ideas will also revolve around the type of furniture that you select. Once again, adopt a minimalist attitude. Traditional units such as close-coupled toilets and large bathtubs might not be feasible when dealing with a small space. The good news is that there are plenty of alternatives to note. Here are some examples:
- Corner shower enclosures
- Combination vanity units or wall hung vanity units
- Sliding pocket doors as opposed to those which open with traditional hinges
- Back-to-wall or wall hung toilets
Of course, these design ideas can also be based on your own personal tastes as well as the level of functionality that your ensuite bathroom requires. You can also avoid the so-called “dead space ” that may result from the presence of larger and unwieldy furniture. Let’s now take a closer look at each of the ensuite bathroom ideas mentioned above in greater detail.
Toilets, Showers, Basins and Vanities
The main takeaway point of these next bathroom ideas involves making the most out of the area without sacrificing comfort. For instance, wall-hung toilets will not touch the floor; offering a much smaller footprint. Back-to-wall models are also options to consider, as they do not contain a traditional cistern.
Choosing the right shower enclosure is another understandable concern. A walk-in shower is by far the most common, as it will not occupy any more space than is needed. These units can also be fitted with the latest hardware (such as nozzles which produce a rain-like effect) if you wish to provide the room with a taste of luxury.
What about baths? The chances are high that a small en suite bathroom will not be able to accommodate a freestanding bath. This is why choosing a corner-mounted variant could represent the best solution. Many en suites will be equipped with acrylic baths, as these are much lighter than traditional steel or cast iron. Furthermore, they are available in a host of different dimensions.
When selecting a basin, it is best to purchase one equipped with a built-in vanity unit. This precludes the need to install an entirely separate fixture and as a result, even more, space can be saved. It could likewise be prudent to choose basins of smaller dimensions, as the nearby counter will otherwise appear cluttered and unkempt. Discuss these bathroom ideas with a trained design specialist. He or she may be able to provide additional solutions based on the unique dimensions of the room in question.
Coordination is Still King
Many articles concerned with designing small spaces within the home often neglect to mention the importance of coordination. However, this is just as important if you truly hope to leverage the beauty of your bathroom. One strategy involves choosing matching furniture. For instance, a pedestal sink can be used in conjunction with a slender toilet. The shape of a washbasin should match the design of other elements such as showers and baths (if possible).
Hardware can also have a profound impact on smaller spaces. It is normally best to choose elements that reflect the maximum amount of light. Finishes such as polished brass, gold and high-gloss chrome are excellent solutions in this respect. While some prefer this hardware to remain exposed (providing a slightly “industrial” flavour), others opt for concealed alternatives. Once again, this primarily involves your personal tastes. When this type of hardware is combined with other elements such as light colours or white tiles, your bathroom will immediately come to life.
You will also want to consider coordination by brand and range. If you have chosen an Ideal Standard Tempo basin, bath, and vanity unit other elements from another brand like VitrA might not blend in seamlessly.
Storage Options When Tackling a Smaller Bathroom Space
Storage is yet another priority to consider. The chances are high that your ensuite bathroom will be used to accommodate every item such as towels, hygienic products and toiletries. What if you are unable to implement standard elements such as a walk-in closet? In this sense, it is always best to think slightly outside of the box.
For example, a series of wall-mounted shelves will allow you to store everyday items without sacrificing additional floor space. A strategically mounted towel rail will likewise provide you with a quick means of access when needed. It may also be possible to purchase a vanity unit with a deeper depth (allowing you to store more items without the area becoming overly cluttered). These are only a handful of bathroom design suggestions to keep in mind when tackling any storage issues that you may have.
Bathroom Design Ideas: Accessorising
Any ensuite bathroom should employ smaller elements in order to bring out its natural charm. Thankfully, you will have plenty of latitude in regard to the options at your disposal. One interesting idea is to create what is known as a “feature wall”. This type of wall is essentially intended to serve as the centrepiece of your bathroom. Feature walls can also be found in other areas of the home such as the living room or the master bedroom. The only difference here is that less space will be available.
These walls may contain small pictures, a handful of mirrors or a series of shelves. Some homeowners even choose to paint their feature wall an entirely different colour (such as a pastel tone) so that it immediately draws the attention of the onlooker. It is therefore a good idea to experiment with a handful of different bathroom ideas and if necessary, to consult with a qualified interior designer. He or she will be able to provide even more useful suggestions.
Providing Your Ensuite Bathroom with an Organic Edge
One common mistake involves the assumption that plants have no place in a bathroom. On the contrary, the addition of a few plants will represent a welcome change within your ensuite bathroom. Certain species (such as aloe vera) can even help to purify the air; often an issue within small bathrooms or a wet room. There is nonetheless a caveat to mention here before moving on.
The presence of larger plants or those which require a great deal of trimming may actually detract from the appearance and functionality of an ensuite bathroom. Furthermore, some will require a great deal of natural light to survive. Be sure to perform additional online research using search terms such as “plants for an ensuite bathroom” in order to learn about what the experts have to say.
Can Wood be Used in a Smaller Bathroom?
This is another common question and it should be addressed before moving on. One issue with materials such as wood panelling or wooden floors is that the tones may detract from small spaces. In other words, they can make the room appear more cramped and unwelcoming. A possible alternative involves creating wooden accents (such as a bamboo shower tray or a series of white oak shelves). This will provide the area with a warmer appeal and yet, the visible space will not be negatively impacted.
Open Entranceways
Perhaps you are hoping to connect a smaller family bathroom with other areas of the home. In this case, an interesting strategy involves creating an open entranceway. As opposed to installing a traditional wooden door, why not instead choose frosted glass or French doors? These can remain open when the bathroom is not in use; enabling it to seamlessly blend with nearby areas such as a bedroom or a living room.
Putting it All Together: Big Ideas for Smaller Spaces
We can now see that there are numerous ensuite bathroom ideas to consider. From choosing the right type of shower enclosure to maximising the amount of existing storage space, it is important to leave no stone unturned. Even the tiniest of bathrooms can be transformed into truly luxurious environments with a bit of innovation and ingenuity. So, feel free to refer back to this article if you require a bit of inspiration. Do not hesitate to speak with one of our specialists at Bathroom Planet if you would like to learn more.