Not Considering Functionality
There are many ways to make a bathroom stunning, but unless you consider functionality, the most impressive bathroom designs can fail. Bathrooms have specific functions they have to provide, which include cleaning, grooming, and biological needs. However, the best bathroom designs also offer extra functions, such as relaxation and restoration. Relaxing, of course, has to do with seeking serenity, while restoration has to do with soothing aching muscles or other areas of the body. All of these basic and expanded functions should be taken into consideration.
Poor Lighting
Adequate lighting is needed in the bathroom to safely and comfortably perform tasks like shaving, applying makeup, hairstyling, plucking, tweezing, and so on. This includes a combination of natural lighting, overhead lighting, and concentrated task lighting. Poor lighting can make any or all of these tasks feel awkward or frustrating, which is not what you want in the bathroom. It’s worth noting that bright lighting in the bathroom is also desirable because you and your guests [a][b][c]want reassurance that the room where the most privacy is needed is also the most hygienic.
Overcrowding the Space
Bathrooms tend to be on the smaller side anyway, so you don’t want to make the room feel even smaller by overcrowding it. Some bathroom designers inadvertently overcrowd the space with too many fixtures and accessories, leaving little room for an actual person to comfortably navigate the space. Ample floor space should be left around the toilet, sink and shower to allow for easy movement. Even an excess of cabinetry can make a bathroom feel claustrophobic, so err on the side of caution.
Choosing the Wrong Materials
Every material in the bathroom should be water-resistant and mold-resistant. Obviously, wall-to-wall carpeting doesn’t belong in a bathroom, yet some bathroom designers will include things like wallpaper or hardwood flooring that are highly likely to succumb to excess moisture in the air and quickly deteriorate. Although hardwood flooring and wallpaper may be highly desirable in other rooms in the home, they don’t belong in an environment where water is splashed and the humidity is high.
Not Considering Ventilation
More ventilation is needed in the bathroom than in almost any other room in a home. This is a top bathroom design mistake to avoid if you want to create a highly-functional bathroom. Failing to address ventilation issues can lead to a damp, musty environment that promotes the growth of harmful bacteria and mold. In addition to being unsightly, mold and mildew can cause allergies, respiratory issues, and other health problems.
Neglecting Storage
Bathrooms require plenty of storage space for toiletries, towels, and other essentials, as clutter and disorganization can detract from the overall aesthetic and functionality of the space. Neglecting storage in your bathroom design can lead to a chaotic environment, making it difficult to locate items when needed and causing frustration during your daily routine. When there isn’t enough storage, many things have to be left out on the counter, even if they are only used rarely. Ideally, you want a clean, clutter-free counter that adds to the spacious feel of the bathroom.
Ignoring the Style of the Rest of the House
It’s natural to want to express your personality with the bathroom design. But a bathroom that clashes with the rest of the house can appear out of place, disrupting the cohesive flow of your home’s design, and maybe even affect the property’s resale value, depending on what’s been done. To create a harmonious and visually appealing bathroom, pay attention to the colors, materials, and finishes used throughout your home, and incorporate similar elements into your bathroom design. This will help create a sense of continuity and balance between the spaces, ensuring that your bathroom feels like an integral part of your home’s overall aesthetic.
Forgetting About Accessibility
Another common mistake in bathroom design is overlooking the accessibility needs of all users, regardless of age or physical ability. Failing to incorporate universal design principles can result in a space that is unsafe or uncomfortable for some individuals. To avoid this, be sure to include features such as grab bars in the shower and bath area, and consider walk-in showers or low-threshold tubs for easy access, depending upon your needs. If you anticipate that your bathroom may be used by someone in a wheelchair, there are low-level bathroom sinks that can be installed alongside a standard-height sink. By addressing accessibility concerns in your bathroom design, you create a welcoming and accommodating space for everyone while enhancing the overall value and appeal of your home.
If you make an effort to avoid these common bathroom design mistakes, you’ll be able to design a stunning bathroom that not only looks great but is also functional, comforting, and safe for you, your family, and all your guests. A well-designed bathroom will enhance your daily routine and possibly even add value to your home.
