The foundation of any bathroom design is the layout. The size and shape of your bathroom footprint, along with any modifications you are willing to make such as moving a wall or changing the location of plumbing, defines your available space. Once you know your layout, view it like an artist’s canvas on which you will create your perfectly balanced bath design.
The beauty of a full bathroom remodel is that it allows you to start with a blank canvas and have everything exactly as you want it. One of the key decisions is whether to have both a shower and a bathtub, a combination tub/shower, or a shower only. Carefully consider the size of your bathroom, the types of tubs and showers available, and which fits your personal preferences.
How does size affect your choices?
When planning your bathroom design, carefully consider the size of your space and the layout. In a smaller bathroom, your best choice may be a combination tub/shower. You may love the idea of a freestanding bathtub and a separate shower, but if you don’t have sufficient space this can overwhelm your room and create havoc in the flow of traffic through the room.
In a larger bath design, you can include both, or you may decide to opt for a large, luxury shower with a built in shower seat and multiple showerheads. Balance your choices to the available space and your personal preferences.
What Type of Tub?
If a bathtub fits your layout and your personal preferences, then consider what type of tub you want to include. This may depend in part on whether you also have a shower or if this is a combination tub/shower.
Tubs come in a wide array of styles and options, and some will be a better fit for both your space and your lifestyle. The type you select may have unique plumbing or water pressure requirements, so consult your bathroom remodeling expert when selecting a tub. From standard tubs to soaking tubs, with whirlpool or air jets, there are many options available.
The main types of tubs are largely determined by their installation options:
- Alcove tubs are installed within a 3-wall alcove in your bathroom design,
- Corner tubs are angled and fit into a corner of the bathroom, and
- Freestanding tubs are a standalone unit that often sit on either a base or claw feet.
- Built-in tubs, like sinks, can also be either drop in or undermount style. Both require a custom surround to fit the tub shape and style.
- Walk-in tubs are an ideal option if you are designing a bathroom for aging in place or a universal bath design suitable for all mobility levels.
What else do you need to know?
Once you know what type of tub you want for your bathroom remodel, you can select the faucet and any other features to surround it like tile and storage shelves.
First, tub faucets fall into three main categories.
The one that is right for you will vary depending on your tub style and location.
- A wall mounted faucet works for a standard alcove bathtub or any tub that sits next to a wall.
- Floor mounted faucets are ideal for freestanding bathtubs and offer a dramatic flair to your design. Make sure you have enough space in your layout to accommodate this style.
- A deck mounted faucet, also known as a Roman faucet, fits on the ledge surrounding a tub.
What Type of Shower?
Like with tubs, your bathroom shower style is largely dictated by both available space and personal preferences. In a limited bathroom space, you may find that an alcove or corner shower is the best use of your space, while in a larger room you can incorporate a spacious curbless shower or an enclosed steam shower.
The main types of showers include:
Corner showers vary in size and are installed in a corner of the bathroom, typically with a glass shower enclosure or perhaps a half wall installed on one side with a glass panel.
Alcove showers fit into a three-wall alcove, making use of the available space in your layout.
A shower/bathtub combination does double duty to give you both a tub and shower, which is especially useful in a smaller bathroom.
Curbless or thresholdless showers allow seamless access to the shower. Since there is no curb these shower offer easy access, which is ideal for those with mobility issues. They are also an on trend style for their sleek appearance.
See more bathroom design ideas in our gallery, from tubs to vanities to showers and much more. Ready to discuss your bathroom remodel? Contact our design team today or schedule an online consultation here.
