Bathroom Design Checklist

Bathroom Design Checklist

Confused by all of the innovative bathroom products and accessories to choose from? Not sure whether you want a minimalist design or a zen day spa look? This checklist has been designed to help you get your bathroom renovation project off on the right foot.  Complete the questionnaire before your first meeting with your bathroom renovator and use it as a guideline for discussions. Download a pdf version of the checklist.

1. Why do you need a new bathroom (selling, update space, needs changed)?
2. What do you like most about your current bathroom?
3. What do you dislike about your current bathroom?
4. Are easy to clean materials and products a priority?
   

1. Is this a master bathroom, children's bath, guest bath?
2. How many people will be using the bathroom?
3. Who will be the primary users of the bathroom?
4. What is the primary time of day this room is used?
5. Does anyone have special needs? Elderly, children?
6. What activities will take place in the bathroom (make-up/hair, bathing, showering, reading/relaxation, laundering)?
   

1. Do you prefer to take showers or baths? Do you want separate bath and shower units or a combined unit?
2. Do you need a lot of bench space?
3. Will there be a separate toilet or will the toilet be inside the bathroom?
4. Do you want bright or mood lighting?
5. Do you need space for dressing?
6. Do you want a large or small mirror? Should mirrors be built into cabinetry or wall hung?
   

1. What type of storage will you need? Will you need storage for cleaning agents, towels, medications, hair appliances?
2. Do you want vanity or closet storage or both?
3. Do you want a medicine cabinet?

• electric toothbrush
• towel warmer
• hair dryer
• electric shaver
• hot rollers
• radio/CD/ipod
• TV
  

1. What style of bathroom do you want? Modern? Traditional? Retreat? Functional? Rustic?
2. What colours are you considering? What do you like? What does the family like?
3. What floor and benchop surfaces do you want to use? Tile, wood, marble, stone, glass?

• Ventilation. Do you need to install a fan?
• Is there a window? Is it suitable for ventilation, light or privacy?
• Safety. Do you need additional railings or non-slip flooring? Placement of powerpoints and light switches? Temperature regulating water control?
• Water saving devices. Taps, showerheads, hotwater priming pumps and rain water tanks.
• Heating and cooling. What direction does the bathroom face?
  

• Collect photographs, magazines and images of things you like in bathroom design to show to your designer.
• Have a rough budget in mind. Bathroom renovations start from as little as $3000 - $5000 but can go to +$30K. A good designer will be able to advise you on a range of products suitable for your style and budget.
• Ask yourself how long will you live at this house? Most bathroom renovation costs are recovered when it comes time to selling if you choose products correctly. But if you are not planning on moving then invest in products and styles that are going to look good for years to come and do not date easily.