Most common reason for
bathrooms remodeling is to make a small space larger
or at least make it appear so. The feeling of being
shrunk and crouched in a dark cramped bath space
usually wears one out soon enough and we start making
efforts and spend some bucks to make it more visually
appealing, efficient and functional with more
features. There are standard conveniences or modern
innovations and high-tech gadgets and accessories
being introduced in the market daily tempting us to
take them home with they sleek trendy looks and
comforts to choose from. Many people borrow some area
from the adjoining room or balcony.
The best way is to design a floor
plan detailed enough to include the space that can be gained,
fixture arrangements and mechanical fittings. Decide on what ideas
you can use only after checking the local rules, regulations,
codes and guidelines and the ones that are really feasible and
workable. Some ideas may appear very appealing but may not be
possible to execute without making heavy alterations that may not
be possible or later may not conform well to the local conditions.
One must remember, since the bathrooms are to be used from
children to old-aged persons, they should include features that
suit all age groups. Some most desirable features are that doors
should open inward to avoid any accidental peeks and that door
should be far enough from fixtures to avoid bumping.
Slippery flooring may cause slips and falls much more than
non-skid flooring and ensuring that your countertops, bathtubs and
sinks have smooth and rounded edges should minimize sharp rough
edges and the resultant cuts. Provide handles and bars to hand
towels and to grab for an additional support to old people to
climb out of the tub. Low whirlpool deck and steps are great for
kids. Some most wanted conveniences in the bathrooms include
vanities with double bowls, separate tub and shower units, a lot
of sunlight or subdued special light effects, easy-to-clean yet
sparkling floors and fixtures that look warm and luxurious, good
ventilation and may be even partitions between sink, tub and
toilet area for larger master bathrooms.
People usually like to have hidden or exposed storage space as
shelves, cabinets and counters to put flowers, soaps, toiletries
and space, hooks and bars to hang and store clean and dirty towels
and robes separately. There are plumbing and wiring rules, codes
and building requirements to safeguard you from accidental hazards
that should be adhered to and this may include avoiding the use of
plastic pipes, arrange for required inspections, submit your plans
and obtain permits, using only GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit
Interrupter) protected receptacles, having at least one light
fixture with a switch at bathroom door, an exhaust fan and
pressure-balancing mixing valves for the shower.
