Do you need to design your bathroom? Avoid some common mistakes when doing this

It is always fun to furnish and/or design a room when you are starting from scratch. But, except in very rare cases, you have to work within certain constraints: regardless of the budget available, you generally have to contend with the actual characteristics of the room to be furnished.

Dimensions, natural and artificial light, materials and colors: it is difficult to find a balance between these elements. This applies to any room in the house, including the bathroom. It is best then, to approach the planning of the furnishing with a clear idea of what to do and, more importantly, what not to do.

Available space

The first thing to consider is the space available: even the smallest bathrooms can be designed to be highly functional. In a room that does not have too many limitations, however, the ideal arrangement of the various bathroom fixtures and furnishings has the sink next to the entrance, the toilet (with bidet) immediately behind it and in the rear, the shower or bathtub area.

This is an arrangement that generally guarantees the best air circulation, and leaves more space to add shelves, hooks and wall units without creating too much clutter.

Lighting

If you are not lucky enough to have large windows that brightly illuminate the bathroom, you will have to make up for it with artificial lights.

You will need a main light fitting, of course. Then, there are the lights around the mirror (or which illuminate the space around the sink), and possibly spotlights for other areas of the bathroom. The important thing is to choose warm lights, which are more pleasant and relaxing. And if the bathroom is where you take care of your appearance, it is best to use a system that properly illuminates your face and head (so you can always look your best).

Tiles: yes, but not too many

For many years now, tiles in the bathroom - always the preferred choice for bathroom walls and floors - have reverted to a vintage taste. And plain tiles have given way to colorful, patterned one.

If you are sure you know how to manage these flashy tiles, go ahead. But if there is the risk of making a visual mess ... then it is better to limit the use of tiles and mosaics to one only part of the bathroom.

Organization

Don't forget that you will have to store many things in the bathroom - preferably without leaving them just laying around everywhere: so consider using furniture, hooks, shelves and solutions that can keep all these items neatly.

And when choosing the various accessories or the positions for hooks and towel rails, consider where they are really needed. A towel rack (even electric ones that heats and drys towels) will be handy near the shower or bathtub so you don't have to walk across the room dripping wet to reach them.

Taps and decorations

And we must also think about maintenance. An example of this are the taps: for many years, those of ancient style -  perhaps made of brass - have been popular. But many consider taps like this to be high maintenance: research thoroughly before choosing which ones you will install.

Don't forget other decorations: some plants, paintings or objects that personalize the space without creating too much visual noise will create a pleasant atmosphere.

What does your dream bathroom look like?