We’ve been working with a number of customers lately who are updating their bathrooms, and we’ve noticed a common theme: the sheer number of decisions can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re planning a full makeover and renovation or simply looking to refresh your existing space, it’s easy to feel stuck.

Bathrooms today are so much more than they used to be in terms of design. With Pinterest and Instagram overflowing with stunning bathroom inspiration, it’s easy to feel inspired, but where do you even start? How do you recreate those beautiful looks in your own home? Like kitchens, bathrooms are an investment, and with so many options to consider, such as layout, tile types and placement, flooring, storage, lighting, and finishes, the choices can feel overwhelming.

To help simplify the process, we’ve put together six key things you need to consider when designing your bathroom.

Focus on the bathroom layout first

When designing a new bathroom, the layout is one of the most important things to consider. This is the perfect opportunity to rethink the space and how it can work better for you. Maximising the bathroom’s full potential might mean moving the toilet to a different spot, adding a larger bath or shower, or exploring other layout options.

We always recommend starting with the layout first because once that’s sorted, you can confidently focus on the design details. This advice applies to any room in your home, you need a solid layout before deciding on any other elements.

Make plenty of room for bathroom storage

When designing your bathroom, we always recommend considering how much storage you need. Take a look at everything you want to store, especially items you currently can’t fit and think about how you can add more or better storage. I find writing everything down and making a list really helps, as you often discover you have more to store than you realise, from toiletries and towels to toilet rolls! Storage options could include a vanity unit with cupboards or drawers, built-in units, or shelving.

Shower niches are also a perfect way to avoid the line of bottles around the edge of the bath. So, if you’re doing a full bathroom rip-out, we highly recommend adding shower or bath niches to create a tidy and contemporary bathroom.

Where and how to use tiles in your bathroom
It used to be typical to tile every surface in the bathroom, from floor to walls, but that’s not the case anymore. We say, ‘less is more’ when it comes to tiles. Use them where they’re needed most, such as in the shower and bath areas, to protect against water.

Don’t be afraid to mix different types of tile, you don’t have to use the same style everywhere. We recommend using around three different styles, including your floor tiles, unless you’re going for a bold, eclectic look. Keeping it simple with a few tile types helps create a cohesive and balanced design.

There are also so many ways to lay tiles now, from vertical or horizontal stacks to herringbone or chevron patterns. Even if you choose something simple, the way you lay your tiles can completely elevate the look and bring a designer touch to your bathroom.

Elevate your bathroom with lighting

Lighting can make or break a space, so it’s really important to get it right when designing any room, including your bathroom. There are many ways to add lighting that creates a relaxing environment while still providing task lighting for daily activities like applying makeup, brushing your teeth, or doing your hair.

Adding those extra touches of lighting can really elevate your bathroom design. You could incorporate wall lights, lighting around mirrors, under-shelf or cabinet lighting, spotlights, or pendant lights. There are lots of ways to thoughtfully integrate lighting into your bathroom to make it both functional and beautiful.

Consider durability and easy maintenance when designing your bathroom

When designing any room in your home, an important factor to consider is maintenance. When choosing materials for your bathroom, such as flooring and tiles, you need to think about how hardwearing they will be and whether they can stand up to the demands of a busy family home.

Are the surfaces and materials you’re considering easy to clean and durable enough for daily use? This also applies to paint finishes. Make sure to choose one that works well in a bathroom environment, where moisture is a factor. Additionally, consider the finishes you select for hardware such as taps and showers, especially if you live in a hard water area where limescale buildup can be an issue. Choosing finishes that resist limescale will help your bathroom look better and require less maintenance over time.

Bathroom Interior Design Ideas Hexagon Tiles

Bring personality into your bathroom design

Don’t be afraid to bring personality into your bathroom. While it’s true that bathrooms, like kitchens, are investments and aren’t changed very often, it’s important to choose elements you love, things that reflect your style and make the space feel like your own. After all, your bathroom should be a place where you want to relax and enjoy a long soak!

We always say don’t pick a particular style or look just because it’s trendy. Choose what you absolutely love, something you’ll still appreciate years from now. So, don’t be afraid to have some fun, maybe mix different tiles or add some colour and pattern to the space.

Patterned Bathroom Tiles — Image Source: Quorn Stone

Need help with your bathroom design? Let’s chat!

If you’re planning to refresh your bathroom or are in the middle of a renovation and feeling overwhelmed by design decisions, you’re not alone. We’re here to help with the important and tricky choices that come with investing in a bathroom.

A focused hour in our Power Hour session can make all the difference, we’ll explore your ideas, tackle your design dilemmas, and help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Or, if you’d prefer to hand over the full process, our comprehensive design packages have you covered. Either way, we’re here to make your bathroom renovation easier.

Email us at hello@thelivinghouse.co.uk with your ideas and plans, we’d love to hear from you and see how we can help!