When you think of a family bathroom, what are the images that come to mind? If you’re in early parenthood it probably involves buckets of bath toys, piles of nappies, steps, and potties. Or those with older children may imagine surfaces smeared with makeup, hair gel and toothpaste and a multitude of bottles all over the place. Let’s face it, neither of these scenes are particularly stylish! Does that mean that it’s impossible to make a family bathroom look stylish? Not at all! It just requires thoughtful design, layout planning and material choices.
Who is using the space?
Is your family bathroom equally used by all members of the household? Or do the adults have an additional en-suite? It’s worth thinking about the predominant users of your family bathroom so that you can ensure that design factors such as layout and furniture are the best fit for use.
Layout
A considered design optimises space and creates an airy atmosphere. For family bathrooms, remember to allow for easy movement as the room is often used by multiple people. Zone space for activities where the floor area allows. Strategic placement of furniture, such as vanities and cabinets, is the linchpin of a functional layout.
Features
From a magnifying mirror to shower storage, which added features will make your family bathroom a functional space that is easy to use? Once you’ve worked out the features that will make a difference to your family, you can consider how to include them in a stylish way. For example, instead of wire shower racks, how about recessed under-lit shelving?
Storage
An elegant bathroom is a haven of calm. Since clutter works against this, it’s really important to include as much storage as you can. In a family bathroom toiletries can add up quickly, so they all must have a home. Utilise vertical space with tall, narrow cabinets. This uses the full height of the room and has the advantage of keeping cleaning supplies and medicines out of reach. Within cabinets and drawers, it’s a good idea to include labelled baskets, dividers and organisers.
The long term view
Design your family bathroom with growth in mind. Think about how fixtures and furniture might adapt as your family changes over the years. A removable changing table can later serve as additional counter space or storage, for example. Versatility in design allows your space to grow alongside your family’s needs, ensuring that your beautifully styled bathroom continues to be a source of delight for years to come.
Accessories
Some fixture styles are easier to use for small hands than others. So while your heart may be set on elaborate or intricate taps and handles, it might make sense to have something more simple in the short term. Luckily, accessories like fixtures, or soap dispensers and trays can be easily swapped out as time moves on. Think about how adding art or accessories like diffusers or candles can add to the space when children get older.
Lighting
Lighting can drastically alter the ambience of a space. In a family bathroom, layers of lighting are key to adapting to different needs and times of day. Task lighting, such as a lit mirror is really important to include as well as a general wash from ceiling spotlights. Natural light, when available, should be maximised with minimal or sheer window treatments.
Practical style
There are subtle considerations when it comes to bathroom design which will optimise maintenance and hygiene. This is especially important if your family bathroom is likely to be the responsibility of teenage offspring.
Materials
Take the long view when it comes to choosing the materials for your family bathroom. Often, the most durable and easy to clean materials are the most elegant. For example, marble countertops are low maintenance and resistant to staining. They have the added benefit of being classic, graceful and bang on trend!
Details
Functionality does not mean that you shouldn’t include flair in the details of your design. Consider features like an open fronted vanity unit, floating furniture, and an inventively shaped heated towel rail. These can all add to the stylish edge of a bathroom design.
Personality and themes
To be stylish in the truest sense, there has to be some vibrancy behind a family bathroom design. This means finding ways to reflect the identity of your family and home through stylistic elements.
Colours
Soft, neutral tones like earthy beiges, warm greys, or gentle blues create a serene backdrop, while injecting occasional pops of brighter colour can infuse vibrancy and personality. Matt finishes on walls or tiles can soften the room’s edges, providing a calm visual environment that’s perfect for busy family lives.
Concepts
It’s fun to have a fun bathroom. However, be wary of extreme bathroom design concepts which will date quickly as your family grows. Go for classic design concepts and unfussy lines. These are easy to accessorise in a more temporary way with towels, bath mats and blinds.
Greenery
Adding plant life is a must for every bathroom design. It will elevate the room whether it’s a family bathroom, a closet, or an en-suite. For a neutral colour base, a splash of vibrant green is striking and uplifting. The sense of the natural world lends a calm air to the room, plus real plants help to keep the air rejuvenated. Don’t worry if you’re not confident of keeping plants alive, though. Fake plants have a great visual impact too.
At Stone & Chrome, we think that our Bathroom Gallery is proof that it’s more than possible to create a stylish family bathroom. Plus, the space can be designed to optimise keeping things that way! Get in touch or visit our showroom for more design ideas.