Bath Tips to Fit Your Lifestyle

Below are just a few of the questions you should ask yourself when considering the design and function of your new bath.

• What features would make the bath more comfortable for you?
• How would you like to use your bath?
• Is this a family bath or master bath?
• How many people will be using it?
• Are there enough sinks and counter space for everyone?
• Are there enough baths in the house or should you consider adding another room? (This is usually a concern as children reach their teen years and also with expanding families.)
• Do you prefer to take showers or baths? If you like baths, would you prefer a tub and shower combination unit or separate facilities? Have you always wanted a claw-foot tub or would you rather install a whirlpool?
• Do you have adequate storage? To help you decide, make a list of all the items you need to store in the bath to ensure proper storage space in the plan. This list also should include cleaning agents, toiletries, linens, first aid items and medications. Indicate on this list where in the room you would like to store each of these items. For example, you may want some of the toiletries in the shower area, while others will be used by the sink or dressing area. Storage is one of the biggest concerns in any design, particularly in rooms as small as the typical bath. Carefully consider this aspect of the room during your preplanning phase.
• Have you considered the lighting in your bath?
• If the bath in question is a shared bath for the family, would a separation of the sinks from the rest of the room be helpful?
• Have you considered newer water-saving fixtures? (You can still obtain a water-rich environment with water-saving features.)