An ensuite offers unmatched convenience, luxury, and privacy, it also improves functionality and adds significant value to a home so it’s only natural that incorporating one or multiple ensuites is a high priority in most modern home extensions. Even if you have limited space to work with, it’s still possible to create a stylish, practical and compact ensuite in your home renovation. Melbourne’s Duncan Thompson Extensions has been a leader in the field of home extensions, design and construction for over 35 years. Here we will look at a few simple tips to help you design a small ensuite that doesn’t sacrifice style or functionality.
Assess Your Small Bathroom Space – Measure and Plan the Layout
When working with a small bathroom, careful planning and precise measurements are key to making the most of the available space. By taking the time to thoroughly assess your bathroom’s dimensions and layout, you can develop an effective strategy to optimise functionality and storage within the confined area.
Begin by accurately measuring the dimensions of your bathroom area and identify any architectural features, such as windows, that may impact your design. Carefully document these measurements, as they will inform your decision-making throughout the planning process.
Think about the placement of the door, and whether it would be better to have it swing outward rather than inward to maximise usable floor space or consider a cavity slider for the ultimate space-saving option.
Analyse your storage needs and explore creative solutions to maximise every inch. Wall-mounted cabinets, recessed shelving, and over-the-toilet units can all help to keep the floor clear and provide much-needed storage without encroaching on the limited square footage.
Choosing the Right Fixtures and Fittings for a Small Bathroom
When designing a small ensuite, selecting the right fixtures and fittings is crucial to maximising the space and creating a functional, visually appealing layout. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
Opt for a compact vanity with a slim profile and storage drawers or shelves to minimise clutter. Wall-mounted or pedestal basins are also great space-saving options.
Look for toilets with a smaller footprint, such as elongated or round-front models, and in-wall cisterns to minimise bulk.
Consider a frameless glass shower screen to create the illusion of more space.
Recessed lighting fixtures can help keep the ceiling clear and make the room feel more open.
Mirrored medicine cabinets not only provide storage but also reflect light, creating the perception of a larger space.
Bathroom Lighting and Ventilation – Creating an Airy, Bright Atmosphere
Proper lighting and ventilation are essential elements in designing a functional and inviting bathroom. The right combination can help to enhance the feeling of space and make the room appear larger.
Incorporate a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to illuminate the room evenly and highlight specific areas. LED downlights provide overall illumination in an energy efficient manner, while vanity lights and sconces focus light on the basin and mirror. Adding dimmers will also allow you to adjust the mood.
Strategic window placement enhances natural light and improves air circulation. Position windows to take advantage of the sun’s path and maximise airflow. Operable windows or skylights promote ventilation and also help to reduce moisture buildup.
An efficient exhaust fan is important for removing excess humidity, odours, and stale air. Ensure the fan is properly sized for the bathroom’s size and vented to the outside. Integrate the fan with the lighting for seamless operation.
Bathroom Storage Solutions – Maximising Every Centimetre
Storage space is often at a premium in small bathrooms and ensuites. One of the key principles of effective bathroom storage is to utilise vertical space. Wall-mounted shelves and recessed cabinets can all help you make the most of the available wall space. These solutions not only provide additional storage but also help to keep the floor area clear, giving the illusion of a more spacious bathroom.
Another important aspect is to choose storage options that are tailored to your specific needs. For example, if you have a large collection of toiletries, consider installing a medicine cabinet or a vanity with ample drawer space. Alternatively, if you need to store towels and linens, a linen closet or a freestanding cabinet could be the perfect solution.
Lastly, don’t forget about the often-overlooked areas, such as the space behind the door. This area can be transformed into a valuable storage space with the help of hooks, shelves, or even custom-built cabinetry.
Design Tricks for a Small Ensuite
By incorporating optical effects and visual illusions, you can make a compact bathroom feel larger and more open.
Mirrors – Strategically placed mirrors can dramatically expand the perceived size of a small bathroom. Use large mirrors or mirrored cabinets to reflect light and create the impression of depth. Positioning mirrors across from windows amplifies this effect.
Vertical Stripes – Applying vertical striped patterns on walls, tiles or fixtures draws the eye upwards, making the ceiling appear taller. This vertical emphasis creates the illusion of added height.
Light Colours – Choosing a light, neutral colour palette for walls, floors and fixtures creates a bright, airy atmosphere that feels more expansive. Avoid dark, heavy colours which can make a small bathroom feel closed in.
Even a small ensuite bathroom can be transformed into a luxurious retreat with the right design choices and strategic use of space. Remember, the key is to focus on functionality without sacrificing style. With clever design and attention to detail, your compact space can become a practical ensuite that enhances your lifestyle and adds value to your home.
Home Extensions – Mornington to Melbourne
Duncan Thompson Extensions one of Melbourne’s leading home extension builders. Servicing the inner eastern, eastern, and bayside suburbs, we design and build house extensions of the highest standard – from concept to completion. Reach out to us today so see how we can help you achieve the house of your dreams. Call 9836 8655 or contact us online now.
