The bathroom suite predicament: how do you choose?

Are you planning a bathroom remodel and feel confused about which bathroom suite to go for? Relax, we are here to help. Bathroom suites come in so many different styles, it’s really no wonder you are feeling overwhelmed. Even if you have a clear idea on the overall style you’d like to achieve in your new bathroom, narrowing down the exact model when it comes to choosing a bathroom suite is much harder than you might think.

To make your life easier, we’ve come up with a handy guide on things you should consider when choosing the best bathroom suite for your home.

Work out the layout before you browse

Before you head off to your local bath showroom, consider whether you would like to change the layout of your existing bathroom or keep it the same. If your bathroom is fairly small, you may have to keep the existing layout, but that doesn’t mean you can’t go to town on changing the style. For larger bathrooms, be aware of the additional costs involved in moving pipework if you are considering a complete change of layout.

Measure your bathroom and be sure to double check measurements. Every inch counts, especially in an en suite, cloakroom or small bathroom. It’s a really good idea to make a scale drawing of your bathroom. Don’t forget to mark in windows and doors. If you really want to experiment with how your bathroom could look with a change of layout, there are 3D online design software tools you can use to do just that.

If you are struggling with a vision for your bathroom remodel, you can always enlist the help of a bathroom design company, or ask for advice at a reputable bathroom store.

Set your budget

Before you set your heart on a suite, be clear on your budget. Have a budget for the whole project and break it down into sections. You want a specific budget for your bathroom suite, as well as for your whole renovation. Don’t be tempted to go over budget with the suite. You’ll only have to make sacrifices elsewhere, and that could affect the overall look you are trying to achieve.

Decide on a theme or overall style

You probably already know whether you want to go for a modern or traditional bathroom suite. You may even have some idea of the type of bath you would like. Do some research online and pick up some bathroom brochures to get an idea of the styles you like. There are so many different variations to choose from, so narrowing down your preferred style is a good idea before you head to the bathroom store.

Don’t be pinned on the idea that you have to have a bathroom style that fits with the interior theme across the rest of your home. Even if your home is designed in a traditional style, choosing a contemporary bathroom suite won’t necessarily seem out of place. In fact, choosing a more modern design is a great way to future-proof your bathroom and ensure it stands the test of time.

Traditional bathroom suites create a classic and elegant look. Freestanding roll top baths with cross-head taps are a must if you are trying to retain charm in your period property. If modern technology and design is important to you, a contemporary rainfall shower and modern bathroom suite is going to tick more boxes.

Think about style specifics and functionality

Your bathroom suite isn’t something you will be replacing often, so it’s important to find one that is just right for you and your home. With so many different designs to choose from, think about what is important to you in terms of both aesthetics and functionality before you buy.

Your bath is pretty much the centrepiece of the bathroom, so pay most attention to that. Start by deciding whether or not you want a freestanding bath or an inset bath. Your decision will most likely be determined by the amount of space you have. Also, do you want a shower over the bath, or will that be separate?

You also need to think about functionality. What do you expect from your bathroom? Is it a large family bathroom, or just for two of you? Do you lead a busy lifestyle? In which case, perhaps a walk-in shower would be a good idea. Do you treat every bath-time like a trip to the spa? Then a sumptuous bath is a must. Or perhaps you have an elderly relative living with you and need to think about access and mobility issues.

Don’t forget about the finishing touches

If you are mad for having everything matching, you may want to choose a bathroom suite that has a range of accessories to match. Bath and basin taps with a matching accessory towel rail, soap holder and toilet roll holder will satisfy the neat freak in you.

And remember, there are no set rules, so don’t be afraid to mix and match fittings. You don’t even have to have a matching suite if you don’t want to.

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