What to think about when drawing bathroom floor plans

Getting started on bathroom remodeling or new bathroom designs? The typically small bathroom layout, requirement of external plumbing services and the fixing of sanitary fittings require a well-thought out plan. You must consider these issues when drawing a bathroom floor plan.

See the bigger picture

The bathroom planning cannot be effective, if it is seen only within the confines of its walls. The larger context of the house, the structure and the building services needs attention. The bathroom requires services, such as water supply and drainage. A design adapted to existing connection points simplifies the project execution. Check the ventilation, whether it is natural or mechanical. From the point of view of circulation, the rooms and spaces adjacent to the bathroom, can help determine the best location for the door. Ensure the compliance with the local planning regulations and guidelines, and check if any kind of permissions are required. The structure of the building should support the design proposed. Record all these observations on a drawing representing the existing conditions, based on an accurately dimensioned floor plan.

Bathroom configuration

On assessing the existing conditions of space availability and service points, the bathroom layout needs to be deliberated upon. Whether the bath designs are for master bath, guest or kids’ bathroom, can determine the basic configuration and types of sanitary fittings. Selection and positioning of features, such as bath tubs, shower cubicles, bidets and basins should allow comfortable use. For instance, it is preferable to place bath tubs and shower cubicles, to confine the wet areas. Basins are best located near the doors. Check if there are any clashes between fittings and door swing or window location. A plan showing routing of services must be drawn up.

Detailed space planning

Collect data on selected sanitary fitting as well as proposed finishes. The detailed bathroom floor plans should be based on the exact dimensions of the fittings and recommended space clearances. If tile flooring is selected, the tile layout should be made to ensure that there are no odd cut tiles and sanitary fittings are placed neatly with regard to floor joints. Wall cladding thickness, level drops and thresholds should be marked.

Tools and resources

Bathroom design requires a thorough preparation and planning and there are several tools and resources which can be of aid. Drawings on paper require proportionate and properly scaled drawing work. Alternatively, bathroom planning software may be used. Bathroom design tools offer a library of standard sanitary fittings and their precise sizes. Free and easy to use interactive programs can help a person design a bathroom online. Design magazines are great for studying bathroom configurations. Keep these issues in mind, when drawing a bathroom floor plan to ensure the smooth execution and comfortable use.