Choosing the Best Design Elements for Your New Home – Baths
Welcome back! In this post we’re talking about how to make smart design choices for every bathroom in your new home. From spa-style master suites to hard-working kids’ baths and tiny powder rooms, a little planning now will make daily life easier (and more comfortable) for years to come.
The Master Bath
The primary bathroom usually gives you the most freedom to design a true retreat. Start by deciding how you want to bathe and shower. Think about both the size of the room and the size and habits of the people using it.
- Tub and shower combo: A traditional tub/shower combo works well in many homes, but taller or larger people may feel cramped if they love soaking in the tub.
- Garden tub plus separate shower: If you enjoy long, relaxing baths, consider a larger garden tub and a separate walk-in shower so you have plenty of elbow room for both.
- Shower-only spa: If no one in the household really uses a tub, skip it and invest that square footage into a spacious shower with multiple heads, a bench, and built-in niches for toiletries.
Pay attention to shower head placement as well. Ducking to get under the spray or having water hit in an awkward spot gets old fast. A shower system with a handheld option makes it easier to accommodate different heights and mobility needs and offers more flexibility for cleaning and rinsing.
Vanity space is another master-bath must. Dual sinks atop a larger vanity with generous storage are worth the upgrade if you can fit them. Having your own faucet and basin makes getting ready for work, bedtime, or a night out much smoother and cuts down on clutter around the sink.
Additional Full Bathrooms
Secondary full baths usually serve kids, teens or overnight guests, so they need to be durable, space-smart and easy to maintain.
- Tub/shower combo: In most layouts a combo unit is the most practical choice, saving room for storage while still giving you bathing and showering options.
- Storage under the sink: Unless you have a separate linen closet nearby, choose a vanity with as much cabinet and drawer space as possible for towels, toiletries and cleaning supplies.
- Two faucets when possible: If more than one child will share the bath, a double-faucet vanity mimics the convenience of a primary bath without taking up quite as much space.
Skip traditional towel bars in these busy spaces and install individual hooks instead. Kids are more likely to hang up their towels on a hook than carefully drape them over a bar, which encourages re-use and keeps floors drier. If small children will be using the room, plan a convenient spot to tuck away a stepstool so they can safely reach the sink.
Designing the Perfect Half Bath
Because of their small footprint and limited function, half baths (or powder rooms) are the easiest to plan, but they also offer a great opportunity for personality.
- Pedestal or console sinks: With minimal storage needs, a pedestal or console sink can free up floor space and make the room feel larger.
- Smart storage touches: Add a small shelf, cabinet or basket for extra hand towels, soap and a spare roll of toilet paper so guests never have to hunt for essentials.
- Style moment: Because you are not getting ready in here every day, this is a fun spot for bold paint colors, wallpaper or artwork.
Smart Ideas for Every Bathroom
Some design decisions work beautifully in any bath, no matter the size or location.
- Safe, stylish flooring: Textured tile in finishes like slate or stone adds visual interest and helps prevent slips on wet floors. Pair it with non-slip bath mats in all tub and shower areas for extra safety.
- Light, airy colors: Soft neutrals and light colors make bathrooms feel larger, brighter and more relaxing. You can always add color with towels, rugs and accessories.
- Plenty of outlets: Whenever possible, plan for more electrical outlets than you think you’ll need. Multiple people using hair tools, electric toothbrushes and grooming devices at once can quickly max out a standard two-outlet setup.
Layered Lighting That Works Every Day
Lighting can make or break a bathroom. You want bright, flattering illumination when you’re getting ready and softer, spa-like lighting when you’re unwinding in the tub.
- Task lighting at the mirror: Flank mirrors with sconces or side lights to reduce shadows on your face. Overhead-only lighting can highlight lines and create uneven, “splotchy” illumination.
- Daylight-like bulbs: Aim for bulbs that mimic natural daylight so you can see true colors when applying makeup or choosing outfits.
- Dimmers for flexibility: Put overhead fixtures on a dimmer switch so you can instantly shift from bright and functional in the morning to soft and relaxing in the evening.
For more detail on selecting flattering bath lighting, this helpful bathroom lighting guide is a great resource to discuss with the Ernest Homes Design Studio team.
Thoughtful bathroom planning pays off every single day, from rushed weekday mornings to slow, relaxing Sunday nights. When you’re ready for more ways to personalize your new home, don’t miss our next post on smart home design options and technology upgrades.
