Bathroom design tips

Turn your bathroom into a haven of peace and tranquility with our inspirational designs to suit every size and space

Large bathrooms

• A big space will naturally give you more flexibility - it is easy to move basins and baths, although repositioning a WC can be costly.

• Make a centrepiece of a freestanding bath by positioning it at a right angle to the wall. Use wall-mounted taps or shower fittings.

• Include freestanding furniture, such as a linen cupboard or dressing table.

• Choose large elegant basins or, for a family bathroom, two smaller sinks side by side.

• Reconditioned antique WCs with wall-mounted cisterns and chain flushes are a good choice.

• Try a bold colour scheme, such as large chequerboard tiles and rich shades on walls.

• Don't fit a basin too close to a bath - you will need room to get in and out of the bath. Similarly, a basin will need space around it for shaving and brushing teeth - don't opt for a corner.

• An average bath is 170cm x 70cm wide - if your bathroom is an awkward shape consider a different size or type of bath. Aston Matthews (www.astonmatthews.co.uk) sells fitted baths in a range of sizes - the smallest is 110cm long. Bathstore (www.bathstores.com) stocks baths in a variety of different shapes.

• If space is limited, choose a wall-mounted sink and remove the pedestal to create more storage space.

• Some companies specialise in bath fittings for small or awkward spaces, for example, Ideal Standard's Space range.

• Keep the decoration simple - flooring, walls and tiles in the same colour will make the room look bigger. Use mirrors to create a feeling of space.

• Install plenty of storage, such as fitted cupboards below a sink or shelves high up on the walls.

• For a second bathroom, consider a shower room instead of trying to squeeze a bath into a small space.

• Cubicle showers come in a huge range of sizes and shapes - double or single. They can be tailored to suit your exact requirements.

• For maximum indulgence install a separate fully tiled "wet room" in which the floor slopes slightly to allow the water to drain away. A fixed shower rose in the wall is ideal.

• Where space is very limited, showers can be fitted under stairs or on a landing. Consult an expert to make sure there is adequate water pressure to accommodate a shower in such an area.

• Showers fit into most small and awkward areas, but make sure the room is well lit or they can be hazardous.

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