Family bathroom or en-suite: planning the right layout

Many of our clients in South West London are reworking the bathrooms in a period house: turning a box room into an en-suite, or reshaping a tired family bathroom. The best layout depends on who uses the room and how.

The family bathroom

• A bath is still important for families with young children, and for resale value.

• Double basins on a wide vanity help at busy times of day.

• Good storage keeps toys, towels and cleaning products out of sight.

• A separate shower, or a bath with a fixed screen and thermostatic shower, gives flexibility.

• Durable, easy-clean tiles and finishes make sense in a hard-working room.

The en-suite

• A generous walk-in shower often matters more than a bath.

• Wall-hung toilets and vanity units make a small room feel larger and easier to clean.

• Recessed niches for products keep the shower tidy without shelves.

• Pocket doors can save space where a swinging door would clash with fittings.

Getting the layout right

• Keep the toilet close to the existing soil stack where possible; moving it can mean lifting floors and new waste routes.

• Think about the view from the door: a beautiful bath or vanity makes a better first impression than a toilet.

• Plan lighting in layers: ceiling lights, a lit mirror and low-level lighting for night.

• Allow proper clearances in front of the toilet, basin and shower so the room is comfortable to use.

Planning a new bathroom?

Koniu Construction designs and builds family bathrooms and en-suites across Chelsea, Fulham, Putney, Wimbledon, Richmond, Kingston, Esher and Cobham. Tell us about your plans.