When designing a custom bathroom, you want to make it luxurious. So, to help, we've created a list of ten things to consider when designing your bathroom.

Over the course of our lifetime, we end up spending multiple years in the bathroom. That's right, years! 

With this space being one that's frequented so often, it's only natural to want it to be the most comfortable, updated, practical, and aesthetically pleasing area possible. There are many considerations to take into account to design a top-notch bathroom, such as how many people will be using it, what accessibility features are necessary, and what sort of vibe you'd like to create. 

If you're thinking about designing your bathroom and aren't sure what to focus on, we've got you covered. Keep reading for ten things to consider for your new custom bathroom. 

1. The Bathroom Layout

When it comes to bathroom design, the first step is figuring out the ideal layout that will work best for you and your family. 

Think about how many people will be using the bathroom, as well as whether you want anything else attached to it. For example, maybe you're remodeling a Jack and Jill bathroom between two children's rooms with limited space, or you'd like to separate the toilet from the rest of the bathroom with a separate door. Or, perhaps you're hoping to build a closet in the bathroom for extra storage space. 

Knowing your needs will help you design a layout that doesn't feel cramped or awkward. Take detailed measurements of your bathroom so you can sketch several options for how to arrange the layout. 

A quick design tip: consider what someone will first see when they step into your bathroom. Ideally, it won't be the toilet, so try to design the layout, so the focal point is something like a beautiful tub or eye-catching basin. 

2. Shower vs. Tub

Maybe you're strictly a shower person, and you have no need for a tub or vice versa. This means you can put extra money and emphasis into that one feature. You can also opt for a shower or tub that's larger than normal to take advantage of possible extra space. 

But don't forget that having both is always a great option. Whether you have space in your remodeled bathroom for a separate bathtub and shower, or you want to combine the two into one, having the ability to use both will boost your bathroom's usability. 

The company you use to remodel your bathroom will have plenty of tips on how to make the most of your space while fitting in the accommodations you want. 

3. Shower-Tub Combo

You likely know all about bathtubs that have a shower head installed in them, making the tub function well for both baths and showers. But have you heard of walk-in bathtubs that can also function as showers?

These types of tubs have a door that seals firmly shut, letting you get into the bathtub without having to climb over the edge. Once you're safely inside, you can fill up the tub just like a regular bathtub. And if you're not in the mood for a bath, you can opt for a shower instead. 

Shower-tub combos offer versatility that regular tubs and showers just can't accomplish, not to mention they're ideal for keeping aging family members safe and free from falls. 

4. The Shower Screen

Shower curtains are always an option, but glass shower screens are all the rage these days. 

A glass screen helps your bathroom appear larger as you can see right through it to the other side of the shower wall. It also creates a minimalist vibe and lets more light into the shower. And there are options for how to position the glass as well, such as a sealed screen vs a doorless glass shower. 

There are plenty of other choices for shower screens, but glass is a great option to consider. 

5. Vanity and Mirror

The vanity sink area leaves lots of room for creative design in your bathroom. Think of all the details you can decide here, such as how many basins you want, what shape or design they'll be in, whether you want cabinet storage space, how large the mirror should be, etc. 

Opting for two sinks is a good idea if more than one person will be using the bathroom regularly. You can also decide if you want a wall-mounted vs pedestal vanity or a drop-in vs vessel basin. 

Remember to tie this design into the rest of the bathroom so everything looks cohesive and the colors align with one another. When designed well, the vanity space can become the focal point of your bathroom. 

6. Lighting

Proper lighting is crucial in your bathroom design, especially if your bathroom doesn't have proper windows. 

It's recommended that you have plenty of lighting around the mirror, either in the form of an overhead light or beautiful sconces (or both!). Having lights installed in the shower area is ideal, too, so that you can see well and no accidents happen. Position the lighting all around the bathroom so that no area is too dark or shadowy. 

Installing plenty of lighting will help make the room look larger and warmer. Just make sure the lighting can be sealed from moisture since it'll be in a wet environment. Recessed lighting is a popular choice for bathrooms since it can be completely sealed off from water and humidity. 

7. Plumbing Fixtures 

Fixtures make a huge difference when it comes to your bathroom's aesthetic. This is an opportunity to add a little personalization and charm to your bathroom design. 

There are sleek and minimalist options as well as elaborate and vintage-inspired ones. Decide on the vibe your bathroom installation is going for and choose plumbing fixtures (such as faucets and shower heads) that fit this theme.

Color will play a big role here too. Between gold, silver, bronze, or black, there are fixture options to go with any bathroom design. While black is a popular option for a modern look, silver, and gold are always classic choices as well - just make sure you don't mix and match!

8. Bathroom Surface Materials

Another important concept to focus on in your bathroom installation is the type of materials used for things like the floor, countertops, and shower walls. Unlike most of the other rooms in your home, the bathroom will see a lot of moisture, so the materials you choose need to be able to hold up. 

For example, porcelain is one of the most popular bathroom materials because it doesn't absorb water and it's durable. Choosing a material that won't be affected by water is a key element - you don't want your floors or walls soaking in moisture only to then begin growing mold. 

Also, don't forget to consider slip resistance. A super shiny tile may look great on the shower walls, but you don't want to risk slipping on those shiny tiles if they're part of your flooring. Choose flooring (both in the shower and for the general floor) that offers some grip to maximize safety. 

9. Accessibility Features

While these things might not jump out at you as priorities when you first start planning, you'll be glad you incorporated them into your bathroom in the future. 

To make your bathroom more accessible, whether it's in preparation for inevitable aging or to accommodate a range of visitors, consider doing things like installing grab rails in the shower or bathtub, creating a wider doorway so wheelchairs can fit through, or choosing a walk-in bathtub for ease of use. 

These types of features make everyday bathroom use much easier and still look just as great. Plus, these types of additions can be very expensive to add later on, so it's best to incorporate them now while you're already remodeling. 

10. Tech Upgrades

If you've planned out the necessities for your bathroom remodel and are looking for a few things to take it to the next level, consider adding some technology upgrades. 

Things like heated floors or towel bars, mounted televisions, built-in waterproof speakers, or steam showers add a special wow element to your bathroom. Not only will these enhancements make your bathroom memorable, but they'll make using your bathroom more enjoyable too. 

While these types of tech upgrades aren't required, they'll make your home stand out against the competition if you ever decide to sell your house in the future. 

Create Your Perfect Custom Bathroom 

The most important part of designing a custom bathroom is making sure that it fits your needs and will continue being both functional and fabulous for many years to come. By brainstorming what's most important to you in your bathroom design, your remodel is sure to be a success. 

With Virginia Shower & Bath, you can get the luxurious bathroom you've always wanted. Reach out to us today to find out how we can help you remodel your bathroom in a timely and high-quality manner.