The Dos and Don’ts to creating the perfect Ensuite

Planning an ensuite renovation is no easy task – everything from the design to selecting the right fixtures and finishes are made that bit harder due to an ensuites compact size. What starts out as an exciting project to create the perfect retreat can soon turn south if you and your partner don’t see eye to eye on the details.

If you’ve been dreaming of a new ensuite and you’re not sure where to start then look no further than our design manager Vanessa’s list of dos and don’ts to create the perfect ensuite in your home.

The Do’s:

Do follow a simple layout

‘When designing an ensuite you typically don’t have a whole lot of space to work with so in order to maximise space and prevent it from feeling cluttered, it’s important to keep the layout as simple as possible, less is more in this instance.’ says Vanessa.

‘One way I like to do this is by designing the basin, toilet and shower to be placed along one wall. This keeps circulation space on the opposite side of the room which allows the space to appear bigger and feel more spacious, as well as keeping plumbing along one side which is an added bonus to keep costs down’ she adds.

Do keep it neutral for a timeless look

‘I always recommend opting for a neutral palette when selecting your bigger ticket items such as showers, baths, basins and vanities as they will stand the test of time’ advises Vanessa.

‘Your ensuite becomes a blank canvas in which you can elevate with decorative accessories or artwork and it also means if you decide to sell in the future you won’t be needing to spend a lot of money to replace any bold statement pieces’ says Vanessa.

Do ensure the style of your ensuite complements your master bedroom

‘To keep a consistent look and feel in your ensuite and master bedroom, make sure there is some connection between the soft furnishings in your master bedroom and the hard surfaces in your ensuite’ advises Vanessa.

‘The colours and textures don’t have to be exactly the same but at least follow a similar theme’ she adds.

The Don’ts

Don’t forget natural light

‘A dark, dreary ensuite is a huge don’t’ warns Vanessa. ‘If your ensuite doesn’t allow for an external window, I highly recommend installing a skylight to let the light in, which will add to the illusion of space’ says Vanessa.

‘My number one choice is an openable skylight as it will allow natural ventilation however if you’re working with a smaller budget than a fixed skylight will do the trick’ says Vanessa.

Don’t try to squeeze too much in

‘Don’t make the mistake of trying to fit everything you would include in a family-sized bathroom into an ensuite, especially in a small space’ warns Vanessa. ‘Unless you have enough space, I suggest keeping the bath in the family bathroom for your kids to use and incorporate a large open shower instead. A double shower is such a luxury in an ensuite, if space and budget permit it’s always a must’ says Vanessa.

‘I also recommend wall-mounting the vanity and toilet as it is not only easier to clean but it will also make your ensuite appear larger in size which is always a bonus’ says Vanessa.

Don’t cut costs on tapware and shower heads

‘When it comes to your taps and shower heads, don’t select the cheapest option, rather spend a little more on good quality fixtures that will stand the test of time’ says Vanessa. ‘Your fixtures are being exposed to moisture and human touch on a regular bases and if a problem were to arise it can be costly to fix or replace so it’s wise to pay a bit more from the get go’ she adds.

Our award-winning design manager Vanessa can ensure your bathroom renovation project has all of the do’s and none of the don’ts. If you’re ready to transform your ensuite book in your FREE video consultation with a member of the team today.