When renovating, it’s easy to treat every bathroom the same. But your ensuite and your main bathroom serve very different purposes. Designing them with that in mind can make both more functional and more enjoyable to use.

Jennifer Price, Strategic Brands Manager for Plumbing World, says it starts with understanding who will use each space. “Your ensuite is the real luxury space, because it’s your own personal space,” she explains. That gives you permission to prioritise comfort, add extras and tailor the space to your daily routine.

Think about what will actually make life easier. A double vanity, integrated bidet toilet or oversized shower might not be necessary in the main bathroom but could be worth every cent in an ensuite. Because this space doesn’t have to cater to visitors or kids, you can go for finishes and fittings that suit your habits and sense of style.

“The main bathroom is generally the one that needs to be a bit more robust,” says Jennifer. “That’s where you focus on making it practical and easy to clean.” Choose fittings that can handle frequent use, and look for layouts that reduce congestion, especially around the vanity and shower.

That doesn’t mean the main bathroom can’t look great. Many homeowners aim for a consistent feel between bathrooms, using the same tapware range in different finishes or scaling down features like vanities or basins to suit the space. This helps create flow while allowing each bathroom to do its job well.

Disclaimer: This article is based on a podcast featuring insights from experienced professionals and is intended for general information and inspiration only. While we aim to share valuable guidance, please seek personalised advice from qualified professionals before making decisions about your property, finances, or renovation plans.