Designing a new bathroom is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. There are countless decisions to make, from where to place the shower to how much storage you really need. According to Jennifer Price from Plumbing World, the key to avoiding costly mistakes is to start with the layout. When the flow works and the essentials fit comfortably, everything else falls into place.

Here are her top tips for getting your bathroom layout right.

1. Map your current layout

Sketch your bathroom by hand or use a digital tool to note plumbing, electrics, windows, and doors. Pay attention to what already works, and what doesn’t. Tight corners, blocked drawers, and awkward gaps are often signs the layout needs adjusting.

2. Plan for door swing

Doors can make or break the flow. Ideally, a bathroom door should swing against a wall rather than into a key fitting. If space is tight, sliding or pocket doors can free up valuable room and make access easier.

3. Use the right clearances

Getting the measurements right is what makes a bathroom feel comfortable rather than cramped, giving you enough breathing room to move naturally through the space. As a guide:

• Leave at least 800 mm in front of toilets and vanities
• Allow 1000 mm between opposing fixtures, such as a vanity and shower door
• Showers should be at least 900 x 900 mm, with 1000 x 1000 mm more comfortable
• Baths typically range from 1500 mm to 1800 mm long
• Make sure doors, drawers, and towel rails can open fully without clashing

4. Create natural flow

Think about how people will move through the space. Is it easy to reach the shower without squeezing past towel rails or stepping over a bath? Even if everything technically fits, poor flow can make a bathroom feel small and awkward.

5. Build in smart storage

Storage makes the difference between a tidy bathroom and a cluttered one. Consider vanity drawers, mirror cabinets, recessed shower niches, hooks, rails, and slim shelving. Wall-hung units keep storage accessible while maintaining a sense of space.

The bottom line

A functional layout sets the stage for everything else in your bathroom renovation. Get the flow right, allow for proper clearances, and plan storage carefully. With these basics in place, the finishes you choose will look better, last longer, and make everyday use far more enjoyable.

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.