When setting up your bathroom, think about how to make the best use of the existing space in a way that will reflect your lifestyle. A well-thought-out design can even shave time off of your morning routine. Use this checklist to categorize the key considerations when laying out your ideal bathroom.

• Considerations when installing a sink

  • Number of sinks needed

  • Sufficient depth

  • Faucet height, shape and finish

  • Number and type of handles

  • Soap dispensers and toothbrush holder

  • Sufficient space to maneuver for grooming

• Bathtub options

  • Safe and easy access in and out

  • Soaking depth

  • Bathtub shape (oval, round, rectangular, corner tub)

  • Faucet height, shape and finish

  • Water-saving faucet options

  • Shelving and towel rack

  • In-ground or freestanding

• Shower selection

  • Height of shower stall

  • Shelving and towel rack

  • Water-saving shower head

  • Sufficient space to get in and out with ease

  • Shower-stall door (swinging door or sliding door)

• Toilet options

  • Height of toilet seat

  • Water-saving options

  • Access to paper dispenser

• Design for easier access

  • Do you need multiple entrances to this room or to different rooms?

  • Do you have sufficient space for open doorway spaces, pocket doors or swinging doors?

  • What kind of lock do you need on your door?

  • Is there a convenient spot to hang robes, put laundry and store slippers?

  • Do you have easy access to drawers and shelves?

  • Do you have room to maneuver comfortably between the sink and the tub or shower, between the sink and the toilet, and between the door and the sink?

  • If shared, can another person easily move around the space at the same time?

  • Do you have a window in the room?

  • What kind of window treatment would provide privacy and natural light?

  • Are walkways and entrances wide enough?

• Consider your grooming activities

  • Is there a mirrored area with sufficient lighting?

  • Do you prefer to sit or stand while grooming?

  • Is your countertop wide enough to rest your supplies on?

  • Do you have enough outlets for electrical tools such as a blowdryer, electric shaver and electric toothbrush?

  • Do you have space for storage such as linen closets, medicine cabinets and hampers.

• Extras to consider

  • What kinds of extras would best reflect your bathroom lifestyle?

  • Do you have room for a small laundry-storage area?

  • Would you like to have another vanity dressing area away from the sink?

  • Do you want a hidden garbage-disposal area?

  • Do you need built-in cabinets and drawers or hooks?

  • Do you want to add a skylight for natural light?

  • Do you have room for a bathtub and shower?

•   Print This Checklist
•   Send to a Friend