These days, bathrooms can be so much more than just a place to shower and brush your teeth. They can also double as a spa-like retreat—somewhere to relax at the end of a busy day. Use this checklist to make sure you’ve considered all of the roles you want your new bathroom to play before you finish drafting your renovation plans.
Basic considerations
Is the room’s main function an adult bathroom, shared family bathroom, bathroom for children, guest bathroom or a powder room?
Do you need to expand to create a bigger space?
If so, would you be willing to compromise space in the bedroom, the closet, living area or hallway?
How many people will be using the room?
Do you have a young child or pet that will be using the room?
How much space will you need for storage, including a medicine cabinet, linen closet or shelving?
Functions that impact bathroom planning
Do you require a shower stall or bathtub, or both?
Will the room be shared? If so, will you need multiple sinks?
Do you want to save money and energy by switching to eco-friendly options such as a water-saving toilet, showerhead and faucet?
Do you need room for a vanity?
Do you need room to store bath supplies, toiletries, medical supplies, towels and linens, magazines, robes and bedroom slippers?
Activities that impact bathroom planning
Beauty care/grooming
Caring for a baby
Dressing
Caring for a pet