Are you planning a bathroom redesign, renovation, or remodel? It makes sense that you’d want a bathroom that is fit for purpose and pleasant to use, but also pleasing to the eye. After all, bathrooms make an impression, and an old, mouldy, or outdated bathroom can detract from the overall feel of your home.
But what if you’re not quite sure about how to design your new bathroom layout? Well, lucky for you, we’ve created our starter guide to modern bathroom design, and we’ll walk you through how to choose your bathroom layout.
Step 1: Seek Inspiration
Before you start sourcing bathroom supplies, tools and equipment, and getting ready to renovate, it’s worth seeking some, if you’ll pardon the rhyme, inspiration for your renovation. The internet is an excellent place to get inspired.
Read some top bathroom design blogs to learn about the latest trends in this space but also classic designs if you prefer something classic. You could also browse Pinterest for clever bathroom design hacks and tips or simply for more inspiration. Ask friends and family who may have recently completed a renovation of their own.
As you get inspired, make some lists and notes for your own reference. Sooner or later, the shape and form of your new bathroom will emerge in your head. With the right designer and builder, this can then become a reality or with a bit of hard work if you’re going the DIY route.
Step 2: Choose a Vanity
Your vanity is the centrepiece of your new bathroom, so it makes sense to choose one that will complement your space. You generally have the option of a freestanding vanity or wall-hung vanity. Each has its advantages.
Freestanding vanities offer a classic, furniture-style look. Despite the name, they don’t require wall support and are easy to install. They often provide more storage and are ideal for bathrooms with ample floor space. However, they can make a smaller room feel more crowded and may be harder to clean underneath.
Wall-mounted vanities create a modern, streamlined aesthetic and make the room appear larger by freeing up floor space. They’re also easy to clean around, but typically offer less storage and require secure wall mounting, which may not suit all bathroom layouts.
A wall-hung vanity will make a bold statement as a centrepiece for your bathroom. Whatever you choose, ensure that you choose a nice-looking one, such as a freestanding Brown Oak or a Sandy wall-hung vanity.
Step 3: Select a Colour Palette for the Bathroom
At some point during the bathroom design process, you’ll have to decide on a colour palette for the space. The main things to consider are your tiles, wall paint colour, and fixtures (such as taps and showerheads).
Start by considering the overall mood you want—calm and spa-like, bold and modern, or warm and inviting. Neutral tones like white, beige, or grey offer timeless appeal and flexibility, while soft blues or greens evoke serenity.
For example, you could opt for a pure white palette with a mixture of matte and gloss white for your paint and tiles. This could be contrasted with matte black taps and fittings or polished chrome.
Another idea for a lovely bathroom is to opt for some cool, soft greys in your tiles, contrasted with a light Robin’s egg blue paint job. This could be complemented with shining chrome tapware and shower fittings or offset with brass instead.
Step 4: Pick Out Your Tile Patterns
Tiles play a huge part in a bathroom’s feel and aesthetic. They are often the most prominent feature, as they tend to cover a large part of your wall and floor space. As such, you need to pick tiling that will make an impact and stand out or contrast well with your other bathroom accessories. There is a massive variety of tiles available, so take your time, browse some tile stores, and pick something that you’ll be happy with for the long term. Don’t rush this decision. It is better to take some time and nail it then rush and end up with a tile scheme that you’re not happy with.
Top tip: Take any paint swatches with you when shopping for bathroom tiles so you can see how well the colours and patterns work together.
Step 5: Choose Windows and Window Dressings
Next, you need to consider your windows. Will you choose frosted glass for privacy or another type? Privacy is definitely a factor here, so if your bathroom gets exposed to anyone else’s windows or yard, you will most likely want to go with frosted glass. This will still let in natural light, and you can crack open a window for some fresh air, but the last thing you want is to feel as though someone can see you while you’re in the bathroom.
Once you’ve decided on a type of window, you’ll need to choose appropriate window dressings. Fabric isn’t a great idea for the bathroom due to the amount of moisture generated by showers, baths, and running taps.
Plantation shutters are a great idea for simple, understated, yet elegant window dressings. Again, wood is not the best idea due to moisture levels unless it’s specifically treated to be moisture-resistant. You might be better off with a synthetic material here if you opt for plantation shutters.
Bring Your Bathroom Vision to Life
Designing a modern bathroom layout doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With a little inspiration, thoughtful planning, and the right choices—from vanities to tiles, colour palettes to window dressings—you can create a space that feels fresh, functional and uniquely yours. Whether you’re after sleek minimalism or warm, inviting charm, a well-designed bathroom can elevate your entire home.
Ready to make it happen? Talk to the expert team at Joinery by Bears. We specialise in premium furniture solutions that bring your design ideas to life – beautifully, practically and built to last. Explore our range online or visit our Brisbane showroom to feel the textures for yourself.
