Design washroom better
Dryness is the most important ingredient that contributes to positive ambience in the washroom. Cleanliness is the other major ingredient here, for which dryness helps. So, try to segregate two areas - a dry area (washbasin and the water closet) and the wet area (the shower) - within your washroom. Plan drops in the floor between dry and wet areas and from the bedroom to the washroom. Wherever possible use a shower cubicle or shower curtain. Length of shower curtain should be up to the level of the drop in the floor.
The minimum area is 35-40 square feet of space, with a minimum width of 5 feet for a good washroom, while a 50-60 square feet space is optimum. For generating a sense of space, locate the washbasin in front of the door and tuck bulkier items like the tub or the shower cubicles towards the interior part of the washroom. The space under the washbasin platform/counter may be used for locating the laundry bin, while the mirror atop the washbasin can be fashioned over a cupboard to house cosmetics and toiletries.
Ventilation
Opt for large windows that can bring in adequate natural light and ventilation allowing you to employ sunlight, heat and air circulation to keep the bathroom dry and odour free. Privacy need not suffer on account of this, if you use curtains, louvers or even Venetian blinds. A few floor mats especially near the basin and shower do wonders for the dry feel and the ambience.
Finishing
For flooring, ceramic tiles or semi-vitrified tiles are by far the best options, what with the almost unlimited range of sizes and design available. However, marble (Indian or Italian) or other natural stones may also be used.
Avoid polished granite or vitrified tiles on the floor as they are very slippery especially when wet. For creating an aesthetic ambience, you could use minimal tiling in the dry areas and substitute it with textured or plain painted surfaces.
Fixtures and fittings
Washbasins may be either a counter or a pedestal type and multiple choices and brands are now available in the market today. Make sure that the tap selected is long enough so that the water falls well into the washbasin.
As for water closets, wall hung closets are ideal for cleanliness and easy maintenance. Choose low water consumption flush tanks and a health faucet for their hygiene value.
Electrical fittings
A mirror light is a must especially when shaving with additional wall lighting for general lighting. A table lamp on a ledge can add ambience.
Opt for waterproof fittings and try to locate the switches including the geyser switch outside the washroom. This may take a little getting used too but is a very good safety practice.
HEMA VIJAY
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