Do you want to renovate an old bathroom or fit out a new bathroom? For hygienic reasons, you may want to separate your toilet from the bathroom. In this article, Joy & Fortune will give you all the mistakes to avoid to benefit from an aesthetic and functional space. We will also give you the best solutions to partition your space without obscuring and cluttering your bathroom. You are ready? Good reading!
Why separate the toilet from the bathroom?
Installing the toilet in the bathroom saves considerable space. But this type of layout also has its share of drawbacks… The first is hygienic. We now know that flushing the toilet without lowering the seat throws particles up to 1.50 m around the toilet! This is why it is essential to keep your towel and your toothbrush away… Not to mention the bad smells.
In addition, some prefer to separate the toilet from the bathroom to bring more privacy to their toilet area. Especially in large homes, where the bathroom is likely to be used by several people at the same time.
However, many modern homes do not include dedicated toilet rooms. It is then necessary to install walls or partitions to separate the toilets. The problem is that this solution risks cluttering and obscuring the space. Especially in small bathrooms… Here is everything you need to know to avoid falling into the trap!
8 mistakes to avoid
1. Over-dividing the space
When you want to separate the toilet from the bathroom, the first idea that comes to mind is to build a wall. This solution may be suitable for a large bathroom, but it is still quite risky. A space that is too partitioned can become dark and stuffy.
Before making your decision, you should therefore carefully analyze the available space. Where can you install your toilets? What areas do you want to protect? Sometimes a half wall or a transparent pane will suffice. In the second part of this article, Espace Aubade will give you the best tips for partitioning your bathroom.
Note: if your accommodation is home to people with reduced mobility (PRM), make sure to leave enough space for everyone to use the equipment (showers, baths, sinks, basins, toilets, etc.). Consult the PMR standards for more details.
2. Neglecting lighting
The more space is partitioned, the more it is likely to darken. To arrange a modern and pleasant bathroom, you must pay attention to the brightness! For starters, let as much natural light into your room as possible. Also, use large mirrors and glass surfaces to reflect light.
Next, think about the distribution of your lighting fixtures. You must provide a central light on the ceiling, then multiply the light sources to illuminate the nooks and recesses. In particular, ensure that the vanity unit, shower, bathtub, and toilet are well-lit.
Good lighting will allow you to see clearly, but also bring an atmosphere conducive to relaxation in your bathroom.
3. Not providing enough storage
In the bathroom, the question of storage is essential. Indeed, it is often a small space, and you need to be able to store towels and toiletries.
If you decide to separate the toilet from the bathroom, you may need to do a little rearranging. Avoid storing your accessories near the toilet for hygienic reasons. On the other hand, plan a storage space near the vanity unit, the shower, or the heated towel rail. If you’re short on space, optimize your floor space by turning to hang shelves, wall units, and storage columns. Also, consider the bathroom cabinet with a mirror above the washbasin.
4. Don’t forget the washbasin
If you are installing your new toilet in a separate room, don’t forget the sink! Indeed, you must be able to wash your hands after going to the toilet. If your toilet is too far from the bathroom sink, it is necessary to install a hand basin in the toilet.
The good news is that there are very compact hand basin models that can fit into the smallest spaces! In the trade, you will even find toilet furniture with an integrated washbasin in the tank.
5. Clutter the space
Obviously, when you separate a room, you reduce the available space. If you decide to opt for a separate toilet, do not make the mistake of cluttering your space too much! Turn to compact layouts, which will optimize the surface area of your bathroom. Do not multiply the decorative elements and provide storage for everything.
The toilet area is often small. To optimize space, turn to a wall-hung toilet. In addition to offering a modern design and great ease of maintenance, it saves a lot of space. In the same way, favor the installation of a walk-in shower. It adapts to any configuration, and in addition, the transparent shower screen brings brightness to the bathroom.
6. Mismanaging colors
Colors are often overlooked in bathroom decorating. And yet, they are essential to provide an atmosphere and a feeling of space. In a small space, we generally prefer light colors, such as white or beige. They reflect the light and enlarge the room.
But you can also bet on more original shades:
- either natural colors, very trendy, such as brown, green, or terracotta;
- either bright colors, such as yellow, orange, or blue: enough to give pep to a space that is difficult to decorate!
And if you opt for a wall-hung toilet, why not opt for colored toilet cladding?
7. Neglecting decoration
Toilet decoration is often overlooked. And yet, it is a privileged space of expression for lovers of interior decoration! Indeed, you have the possibility to take more risks in terms of coating, colors, and materials. Of course, it’s not about doing anything. The room must remain aesthetic and functional.
You have two choices for decorating your separate toilets: either create continuity with the bathroom decor or visually separate the space with a different style. If you opt for the second solution, be sure to stay consistent: a vintage WC corner may not be suitable for a contemporary water feature.
Tip: green plants can bring a warm atmosphere to the bathroom. Some species are very suitable for damp rooms.
8. Not ventilating the toilet
Have you isolated your toilet from your bathroom? In this case, make sure that the air circulates correctly in both rooms! Otherwise, a second aeration system may need to be installed.
Does your toilet have neither a window nor an air vent in the ceiling? You have to find another solution. If your wall faces the outside, you can simply install ventilation grilles. Otherwise, you will have to run a tube to your toilet.
