Tips to Design a Functional Ensuite

Ensuite bathrooms add convenience to modern homes. But it doesn’t have to stop at that. Attached to a bedroom, another private zone in a home, ensuites offer an opportunity to create a functional and luxurious oasis that’s yours and yours only. Imagine stepping out of bed not just into a mundane, utilitarian bathroom but into a thoughtfully designed haven that melts away stress and invigorates your senses. And why just imagine? If you have an ensuite or plan to build one, here’s how you can turn it into a spa-like yet functional retreat. 

Planning is key to utilising the full potential of your existing or new ensuite bathroom. During the planning phase, you should consult experienced builders, plumbers, and electricians on technical aspects like location, plumbing, and electrics to ensure proper placement and trouble-free operation of fixtures, outlets, and ventilation.

Proper planning will also help you choose the right fixtures, fittings, and accessories for your bathroom, eliminating any guesswork and doubts that you may have. Yes, it may be your dream vanity, but if installing it means that you won’t be able to open its doors without blocking your movement, it may not be the right fit.

On a similar note, before diving into aesthetics, you need to consider how you’ll use your ensuite. Even the most stylish or lavish fixtures and fittings can’t compensate for a lack of tailored functionality. Assess your routine; do you crave a relaxing soak in a spacious, deep bathtub, or perhaps a rainfall shower is your idea of a self-care ritual? Then, think about the needs of others if the ensuite will be used by other household members. Will one sink suffice, or do you need a large vanity unit with two sinks and ample storage?

For a luxury feel and ultimate functionality, you need to create space and airiness. Even the word en-suite in French literally translates to “in sequence” or “in harmony,” suggesting a space that flows seamlessly and feels uncluttered. Wall-hung toilets and vanities can free up valuable floor space and create the illusion of a larger room. To further enhance this clean aesthetic, you can make smart use of walls for storage, which leads us to the next point.

Clutter is the enemy of any bathroom, especially the ensuite, which is typically on the smaller side. Invest in well-designed cabinets and open shelves to keep toiletries, linen, and other essentials organised and out of sight, or neatly displayed as decor. Consider a mirrored cabinet above the vanity to not only provide additional storage but also reflect light and create a more spacious feel.

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood in your ensuite. When possible, it’s best to incorporate natural light with strategically placed windows and maximise its effect with a large, stylish mirror. Using layers of light is another great way to play with the look and feel of your bathroom. Consider a combination of wall sconces or recessed lighting above the vanity and sleek ceiling lights. Going for backlit elements like an LED mirror or cabinet can further add depth and dimension to your space. 

When it comes to colour, light and neutral tones create a sense of calm and make the space feel larger. You can use a lighter palette as the foundation of the picture you’re trying to paint, and then add pops of colour with towels and other accessories. For large expanses of material, like the vanity top, choose calming textures like natural stone or timber to add that relaxing spa-like feel.

Moving on to the bathroom fixtures, which act as jewellery for your ensuite that draws the eye. Brushed nickel or chrome fixtures add a touch of modern elegance, while matte black finishes create a more dramatic and sophisticated look. For the vintage or luxury ensuite, go for warmer tones like brushed brass that radiate classic charm. 

Small final touches can elevate your ensuite bathroom to a whole new level. Heated towel rails, for example, are a practical indulgence, ensuring you have warm towels readily available after a relaxing shower or bath. Niche shelves in the shower are essential for keeping toiletries accessible yet neatly stored in a seamless and well-designed way. Or, if you opt for a bathtub, a simple bath caddy can be a nice addition that holds your bath salts, essential oils, candles, or favourite book within reach. 

By following these tips, you can transform your ensuite bathroom into a retreat that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Remember, it’s your own haven, so prioritise your needs and incorporate elements that reflect your style and personality. With that being said, you can now browse our extensive collection of bathroom fixtures and fittings to find the perfect pieces for your space.