State the bathroom functions.
A bathroom is a peculiar place in many aspects.
Firstly, it has to be adjusted to everyone`s needs in most cases.
Undoubtedly, the set –up, the size and the position of the bathroom should be
matched in such way, so that it gives everyone the maximum comfort. We have to
decide whether the bathroom is going to be for only one person, a couple or a
family. It is worth considering if the bathroom is going to be used by the
elderly or the disabled.
Secondly, the bathroom furnishings last for years; that`s why we need to
think about the use of our bathroom- what we are going to use it for, and how
our preferences are going to change in the next few years. It is necessary to
install the bathroom equipment in one place. And it is not easy to change or
move it if we don`t like the arrangement any more. There is no doubt that it is
good to know the functions of a modern bathroom.
Arranging a bathroom is not as easy as it seems. Due to hurry and careless
decisions we may ask ourselves one day- why is this bathroom so useless- every
time we enter it.
That`s why we should bear in mind that, the bathroom we are arranging and all
the furnishings are going to last for years. Thus we need to be absolutely sure
about its purpose.
Bathroom standards may be of a great help and they will make it easier for us
while making any decisions. Bathroom standards define the use of that space
based on its purpose and the type of users. A specific type of furnishings has
been suggested following the type of the bathroom, so that everyone is ensured
the maximum comfort. Those standards state as well in which part of the
apartment or house the bathroom should be placed.
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Plan the furnishings.
While planning the furnishings in our bathroom, we have to know how we want
to use it and who is going to use it. We have already described above a very
useful help of the bathroom standards which will help us make the decision.
If we have at least two bathrooms in our house or apartment, then each one
can have different functions. So we can allow ourselves to choose various
standards of equipment, standards which reflect the functions of the bathroom: a
family bathroom, a guest bathroom, a bathroom for children or en suite bathroom.
The choice of the bathroom basic functions mostly depends on our habits and
life style.
However, if we have only one bathroom, it must have a lot of functions. We
need to make some decisions on what kind of appliances we wish to install.
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A shower cabin or a bath tub.
If we have a small bathroom, it is better to choose a shower cabin. A deep
shower tray will increase the functionality of our shower.
We recommend a bath tub if most of our family members like long relaxing
baths. It is a necessity to choose a bath tub for families with children- the
little ones and those bigger as well. We need to have a space big enough to
install a bath tub.
Installing a shower curtain could be a compromise solution between a shower
and a bath tub. If the dimensions of our bathroom don`t allow us to install
both- a shower and a bath tub, then a bath tub with a curtain is the solution. A
bath tub which functions also as a shower seems to be the best idea if we try to
join many functions.
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How many wash basins.
The choice of wash basin number mostly depends on the bathroom size. If there
is enough space and the family members have the same work schedule (i.e. they
use the bathroom at the same time of the day or evening), it is worth installing
two wash basins.
If the available space doesn`t allow a bigger number of wash basins, we
should decide on one wash basin which dimensions give us enough comfort while
using it.
We should also remember that in a family bathroom not only is a wash basin
used for washing but it is useful when there are only some bits and bops to be
washed. Thus it is good to choose a bigger wash basin, bearing in mind that
extra use.
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Bidet
A bidet is a standard appliance in many modern bathrooms. However,
the decision about installing a bidet is influenced by the needs and preferences
of the users, and most importantly by the available bathroom space. A bidet is
regarded as an extra appliance without which a bathroom is not going to be
useless. We need to have 1-1.2 square m just for a toilet and a bidet in the
bathroom. And not everyone can have that additional space. Installing a wash
basin with a special battery and a handle next to the toilet, could be some kind
of a compromise. Then a toilet can be used as a bidet as well.
Convenient placement of the elements.
Conveniency and safety of the bathroom depends on the correct
placement of the furnishings. Placing all the elements is as important as
keeping the correct space between them. All the appliances in the bathroom
shouldn`t be too close to each other. There ought to be enough space around them
so that we can use them comfortably, without any difficulties.
There are spaces and heights shown below, recommended for an up-to date
bathroom.
When comparing our plans for the bathroom to the reality, it may turn out
that we will have to change a few things.
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Permanent architecture elements- doors and windows
If there is a window in a bathroom, we need to take into
consideration its size and position while arranging the bathroom. For example,
putting a wash basin under a window means that we cannot have a mirror above it;
a bath tub under a window makes it difficult to open it.
The position of the door influences the position of all furnishings.
Sometimes it is worth changing initially planned door position in order to put
the bath tub or the shower in a more convenient place.
It is good to remember the following rule- the most attractive appliances
should be placed opposite the door. Simply because after entering the bathroom,
the first thing we lay our eyes on are the furnishings opposite the door.
Thus it is suggested not to put a toilet or a bidet opposite the door- it
will ensure us with the feeling of intimacy while using the bathroom.
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