Children's Bathroom Designs
It's easy to go overboard when you're designing spaces for a child, but binging on a theme is a good way to ensure that space quickly becomes outdated as the child matures. Designs that will grow with your child ensure that you don't have to remodel every couple of years. Try these design ideas to create a flexible bathroom that will work for all ages of kids.
When it comes to themes, less is more. Don't fall for the temptation of buying every piece of your favorite theme. Too many characters and matching pieces make rooms look busy, especially in a small space like the bathroom. Try picking out a few key pieces that fit your theme - say, a shower curtain or a toothbrush holder - that can be swapped out as your child ages. Complement them with paint and tile in muted colors or neutrals that can be dressed up or down and matched with different accessories when your child's taste evolves.
Rely on fun style elements that don't become dated easily. A mirror in a non-standard shape, such as a circle, never gets old and can complement a variety of future design schemes. A vanity with quality lighting will only increase in value as your child approaches their teenage years. Identify elements that are easy to adapt to multiple styles; for example, a shadowbox frame that can constantly be updated with photos, ticket stubs, and important trinkets to reflect your child's current passions.
Explore patterns. Going for a low-key color scheme for the walls and floor of your child's bathroom doesn't mean you can't have fun. Stripes can be an easy way to dress up walls; if you're aiming to make a bigger splash, a mural on one wall makes a bathroom come alive.
Build in safety features. If you have a younger child or are planning to have more kids, start off on the right foot by including safety features in the bathroom's design from the very beginning. Tub mats help keep little ones from slipping in the bath. An older child might prefer adhesive pads for the bottom of the tub or shower. Drain and faucet covers are a must for kids who might turn on the hot water or hurt themselves on the metal fixtures.
Consider height. Instead of building a sink and counter to accommodate the average grade-schooler's height, build an integrated pullout step into a regular-size version. That way, you won't have to replace expensive fixtures when your child grows. Take height into account when you're installing wall art as well - if you hang it slightly lower than you normally would, it will be easier for kids to see.
Split storage for siblings. Stop squabbles before they happen by giving each kid their own storage space, whether it's a shelf, a portable bin or opposite sides of a cabinet. Use them to stash personal toiletries, towels and bath toys in one easy-to-find location.
Think about extra space for the toilet. If you know you'll be potty-training kids, you'll appreciate having some extra room around the toilet so you can assist your little one without being crammed into a tiny space. As your child ages, the extra foot or two on each side could accommodate a plunger and toilet brush, a standalone toilet paper holder or extra storage for favorite toiletries.
