Planning Your Bathroom Remodel: Design for a Personalized, Functional, Beautiful Space

February is the perfect time to begin planning your bathroom remodel. Whether you’re looking to update your current space or create a bathroom that will serve you better in the years to come, now is the time to make thoughtful decisions that will allow for construction later in the year. Designing a bathroom isn’t just about aesthetics—it's about creating a space that enhances daily life and meets the diverse needs of all users. 

As a certified kitchen and bath designer with a specialization in neurodivergent and universal design, I believe a bathroom remodel should be a place of both comfort and practicality. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key design elements that can help make your bathroom safe and efficient.

Why Plan Your Bathroom Remodel Now?

Planning ahead is crucial when it comes to a bathroom remodel. A successful renovation doesn’t just happen overnight—it requires thoughtful consideration, budgeting, and time to source materials and design features that suit your needs. Starting your planning in February will ensure that you’re ready for construction when the time comes, avoiding delays and stress. Plus, with new design trends emerging each year, now is an ideal time to think about how to create a space that will meet both your current and future needs.

Universal Design for bathrooms 

Universal design is the idea that spaces should be accessible to all users, regardless of age, ability, or mobility. This approach not only benefits people with disabilities or mobility challenges but also creates a more comfortable and functional environment for everyone. Here are some key features to consider when planning a universally designed bathroom:

1. Open, Accessible Layout

A spacious bathroom layout is essential for comfort and safety. Ensure there’s plenty of room for easy movement, especially if you plan to age in place or use assistive devices like walkers or wheelchairs in the future. Keep doorways wide—at least 36 inches for full access—and allow enough space between fixtures for freedom of movement.

Consider an open-plan design with no steps or curbs, particularly for showers. Curbless or walk-in showers are not only easier to enter but can also be visually appealing and more inclusive.

2. Comfortable, Accessible Fixtures

Opt for fixtures that make life easier for people of all abilities. For instance, consider installing a comfort-height toilet, which is easier to use. Additionally, lever-style faucets and handles are far easier to operate than traditional knobs, especially for people with limited dexterity.

For safety, install grab bars near the toilet, shower, and bathtub. While grab bars are essential for accessibility, they don’t have to be purely utilitarian. Choose sleek, stylish designs that blend seamlessly with your overall bathroom aesthetic.

3. Non-Slip Surfaces

Safety is always a top priority in bathroom design. Choose slip-resistant tiles or other flooring options, especially in high-moisture areas like the shower or near the bathtub. Not only do these surfaces reduce the risk of falls, but they also offer stability when standing or moving around the space.

4. Smart, Tech-Forward Features

Smart technology can make a huge difference in bathroom functionality. Motion-sensor lights can help prevent accidents when entering or exiting the bathroom. Smart toilets with automatic lids, bidet functions, or self-cleaning features add convenience and hygiene. Touchless faucets and hands-free controls for lighting and temperature regulation are especially helpful for people with mobility or dexterity issues.

Creating a Sensory-Friendly Sanctuary

When designing a bathroom for neurodivergent individuals, it’s important to take into account sensory sensitivities. Whether it’s bright lights, harsh sounds, or overstimulating patterns, a poorly designed bathroom can be overwhelming. However, with some thoughtful design choices, a bathroom can become a calm, functional space that supports neurodivergent needs. Here are some design tips to consider:

1. Soft, Adjustable Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating a sensory-friendly environment. Harsh fluorescent lights can be jarring for many neurodivergent individuals, especially those with sensitivities to bright lights. Instead, opt for warm, soft LED lighting that’s adjustable through dimmer switches. Layering different types of lighting—ambient, task, and accent lighting—can create a calm, soothing environment. Consider adding lighting in places like under-sink cabinets or behind mirrors to add warmth without creating visual clutter.

2. Calming Color Schemes

Colors can have a profound impact on mood and behavior, and for those with sensory sensitivities, certain colors or patterns can be either calming or overstimulating. To promote relaxation, choose soft, neutral tones like pale blues, greens, or earthy hues. These colors have been shown to create a sense of tranquility and help reduce anxiety. Avoid bold, high-contrast patterns or overly bright colors that can be overwhelming.

3. Tactile-Friendly Surfaces

Many neurodivergent individuals are particularly sensitive to textures. For example, rough surfaces or scratchy towels can cause discomfort. When selecting materials for your bathroom, consider smooth, tactile-friendly options. For countertops, polished stone or smooth ceramic tiles can provide a soft feel. Soft, plush towels and bath mats are ideal for comfort and sensory needs.

4. Minimized Sensory Overload

Bathrooms can be filled with sounds, from the water running to the buzzing of ventilation fans. To reduce sensory overload, consider soundproofing your bathroom by using thicker materials for the walls and floor. Choose quieter ventilation fans that won’t disrupt the space with constant noise. You may also want to install acoustic panels or soft textiles to absorb sound and create a more peaceful atmosphere.

5. Clear, Simple Layout

For many neurodivergent individuals, a cluttered or overly complex layout can be overwhelming. When planning your remodel, focus on creating a bathroom that’s simple and easy to navigate. Open shelving and streamlined storage options will help maintain an organized space. Avoid unnecessary visual clutter and keep the design minimal, focusing on the essentials while still creating a visually appealing space.

Combining Universal and Neurodivergent Design Principles

The beauty of both universal and neurodivergent design is that they often align in many ways. Accessibility and sensory considerations don’t have to be separate goals—they can be integrated seamlessly to create a bathroom that works for everyone.

- Neutral, calming color palettes help foster a serene environment for neurodivergent individuals and create a timeless look for the space.

- Adjustable fixtures and smart technology provide convenience and flexibility for all users, whether they're dealing with physical disabilities, sensory sensitivities, or age-related mobility changes.

- Spacious layouts ensure comfort, safety, and easy movement for anyone using the bathroom, whether it's for a quick morning routine or a long, relaxing soak in the tub.

Start Planning Today for Your Bathroom Remodel

As we move further into the year, it's the perfect time to start planning your bathroom remodel. Whether you are thinking about aging in place, enhancing accessibility, or creating a sensory-friendly space, a thoughtful bathroom design will enhance your comfort, independence, and well-being.

If you’re ready to create a bathroom that blends functionality with beauty, I’d love to help. As a certified kitchen and bath designer, my goal is to provide design solutions that meet your unique needs while ensuring your space feels like a sanctuary. Let’s start planning your dream bathroom remodel today so that it’s ready for construction later this year!