How I Design Bathrooms
First of all, I love to kick things off by asking fun questions like these:
How do you want to feel every time you walk into your bathroom? Spa–calm, hotel–chic, or bright and energising?
Photo: Ryan Fung
Getting to Know You
Do you have any photos of bathrooms you absolutely love?
What are your favourite colours—and the ones you never want to see in your bathroom?
Would you enjoy sinking into a soaker tub with jets at the end of a long day?
Would you like a little spa-style steam in the shower?
Do you prefer a particular look on the faucets—sleek and modern or warm and classic?
There are so many to choose from: chrome, brass, antique brass, matte black… and that’s just the beginning.
Do you want cosy, heated floors and a warm, toasty heated towel bar?
Photo: Ryan Fung
Working Through the Details
I show my clients lots of ideas to spark a reaction—those big smiles and happy gasps are wonderful, and even the “no way!” reactions are helpful. And then I listen…
Next, I sketch my preliminary ideas and layouts. Sometimes the perfect layout pops into my head right away, and sometimes we play with a few different options until it feels just right.
Once the best layout is decided, I’ll pull everything together and show my ideas in more detail.
I’m looking for that positive, excited reaction from my client—the “I can’t wait to use this bathroom!” moment—before we move on to the next stage.
Photo: Barb Ivey
Photo: Cam Brickenden
Some clients want to see and touch everything in person before deciding, while others are perfectly happy with a picture and my recommendation—both approaches work beautifully.
I also set up a Pinterest board for each project so I can swap ideas with my team and client—it becomes our shared playground for inspiration.
One very important step is making sure every part of the project is ordered and on site before we begin. I don’t want to slow anything down by waiting for a missing piece—that’s no fun for anyone.
Once the work begins, I make regular site visits to see the progress, celebrate the wins, and answer any questions or concerns along the way. There are always new details to consider, and one of my favourite parts of the process is collaborating with the talented trades I’ve worked with for many years.
The End Result
Down the road, when everything is in place and the bathroom is sparkling, I can add the towels, accessories, and a beautifully scented candle or diffuser that I’ve chosen especially for each project—and most important of all, I get to see a very happy client.
That’s what I call a perfect day!
If you’re ready to rethink your bathroom, I’d love to help you figure out what’s possible. Reach out here!