By Rosemary Sadez Friedmann
McClatchy-Tribune
A teensy bathroom is hard to design and the smaller the space, the more critical the details need to be. But not to worry, I have a few suggestions for you.
Smaller toilets and sinks are important fixtures to consider for the small space. The elongated toilet bowls are considered more comfortable by some, but rounded bowls take up less space. Get the round one for the small bathroom. In general, round-front toilets extend 25 to 28 inches from the wall. Elongated toilets extend 29 to 31 inches. Because the toilet sits opposite the door in many smaller bathrooms, a regular elongated toilet can restrict the size of the door or its swing. Compact elongated bowls offer the same comfort but don’t protrude as far. If the door is still a problem or you really want that elongated toilet, consider installing a sliding pocket door, if that is possible.
Finding a small bathroom sink is easy. A wall-hung sink will really save space or a pedestal sink works too. A corner sink is still another space saving idea. Pay attention, though, to the size of the faucet before you purchase it. Consult with the experts you are purchasing from to be sure the size of the faucet and the size of the sink are compatible. You don’t want to have a faucet that doesn’t give you room for your hands or one that will spray water beyond the sink.
Usually in a very, very small bathroom, a tub won’t fit, but if you really want a tub, they do come in small sizes, so check around. Showers, on the other hand can be custom made to almost any small size. The code requirement for a shower is 32 inches minimum, just so you know. Here again, an angled shower might be the answer when space is small.
A recessed cabinet in the wall will save space and make up for the lack of vanity, if you choose a pedestal or wall mounted sink. Recessed shelves in the wall also will afford places for towels.
And, by the way, the price for small fixtures such as sinks and toilets might be a bit higher than standard size but not much.
Lighting is important in any room but in small rooms it is really necessary for visually expanding the space. The layered look works well. Recessed light in the ceiling will create a general and balanced light in the room. Add to that wall mounted lights at the sink, around the mirror. A wall-mounted light on each side of the mirror is much better than one light over the top of the mirror as the top light will cast shadows on your face. A light in the shower is of course necessary, too.
