Renovating your bathroom seems like a headache?

This can be one of the most challenging spaces to renovate. The bathroom contains so many elements, and you do not know which standards and norms to respect and where to begin? In order to achieve a harmonious and practical space, it is important to respect certain industry standards concerning the dimensions, the clearances and the heights necessary when designing your bathroom. Our design team has prepared the following article that can serve as a standard measurement guide. This guide will help you in the design of your new bathroom. By respecting these standards, you will be sure to have the right proportions and a pleasing and practical space. The respect of these standards guarantees the success of the design and renovation of your new bathroom. So here are below hints and tips from our designers to help you plan and design this important room of your home!

General planning of a bathroom

At the planning phase, it is often easier to create the design by grouping the different components that are water dependant. Thus, in an 8 ‘x 5’ bathroom (the standard size found in most homes in Montreal), we will regularly choose to place on the same wall the bath, toilet and vanity. The tall cabinet for linens as well as the towel bars are usually installed on the opposite wall. Always have a clearance of 30” minimum in front of the elements of the bathroom, to ensure that you can move around easily and without obstruction.

The vanity for the bathroom

Generally, the width of a vanity may vary anywhere between 24 “, 36″, 48″ to 60”. The depth is usually 21 “, which is the space required to accommodate a standard sink. The height of the vanities should not exceed 34″, including the sink. You will need a clearance of 30” in front of your vanity to avoid any conflict with another element. Thus, the total measurement is 51” when you add the depth of the vanity and the clearance distance. This 51” measurement must be taken into consideration when drawing your bathroom layout.

The pedestal sink in the bathroom

In a very small space, many customers will prefer the pedestal sink because it’s compact size. It rarely exceeds 24 “wide and maximizes the space that should be allocated to traffic. The standard height is 33” and its depth should not exceed 22 “. Generally, pedestal sinks have a depth of 18”. Unfortunately, it does not offer much countertop space or storage space – these are the main reasons why people do not choose this option.

The toilet for the bathroom

You must reserve at least a 30″ width space for the toilet, ideally 36″ and keep a clearance of at least 30 “in front of the toilet. Keep in mind that it is not always possible to change the location of your toilet during your renovations. Your general contractor will be able to guide you to determine if you will be able to move it. The location of the drain and the direction of the joists in your house are the main constraints. It’s much less expensive to keep the fixtures in their original locations.

The bathtub for the bathroom

There are several sizes of bathtubs available on the market that will be suitable for your bathroom. The smaller sizes are 30 “x 60”. This dimension is often the one chosen by our customers. This size is often ideal for our small urban bathrooms. Larger sizes are 42″x 72″. There must be at least 30 “clearance in front of the bath to be able to access it when we are outside the bath. If your bath is built-in, the height of the podium should not exceed 22 “.

The shower for the bathroom

In order to have an ideal size, a shower should not be less than 42 “x 30”. If your space is limited, opt for the bath-shower combo. There are some nice alternatives with glass panels that will give your new bathroom a modern look while being functional.

The linen cabinet of the bathroom

The tall cabinet where the linen is usually stored, is often 20 to 21″ deep, and varies between 12″ and 36 “in width. Most prefab models are installed with the top at 84″ height (the heights may differ).

The mirror for the bathroom

We suggest positioning the center of the mirror at 65 “so that it is at the height of your eyes. Generally, it will be positioned at 40 “or 42” from the floor. Always remember to leave enough clearance depending on the height of your faucet. If you’re planning for a mirror with a built-in pharmacy, you must plan its height according to the height of your faucet.

Electrical outlets in a bathroom

In a bathroom, outlets must be grounded (GFI). In addition, these switches and lights must not be accessible from the bath or shower. Hanging that beautiful pendant light above the bath is not an option. Recessed lights, however, are allowed. The outlet near the sink should be positioned 39 “from the floor.

We shared with you the industry standards and standards that our designers rely on to design your bathrooms. Do not hesitate to contact us for any questions, we will be happy to guide you in the design of your new bathroom. The proper planning of a renovation project guarantees its success!