A complete renovation, rather than changing just a few items at a time, is really the most efficient way to remodel a bathroom. However, this is only possible if there is more than one bathroom in the house. There are ways to ensure that this is not messy, inconvenient or challenging. Whether you're doing cosmetic changes or a complete remodel, carefully plan your bathroom project. You'll save time and minimise unwanted surprises. Estimate the costs of fixtures, cabinets, pipes and fittings and other materials. Budget the expensive materials carefully and try to use existing materials where possible. The space, being compact, requires a juggling of positions and placements. Then again, being a wet zone, leakage factors in floors and concealed plumbing need effective pre-construction treatments.

Segregating the area into wet and dry zone allows for cleanliness. The use of deodorants, air fresheners and purifiers as well as adequate provisions of bins, peg / rod hangers, miniature cabinets, shelves, allows for optimum space utility. The dry area which houses the wash basins needs to be equipped with large panel of mirrors that lends a wide spacious look to the room while also providing for grooming and dressing facilities. It should be equipped with tissues, towels, toiletries, storage facilities, etc. Thoughtful supplements like fragrant dry flowers, soft lighting and even music can be installed for heightened mood effects. Where space is available, bathtubs, streams cubicle and Jacuzzi facilities can be innovatively installed for relaxation.

In spite of the best preventive designs, insects and cockroaches find their way through the drainage lines. Periodic maintenance like flushing hot salt water into these drains helps considerably. Natural stone, granite used in slabs sizes are good for the bathrooms as they are dense, have fewer joints and can resist leakage. They are also conducive for cleaning and maintenance. The bathroom can be glamorized with ornamental faucets and fixtures, providing non-skid matt finish ceramic tiles in the west zones. Glass is yet another functional material that lends decorative charm when etched or beveled and can be used in shelves, window glazing and internal doors where curtains would be inadequate.

Powder coated aluminum-glazed windows and aluminum doors sandwiched with puff filling are durable and functional. Bakelite doors are in vogue particularly for their picturesque finish. Every remodel job is different and it is hard to discuss specifics. Draw a detailed floor plan to see where space can be gained. It is also a great way to formulate workable ideas and arrange fixtures.

TIPS/Features to think about:

1) Near the vanity, make sure the light falls on you and not from behind you.

2) To create an illusion of space, use floating cabinets/those that rest on thin legs.

3) Avoid dark coloured sanitary ware in the bathroom as hard water leaves stains.

4) Bathtubs require a great deal of maintenance. A shower cubicle takes less space and is easier to maintain.

5) Install a Jacuzzi only if you have enough running water.

6) Use large mirrors to create space in the bathroom.

7) Single lever taps are easy to operate.

8) There should be mood lighting.

9) Divide the bathroom first into wet and dry areas. The wet area should be at the end of the room.

10) Buffed steel basins with sensor taps are becoming popular.

11) Use anti-skid tiles in the bathroom.

12) Colour helps create space. Use light colours for small areas. Add colours with accessories.

13) Choose your accessories with care as they tell the age of your bathroom and decide the look.

14) Avoid too many tiny accessories.

15) Put a wall paper that opens up.

16) Add depth to the walls.

17)Access: It should be usable for an 8 to 80 year old person, doors should open away from fixtures, non-skid flooring, smooth and rounded countertop, grab bars for tubs etc.

18)Convenience: Adequate natural lighting, easy -to-clean floors and fixtures, good ventilation, partition wall for sink / toilet / tub separation. 19)Storage: Some counter space or shelving for toiletries, towel bar / hooks, temporary laundry space, a non-shared drawer for each family member.