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Bathroom Planning Guidelines

• One- wall design.  One wet wall designs are the simplest design and require the fewest plumbing fittings.  They are the most economical to build.  Keep in mind that since there are limitations in design possibilities, the best use of floor space may be compromised.

• Two-wall layout.  A bathroom design using two wet walls offers more floor area and ample storage spaces around the sink.  In a small bathroom, it may be worth an extra cost.

• Three-wall layout.  These designs offer the greatest flexibility, but they require more complex and expensive plumbing as well as more floor space.

• A Half Bath.  A sink and a toilet comprise a half bath, also known as a powder room.  It is typically located on a home’s main floor level, close to the main living areas.  Powder rooms are intended primarily for visitors’ use and sometimes to provide back up for the main bath.  Because they are generally small, half baths offer an opportunity for homeowner to have fun with decoration styles.  Allow for comfort and an adequate storage in the planning stage.  Adding a powder room can increase your home’s value.

• A Three Quarter Bath.  A sink, a toilet, and a shower stall- instead of a bathtub-constitute a three quarter bath.  It can be added on to the space about 6X6 feet.  A three quarter bath could solve the morning tight schedule.  Good uses include a guest bathroom or a bathroom for older children.

• A Full Bath.  Typically located close to bedroom, it consists of a sink, a toilet, and a bathtub.  It may also have a separate shower.  The minimum room size is about 5X7 square feet.  Many floor plans are possible.  It all depends on your wants, needs, and budget.

• Ceramic tile is durable, easy to clean, and comes in a variety of textures and colors.  To make your bathroom appear bigger, use larger tiles on the walls and floors.

• Stay with a single sink.  There will not be too many times when two persons will need the sink at the same time.  Besides, two sinks crowd your bathroom, cost more in plumbing fittings, and present you with more to clean.

• Ventilation fan should be able to change over the air in your bathroom at least eight times per hour to cut down on mildew and mold problems.  Select your ventilation fan with a low noise rating.

• Lighting.  A good design bathroom should include a lighting plan that layers and blends 4 different types of light- task, ambient, accent, and decorative.