Multifunctional rooms have become increasingly popular among UK homeowners. And for a good reason: enhanced consciousness of well-being, remote working, and rising property prices mean we must make the most out of the space we have. But did you know that homeowners are now turning to their bathrooms to create a multifunctional space?
It makes sense. Unlike living rooms (great for guests, not so much for self-care), bathrooms tend to be underutilised spaces. This makes them the perfect spot to indulge in meditations, stretches, mini-workouts, or even to tuck away your laundry area.
Now you know Amberth is all about designing spaces that are as unique as you are. But we always keep one ear close to the ground to stay in the loop with the ever-evolving interior design industry. Because as the industry evolves, your possibilities do too.
Let’s take a look at the innovative (and sometimes surprising) multifunctional bathroom ideas emerging in 2024.
The Need for Multifunctional Bathrooms in the UK
In modern UK homes, bathrooms are often the victims of shrinking square footage. But limited space doesn’t mean limited possibilities. It’s nothing that a little clever design and multifunctional elements can’t solve.
If you get it right, a multifunctional bathroom doesn’t just offer a clever use of space; it unlocks numerous advantages:
- Increased Functionality: Turning a typically one-dimensional space into a versatile room
- Enhanced Well-being: Integrated elements that promote relaxation, fitness, and overall well-being.
- Space Optimisation: Make the most of every square inch, ensuring your bathroom caters to all your needs.
- Elevated Home Value: A well-designed multifunctional bathroom can add significant value to your UK property.
Designing a Multifunctional Bathroom
While it’s a lovely idea, creating a multifunctional bathroom in your home takes careful planning. Without this, it can easily become a cluttered, restricted space. There are a few factors in particular to keep in mind:
Contemplate Your Priorities
Before you begin, consider what purposes you’d like to utilise your bathroom for. A few ideas could be:
- Self-pampering for a spa-like experience
- Additional space for workouts or stretching
- Meditation or quiet zones
- Additional storage to keep things tucked away
- A dedicated space for laundry
Planning and Zoning
Careful planning is key for a successful multifunctional bathroom. Consult with a professional to consider which zones would be best for different activities like showering, bathing, relaxation, and the additional multifunction purposes you desire.
Multifunctional Elements
Embrace clever design elements to maximise functionality depending on your desires, such as :
- Shower benches for relaxation or additional storage
- Retractable drying racks for laundry that disappear when not in use.
- Freestanding bathtubs that double as a luxurious soak spot or a place to bathe children.
- Walk-in showers with built-in steam capabilities for a spa-like experience.
- Wall-mounted vanities for extra floor space and a more streamlined look.
- Smart mirrors with built-in TVs or lighting for added functionality.
- Hanging pull-up bars for your quick afternoon workouts
- Sliding cupboard doors to hide multipurpose spaces when not in use
We’ve mentioned a few ways you can make the most of your bathroom space, from practical purposes to relaxation. But let’s discover what these spaces could look like.
The Meditation Zone
If you want your bathroom to be a dedicated stress-free zone, it should radiate relaxation. This means every element needs to be intentional. You don’t need much to create this kind of multifunctional space; simply place a chair in the corner for meditation or reading. Make your surroundings feel comfortable and uncluttered. It’s the little details that count here. Candles for a calm ambience. Biophilia for a sense of life in your space. Soothing soundscapes to tune inward. And natural light for that deep exhale.
The Home Gym
If you’re a fitness fanatic, the bathroom may be your answer to the home gym you’ve always wanted. It’s a convenient design that allows you to hop straight into the shower after your workout. There are many ways to do this without permanently installing equipment, too. Hang pull-up bars on your door frame. Dedicate a small floor area as your yoga or stretch zone. And make the most of your vertical space by keeping workout equipment on wall-mounted storage.Take it a step further by incorporating a steam shower for after-workout relaxation.
The Spa Experience
A spa bathroom has very little to do with space. And a lot to do with how you use it.
How far you take it is completely up to you. If you’re looking for subtle changes without renovation, think heated towel rails and rainfall showerheads. Place a comfy ottoman in the corner for your foot therapy or home facials. Have luxury products readily available and candles at the ready.
Considering a full spa-bathroom remodel? Steam showers, like the one Amberth installed above, should be top of the list. Place a compact chest of drawers in a corner to keep your self-care products and provide a countertop for your home pampering.
The Laundry-Bathroom Combo
This combo goes together like hand in glove. And a little smart design, like sliding cupboard doors, you can conceal your laundry area when you want it hidden. Always accessible, only visible by choice.
To make it a fully functional space, dedicate a recessed corner of your bathroom to all your laundry needs. Consider adding a plug point for your iron or steamer, and drawers to keep your detergents safely tucked away.
Storage
Bathrooms can be a storage-savvy space. It’s another multifunctional bathroom idea that doesn’t need ample floor space; you can make the most of your vertical and under-counter areas by adding a couple of extra cabinets. Consider open shelving to display what you love, and closed cupboards to hide the rest.
The key is to keep it uncluttered. Make sure your cabinets hang in a way that compliments the layout, and nothing restricts the flow of the layout.
Did we just open your mind to your bathroom’s potential? We hope so. But it’s important to remember that keeping it practical counts here. Multifunctional bathrooms are not ideal candidates for poor planning or rushed installation. Keep possible challenges in mind so you can plan to resolve them. Things like ventilation, waterproofing, and layout functionality should be considered carefully. We’re not saying a multifunctional bathroom can’t be done. We’re saying do them wisely. With a professional by your side to confide in and consult with. Trust us, it will be well worth it. Just wait and see.
Design That Caters For Your Lifestyle.
With Amberth by your side, every detail is taken care of. From concept all the way through to supply and installation.
Contact us to browse our brochure for an inside look at Amberths exquisite handy work.
