Bathroom Layout Planner
Design your perfect bathroom layout. Get recommendations for fixture placement, clearances, and optimal designs based on your space dimensions.
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Space Too Small
Your dimensions are too small for a standard bathroom layout. Consider expanding the space or consulting with a designer for creative solutions.
The Fundamentals of Bathroom Layout Design
A well-planned bathroom layout maximizes functionality while ensuring comfort and safety. Every square foot matters in bathroom design, and understanding clearance requirements, fixture placement, and traffic flow is essential for creating a space that works beautifully day after day.
The key to successful bathroom design lies in the "work triangle"concept—creating efficient paths between the toilet, sink, and shower/tub. Unlike kitchen work triangles, bathroom layouts focus more on ensuring adequate clearances and comfortable use of each fixture.
Essential Bathroom Clearances and Codes
Toilet Clearances
- 15 inches minimum from centerline to any wall or fixture
- 21 inches minimum clear space in front of toilet
- 30 inches width for the entire toilet compartment
- 24 inches depth from wall to front of toilet bowl
Vanity and Sink Requirements
- 21 inches minimum clear floor space in front of sink
- 4 inches minimum from sink centerline to wall
- 30 inches minimum between two sink centerlines
- 32-36 inches standard vanity height
Shower and Tub Clearances
- 30" x 30" minimum shower size (36" x 36" preferred)
- 24 inches minimum clear space in front of tub
- 21 inches minimum clear space in front of shower
- 80 inches minimum ceiling height over fixtures
Bathroom Layout Types and Best Uses
Single-Wall Layout
All fixtures placed along one wall, perfect for narrow spaces. This layout minimizes plumbing costs and works well in small apartments or as guest bathrooms.
- Best for: Narrow spaces, 3-4 feet wide
- Minimum size: 3' x 8'
- Pros: Cost-effective plumbing, compact
- Cons: Limited storage, can feel cramped
Galley Layout
Fixtures on two parallel walls with a corridor between. This layout works well for medium-sized bathrooms and provides good separation between wet and dry areas.
- Best for: Medium bathrooms, 5-6 feet wide
- Minimum size: 5' x 8'
- Pros: Good separation, efficient layout
- Cons: Can feel narrow if too tight
L-Shaped Layout
Fixtures arranged along two adjacent walls forming an L-shape. This layout provides excellent functionality and feels more spacious than linear arrangements.
- Best for: Square or rectangular rooms
- Minimum size: 6' x 6'
- Pros: Spacious feel, good traffic flow
- Cons: Requires more floor space
Common Bathroom Design Mistakes
- Inadequate clearances: Not leaving enough space around fixtures makes the bathroom uncomfortable and potentially unsafe.
- Poor door placement: Doors that swing into fixtures or block access create daily frustration.
- Ignoring ventilation: Proper exhaust fan placement is crucial for moisture control and air quality.
- Insufficient storage: Not planning for toiletries, towels, and cleaning supplies leads to cluttered counters.
- Wrong fixture proportions: Oversized fixtures can overwhelm small spaces, while tiny fixtures look lost in large rooms.
Universal Design Considerations
Universal design principles make bathrooms accessible to people of all ages and abilities. Even if not required now, these features add value and future-proof your space.
- 32-inch minimum door width for wheelchair access
- 60-inch diameter turning space for wheelchairs
- Grab bars in shower and near toilet (or blocking for future installation)
- Comfort-height toilet (17-19 inches) for easier transfers
- Roll-in shower with no threshold for easy access
- Lever handles on faucets and doors for easier operation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum size for a full bathroom?
A full bathroom requires at least 36-40 square feet, typically arranged as 5' × 8' or 6' × 6'. However, 40+ square feet provides more comfort and easier movement between fixtures.
How much clearance do you need around a toilet?
You need at least 15 inches from the toilet centerline to any wall or fixture, and 21 inches of clear space in front of the toilet. More space is always better for comfort.
What's the standard height for bathroom vanities?
Standard vanity height is 32-36 inches, with "comfort height" vanities at 36 inches becoming more popular. Choose based on the primary users' height for best ergonomics.
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