Dear Jean and Richard, You recently offered some tips on reworking an old bath to mirror the styling of a 1920s house, but what if it’s a newer home and you’re not trying to match a certain era? –Tammy, Mills River

Richard: Hi Tammy. Well, there are as many styles of bathrooms these days as there are styles of homes. In terms of basics, however, we can offer some suggestions. Assuming you are starting over, the first order of business is to determine just what is possible. If you want to change the layout, have a plumber advise you where you can relocate things like the toilet and sink. This is especially important if you hope to add a shower or additional fixtures.

Jean: Well, of course the plumbing considerations are important, but so are the aesthetics of a new layout. For example, you’ll want to place the toilet where you don’t see it when opening the door. If it’s a small room, be careful that doors clear cabinetry and open the right way.

Richard: Most of this is common sense but you’d be surprised at what we see. Especially when someone converts an existing space or carves out an area for a bath from a larger room, the layout can be awkward. In cases like these, don’t guess—draw it out and measure. If it’s too tight, one option is to reverse the door so it opens into the hall or adjoining room.

Jean: A new bath also opens the door for creativity. You may not be able to financially justify elaborate tile work or expensive wallpaper in a larger room, but you can splurge when the amount of material is smaller. It’s also more important than ever in a smaller room to make every item contribute functionally and aesthetically. If you want it to be truly special, employ some elements not usually associated with a bathroom. An antique mirror with a curving, carved frame can add charm. A small crystal chandelier can add elegance.

Richard: Well, even the furniture can be unique. As most people now realize, a vanity or sink base could be an old buffet or server. But thanks to the availability of vessel sinks, you could also use something like a large garden ornament or even a wrought iron table or console. One thing to remember is that there must be a way for the finished assembly to function—another question for your plumber.

Jean: As in other rooms, sconces and table lamps can offer lighting drama, so if you have the option, leave enough space on your vanity—or large garden ornament?—for a small lamp. But plan this ahead of time when laying out your wall plugs. No need to have a lamp cord running behind a faucet! Drapery and/or shower curtains are another opportunity to be creative—in fact, they serve an important role in softening the room. Don’t use carpet, but do use washable area rugs. And if it’s a guest bathroom, make sure there is somewhere for overnight visitors to spread out their toiletries and cosmetics.

Richard: As for styling, be careful about designing the room to accommodate the latest fad. Sunken tubs were all the rage in the mid 60s, but many folks agree they were awkward. Large clear glass shower enclosures are beautiful, but they require constant cleaning.

Jean: The secret of having a great bathroom is to stop thinking of its design as predictable. Replace the window with stained glass, or tile the floor with a mosaic. The “necessary room” can be unnecessarily flamboyant!