Bathroom Interior Design Checklist
A well-designed bathroom can feel like a luxury hotel — even in a small apartment. Here's how to maximise every inch.
Wet Zone vs Dry Zone
Always separate the wet zone (shower/bath area) from the dry zone (vanity, toilet). This keeps the vanity area dry and prevents water damage. Use a glass partition or half-wall to define the wet zone.
Tiles
Tiles are the most visible element of a bathroom.
Floor tiles: Must be anti-skid (R10 or R11 rating). Smaller tiles (mosaic, hexagonal) grip better than large-format tiles.
Wall tiles: Large-format tiles (600×1200mm) are trending — fewer grout lines create a cleaner look. Choose matte finish for walls to avoid harsh reflections.
Grout: Use epoxy grout — it's waterproof, stain-resistant, and lasts decades. Worth the extra cost.
Sanitary Fixtures
WC (Toilet): Wall-hung WC is premium and easier to clean. Floor-mounted is more affordable. Choose rimless for better hygiene.
Washbasin: Counter-top basin for modern look, under-counter for cleaner lines. Vessel sinks look dramatic but collect water.
Shower: Overhead rain shower + hand shower combo is ideal. Thermostatic mixer allows precise temperature control.
Bathtub: A luxury in Indian bathrooms. Freestanding tubs are the most dramatic. Require minimum 4×6 feet space.
Brands: Kohler, Duravit (premium); Hindware, Parryware (mid-range); Cera (budget).
Vanity Design
The vanity is the storage solution of the bathroom. Key considerations:
- 24–30 inches depth for comfort
- 32–36 inches height (consider the users)
- Mirror with LED backlight or downlight for best grooming
- Adequate drawer space for toiletries
Ventilation
Non-negotiable in Indian bathrooms. Options: - Exhaust fan: Minimum 8 air changes per hour - Window: Cross-ventilation is ideal - Bathroom heater + fan combo: For cold climates
Cost Guide
| Item | Budget (₹) |
| Tiles (per sqft) | 40–500 |
| WC | 8,000–35,000 |
| Washbasin + vanity | 15,000–80,000 |
| Shower system | 8,000–60,000 |
| Waterproofing | 80–150/sqft |
| Labour | 60–100/sqft |
A complete bathroom renovation averages ₹80,000–₹2,50,000.
