Bathroom designs for kids

When renovating or imagining bathroom designs for kids, it's important to make sure the space is functional for them to use. But you also need to consider that, as they grow, their needs will change and the bathroom should be able to adapt.

The key to designs for kids is to avoid permanent changes. Rather than decking out the bathroom in your child's favourite TV show theme, create visual interest for them with accessories. "Get some colour in there with bright towels, bath mats, and of course, toys," says Kelly Ey of Key Designs and Developments.

A bath is an absolute necessity for little ones. "Bathroom designs for kids must have a dedicated bath that's easy for kids to step in and out of, and easy for parents to reach into," says Kelly. A shower-over-bath combo usually works best, as open showers can often lead to floods (when kids cover the drain with toys and washers) and slippery floors.

A rail showerhead is a good choice, as it allows for easy adjustment as kids grow, and also makes cleaning the shower easier. When the kids are young, use a shower curtain in a bright pattern or theme, and later, when they are bathing on their own, replace this with a stylish glass screen.

To ensure little ones can reach the basin, Kelly suggests incorporating a solid step, which can be easily tucked away under a wall-mounted vanity when not in use. "When thinking of designs for kids you have to remember that children just love doing things for themselves, so groovy resin and acrylic stools may be a good option," she says.

Everyone knows that kids are great at creating mess, so designs for kids often feature low-maintenance finishes where possible. Large floor and wall tiles will ensure the minimum of cleaning, and opt for durable surfaces for benchtops and vanities to withstand rough treatment.

If the bathroom is going to be shared by siblings, you may want to incorporate double sinks and mirrors above the vanity – this way, they won't be elbowing each other for bench space, or fighting over whose turn it is at the sink. Mixer taps are easier for little hands to operate, and you should ensure that you get the most water-efficient model available.

Finally, designs for kids have to have cosiness as a priority. "If you're building a new bathroom, underfloor heating is a good option, particularly for the winter months," says Kelly. "This is one of the safest forms of heating, and will help keep the floor dry and prevent slips."