Attic bathrooms: how to plan your layout and decor

Sloped ceiling bathrooms are truly unique spaces, and no room use suits them perfectly. Asymmetrical ceilings pose serious challenges when installing certain furnishings, and make it hard to convert the attic into a functional space.

Nevertheless, attic bathrooms are becoming more and more popular, due to the great potential they have for layout and decor and the warmth they provide.

If your house has an attic and you'd like to turn it into a bathroom, we'll look at some ideas in this article for how to plan your layout and decorate a slopping roof bathroom that functions well without giving up any of the charm of the space.

Layout ideas for a sloped-ceiling bathroom

When you think about attic spaces, the first thing that probably comes to mind is a dramatically sloping ceiling. This is one of your main challenges when it comes to decorating and furnishing this part of the home.

Designing a space with a sloping ceiling isn't always easy, especially if you want to make maximum use of space.

But if you think carefully about the following points you can install a loft bathroom and enjoy a fully functional and stylish space.

• Think about the space available, and about how you'll be able to install your connections and water supply in the attic, as well as drainage.
• If you decide it's possible to install a bathroom, you need to work out what pipes you need and where the various supply connections are located.
• Using alcove storage in the lower part of the roof will maximise the efficiency of the space.
• You could work out whether the joists are strong enough for you to install a bath, but having said that, a better choice for an attic bathroom is to install a shower tray and make the most of the highest part of the ceiling.
• If you have a skylight, you could position the shower or bath just below it, creating a space for a revitalising bathing experience that connects you to the outside world.
• Check what type of water heater you'll need for your requirements.

Tono bathtub

How to choose the perfect bathroom suite for your sloped ceiling bathroom

When you're fitting out an attic bathroom there are some peculiarities you need to take into account. Because of the limited space available, and the nature of the space you do have, here are some recommendations to consider:

• When installing a shower, locate it in the zone where the ceiling is at its highest. A shower is a better choice to lighten the load on the floor. The weight of a filled bath could be more than it can take.
• Choose mixer taps as they're more compact, making them the perfect option for a smaller bathroom.
• If possible, go for built-in installation systems. For example, the cistern, shower, etc.
• Wall-mounted and compact toilets are the most suitable option for this type of bathroom. From the Noken toilet range, an ideal choice would the Acro Compact series, which includes compact wall-mounted toilets measuring less than 50 cm with built-in cistern installation.
• Choose compact bathroom furniture, such as the Liem 80 cm model or the Nature set: the latter comes with Smart Cabinet, a storage solution hidden behind the mirror that optimises the space, making it extra practical.

How to choose a shower enclosure for your attic bathroom

If you're installing a shower in your sloping roof bathroom you have various options when it comes to shower enclosures.

You could choose a screen, as this will visually enlarge your space, with transparent glass which avoids introducing a division into the bathroom.

Another option to seriously consider is creating an enclosure with panels or walls, either at full or medium height. Enclosures like these will make your shower space feel more intimate, and you can do it with translucent materials that will allow light to pass through.

Aesthetic and decor ideas for small attic bathrooms

We'll now look at some decor tips that are perfect for small sloped ceiling bathrooms, all of which will add storage solutions and functionality to this incredibly important element of your home.

• Niches, placed inside the shower space or out where the roof is lower are perfect for making the most of the space you have.
• Using concealed storage solutions will mean you can keep all your bathroom essentials hidden from view.
• Customised furniture is the perfect choice for a small bathroom, and can be just right for a loft bathroom.
• Installing a skylight in the sloping roof will add plenty of light to the space. You could position your bath or shower underneath.
• Building a seat at the lowest point of the roof, in the shower, can be both aesthetically pleasing and practical.
• Fitting tiles with your choice of motif will add dynamism and a touch of personality to your bathroom.

The bathroom style you opt for will depend on you and your personal taste. Wood, white (also for the roof) and darker accents tend to be the most popular choices for attic bathrooms.

An attic bathroom has a lot to offer in terms of aesthetics. There are boundless advantages - installing a bathroom in a loft can give the space a cosy and welcoming atmosphere; as well as making the most of every bit of space.