When you think about bathroom design, what comes to mind? Is it the tile, the sink, the shower? Or have you ever thought about how the way men and women use the bathroom might actually influence how it’s designed?  

At Alan Heath and Sons, we’ve had plenty of experience working on bathrooms and have come to realise that the unique needs of men and women really do play a role in shaping how we approach each project. Whether it’s layout, bathroom storage, or simply the way we use the space, those subtle differences can have a big impact on the design. 

Of course, everyone is a unique individual, and what applies to one person won’t always apply to another, but here are a few gender-specific bathroom design requests we’ve seen over the years! 

A bit of background on gender-specific design preferences 

Whether it’s the need for more storage space for beauty products or the placement of a toilet that maximises comfort, men and women tend to use the bathroom differently, and those habits often influence design decisions. 

At Alan Heath and Sons, we understand that different people have specific needs, and we make sure to tailor our designs to suit them. We’ve learned that by designing bathrooms with functionality and personal habits in mind, everyone can enjoy a space that’s practical, stylish, and stress-free. After all, the bathroom is a place for personal hygiene, and a space where relaxation and self-care happen, so a bathroom needs to be able to do both! 

Bathroom design for women 

When it comes to bathrooms, women often require more space and storage. Why? Well, women tend to have a wider range of personal care products, from skincare and haircare to makeup and perfumes. These products take up a bit more counter space, so women often appreciate bathrooms that offer ample storage for their items. At Alan Heath and Sons, we often incorporate built-in shelves, under-sink storage, and vanities with drawers to keep everything organised and within easy reach. 

Additionally, many women prefer more counter space. Whether it’s for applying makeup, styling hair, or simply having a clear surface to work with, the extra space helps keep things clutter-free and ensures the bathroom is functional without feeling cramped. A larger vanity with a dual sink is also a popular request for couples who share a bathroom but still want their own space while getting ready in the morning. 

Design tip for women: Consider using floating vanities or open shelving to create a more spacious feel in a smaller bathroom while still providing storage. A well-organised bathroom can make all the difference when it comes to starting the day off right. 

Bathrooms for men 

On the other hand, men’s bathrooms tend to prioritise efficiency and practicality. Men typically don’t have as many personal care products as women, so they don’t need as much storage space. Instead, their focus is often on the functionality of the space and how quickly they can get in and out. 

In terms of layout, men tend to appreciate bathrooms that allow for easy access to the shower, toilet, and sink without a lot of unnecessary distractions. Minimalism is therefore a popular choice. Simple storage solutions, like a small cabinet under the sink or a wall-mounted towel rack, usually suffice. 

One feature that men often request more frequently is a larger shower space. Whether it’s for a comfortable shower experience or simply because men tend to prefer showers over bathtubs, designing a spacious shower with modern fixtures is a common request.  

Design tip for men: When designing a bathroom for men, keep it simple and focused on the essentials. A sleek, no-fuss design with clean lines and functional features makes the space feel fresh and easy to use. 

Unisex bathroom design 

Of course, a lot of bathrooms need to work for more than just one person — think about the typical family home with men, women, kids, and maybe even pets or guests popping in and out! So, the trick to designing a space that works for everyone is finding the right balance. Unisex bathrooms often combine the best elements of both designs like efficient storage, functional layouts, and a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere. At Alan Heath and Sons, we recommend using adaptable, timeless designs that blend masculine and feminine features, ensuring that the space feels welcoming to everyone. 

Dual sinks, large mirrors, and ample counter space are must-haves for shared bathrooms, while individual storage for each person’s belongings keeps things organised. You might want to consider separating the toilet area from the rest of the bathroom for privacy, and don’t forget that lighting plays a really important role in creating a pleasant environment for both men and women. 

Ready for your dream bathroom? Contact our friendly team, we’d love to help you create the bathroom you’ve been envisioning.