Symmetry is one of the most used and noticeable principles of design. When applied well, symmetry adds harmony and balance to a space. When it’s poorly applied, however, the result can be jarring.
There is no better example of this than in the design of a bathroom vanity composition. A misaligned mirror or tipsy tile is not the first thing you want your client to see or to irk them every time they enter their ensuite. Wall-mounted basin mixers are often the biggest culprit, and a lack of planning and consultation can create all kinds of headaches at the costly end of a project.
Preparing detailed elevations and discussing the pros and cons of various configurations with your client is essential in the early stages of design. Here, we’re sharing some examples and points for both you and your clients to consider.
Spout + Mixer (No Plate)
This is a hugely popular configuration we frequently see in our Awards program. In most cases, you’ll see the spout centre-aligned to the basin, which makes a great deal of practical sense.
Nina Di Marco (YDM Design Studio) executed this beautifully in the bathroom below (left). The black tapware is of a similar tonal value to the gorgeous green tiles, meaning the visual weight of the left-aligned mixer is not jarring. The spout sits perfectly centred to the basin, mirrored cabinet and subway tile.
Nina has applied the same layout in the bathroom design to the right. Again, the champagne-coloured tapware is similar in value to the wall tiles, ensuring the composition is subtle and balanced.
An alternative but lesser-used layout would see the combination (i.e. tap + mixer) centred to the basin. While this is more technically centred, the offset spout could be problematic for your client – it’s worth discussing this option, though, to ensure everyone is on the same page before the plumbing set-out begins.
Spout + Mixer (Plated)
Plated spouts and mixers offer a stunning and streamlined look but can create havoc when it comes to symmetry. While centring the spout may seem the obvious and most practical option, it can cause a twitch or two for lovers of perfect symmetry. This is particularly important when the finish of your fixtures is of high contrast to the wall tile (think matt black tapware on a shiny white wall tile). Centring the plate may mean the spout is offset, but this is a compromise your client may wish to consider. It can be argued that this is practical, too: if your client frequently refreshes at the basin – leaning in to splash water on their face – an offset spout may actually be preferable. The shape of the base should be considered – while the spout doesn’t have to sit directly over the waste, you must ensure it clears the basin wall or recess sufficiently.
Tile Layout
When you’ve taken the time to map out the alignment of your fixtures and fittings, you will certainly want to consider the tiling layout, too. All bathroom elevations should include a tile layout to ensure the tiler is aware of your set-out intentions.
Positioning Power Outlets
We covered the position of power (or socket) outlets in this feature, but are recapping it here in the context of balance and symmetry. If your client has opted for a flush-mounted mirror in lieu of a mirrored cabinet, they’ll need to consider the location of a code-compliance power outlet. It may be helpful to note the exclusion zone on your elevation (as indicated below) and illustrate how a vertical or horizontal outlet will look. Again, you’ll want to take note of contrast – a bright white socket on a deep and dramatic wall tile could kill the look you’re after. This alone could drive the decision to opt for a mirrored cabinet, in which case the power point will be safely concealed.
As indicated above, a well-detailed elevation will help you solve symmetry problems and ensure all trades are clear on what goes where during set-out and fit-off.
With the practical points covered, let’s look at the top two ‘touchy-feely’ reasons to consider symmetry in your designs.
#1 Aesthetic Harmony
Symmetry creates a balanced and visually pleasing appearance. In tile layouts, symmetrical patterns can make spaces feel more organised and harmonious. Similarly, symmetrical tapware enhances the overall design by ensuring that fixtures align with the broader aesthetic of the bathroom or kitchen.
#2 Perception of Space and Order
Symmetry in tile layouts can make a space feel larger, cleaner, and more orderly. It provides a sense of control and predictability, especially in areas like bathrooms and kitchens where functionality and cleanliness are paramount. Symmetrical tapware complements this effect by contributing to the overall sense of order.
Of course, there is also a place for asymmetry: true asymmetry is intentional and shouldn’t be confused with poorly planned layouts. Clever designers can use this tool to great effect. If you have an example, we’d love to see it and share it in an upcoming feature.
#Feature#BathroomDesign#KnowledgeandKnowHow