When choosing a new corner bath for your bathroom, one of the most important considerations is how much space you will need. The amount of space required will depend on the size and shape of the corner bath itself, as well as the layout of your bathroom. In this article, we’ll look at the key factors that determine corner bath space requirements, so you can choose the right model and size for your available area.
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Typical Corner Bath Dimensions
Most corner baths range between 1200mm and 1800mm long on each adjacent side. The most common sizes are:
- 1200 x 1200mm
- 1500 x 1500mm
- 1600 x 1600mm
- 1700 x 1700mm
- 1800 x 1800mm
The depth of a corner bath can vary between 400mm on more basic models up to 600mm for deeper luxury baths. The back panel is usually angled between 30-55 degrees.
Here is a quick overview of typical corner bath dimensions:
| Corner Bath Size | Side Lengths | Depth |
|---|---|---|
| Small | 1200 x 1200mm | 400mm |
| Medium | 1500 x 1500mm | 500mm |
| Large | 1800 x 1800mm | 600mm |
The overall footprint of a corner bath will be larger than just the bath sides, due to the angled back panel. We’ll look at how to calculate the total footprint next.
Calculating Corner Bath Footprint Size
To find out how much floor space a corner bath will occupy, you need to calculate its total footprint. Here are the steps:
- Measure the length of the two adjacent sides in millimetres.
- Calculate the angle of the back panel. Most are between 30-55 degrees.
- Use trigonometry to calculate the back panel width from the angle and side lengths.
- Add up the three measurements to get the total footprint width and depth.
Let’s look at an example for a 1500 x 1500mm corner bath with a 45 degree back panel angle:
- Side 1 length = 1500mm
- Side 2 length = 1500mm
- Back panel angle = 45 degrees
- sin(45) = 0.707
- Back panel width = 1500 x 0.707 = 1060mm (rounded)
- Total width = Side 1 + Back + Side 2 = 1500 + 1060 + 1500 = 4060mm
- Total depth = Side 1 + Back + Side 2 = 1500 + 1060 + 1500 = 4060mm
So the total footprint for this 1500 x 1500mm corner bath is 4060 x 4060mm or 16.5 m2.
Corner Bath Footprint Calculator
To make it easy to figure out the footprint for any corner bath, here is an interactive calculator:
Just enter your corner bath dimensions and angle to get the total footprint size. This will tell you how much floor space you need to allow for the bath installation.
Allowing Extra Space Around a Corner Bath
When planning your bathroom layout, be sure to allow some extra space around the bath footprint. Recommended clearances are:
- 600mm minimum clearance at the tap end to allow for accessing taps and getting in/out
- 300mm minimum clearance on remaining sides
- Enough space in front for a bath screen if needed
You’ll also need to account for door access, allowing 800-900mm width for the door to open. Think about where existing plumbing, windows and radiators are located when planning where to position the bath.
Here is an example bathroom floor plan with a 1500 x 1500mm corner bath:
This provides ample space all around the bath for access and circulation, as well as room for a bath screen.
Corner Bath Screen Considerations
If you plan on having a screen around your corner bath, this will take up some additional space. The most common options are:
- L-shaped screens – These wrap around two sides of the bath. Allow an extra 300mm both in front and to the side of the bath footprint.
- Rectangular screens – A simple straight screen across the front. Allow around 600mm in front of the bath.
- Curved quadrant screens – Wraps around front and one side. Allow around 600mm in front and 300mm to the side.
Make sure to measure up your preferred screen and add the additional space requirements into your layout. The plumbing locations may dictate which corner of the bath the screen can fit on.
Height Considerations
Don’t forget to measure the height of your corner bath as well when planning your installation. Most standard corner baths range between 500mm to 600mm high above the floor. You need enough clearance both above (for taps) and below (for access) the bath:
- Minimum ceiling height of 2200mm above the bath rim
- Minimum 100mm clearance under the bath for access to wastes
Check your bathroom’s ceiling height and underfloor access to ensure your chosen bath will fit. A taller or deeper bath may not be suitable if headroom or underfloor access is limited.
Plumbing Requirements
The location of existing plumbing and wastes may also impact how and where you can fit a corner bath. When planning your layout consider:
- Most corner baths have wastes in the center of the floor space
- The tap end can go on either side, but pipes may dictate location
- Check if existing supplies and wastes can be adapted or need relocating
- New plumbing can sometimes limit layout options
Discuss your plans with a qualified plumber to identify any potential issues and costs. Locating bath wastes and supplies is often one of the trickiest aspects.
Overall Bathroom Size
Aside from just fitting in the corner bath, make sure to allow ample circulation and access space in the rest of the bathroom too. Recommended minimum clearances are:
- Door access width of 800-900mm
- Clear space in front of toilet and vanity of 600mm
- Circulation space between items of 500-600mm
In a small bathroom under 5m2 getting everything to fit can be tricky. Prioritize key access routes and doors first when planning. A professional bathroom designer can help maximize the layout in awkward spaces.
Corner Bath Design Software
Using 3D bathroom design software makes playing around with different corner bath sizes and layouts easy. Here are some top options:
- IKEA Bathroom Planner – Free online tool with all IKEA bathroom ranges. Easy drag and drop planning.
- Bathrooms.com Designer – Downloadable tool with a huge product library. Great for visualizing schemes.
- RoomSketcher – Paid tool but has a free trial. Create accurate 3D floorplans to scale.
Being able to visualize and measure clearances in a 3D model is invaluable for getting corner bath planning right. The investment of time using these tools will pay dividends in getting your layout and product choices spot on before purchasing and installation.
Conclusion
When planning for a new corner bath, carefully measuring up the space needed is crucial. Start with the bath footprint width and depth, then allow clearances for access, screens and circulation. Consider ceiling height, plumbing locations and overall bathroom size as well. Using 3D planning tools will help visualize different layouts and product options to find the optimal corner bath solution.