How to Design a Family-Friendly Bathroom That’s Still Stylish
Meta description: Durable, safe and still on trend — here’s how to design a bathroom the whole family can enjoy.
Designing a bathroom that works for the whole family doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. With the right layout, materials, and features, it’s absolutely possible to create a space that’s beautiful, practical, and built to last.
Here’s our expert guide to family bathroom design NZ homeowners can rely on—whether you’re renovating your forever home or upgrading to sell.
🛁 1. Choose Bath and Shower (If You Can)
For families with young kids, a bath is essential. For teenagers and busy mornings, a shower is non-negotiable. The best family bathrooms have both options, either as a separate bath and shower or a bath/shower combo in smaller spaces.
Tip: A shower-over-bath setup can still look great—just use a glass panel instead of a curtain for a modern touch.
🧼 2. Prioritise Storage (Hide the Clutter)
Families need storage—lots of it. Think beyond the vanity and add:
Recessed mirror cabinets
Tower storage or linen cupboards
Under-bench drawers (not just cupboards)
Built-in niches in the shower or bath zone
Wall-hung vanities and mirrored cabinets help keep everything off the floor and within reach.
🧒 3. Go for Durable, Slip-Resistant Tiles
Kids splash, floors get wet, and life gets messy—so your finishes need to hold up.
Recommended tiles for family bathrooms in NZ:
Matte finish porcelain or ceramic for floors (slip-resistant and easy to clean)
Glossy tiles for walls and splash zones
Larger formats to reduce grout lines and cleaning effort
Bonus: Use similar tones on floor and wall tiles to make the space feel bigger.
🚿 4. Install Easy-to-Use, Long-Lasting Tapware
Choose mixer taps over traditional separate taps—they’re safer and easier for kids to control. Look for:
Soft-close cartridges
Fingerprint-resistant finishes
Solid brass internal fittings for longevity
Brushed nickel, chrome, and gunmetal are great family-friendly finishes that won’t show every fingerprint.
🌡️ 5. Think Ahead With Heating & Ventilation
Damp towels, foggy mirrors and cold tile floors are the enemy. Add:
Heated towel rails (great for drying kids' towels and swimmers)
Underfloor heating (especially in tiled bathrooms)
High-capacity extraction fan ducted to the outside
Good ventilation = no mould and a healthier home.
🎨 6. Don’t Be Afraid of Style
Yes, it’s a family bathroom—but that doesn’t mean boring. Try:
Feature tiles behind the vanity or bath
Wall sconces or pendant lights for ambience
Warm neutrals like sage, stone, or creamy white
Textural touches like zellige tiles or oak cabinetry
👉 See more in our 2025 Bathroom Design Trends NZ Guide
✅ Recap: What Makes a Great Family Bathroom?
✔ Bath and shower combo or both if space allows
✔ Durable, non-slip finishes
✔ Smart, ample storage
✔ Easy-clean tapware and tiles
✔ Proper heating and ventilation
✔ Timeless styling with practical touches
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a bath in a family bathroom?
If you have young kids or plan to sell your home, a bath is a major plus. It's one of the top requests from family buyers.
What’s the best tile for a busy family bathroom?
Matte porcelain tiles are durable, non-slip, and low-maintenance—perfect for wet zones and high traffic.
How do I stop the bathroom from getting messy all the time?
Built-in storage, mirror cabinets, and well-placed hooks or towel rails help keep everything off the bench and tidy.
Can I make a family bathroom look stylish too?
Absolutely. With the right tile selection, warm finishes, and clever lighting, you can design a space that’s both family-friendly and beautiful.
How can Key Interiors help with our family bathroom?
We’ll work with your space, needs, and budget to design a layout that makes everyday life easier—without sacrificing looks.