At Intelligent, we understand that refurbishing your office washroom can be a daunting task. As one of the leading providers of washroom equipment in the UK we have aided in the updating of thousands of washrooms in the past decade. We wanted to put this piece together to help anybody who are looking to make some updates, to ensure that vital considerations are not missed.
Refurbishing your business's washroom is more than just a cosmetic upgrade, it's an opportunity to enhance functionality, ensure compliance with regulations, and improve the overall user experience. The below are what we think are the 7 main things to consider.
1. Plan and budget
Starting a washroom refurbishment without a clear plan and budget can lead to unforeseen expenses and delays. It's essential to outline the scope of work and desired outcomes and then allocate a realistic budget that includes a contingency for unexpected costs. Underestimating the duration and cost of the project is a common mistake that can be avoided with thorough preparation.
2. Balance of function and aesthetics
While an attractive washroom design is important, functionality should never be compromised. Prioritizing style over substance can lead to practical issues down the line. Ensure that fixtures are durable, surfaces are easy to clean and the layout helps create a smooth user flow.
3. Compliance and accessibility
In the UK, washrooms must comply with accessibility standards to accommodate all users, including those with disabilities. Key considerations include:
- Door Width and Design: Doors should be at least 900mm wide to facilitate wheelchair access and should open outward to maximize internal space.
- Fixture Placement: Adhere to the BS 8300-2:2018 (Doc M) standard, which provides guidance on the design of accessible toilets, ensuring fixtures like grab rails and sinks are positioned at appropriate heights.
- Equality Act 2010 Compliance: Ensure that your facilities do not discriminate against disabled individuals, providing equal access to toilet facilities as mandated by law.
4. Incorporating essential accessories
Overlooking essential accessories can diminish the functionality of your washroom. Consider integrating the following:
- Hand dryers: Efficient hand drying solutions, such as high-speed or low-energy hand dryers, can enhance user satisfaction, reduce paper waste, save costs and are better for the environment. See our range of hand dryers perfect for offices here.
- Soap and sanitiser dispensers: Touch-free dispensers promote hygiene and reduce cross-contamination. They are also less wasteful than alternatives.
- Baby changing facilities: If your establishment caters to families, providing baby changing stations is a considerate addition. The addition of them can also be appealing to future employees.
5. Selecting a qualified installer
The quality of installation is as crucial as the quality of the fixtures themselves. To ensure a successful refurbishment:
- Verify credentials: Choose installers with relevant certifications and experience in commercial washroom projects. Look for accreditations such as CSCS, FMB, BiKBBI, CHAS and SafeContractor.
- Review past projects: Examine previous work to assess the quality and attention to detail.
- Check references: Speak with past clients to gauge reliability, professionalism, and adherence to timelines.
6. Planning for adequate ventilation and lighting
Neglecting ventilation can lead to moisture buildup, mold growth, and unpleasant odors. Similarly, inadequate lighting can affect the ambiance and functionality of the space. Ensure that your design includes a proper ventilation system by installing exhaust fans or ventilation systems to maintain air quality and effective lighting by incorporating both ambient and task lighting to create a well-lit and welcoming environment.
7. Allocating sufficient storage
A clutter-free washroom enhances user experience. Incorporate storage solutions such as cabinets or shelves to keep cleaning supplies and extra consumables organized and out of sight.
At Intelligent we offer a number of complete ranges perfectly suited for a washroom refurbishment project. We can even offer rental and installation services if needed. Simply call us on 0114 3540047 or contact us here if you’d like to know more.
