Rethinking bathrooms: Smarter choices for Bangladeshi homes

In Bangladesh, bathrooms have traditionally been treated as purely functional spaces, built for necessity rather than design. But as urban lifestyles evolve and modern materials become widely available, the washroom is gaining recognition as an important part of the home. A well-designed bathroom not only improves hygiene and convenience but also creates a sense of comfort and calm.

Humidity, limited space, and iron-heavy water pose unique challenges in Bangladeshi bathrooms. Yet, with the right choices in tiles, fittings, storage, and accessories, these everyday spaces can be transformed into modern, stylish retreats.

To understand what works best, we spoke to architect Asif Rahman, principal architect of Ghasforing, who shared insights on how homeowners can design bathrooms that are both beautiful and practical.  

Tiles and wall finishes

Asif Rahman recommends fully tiling bathroom walls and floors. Tiles are stain-resistant, easy to clean, and ideal for humid conditions.

Glossy ceramic tiles remain a top choice as they reflect light and make small bathrooms feel larger, while matte anti-slip tiles are increasingly preferred for floors because of safety. Mosaic tiles and textured finishes are growing in popularity for accent walls, especially around shower areas.

For those who want to use paint, antibacterial or waterproof varieties are best, and they should only be applied on the "dry side" of the bathroom. Light pastel tones, greys, and off-whites keep the space airy and fresh, making them the most popular choices for bathroom walls. 

Fixtures and fittings

Bangladesh's water contains high levels of iron, which often leads to rusting and clogged taps. Asif recommends 304-grade stainless steel fittings, which are durable and resistant to corrosion.

Interestingly, Asif praises local brands over imported ones, pointing out that many international products aren't designed for our water conditions. Local fittings are not only more affordable but are also made to withstand the country's humidity and iron-heavy water.

Brands like Stella and other homegrown companies offer high-quality fittings at reasonable prices and great options for both affordability and durability. Supporting these brands not only saves money but also helps strengthen the local market. 

Freshness and ventilation

Bathrooms in Bangladesh often struggle with dampness and odour. Adding indoor plants such as snake plants, aloe vera, bamboo, or peace lilies can help absorb moisture and purify the air. Wall-mounted planters or hanging pots add freshness and a spa-like touch without taking up valuable floor space. 

Ventilation is just as important. Exhaust fans or high-set windows help reduce moisture buildup and prevent mould, keeping the bathroom dry and hygienic. A combination of greenery and ventilation creates a cleaner, more inviting environment.

Smart storage for compact spaces

With shrinking apartment sizes, storage has become a critical part of bathroom design. Countertop basins with cabinets underneath maximise hidden storage for toiletries and towels, while floating vanities give the illusion of more space and make cleaning easier.

Mirror cabinets with hidden shelves are increasingly popular, often enhanced with built-in LED lights for added functionality. Vertical solutions like wall niches in shower areas and corner shelves make efficient use of space, while over-the-commode cabinets turn unused walls into practical storage zones. 

Affordable additions such as organiser baskets, waterproof boxes, suction hooks, and wall-mounted dispensers help keep bathrooms clutter-free, creating a neat and hotel-like atmosphere even in small spaces.

Lighting

Lighting plays a vital role in bathrooms, balancing functionality with aesthetics. Task lighting is increasingly centred around mirrors and is becoming a popular and functional choice. These modern options make traditional basin lights unnecessary, as they provide direct and effective illumination where it is most needed.

Ambient lighting ensures the bathroom is evenly lit. Surface-mounted or ceiling lights work better than wall-mounted fixtures, offering consistent brightness across the space. Depending on the bathroom's size, one or two lights are usually enough. Most setups use warm LED fixtures in the 10–12 watt range, with a colour temperature of 3000K to 4000K, which gives a bright yet comfortable glow.

Accent lighting adds a touch of elegance. Under-cabinet, under-counter, or niche lighting can highlight design elements and create a more refined atmosphere. LED strips, T5 lights, or slim profile lights are often used under floating vanities, within niches, or along shelves to bring a sense of modern luxury to the bathroom.

Common mistakes to avoid 

One of the most common mistakes in Bangladeshi bathrooms is failing to separate the wet zone (shower) from the dry zone (commode and basin). "When the shower is placed in the middle, the water spreads everywhere, making the bathroom wet, slippery and inconvenient, turning it into a high-risk zone for unexpected accidents," says Asif.

Photo: Ghasforing architectural studio

A simple partition solves the issue. Tempered glass shower panels are effective long-term solutions, while shower curtains provide a more budget-friendly option. Proper zoning keeps the bathroom safer, cleaner, and easier to use every day.

Towards efficiency and sustainability

Beyond durability and storage, modern bathrooms in Bangladesh are also moving towards efficiency. Water-saving faucets and dual-flush commodes are common choices among buyers as they help reduce daily consumption—an important consideration as urban demand for water grows. 

By combining climate-appropriate materials with smart, sustainable choices, homeowners can create bathrooms that are not only stylish and practical but also environmentally responsible— spaces designed to last and adapt to the future.