It makes good sense to add value to your property by investing in a decent bathroom. Your bathroom has to appeal to the largest section of the market as possible so opt for a white suite in a classic style with chrome fittings. If you have enough space to incorporate an ensuite bathroom into a bedroom, it will be a great selling point.

Planning your space
Think about rearranging the bathroom layout, especially if the first thing you see is the loo. Discuss with your plumber the various possibilities of moving the basin, loo or bath - this will mainly depend on where the wastepipe will go, especially in old houses. If you have a large space, you could have a separate shower cubicle and a bidet, or opt for the luxury of a freestanding bath in the centre of the room.

Showers
Power showers are great and a definite plus. Install one over your bath if you don't have a separate shower cubicle, but check with your plumber about the pressure as it may need its own pump installed. Although wet rooms are very fashionable, avoid them if you only have one bathroom - people still generally prefer baths.

Baths
Baths come in many shapes and sizes so if you have a small or oddly shaped room, go for a small or shaped option (they come as small as 70 x 50 cm and are slightly deeper than normal) - and always choose pressed steel. Freestanding roll top baths look perfect in period properties - either go for reproductions of which there is a huge choice or reconditioned antique ones.

In small spaces
If you are short of space, tile right up to the ceiling to give the illusion of space and height (keep tiles plain and in keeping with the decor); mirror one wall; install a ladder radiator which can double as a towel rail; and never choose a freestanding bath. If you have little room for storage get a carpenter to box in the basin. In larger spaces, freestanding furniture and an armchair can be included for added character and comfort.

Flooring
Avoid using carpet in the bathroom, as it will get very soggy. Go for hard flooring - ceramic, marble or vinyl. If you don't like the cold underfoot, underfloor heating is relatively easy to install, if you are relaying the floor.

Top tips
Make sure the paint you use is water-resistant and the lighting is from a specialist bathroom lighting manufacturer, installed by a qualified electrician.