While state and local codes apply to every bathroom remodel, a great bathroom often requires more than meeting the minimum requirements. The International Residential Code (IRC) requires that the centerline of a toilet be at least 15 inches from any other bath fixture, wall or other obstacle. On the other hand, NKBA offers similar guiding principles, although they recommend at least 18 inches from the centerline of a toilet to another fixture, for improved comfort for the user.
When it comes to clear floor space, the IRC mandates at least 21 inches in front of a lavatory, toilet, bidet and tub, and the minimum amount of clear floor space in front of a shower is 24 inches. NKBA guidelines call for a clear floor space of at least 30 inches from the front edge of all fixtures to any opposite bath fixture, wall or obstacle.
The NKBA guidelines also offer suggestions that are not addressed by the IRC, and like the other principles, are intended to improve a bathroom’s design and increase comfort for the user. Two examples include adding a supplemental heat source, such as a heater installed in the toe kick of a cabinet, and clipping or rounding countertop edges.