When it comes to luxury, functionality, and daily convenience, your ensuite bathroom should be one of the most rewarding rooms in your home. I’m Robbie Fraikin from Raakss Reno, and over the years I’ve worked on ensuite bathrooms of all shapes and sizes—from cozy suburban remodels to sprawling master suites in the GTA. If you’re planning an upgrade, or starting from scratch, here are some practical and stylish ensuite bathroom ideas to help you get the most out of your space.
Whether you want more storage, better flow, spa-like comfort, or future-proofing features, this article breaks down what matters most—from must-have elements like bathtubs and heated floors to high-tech lighting and space-saving solutions.
Why the Ensuite Bathroom is Your Best Opportunity for Comfort
Unlike a main-floor powder room or shared guest bathroom, an ensuite usually gives you more square footage and flexibility. That’s why it’s the ideal space to personalize. You get to build something just for you—and that’s where the fun begins.
Because it’s often attached to the primary bedroom, the ensuite becomes your private retreat. You’re not designing for guests or kids. You’re designing for your daily routine, and that means balancing comfort, function, and smart design choices.
Should You Keep a Bathtub in Your Ensuite?
This is one of the most common questions I get. And here’s my advice: even if you’re not a bath person, your home should have at least one bathtub. The ensuite is the best place to put it.
Why?
Because in most homes, secondary bathrooms are now walk-in showers only. A freestanding tub in the ensuite adds resale value, provides a space for relaxation, and gives you options—whether it’s for future use, guests, or family needs. It doesn’t have to be oversized. There are many elegant, compact tubs that fit beautifully into a corner or against a wall without overwhelming your space.
If you’re working on a larger ensuite renovation, check out our bathroom renovation services in Toronto & GTA for more project inspiration.
Dual Vanities & Mirror Options: What to Consider
Most ensuite bathrooms today are large enough to accommodate a dual-sink vanity. These offer convenience for couples, added counter space, and a more comfortable morning routine.
Now, the mirror setup is up to you:
One large mirror: Helps make the room look bigger and gives a shared reflection space.
Two individual mirrors: Offers a more personalized, functional setup, especially if you have different grooming habits.
There’s no wrong choice—it all comes down to aesthetic and use. But if space and light are priorities, a large mirror will always create the illusion of a more expansive bathroom.
Modern Bidet Alternatives: A Growing Trend
Once a standard in older luxury homes, bidets are less common today. In fact, many of our clients ask us to remove them to free up space. But if you still want the function of a bidet without the bulk, consider a smart toilet seat with a built-in bidet.
These seats come in two main versions:
Integrated units: Seamless, premium-quality, with hidden plumbing.
Aftermarket attachments: More affordable, but usually have visible hoses and less polished finishes.
The integrated option is more expensive—but it keeps your space clean and uncluttered. If your ensuite is about comfort and luxury, it’s worth exploring.
Thinking About a Steam Shower?
A steam shower can turn your ensuite into a full spa experience—but it’s not a small upgrade.
Here’s what you need to know:
Requires a fully sealed glass enclosure
Must be designed to handle heavy condensation
Typically runs on a 240V power source (you’ll need electrical work)
A high-quality unit can cost $5,000 or more (as of May 2025)
That said, if you love the idea of unwinding in a personal steam room after a long day, it’s a fantastic feature. Just make sure your bathroom contractor understands how to build it properly. Poor ventilation or subpar sealing can lead to serious mold and moisture issues.
Looking to install one? Our guide on What Has to Be Done for a Flooring Installation also touches on waterproofing considerations for steam setups.
Heated Floors: Not Just a Luxury
Heated floors used to be an indulgence. Now, they’re becoming standard in many high-end ensuites—and for good reason.
They offer two big benefits:
Comfort: No more cold feet on tile during winter mornings.
Drying: Radiant heat dries water off tiles faster, keeping your bathroom drier and reducing moisture buildup.
If your ensuite is on a concrete slab (like in a basement), heated floors are essential. For upper floors, they’re an optional but highly appreciated upgrade—especially in master suites.
Lit Mirrors & Smart Features
Technology has come a long way, even in the bathroom.
LED-lit mirrors with built-in defoggers, Bluetooth connectivity, and integrated speakers are now widely available. They give your ensuite a modern edge and improve daily routines—especially if you like listening to music or podcasts while getting ready.
Just make sure you’re choosing quality. Cheaper models may fog up over time or fail quickly. You get what you pay for, especially when it comes to electrical components in humid environments.
For more on choosing the right lighting, check out our post on How to Choose Bathroom Lighting Fixtures.
Should You Go Light or Dark?
Here’s my personal take as a bathroom contractor in Toronto:
Highlight the furniture. Don’t highlight the walls.
Too many bathrooms blend the tiles, vanity, and floors in the same color family—and everything just disappears. Today, you want contrast. Make the walls light and bright, and let the vanity, shower, and mirrors stand out as centerpieces.
Some of the most elegant ensuites we’ve built had:
Off-white or cream walls
Bold vanities in walnut, navy, or charcoal
Matte black fixtures for contrast
Large-format tiles in neutral tones for clean lines
Think of the walls as a canvas. Everything else should feel like a statement piece in the room.
Practical Planning Based on Bathroom Size
Your ensuite design will ultimately depend on the space available. Here are some ideas based on common layouts:
Small ensuite bathroom ideas:
Wall-mounted vanities to open up floor space
Curbless showers with frameless glass
Large mirrors to expand the visual space
Light tones to keep the room feeling bright and airy
Medium-to-large ensuites:
Dual vanities with storage drawers
Freestanding bathtub + separate walk-in shower
Full-height mirrors with integrated lighting
Potential for niche shelving, seating, or steam showers
Accessibility Options Worth Considering
Even if you’re not designing an accessible bathroom today, thinking ahead can save you a lot down the road.
Curbless showers allow easy access with no step-over
Grab bars in the shower or near the tub add support and safety
Wider entryways accommodate wheelchairs or walkers
Smart toilets can also help with hygiene and comfort for older adults
A well-designed ensuite doesn’t need to scream “accessible.” With the right materials and planning, you can build a bathroom that looks sleek and functions safely for everyone.
Final Thoughts
Your ensuite bathroom is more than a place to get ready—it’s a space for comfort, calm, and daily reset. Whether you’re remodeling or starting from scratch, plan it like it’s your personal retreat.
Want a freestanding tub? Make it a focal point.
Considering a steam shower or heated floors? They’re worth it.
Need a dual vanity or want to ditch the bidet? Go with what works for your lifestyle.
At Raakss Reno, we help homeowners across Toronto & the GTA create ensuite bathrooms that balance style, space, and long-term durability. Every bathroom is different, and that’s why we work closely with you from design to finishing touches.
Ready to build your dream ensuite? Contact us today to talk ideas, costs, and possibilities.