Are you seeking the body beautiful and a bathroom that’s even better? Jane Drew brings the latest innovations to the surface
In bygone days, the river was the bathtub, a jug of water the shower, and a pot the toilet. And whilst the purpose hasn’t changed, the materials we use in sanitary-wares certainly have. Ceramics, acrylics and enamels have been the mainstay of bathrooms since we brought the room indoors. But nowadays, there are a plethora of other materials available that are revolutionising the way we fit the bathroom.
For a totally cutting-edge, if slightly cold-looking bathroom, stainless steel and chrome are great options, providing an instant update. This kind of look works in an ultra-modern apartment, suiting those who delight in hard-edged minimalist chic. And one of the attractions of this type of material is that the fixtures don’t usually require any special care to keep them looking new.
Given metal’s flexibility you can choose from stainless steel and chrome toilets, washbasins, pedestal basins, medicine cabinets, shower stalls and even bathtubs. However, if you decide on installing metal fixtures then you need to think carefully about the rest of the room. A chrome basin will look out of place with a porcelain tub, but neither is it a good idea to go all out metal.
Whatever materials you choose for your bathroom, it’s a good idea to keep the decor minimal and calm. Uncluttered bathrooms feel bigger, so limit accessories to the bare (waterproof) necessities. Storage has to be a priority, and remember where there’s a wall, there’s a way – hang cupboards and shelves to maximise space. Under-sink or over-toilet cabinets are neat storage solutions.
For a really contemporary look consider pairing funky metal fixtures with natural surfacing materials, such as granite and slate. Or go all-out natural. One of the biggest trends for bathroom design today is spa- or resort-style, achieved through the use of natural stone or professionally sealed and treated wood. In this type of scheme, you’ll want to add up- and down-lighters, as well as lots of candles. Think bathtubs and showers that double up as hydrotherapy, steam, lymph-stimulation and body-toning units.
If you are looking for an instant, inexpensive bathroom update,there are any number of options. First off, adjust existing light sources. Next repaint or refit any pipes that are on view to give a clean, new feel, and redo the grouting. Consider changing inexpensive fixtures, like taps and shower curtains, or install a stylish bathroom cabinet and matching hand rails to detract from older fixtures. Finally, accessorise with candles, soaps and towels in soothing co-ordinated colours.
The use of cultured stone in the bathroom is also gaining momentum. This mimics the look of marble and granite, typically more expensive options, and can be gel-coated to any colour or texture. Look to the new cast-polymer sinks that have a high percentage of hard materials like quartz for the most durable option. Copper and marble also make interesting alternatives but are expensive. Unlike acrylic or resin that are warm to the touch, these materials will absorb the heat from the water.
Ceramic has always been the popular choice for sinks and baths, and new moulding innovations mean that it no longer looks outdated. Nowadays, you can choose between tapered or corner bathtubs – both clever solutions for small spaces. Freestanding tubs look great if you have the space, as do rounded egg-shaped baths.
For many, however, flexible and hardwearing Corian or Formica is the material of choice, and it is now being used not just for countertops but also for walls. It moulds seamlessly into shape, which means no grouting and, since the colour goes all the way through, it won’t scratch.
Finally, don’t forget glass. Today’s funkiest bathrooms are designed almost exclusively in glass and that goes for the walls of en suites – not just the shower cubicles. Meanwhile, trend-setting basins are made out of tempered glass, which is both durable and scratch resistant.
Whichever material you decide upon, always start by identifying your needs correctly. Will a predominantly glass bathroom work for you or do you need your privacy? Is sexy, hard-edged metal a good idea for your young family or would you prefer to create a spa-feel in natural stone?
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