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Archive for the 'Bathroom Design' Category

03 February
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Factors to Consider When Installing Bathroom Cabinets

Bathroom cabinets be inflicted with be converted into essential bathroom accessories with the intention of enhance the visuals. The bathroom was traditionally considered the smallest amount valuable opportunity of a family. It was everywhere public would energy to clean up or sort out the laundry. This is not longer the justification. Bathrooms are currently considered as a private interval everywhere you can energy to refresh physically, waste approximately lone calculate and solely be physically. Apparently, this is why here is a growing demand pro stylish bathroom equipment. Choosing the aptly equipment can enhance your favourite stain.

Purpose of Installing Bathroom Cabinets

When shopping pro bathroom cabinets, bear in mind your function of installing them. A stylish bathroom cabinet acts as a crucial top of the opportunity; it can in fact influence the ambiance of the bathroom. Cabinets and equipment occur in various styles counting classic, antique, oriental and contemporary. Also, consider the colour and material type of the walls and the carpet. Your equipment must blend collectively the aesthetics of your bathroom. Don’t approve of a cabinet with the intention of looks unmarried to the surplus of the vibes.

3 Main Types of Cabinets

Before purchasing, determine could you repeat that? Type and stylishness of bathroom cabinets will supply the function. Three basic types of cabinets include the mounted cabinets, built-in or standalone cabinets and bathroom vanity cabinets.

• Mounted cabinets — widely preferred; includes mirror fronts to supply dual function

• Built-in or standalone — these are placed in corners; they supply the function of holding heavier items such as washing products, towels, bathrobes and the like.

• Vanity bathroom cabinets — they provide bench interval as well as holds your sink

Keep your bathroom interval in mind to dodge purchasing equipment with the intention of are too generous while taking up the full bathroom or persons with the intention of are too small comparatively. Ensure they be inflicted with ample storage space interval and aren’t solely a decorative cut. Search pro a combination of shelves and drawers, modifiable shelves if doable.

Moist and Usage Resistant Materials

Pay attention to the type of material used to build the cabinets. Your bathroom is the moistest area of your family. Ensure with the intention of you point out bathroom equipment with the intention of are crafted using equipment with the intention of are water-resistant. The generally preferred option is cover. Steel, schooner, timber and standard density fibreboard (MDF) are other options pro water-proof equipment. If you are choosing timber, you will be inflicted with to remember to evenly seal it to prevent the damp from creeping in and hurtful your cabinet. MDF must be particularly designed to be used in damp areas, such as the bathroom.

Additionally, the design of cabinets as well as the material used to construct it should be able to survive frequent opening and finishing of the drawers and cabinet doors. Proper hardware equipment must be used to ensure your bathroom cabinets offers a service life with the intention of lasts pro years.

06 December
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Popular design style bathroom

The bathroom has come a long way over the last hundred years. After just a basic bath in the living room fireplace and filled with buckets of water, now a luxurious bath experience in almost every home in the West. At the time, a “bath” was something only the rich and privileged can afford their home. This is a trend toward mass production of bath products.

Victorian and Edwardian style of the time is always a popular choice today. They look beautiful villa in a suite or cottage, and never lose their appeal in terms of design.

Today, thanks to advanced technology and modern plumbing, a bathroom can be evolved to the point. With private steam room and hydrotherapy luxury, it is difficult to imagine how bathrooms could get more sophisticated. That said, the bathroom as a room in the house, changing trends in terms of design.

Here we see the five most popular styles of bathroom design. Traditional, country, shabby chic, contemporary and fantasy.

Traditional

Traditional bathroom can mean in terms of traditional Edwardian or Victorian, or in terms of clean room standard with basic sanitation and bathing. Here we will look for the stylish bathroom design where it all began. Edwardian Room.

The last ten years, the popularity of television programs such as locker rooms, the trend in the old bathroom had a marked improvement. A gem of an old shoe bath or rusty traditional faucet is available on the scrap heap or in a jump, but thankfully manufacturers to keep up with demand for skilled trades, a traditional bathroom products.

Some rooms only work in some houses, so if you live in a skyscraper apartment in the modern traditional bathroom is not for you. If you have an old cottage or villa retreat this style bathroom is the one you should consider.

Almost always, the pool is the central attraction of the traditional bathroom. A freestanding roll-top or a small bath stands proudly on a dark polished floor, and only if the bathroom is a classic continental-style sunken or call initiated to keep. Press either the wall or free standing one looks classy. The mountains are deep and rounded corners are what make the dishes traditional health what it is – bold and masculine.

When decorating a traditional bathroom both soft tones and bright colors work well. Strong shades of brown, brown and green give a pleasant warmth of the room, but make sure the bathroom is very bright, possibly with a beautiful luster. With the right color, antique gold can look better than chrome. Opt for blinds, curtains ever. If it comes to vanity unit rather than the traditional basin and pedestal, choose an oak or cherry finish, or white furniture Cynk much like a traditional shower and toilet.

One of the most interesting things about the traditional bathroom space giving more than it is live in effect, improving the traditional look. Do not be afraid of a lot of pictures on the wall – family portraits in black and white as part of the gold is good. A changing table or a corner table with scented candles, aromatherapy oils or flower beds will really come to life. As a finishing touch of all the old scales, a large framed mirror or a large traditional radiator will give the space a cozy feel old.

State

Country style bathroom is the simplest type to make the design, and as the traditional bathroom only really works well in the house. Display of the best classic country associated with floral wallpaper, high beams, basin frills and shower canopy. After a traditional design, cast iron baths and deep ridged sanitary ware are what gives the country its bath of nostalgia.

Check, curtains or window boxes and shutters is preferred to shutters, though rare in England, provides a great form of privacy and the added effect of the state. Wood plays an important role in vision, and almost all furniture works well in this context, especially beech, maple, ash and oak cabinets and vanity units.

Or tile floors or wood can be used. Colored tiles for the campaign, and can be used to create complex mosaics. Wood floors are painted the same furniture. Decorating may see a stenciled motif used as a border, and mechanical friction with a sponge paint on the walls give the space a natural look worn.

Toilet with tank top and powertrains are very rare these days, but a bathroom for the state, such as traditional taps for bath and basin have. Almost any form of freestanding baths are suitable for the bathroom countries. If you want an appointment tiled shower room is the option recommended by a curtain to cover the area.

For the final touch add wicker baskets filled with jars of Puri, baskets and mesh style wall.

Chic worn

“Shabby Chic”, a relatively new term used for the design of space to describe a mixture of negligence and clear style. This is a bathroom design the most difficult to do, and took the brave decision to go with the style of bathroom. This is almost certainly its full potential in a continent of origin to reach the French chateau or old Spanish villa.

Contrary to the bathroom with absolute, shabby chic and product defects seen. You can even do the unexpected, as we put a fridge in the corner. Nobody expects the competition and the pipes and the pipes are in the show is not hidden. This style is best suited for those who have inherited the bathroom and you want a little more than the range of a newsroom at work.

The key to decoration is neutral tones with dark colors only. For the walls choose a matte or flat wall paint. Light yellow gold and works very well as wallpaper floral or visit.

As the bathrooms state and traditional cast iron bath is a must. Or roll-top slipper bath or going to do, and even if you do not want holes or rust, more obsolete, the better it looks. Even consider sanding the paint and claw feet. It’s always interesting to look for the old equipment at flea markets and antique shops.

Against the upper basins are highly recommended in this context, and watch out for extremely rare decorated designs. Place it in the sink or dilapidated furniture. Add unique ornaments and antique framed mirrors.

Modern

Modern bathrooms are all about what you do with the space you have. In the bathroom there is room for a lot less work, so take advantage of the space is important. That’s why fitted bathroom suites now so popular. After the furniture bathroom is a custom design solutions for the most practical in the growth of the bathroom.

How many of us who have a bathroom with a closet a mess? The modern bathroom is no need for your toiletries, towels and cleaning tips around the boiler. With the function in the sink, cupboards and cabinets have all the space you need.

In the treatment of the bathroom design modern furniture, wall hangings must get a mention. Bright white will never go out of fashion, but the furniture has recently completed such as Wenge, beech and maple have a real appearance popularity.

In addition to furniture, suspended toilet is a great space saving solution, while giving the bathroom a contemporary look. See also the pleasure hidden reservoir multiple devices to the standard one-piece toilet.

Showerbaths practice is a great way to maximize space, allowing you the convenience of both bath and shower. Walk-in shower is also very popular in modern bathrooms, and if you buy a shower with a modern bathroom choose the chrome frame on white background.

Chrome and stainless steel are the most important choice in the modern bathroom and shower faucets and mixers are available in a number of contemporary design instead of the traditional-style faucets. You can also choose chrome towel rails on the standard white radiators, as well as matching chrome accessories ..

Do not be afraid to decorate with bold colors such as tiles or painting, in contrast to the right of chrome and gloss. When using curtains be subtle with the designs and colors, but preferably go for stylish roller blinds.

Fantasy

Dare to be a little more conventional, bathroom design lets you absolutely fantastic innovative with your imagination and taste. With a focus on futuristic, stylish bathroom is the antithesis of the traditionalist.

Fantasy Design is ideally exclusive of bathrooms that larger, as with all futuristic interior design large open spaces is what brings the room. Steam and hot tub is an ideal choice for the bath and shower. Or a combination of both will be well designed shower screen and bath panel glass. Because of their low-impact walk-in shower also works well with modern tiling, chrome shower and stylish lighting.

Dealing with health-piece toilet wall hanging or a stand and a sink with foot with sharp angles and contemporary design. Towel rails and wenge wall abstract furniture bathroom is part of the fantasy, so that almost really quiet.

20 November
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Bathrooms are a universal design for the 21st Century

The bathroom is a universal concept that is driven by the need for more housing for all citizens, regardless of age or health. This need is clearly the fact that the first wave of rapid population aging began to emerge as a result of the age of sixty years in the early 21st century. Elderly population is the largest ever in U.S. history. The reason for choosing to make a universal bathroom in many homes, including accessibility for all, chances are cleaner and better.

Important design elements

What are some key elements in designing a universal space? Clearly, the bathroom on a traditional design is not easily accessible by many people because of the general barriers to mobility, such as walls, partitions, doors, lights, accessible bathrooms, flooring options and many more. After the universal address all areas, without compromising on aesthetics and visual appeal.

The bathroom is usually done with a universal design that eliminates many common barriers to open for wheelchairs and those who need to use a tool like any other disability, crutches or walking sticks. The front door wider for additional width needed to accommodate wheelchair users. In fact, many designs lean towards the edge of the barrier-free bathroom design, style, standard bath, flooring options and difficult to reach the barrier devices removed.

For example, a full bathroom universal design looks like a mock version of a design flaw wet room, with open shower, wall mounted toilet wall tiles, sinks and mosaics. The opening of additional door can be closed with a pocket door is much easier to open and close for people who are disabled or have less dexterity or mobility.

Competitions such as shower, faucet handles and the handle can be selected as the most mobile user needs. Replacement of Sanitary and design elements universally designed products such as shower heads, hand rails and strategically placed zipper can greatly support the security and access to the bathroom to add.

For those who want to plan for the future, adding value to their homes, or parents who are physically challenged, there is no better design for universal home design bathrooms. Contractors and designers who are familiar with the ADA guidelines for housing will be familiar with the concept design for new homes or for renovation.

20 November
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Small Bathroom Design – small change in the space of success

Designing a small bathroom space is of great interest for industry professionals to remodel a bathroom. Although most owners see a small space as a limitation, the designers of the region as an opportunity. Working with limited space that extends to the imagination of its limits, and when the idea came together, the fall felt confined space is a major advantage of a comfortable atmosphere.

Designing a small bathroom, the most important factor to maximize the limited space. When the physical bathroom space was expanded to provide more opportunities for innovative design.

To make a small room appear spacious certain things that should be avoided. Most people choose to sink pedestal sink, or even by substitutions that are embedded in the counter sink, and the question of the use of space, as is often a good idea. Leaves to take up much space and they are not always necessary. Storage is provided by the table can be easily replaced by a small closet or hidden pride.

Depending on the hardware such as towel rails and brackets should be removed where possible. Towel up to 5 cm wide observed bathrooms, shelves and a wall that would better be left alone ruin. Instead, consider the possibility of a small closet. The real space of the cabinet does not come out of the bathroom space, and each object can be stored when not in use.

When choosing a new toilet and sink to remember that smaller is better. You do not want to be uncomfortable, but make sure your toilet is not so large that it causes the knee of your guests to hit the opposite wall during use.

The bathroom space can also be minimized during the renovation. A large bowl can be replaced with tile shower. This shower can be adapted to shake all over, they can even be integrated into the wall. Not only does this save space, but the ability to custom design increases exponentially. To the extent that spatial perception is concerned, the glass of the shower is much better than a shower curtain. A shower curtain covered the same as the wall. When the bath is covered with glass that open space, and make a small bathroom seem much larger.

Many homeowners are opting for crowns in their bathroom. It is a luxury option, but trying to maximize space is probably not a good decision. Instead, leave the corners open and, if possible, a mirror that goes to the ceiling. If the lighting of the wall for the bathroom sink, a lamp as high as possible. This prevents the perception that the lights take up space.

18 November
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Universal Bathroom Design: Best accessibility for all

Do you want a universal bathroom design is fast becoming the design choice for homeowners who are either building a new home or renovating their old bathroom area. What is a universal design bathroom? Simply put, it’s a design that public access to all of the home, regardless of whether they are disabled or not. This may seem like a complicated thing to achieve, it seems the designer house is now more and more design elements to the bath for several reasons to encourage.

More practical

First, it is more practical, a house that was easily used by anyone, not a smaller proportion of the population to build. The fact is, the entire U.S. population aging and a significantly larger group of elderly residents and disabled people than ever before in the coming years.

In addition, financially wise for homeowners with a house, equipped to meet the needs of the common faults meet, instead of a complete renovation of the bathroom when the time comes to build, is to build. For those who are renovating the bathroom today for a disability should have the choice of a universal bathroom design makes a lot of sense, because often everyone in the house should be able to get into the bathroom, not only for users with disabilities to use. The principles of universal design is perfect for everyone in the house.

The abolition of the future value

Second, choose another good reason for homeowners to this particular bathroom design, a node in the value of the house offers. If you go to the bathroom renovated home, someone who is disabled, you will notice that the value of your home. For those who have a new house with all universal bathroom design, home value faster than a similar property without completely universal design elements in the bathtub.

Plans for the Future

Third, the design allows for future changes in life for those who want to stay in their house for a very long time. For older homeowners, this is a plus, because it is a universal design bathroom is spacious and offers a wide doors, open bathroom, the tub area and floor are easily accessible for a wheelchair to maneuver, if necessary.

When selecting a universal bathroom design aesthetic is still fun because it was a great effort to provide a welcoming and pleasant atmosphere to create, not institutional. The bathrooms are today with the universal elements that are intended enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their physical condition made.

18 November
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A few options for small bathroom design

Small bathroom will give us some layout problems, such as installation and fit everything in the box provided. Live with the rise condominium, especially in larger cities, a very small bathroom is more common. Has evolved into a closed space and the cost of homes and property as much as they resemble the design of a compact bathroom really a skill in demand is large enough in the future. Finally, the available space of the space is available, we can not change. But by applying some principles of design we can best utilize the space we have. A special strategy to deal with the limited space available, the use of small valves. So simple, but often overlooked as a solution.

The first thing is to make a small, compact source, with the main elements from which launches your room completely – toilet, bathtub, sink and shower. Go to the WCS compact and efficient. In today’s market is very simple, very slender and laminar flow devices that can help with the rather small space to buy. WC-style is useful not only in relation to the saved, eco-friendly but as a rule and because the dimensions of the pit, with much less water than traditional full-size toiletries. You can also use the correct type in the right corner. It may look sleek and modern and is a good addition to a small bathroom.

Small and sink / vanity or some other good method to help overcome the difficulties of the space. Another would be a clean and efficient way to go for maximum effect. Now there is a selection of modern times, such as the hollow bowl of rice, which will add a contemporary look at the same time and in space. The choice of a sink wall cabinets properly designed and installed slim can also save space or to the illusion. Part of this approach involves creating a position to do something bigger and not so much.

Whether you choose a shower or bath is also a concern when space is at a premium. With a very small bathroom can be an alternative, but with a very careful planning, you may need to use both modern bath combo. Of course it is is a matter of personal taste, whether you enjoy a shower or bath is required, most families prefer to have both.

There are many tips and tricks you can use to help create the impression of more space. Use of decorations to your advantage can help, and the smaller bathroom, you can use any available space, and to maximize the dream bathroom.

21 December
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Japanese Bathroom Design

The bath is the main centerpiece for any Japanese home, so much like the fireplace for any American. It provides warmth and a good sense of family bonding aside from the cleanliness it brings. For most people living in Tokyo, especially since floor space is a big commodity, there are those who are privileged enough to have at least a bath in their home while most people go to bathhouses. Japanese bathroom design is an influence of today’s trends.

The design is comprised of both modern and simple designs, whether the old houses in Kyoto have large, spacious baths while with slatted floorboards to drain the water and a tub mainly of seasoned wood. Other Japanese bathrooms can be as compact, emphasizing the need to conserve space as everything can be done in a tiny 2 meter-square bathroom space. The main idea of the design is either uniform or diversified, where it can be just stainless steel, tile or wood.

Towel racks and hooks are almost unheard of for many, but often an integral part when it comes to easy access to the nearest towel after dipping in near scalding water. Shelves are more popular as means for storage, even for some clothes like pajamas or robes aside from towels when it comes to contemporary design.

Showers and showerheads are not always introduced, since they use pails to carry water and washing themselves. Though a variety of compact showerheads with heaters have become a major part of the everyday Japanese and to conserve electricity instead of filling up a tub full of water. And the use of faucets is common as well to fill a pail of water.

When using toilets, the traditional type is actually sitting down on the floor while doing their, well, business and most are made with ceramic nowadays. Regular toilets, ranging from various functions like the one introduced in a local company that has everything a woman needs as well as an auto flush feature.

A lack of ambient design is very common with most Japanese bathroom design, as they prefer to have a sense of harmony, the way they need to relax without reminding them of their jobs. Although most designers also introduced some modern hardware like an LCD screen to watch while dipping in hot water or simple pictures, they would use any space to their advantage without being too overbearing.

20 December
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Small Bathroom Design Ideas

When you are working with a small bathroom, try focusing on design ideas that either create more space or create the illusion of more space. The most popular ways to do this is with vanities, mirrors, and lighting. By using proper sizes and spacing techniques, you can have a small bathroom that is just as functional as a larger one.

Vanities: One of the best ways to use a vanity to maximize space in a small bathroom is to install a wall-mounted vanity. Choose a vanity with a lot of storage space underneath and that includes drawers. This will allow you to remove towel racks from the walls and either install them on the inside of the vanity doors or simply store the towels in a drawer. Another popular option for creating more floor space is to select a vanity that fits in the corner. That way it utilizes what would otherwise end up as wasted space.

If you prefer a floor standing vanity, choose a small vanity or even a small pedestal sink. To recreate the storage space lost by doing this, install recessed shelving. These options will create the storage space you need while creating the clean look of more floor space.

Mirrors: Although you cannot use mirrors to truly create more space, you can use them to create the illusion of more space. Correctly using mirrors can add length, depth and width to your small bathroom. There are several ways to do this. Use the largest mirror possible over your vanity to reflect as much of the room as possible. This will create the illusion of more depth in the room. If you have enough space to do so, you can put two smaller mirrors on opposite walls, with the mirrors facing each other. This creates the illusion that the room does not end. If your room has a shower, you could even replace the shower door with a mirrored door.

Lighting: Proper lighting can be accomplished with windows, light fixtures, or both. Be sure that, whatever lighting options you choose, all corners of the bathroom are well lit. Having dark corners causes the bathroom to appear smaller.

When you are deciding how to adorn the windows in your small bathroom, consider using sheer or lace curtains. This allows more light in, making the room seem larger. If privacy is a concern, then try replacing the glass in your bathroom windows with frosted, etched, or stained panels.

You can also use several techniques with light fixtures. Try installing a strip of lights above the main mirror; this will proved fantastic light and create the illusion of more space. Recessed can lighting is also good. By sinking the lighting into the walls and ceiling you will maximize your wall space for that less is more look. You do not have to feel cramped in your small bathroom anymore. Following the tips above can help you create a bathroom that feels and looks larger than it really is. Add space and give it your personal touch.

19 December
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Modern Bathroom Design Ideas Using Stone

When deciding to give your home a modern bathroom, it seems that your options are endless. What is a good choice for my bathroom design? For a modern and up to date feel in your area, consider stone. Bathroom remodeling ideas do not need to limited to white porcelain anymore. Stone is a natural product that is readily available and gives the homeowner beautiful results.

When choosing to remodel a bathroom, one doesn’t think of stone as a product for this area. This however is an area where stone makes perfect since. Stone is a natural product that is visually appealing, as well as easy to maintain. Stone cleans up easily, and provides a unique design choice for your space. It’s also easy to achieve a relaxing space with stone applications in the modern bathroom. Stone can be used for walls, floors, and even tubs and sinks. Stone is also unique because it is hand manufactured and not mass produced.

BATHROOM DESIGN

You want your bathroom to be a relaxing part of your home. When you come home from a hard day, you want to be able to take that long luxurious bath and unwind. Giving your bathroom a modern, yet natural feel is one way to achieve this. You want your bathroom design to be visually appealing, as well as stimulating to your senses. Natural products and design choices are an excellent way to achieve this goal.

BATHTUBS

Choose a bath tub that fits into your decor, but is a relaxation vessel in your bathroom. Stone baths are available and an excellent choice for a mental and visually relaxing design choice. Stone is beautiful, smooth, and the stones warm helping to keep your bath warm and inviting. Not only that, it is visually stimulating and beautiful to look at! Also, choosing a stone bathtub is a unique choice because it is one that is one of a kind.

BATHROOM SINKS

This is an area that is often overlooked, but have you ever thought about how much time you actually spend at your bathroom sink? You use it everyday, several times a day. Choose a sink that is visually appealing, functional, and blends in with the rest of your bathroom design. Your sink shouldn’t stand out in your space, but blend in. You want your eye to travel your space, not be stuck on that one element.

BATHROOM REMODELING IDEAS

Consider your space. You want your bathroom to be functional, yet relaxing. One good way to achieve this goal is by choosing a natural product that gives you a calming effect when in place. Stone offers all of these qualities and then some. Stone is a natural product that can now be cut, polished and refined to fit into any style. The stone also gives your bathroom a natural feel that is warm, beautiful, and inviting, as well as, relaxing.

MODERN BATHROOM

Your home has a modern feel and you want to reflect that in every room. You can reflect this in your modern bathroom design. The use of different textures can give your space a modern feel, while staying a little bit rustic. Stone is a wonderful choice for this application.

VESSEL SINKS

Consider a vessel sink in your bathroom. A vessel sink is a piece of art in itself. They add beauty and charm to your space, as well as being a wonderful conversation piece.

Stone applications in your bathroom are a very modern approach to bathroom design. Stone gives your space a natural and relaxing feel, all with that modern look that homeowners crave. Also, when choosing stone bathtubs or sinks, you as a homeowner are getting a unique, one of a kind piece. These pieces are manufactured by hand so no two are alike. This is a definite advantage when redesigning your bathroom!

18 December
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Modern Bathroom Ideas

From sleek wall-hung bathroom furniture and spa baths to colour therapy lighting and sound systems, there’s more choice than ever before when designing a bathroom. For this reason, it’s a good idea to involve the professionals. If you’re planning a bathroom from scratch, or you are going to reconfigure the plumbing and drainage of the existing room, then it’s best to employ a designer as there will be structural and practical considerations, especially if you want a wet room. Specialist bathroom showrooms, such as Original Bathrooms, Ripples and CP Hart, provide designers and can organise installation too.

The DIY stores, such as B&Q and Wickes, can offer in-store planning, but advice is generally limited to the layout of basic elements, rather than providing solutions to problems. When buying for your bathroom, take along a plan of the room, with the existing fittings marked, and make sure you know the location and type of water-heating system you have, so that the shop can help you choose the most appropriate fittings.

Basins The latest basins are wide, shallow designs, sometimes even irregular in shape. These can be inserted into a slab-type work surface, wall-mounted with shelves and towel storage below, or installed as part of a basin unit. Conversely, deeper, rounder shapes set into slab worktops are also popular. Teamed with dark wood or lacquered white cabinets, shiny chrome taps and matching accessories, they can add a witty touch to an otherwise understated bathroom.

Baths Baths are usually the focal point of a bathroom, and there is a huge choice. Modern roll-top styles, often mounted in a cradle or on blocks, are designed to sit in the centre of a large room, while non-freestanding designs will need to be set into a surround finished with tiles or timber. New materials for baths include stone, cast-stone composites and even wood. For a larger bath, check that your hot-water system has the extra capacity needed. You should think carefully before opting for a shower instead of a bath, as it may decrease the re-sale value of your property.

Furniture Modern fitted bathroom furniture is often in dark wood, such as ebony, mahogany or wenge, which contrast well with white sanitaryware and chrome or stainless-steel bathroom fittings.

Walls Where walls and flooring are concerned, there’s still a strong trend for tiles, with limestone or porcelain lookalike tiles very popular. To avoid a bland look you can add bands of colour to break up plain tiles. Fully tiled walls tend to suffer from condensation unless the room is well heated. To solve the problem make sure your room has adequate ventilation; a heated towel rail and underfloor heating will also help. You can update your bathroom simply by swapping an outdated pedestal basin for a chic modern one with an integral stand.

Brassware If your bath and basin are understated, then bold, angular brassware will create several focal points. Many ranges have satin and matt finishes, sometimes in nickel, which will provide a softer look. The trend is for taps to be arched and graceful and showerheads as large as possible, especially in a wet room, to give you a good drenching. Remember that hard water causes shiny brassware to mark and dull quite badly, and be prepared to dry and buff the taps regularly. Take advice when choosing brassware, too, as products vary in suitability for high- or low-pressure water heating systems.

Wet Rooms and Steam Cabinets The most desirable types of showers around at the moment are wet rooms. If you wish to use the whole bathroom, then it has to be lined with a waterproof membrane, which usually costs at least £2,000. Do take professional advice, as there are many points to consider, from the capacity of the drainage system to the rate of water flow and recovery. You could opt for a semi-wet room, or a walk-in shower; this will be spacious but with fewer technical considerations. Semi-wet rooms still involve extensive waterproofing of part of the room, while glass panels are used to screen off the rest of the room and contain the spray. Walk-in shower enclosures consist of a tray and side/front panels, but are without a fully closing door – the walk-in area serves as a drying-off space. The latest have frameless glass panels and recessed trays to create a wet-room look.

If a wet room is not for you, and you have the budget and the space, you could create a spa-like bathroom with a steam cabinet. Fully enclosed with a roof, these contain a steam generator and usually a seat. Chromatherapy (colour therapy) is also included in some models. If the bathroom doesn’t have the space for a separate shower, look at the range of over-bath showers/steam cabinets from Jacuzzi – some models offer whirlpool bath options as well.

Ceiling-mounted shower fittings, along with body jets, are de rigueur in a wet room. If you want to install a new shower into an existing enclosure, or over the bath, consider a shower panel, such as one from Triton, which includes a fixed showerhead plus a hand-held spray and various body jets. Aqualisa offers remote-controlled showers, which can be switched on before entering the enclosure; the Grohe Wireless shower can be switched on or off from any room in the house.

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