The modern bathroom has evolved from being a purely functional space to becoming a spa in the home. Create a domestic sanctuary with these ideas.
1. The Pastel Underground (Above)
Offset the strong vertical focus of bevelled subway tiles, available from Italtile, with a black-and-white vanity topped with a pink deck-mounted basin and black tap. Here, the Flaminia basin and cabinet by Marcante-Testa show how to successfully pair pale sherbet tones.
Get the look
A colourful array of ceramic basins from Ceramica Globo are available at LAVO Bathroom Concepts.
SHOWERS
Make the cubicle as user-friendly as possible for the space. A steam-shower function is a luxurious benefit.
2. Helvetica New Bold
Photograph: William Waldron
Recreate the calming effect of a capacious sauna room, but forego traditional timber and opt for an updated look in grey slate and Dornbracht brass fittings. The key features here are the built-in seat and the large showerhead, which recreates the feel of a tropical downpour.
Get the look
For a similar brass-finished look, visit Flush Bathrooms for a range of elegant accessories.
3. A Clean Break
Photograph: Douglas Friedman (Designed by Dax Design in Los Angeles)
Introduce geometric design by containing the shower space within a glass cubical. Contrast soft lighting with stark white to create a sleek, ultra-modern space and follow through the minimalist theme with a single showerhead and mixer in a clean, basic design.
Get the look
Cobra sells showerheads and mixers, as well as a host of accessories to suit this look.
FINISHES
Use the walls to give your bathroom that wow factor with these fresh takes on tiles and wallpaper.
4. Natural Wonder
Photograph: Karl Rogers
Using small, coloured glass tiles, ceramic artist Lovell Friedman designed and installed this calming mural of whimsical, bare-branched trees.
Get the look
Visit Pudlo for a range of tiles to create your own mosaic.
5. Jungle Fever
Photograph: Greg Cox
For a wild yet intimate atmosphere, boldly evoking a lush location, decorate your walls with a striking floral or botanical print.
Get the look
Mavromac stocks similar wallpaper.
6. Showy Pattern
Photograph: Mali Azima (Designed by Melanie Turner Interiors)
This herringbone-style wall feature is ideal for a neutral colourway. Achieve this effect by grading the different tones and remember that the tiles will need to be cut.
Get the look
Rudi’s Choice, Caesarstone and WOMAG offer marble tiles in many colours.
BATHS
More than a functional fixture, the bathtub, from shape to material, has become a statement of style.
7. A New Twist
Photograph: Lavo Bathroom Concepts
For a contemporary take on traditional baths, this Patricia Urquiola-designed modern steel bath with a white finish is clean and simple. It also comes with a shelf and backrest for extra comfort. Select taps in the same finish, such as these ‘Fez’ mixers in white with wooden accents, to add warmth to the space.
Get the look
Get similar free-standing baths from LAVO Bathroom Concepts.
8. Centre of Attention
Photograph: Press
Let your bath shine by positioning it as the focal point of your bathroom. An alternative to copper baths, the silver-plated bath in this indulgent space, designed by Marianne Brandi, comes complete with a wet-room area. When it comes to a freestanding tub, ensure the shape is as comfortable as it is aesthetically pleasing.
Get the look
Visit Victorian Bathrooms for classic tubs in different metallic finishes.
