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The Evening Post - 'Bathroom Beauty' - Interiors Column - March 2010
Evolution is a beautiful thing, especially when it relates to the wonderful world of design. Like fashion and the automobile industry, interior design continues to develop and change with the times, ensuring new and exciting pieces season after season.
With over two decades of experience as an Interior Designer (I'm really showing my age now aren't I?), I've witnessed trends come and go, perceptions change and certain areas flourish. However, the most significant transformation I've noted over the past few years is the evolution of the bathroom market.
The bathroom was once thought of as an area of necessity, practicality and functionality. It's now transformed into the place we dream of unwinding and relaxing in after a long day at work, looking after the kids or simply carrying out errands.
I think I can speak for all of us when I say lifestyles have become increasingly hectic and there are times that we just want to escape from the stresses of daily life to a place that's comfortable, soothing and full of little luxuries.
The market is now overflowing with wonderful design ideas that can make dream bathrooms a reality for all different sized budgets. It's not just expensive designer companies that are offering their services; the high street has taken note of this trend and is on hand, with a plethora of products that will magically transform your bathroom into a haven of opulence, fit for royalty.
There are many ways in which you can create a luxurious bathroom setting, one being with the current trend for wet rooms and walk-in showers. Minimal shower designs offer a certain continental-chic style that is commonly affiliated with five star boutique hotels and spa centres. But thanks to the evolution of the bathroom market, you can re-create a spa-like experience within the comfort of your home on a daily basis. By tanking and tiling the floor (this is an absolute must) and removing shower screens altogether, you are left with more space, an enhanced sense of freedom and a look that 'wows'. This trend also allows you to be creative with tile choices and there so many textures, materials and colours to choose from. Glimmering mosaic tiles are my favourite, perfect for wet room areas as they not only offer practicality and reliability, they can be used to create an alluring focal area.
Showers have come on a long way and with hydro-massage, chromotherapy and aroma functions readily available, you may chose to get rid of the bath altogether. They offer a quick and easy alternative but can provide as much luxury, relaxation and enjoyment as a bath. If, like me however you can't bear the thought of sacrificing your regular 60 minute soak, then you'll be pleased to hear there are some fabulous tubs on the market that exude glamour and luxury. Manufacturers and Designers have been experimenting profusely with colours and materials so that you can have an individual and unconventional bath that brings life to the room. With warm wood and soft stone finishes available, you really will be spoilt for choice.
For the ultimate in lavish bathroom design, you could always opt for a freestanding copper bath. With deep, rich tones and a light-reflecting surface, it would dramatise and add an element of luxury to both the contemporary or traditional bathroom. It's not just the aesthetics of a focal bathtub that help towards creating a sanctuary-like environment. The latest technology has encouraged a state of indulgent bathing you would expect to receive at an exclusive health suite. Spa options, whirlpool settings, hydro-massage functions and chromotherapy lighting are but to name a few, all helping to provide a much needed session of relaxation therapy.
If you invest in a prominent signature piece such as a freestanding tub, you could always save money by completing the look with some less expensive items such as a good-value-for-money wall-hung WC.
Also, by selecting ceramic stone effect tiles to cover the walls and floor, you can create a sumptuous environment without breaking the bank.
The practical chore of heating your bathroom can in fact prove to be an inspiring one too. Radiators and heated towel rails are no longer bulbous and ugly and can actually be used as a visual aid as well as a functional device. With a wide choice of colours and even personalised graphic printing options available, the aesthetics of a beautiful bathroom can now be enhanced, not ruined, by a bulky radiator. For an extravagant look, choose a towel rail in an antique gold finish or even integrate a fully functioning fire place. Where space is limited, under-floor heating is always a handy option.
A luxury bathroom doesn't have to cost the world and anyway, it's the smaller additions that really make a difference. If you haven't got a massive budget, treat yourself to some scented candles and scatter them elegantly around the edge of the bath. Tall, floor standing candles are great and can effortlessly transform the mood into one of peace and tranquillity. Add a comfy bath robe and set of fluffy towels to the mix and you really will be in bathroom heaven.
By Lesley Taylor
