Partners in time
The turn of the 21st century saw a shift to minimal bathrooms, but traditional styles are back in fashion. From contemporary to classic or a bit of both, which will be your favourite?
Whether your heart is yearning for a super-chic wet-room to complement
a minimalist urban apartment or a vintage-style bathroom to blend seamlessly within a timber-framed cottage, some careful planning will save time now and money in the years to come. Key considerations include the current fashions, sanitaryware options, the space available and your day-to-day lifestyle needs.
Whereas contemporary retreats make a statement with high tech features that put James Bond to shame, a more classic design may prove indispensable if you're looking for a sympathetic approach. Don't think it has to be a case of either or - with a bit of forethought you can effectively blend the two aesthetics together in harmony. You may even end up creating a whole new trend to boot...
Leading the way
Heavily influenced by American super-size culture hitting British waters - in the form of hotel-style sinks and mammoth-sized tubs - fluid shapes and out-of-proportion sanitaryware are making their mark on the bathroom. And even though angular lines and squared-off edges are likely to forever be in vogue when it comes to a modernist look, hourglass shapes are suited to a softer, more wholesome approach. Curved baths aren't just easy on the eye. With inset luxurious whirlpool systems and some mood-enhancing underwater lighting, they're a lifestyle choice that evokes a real feeling of wellbeing and relaxation.
Whilst a bright white suite is undoubtedly a great investment, instead of adding punches of colour in the usual way via accessories and soft furnishings, don't be frightened to make a bigger statement with a vibrant tub or basin. It will not only ensure that all-important 'wow' factor, but make a fantastic talking point amongst guests.
An up-and-coming trend, sumptuous, dark materials are set to take the nation by storm this year. For example, deep woods can effortlessly add a hit of richness in a contemporary scheme; wenge is still super-popular, but the sale of walnut is expected to soar in future months. Also, mixing and matching dusky tones with classic pure whites gives a peerless finish that is fresh and dramatic yet liveable and totally captivating.
Timeless appeal
When it comes to traditional bathrooms, long gone are old-fashioned fittings and fixtures - today's classic look fully embraces a relaxing, laid-back vibe with a blend of past and present. Rob Jull, MD at RAK Ceramics, zeroes in on this trend, "The overall style is all about uncluttered, fuss-free casting that's both smooth and sleek. The modern and period property owner is each looking to mix contemporary core components with antique furniture to inject an eclectic vibe."
But if your heart is set on a timeless scheme, you needn't feel that the modern sanitaryware designs aren't user-friendly. Don't be put off; try integrating a few up-to-the-minute pieces into a period setting. After all, irrespective of your room plan, the latest offerings must be effortless and practical for daily use, as well as easy on the eye.
The next big thing
Heather-Joy Crawford, Marketing Manager at Adamsez, says, "The trend towards mixing old and new to create an original genre of bathroom, 'the modern classic', is big in design at the moment." Picture a glamorous, iconic roll-top bath with claw & ball feet standing in total unity with a glass bowl basin and a state-of-the-art, spacious wet-room, and you will be seduced by this pick 'n' mix look. Gone are the days of staying faithful to one camp - reclaimed antique furniture, high tech toning showers with chromatherapy lighting and minimalist design can work in tandem, accepting that your choices of colour, shape and texture are all in perfect harmony.
How to blend styles effectively
Robin Ellis of the RobinEllis Design Studio shares his expert advice when it comes to combining the two diverse approaches:- A classic look needs to be as uncluttered as a contemporary design to see the architectural elements of the room. Even if you really love freestanding pieces, just adding a couple of fitted units somewhere can prove invaluable.
- Having a roll-top bath as a statement is an eye-catching way to add individuality and a touch of vintage elegance. But, you could gracefully marry both old and new with high tech features within a spacious and luxury showering area.
- Opt for high-quality hardware and radiators that produce efficient output. Add under-floor heating to create warmth underfoot - a good solution when usable space is at a premium.
- If you follow trends too closely, you'll end up with a bathroom that is a bland replica of your previous one. Above all, don't be scared to use a colour or material that rings the changes.
