Glamour models
Beauty is back on the bathroom catwalk, but with a twist...today's designs all have a huge emphasis on opulence, to stunning effect.
The bathroom is a haven, a tranquil setting in which to retreat from the hustle and bustle of our manic lifestyles, and, therefore, its fittings and furniture should be carefully chosen to transform this practical space into an ultra-glam sanctuary. Whether it's quintessential Hollywood glitz you crave or the minimal allure of a spa-style wet zone, this space will make you feel fabulous.
Simply stylish
Full-blown star quality is back on trend, so let your imagination run wild. Whether it's glorious sanitaryware surrounded by a striking backdrop or a big-is-best, centrepiece bath, now is the time to embrace and experiment with colour and shape. After years of minimalist design in the wet zone, we are now looking to tone down those harsh, angular lines and inject some sparkle into our bathing scheme with an extra slice of charm.
Central to this resurgence is a wide array of products offering an understated elegance to create an overall look and feel that is the epitome of luxury. For decades, 'glamour' has often been characterised by overtly opulent forms, textures and hues, but today over-the-top ornate detailing and heavy metallic sheens can appear too styled. Fast-forward to the latest extravagant bathrooms and an altogether more refined aesthetic prevails.
Pushing the boundaries
Regardless of everyday practicalities, challenging convention will enable a bathroom that excites all the senses. From the plush detailing of dramatic tiling, bold shades covering the walls to the sheer palatial feel of tactile materials, don't be afraid to think outside the box to achieve the glam look.
Above all, it's about creating a design that's distinctive and yet flexible. By sticking to simple forms, you'll embrace 'less-is-more' to end up with a scheme that is full of sophisticated style. Explains Richard Fitzmaurice, Marketing Manager at Bluestone Bathrooms, "Unfussy key pieces combined with sleek, linear planes and endless amounts of subtle storage will ensure a perfect balance of co-ordination, organisation and chic aesthetics. Plus, the addition of metallic
or iridescent finishes of wallpaper and tiles or soft furnishings and wellbeing accessories will give the polished elitism of a spa-like bathing retreat. Be brave with colour too - think of a feature wall painted in a beautifully rich aubergine or chocolate tone, or dare to be adventurous with in vogue gold and silver coverings that provide vital decoration."
However, it's not just the choice of fittings which can allude to a sense of drama, but also the way in which the physical proportions of the space are used. Rather than restricting yourself to the old idea of placing everything around the walls, utilise the area at the centre of the room to provide an added 'wow' factor. A freestanding bath will always be an impressive focal point, whilst a double basin unit with over-sized mirrors is a sure-fire way to inject further extravagance.
Putting on the glitz
As we've now established, glamour is certainly in vogue these days - however you may interpret that - from sleek black chic to colourful baroque. The latest high-spec brassware, comprising taps with LED effects and all-singing-all-dancing showerheads, all merge to add drama, but it's the decorations which can really make the vital finishing touch - spectacular mosaic features; shimmery wallpapers and a glitzy chandelier or a gigantic mirror won't go amiss. With everything from utilising statement pieces to the allure of accessorising with precious metals and sparkling crystals, it's having the confidence to embrace all aspects that create the ultimate five-star escape.
