Dip into 2010
Be inspired by the latest looks in bathroom style with our forward-thinking showcase...
Get set for an exciting year ahead when it comes to the very best in bathroom design. From cutting-edge brassware and metallic bathtubs to show stopping showers, here are the most up-to-date offerings from our pick of leading names...
Cheryl Gurner
Creative Director, Bathrooms International
“This year we’ll see a move away from minimalism in favour of statement-making modern materials and high-impact shade. So, look out for contemporary fixtures and fittings set against curvaceous wash basins, such as our new brassware range, Lennox. The tap is one of my favourite new products, and I’m sure homeowners will love it, too. I believe that this stunning piece has definite longevity and will quickly become a design classic.”
Graeme Blythe
Bathroom Category Manager, Fired Earth
“There’s a definite trend towards combining different elements and finishes to create an individual yet stylistically cohesive bathroom. A classic sculptural item, such as a bateau bath with a polished coating, can be complemented by chrome accents to bring the whole scheme together. Carefully selected stone and porcelain features in muted shades will merge seamlessly. Although colour and decorative detail are popular, neutral havens which fuse linear wash benches and tiling with roll-top baths and bowls are also in demand.”
Drummond Shaw
Director, Drummonds
“We have been noticing a shift towards having baths in bedrooms, especially the master bedroom, and opting for grand en suite facilities. People are choosing beautiful fittings which are well-designed and can be mixed with contemporary pieces for a relaxed, individual scheme. Watch out for the return of darker, richer pieces to the bathroom, after our long love affair with ice-white furnishings and sanitaryware. Why not be inspired to make a long-term investment with a gorgeous traditional tub?”
Matt Watson
Marketing Manager, Kaldewei
“White has dominated the wet zone for over two decades and remains the consumer’s favourite, but mixing it with inky hues has become more popular. It combines perfectly with every style to add contrast and elegance. I firmly believe that black is back, and will continue to grow in popularity in 2010. If you want a slice of the action, you can choose from dark brassware, sleek floor-level shower trays and beautifully styled baths. There’s also a wide choice of tiles and black high gloss bathroom furniture on the market, which has become fashionable in this area.”
Lesley Taylor
Design Director, Taylor’s Etc
“2009 was all about over-the-top extravagance but 2010 is set to welcome a resurgence of understated elegance. Simple, clean lines, pretty details, neutral colour palettes and high gloss finishes are set to come to the fore in the coming seasons. I think the emphasis this year will be on trying to create a look and feel that is timeless, making collections like the Palomba by Laufen an extremely favourable choice for homeowners.” 
Sara Wells
Senior Designer, Urban Interior
“I predict that a modest approach to bathroom design is on the way, with classic, simple shapes and warm tones set to be a popular choice. Home improvement will remain a popular activity in the UK and while luxury is still important, it is likely to come in the form of spa-inspired features such as whirlpool baths, massage showers and soothing chromatherapy lighting options. Sanitaryware and furniture, on the other hand, will reflect a growing desire for subtle yet stylish design. Generous storage will merge with rich veneers to add depth and shine.”
Pete Mills
Sales & Marketing Director, Aquaplus Solutions
“The coming season’s fashions will focus around clean and unfussy lines and details. So, put your own mark on a room by opting for bold, playful and innovative colour options. At Aquaplus Solutions, we feel that modern design will continue to be popular, but homeowners are now looking for special touches to make their schemes unique. I believe we all want to enjoy a space which stands out and is a luxe place to unwind in.”
Sandra Hyde
Marketing Manager, Aqualux
“The demand for light and spacious contemporary spaces will continue into 2010. Now considered the ideal environment in which to relax and re-energise, the 21st century bathroom must offer a harmonious feel. With more homeowners seeking to emulate the splendid style found in top spas and boutique hotels, creating a dedicated shower zone is becoming more and more popular.
“I also think it will become increasingly important to tailor the bathroom to suit your personality and requirements. We will keep on expanding our AquaSpace Walk in Modular Shower Panel range in response to the growing demand for customised wet zones. The versatile pick and mix form of this popular collection allows customers to choose from panels in an assortment of sizes, wall or ceiling fixings and smoked or clear glass options. That way, they can create the perfect place for their cleansing rituals.”
Hayley Tarrington
Senior Designer, C. P. Hart
“Ceramics this season are formed in soft organic curves, and even angular sanitaryware has shapely edges. Lots of functional storage is coming back into fashion too, so keep your eyes peeled for furniture with a place for everything. I’m sure we’ll be seeing a welcome return to the traditional values of British craftsmanship, with defined organisation becoming all-important. Natural wood textures are also set to soar in popularity, especially when combined with gloss and lacquered surfaces. Black, white, plum and mocha finishes are sure to catch the eye and give these antique-inspired pieces a charming and impactful look in your home.” 
Ross Nixon
Head of Design, Matki
“Over the past few years, the wet room has become one of the most aspirational looks for bathrooms. Clean and uncluttered with minimalist lines, this is a trend that’s set to continue and grow. But, installing true European-style zones often requires major structural changes to most houses; from tanking the walls and floors to installing specialist heating and air handling systems. Therefore, at Matki we have developed products such as our new EauZone Plus collection which offers a similar ambience with total practicality and ease of installation.”
