How can decorative decisions help to create the impression of more space in a bathroom?
Keeping the bathroom free of clutter is important, so ample storage is vital. Compact, reduced-depth cabinets and wall-mounted vanity units are sought-after choices as they give a sense of space, while wall-mounted accessories such as toilet brushes and soap dispensers can work wonders in freeing up your floor.
To create a clean, uncluttered look, consider concealing working parts, such as shower fittings and pipes, within the walls, or installing underfloor heating instead of a radiator. Reflective tiles can also help to create a brighter atmosphere by bouncing the light all around the room. CP Hart’s ‘Luminous Lume’ tiles have a highly glossy finish with illuminating qualities.
‘Comodo’ bath by Bette, £1,192; ‘My Time’ vanity unit in ‘Rosso Cuoio Matt‘ and ‘Time’ handle in black, POA, both IdeaGroup.
And what about choosing showers, baths and basins?
In a small space, every centimetre counts. And, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to do away with a freestanding bath: there are many compact styles to suit all tastes and budgets. For example, Cielo’s ‘Dafne’ is only 130x80 centimetres and is available in an array of earthy matte tones.
Creating an airy feel is also far easier with frameless shower enclosures. These remove any unnecessary hardware and profiles, making them almost invisible, especially if you pick a UV-bonded frameless option (where the glass panels are fused together, to create a seamless finish).
‘Sunshower’ infrared panel, £3,570.
Can a bathroom’s layout affect the feeling of spaciousness?
Yes, and getting this right is paramount – it can dramatically improve the flow as well as making the space feel bigger. In some cases, relocating items such as a WC can make a significant difference. However, before making any changes, it’s crucial to determine the position of soil pipes and stacks, as it will dictate what is and isn’t possible. Seeking advice from a qualified plumber is always advisable.
‘Elm’ mini basin by Kast Concrete Basins, £2,760.
How can you showcase your individual style and taste even in a small bathroom?
Compact cloakrooms and powder rooms are an opportunity to showcase flair and be bold. You can be more experimental with colour, while playful wallpapers and coloured ceramics will add a touch of personality. If there are fewer brassware elements, such as in a cloakroom with only a single basin mixer, clients can afford to be a bit more adventurous with finishes, as there is less to try to match or complement, which can sometimes be challenging in larger bathrooms with more elements and zones.
You could also experiment with unusual shapes and finishes for the brassware. One of my favourite basin mixers is the ‘Goccia’ by Gessi. With its sweeping curves and organic form, it will surely be a topic of conversation. cphart.co.uk
