• Adding colour to your bathroom

• Buying a new bathroom (Part 1)

• Essential, but never boring….toilets!

• How to pay for a new bathroom?

• A guide to bathroom furniture

Buying a new bathroom (Part 1)

Whether you are planning a stunning master ensuite, a practical family bathroom or a small downstairs cloakroom, a good bathroom design needs to balance function and style. There are many elements to consider throughout the buying process and plenty to think about when it comes to personal taste and budget.

Buying a bath

If looking for a place to unwind and soak at the end of a busy day, then a bath is a must. If you are lucky enough to have plenty of space, buy a bath in addition to the shower. Alternatively invest in a P or L-shaped shower bath which combines both luxury and convenience and comes with a bath screen. Freestanding baths make a striking feature in any main bathroom and come in a wide range of both contemporary and traditional designs. If space is tight, remember not all baths are standard sizes, shorter lengths are available.

Buying bathroom furniture

To create a relaxing, clutter-free look, storage is crucial. Wall mounted units keep the floor clear giving the impression of more space. Modular storage units such as linen cupboards or freestanding vanity units can create a stylish look in those bathrooms with more floor space – great for storing everything from towels to toiletries, linens to loo rolls, conditioner to cleaning products. Mirrored cabinets are perfect as they provide both a mirror and storage space as well as creating an illusion of space.

Buying wash basins

Wash basins are available in numerous designs from counter-top to inset, wall hung to pedestal – there really is something for everyone! All tastes are catered for whether your preference is for highly contemporary or something far more traditional. While your decision will ultimately come down to individual taste, it is still important to consider the size of your basin. The width, depth and height must be appropriate for the layout of your bathroom. Finally, consider installing a glass splashback behind your wash basin (or bath) to protect your walls from splashes, steam and moisture.

Buying taps

Try, where possible, to buy taps at the same time as buying your wash basin so you know that they will go well together. One of the key things to take into consideration is the length of the spout in relation to the depth of the basin to prevent over-splashing and also ensure that the spout reaches far enough, but not too far, over the basin. Many basins and baths come with pre-drilled holes, so it is important to check that your chosen tap fits. Design-wise there are plenty of options to choose from however, try and stick to the same shape for different items of sanitaryware in the same room. When it comes to materials, taps have moved a long way from stainless steel or chrome. Today matt black, brass, copper and nickel are also popular.

Buying heating

A towel radiator is the most popular form of heating in a bathroom and the best place to position one is directly opposite the shower opening or bath so that warm towels are within easy reach. Although more expensive, underfloor heating is now becoming an alternative popular method of heating family bathrooms and ensuites as it evenly distributes warmth across the entire floor surface. Choose from a wet underfloor system, where warm water is circulated in pipes or a dry system, where electric wires are installed.

11th Jun 2020