There are so many different types of baths, basins, and bathroom accessories to choose from, it’s easy to let your ideas run away with you.
Nowadays, free-standing roll top baths, double basins, walk-in showers and oversized tubs are easy to obtain. All the materials you need to conjure up a luxurious and stunning bathroom are available with minimal research needed.
Spa style
Circular or egg-shaped bathtubs and his and hers basins are the ultimate in home pampering. To fashion your own spa, let the bath and basins become the central features against a backdrop of polished marble or natural stone.
Alternatively, a mosaic pattern of tiles in earthy tones gives a spa-like feel to any bathroom. Highlight the bath and basins with the addition of ornaments. Scented candles, glass bottles of luxurious bath oils and decorative flat pebbles and stones create a peaceful, soothing atmosphere.
Complete the calm and composed setting by including a houseplant. A tall exotic plant with sculptural leaves can be used to great effect. Many tropical plants will thrive in the warm, humid environment of a bathroom.
Monochrome mix
If all that sounds a little too tranquil for your tastes, why not try working from a striking black and white palette. Bold black, white and grey colour schemes have a classic and timeless appeal.
Black floor tiles add strong definition while a subtle mix of shades of silver, grey and white wall tiles can soften the appearance. A chrome basin can complete the monochromic theme, along with metallic accessories such as shower heads, faucets and cabinet pulls.
Victorian values
For those who prefer a more traditional look, a Victorian-style bathroom can be fashioned from today’s modern designs.
A starting point is to use simple white brick wall tiles. A border of coloured tiles can be added to create an elegant, understated effect. Then hang a medicine cabinet or an antique gilt mirror to highlight the era. A copper roll top bath will act as a central feature. This looks stunning when placed centrally on marble flooring.
Country classic
Neutral stone floors and a plain white bath form the basis of a modern country feel. This is especially effective if you already have original beams or natural stone flooring.
Instead of lots of tiling, simply paint walls in pastel or beige tones. Tongue-and-groove wooden panelling on cabinets or doors enhances the country style. A roll top bath also works well in this setting.
Glitzy glamour
If you really want to go to town, sculptures, scarlet walls and chandeliers will add a touch of daring glitz.
In some cases, the bathroom may already contain an unusual feature that can either be underplayed or shown off. This could be an oversized silver roll top bath, a Victorian copper tub, or an original herringbone wooden floor.
To play up to the feature, consider adding complimentary accessories. Unique pieces, such as a vintage dressing table, a Victorian closet or a decorated screen, will add character to the room.
High-end hotel
Alternatively, you may prefer the simplicity and neutrality of top hotels. A mosaic pattern of pale contrasting tiles, in white, cream and beige crafts an airy ambience. Coupled with a large basin to ceiling mirror and plenty of spotlighting, this is a light, bright and sophisticated option.
Instead of floor furniture, a wall-hung vanity unit makes the most of available space. By keeping the floor clear, the bathroom becomes easy to maintain and looks clean and spacious.
Whether your style is ultra-modern, quaint and quirky or seriously traditional, there’s a luxury bathroom design out there for you.