‘IT’S LIKE STAYING IN A SMART HOTEL EVERY DAY’ A dated bathroom and separate loo made way for a contemporary, light-filled space with showstopping features
A dated bathroom and adjoining WC have been combined to create a light-filled, contemporary space with a showstopping bath and walk-in shower
Describe the original bathroom…
It was very 1980s! We’d fallen for the house because of the lovely area as well as the potential to extend and add value, but nothing inside had been updated for decades. There were shiny blue wall tiles, fussy curtains and a horrible lino floor. The WC, which was next door, was decorated to match. The bathroom had a big basin and panelled bath, and it all felt cramped, dark and old-fashioned.
What were your first thoughts for the design?
My aim was for a smart, modern bathroom with a stylish hotel feel, as I wanted to keep a clean, contemporary look running throughout the house. This is our main family bathroom, so I was keen to make it as large and light as possible. Knocking through the WC and combining the two spaces made sense, as it would give us extra room and a much more up-to-date, user-friendly layout.
Did you want any particular features?
A freestanding statement bath was top priority – I’ve always wanted one. I also really fancied a wet-room-style walk-in shower, similar to the ones you see in hotels. I had in mind a very simple glass partition and a tiled floor rather than the traditional shower tray and aluminiumframed cubicle. Although I love the pared-back look, I was taken with the idea of patterned tiles to add interest and individuality.
How did the planning process go?
Tim and I worked out the layout together, using some free design software called SmartDraw. With the wall gone, we were left with an