DESIGN GURUS

Looking for a new bathroom or furniture that works on a tight budget or in a limited space? Let these two guiding lights in the home industry enlighten you with their insiders’ expertise

Colin R oby-Welford

As MD of Fired Earth, Colin talks to us about the brand’s new affordable range

What sets Fired Earth apart from the competition?

We’re timeless. Our products are authentically sourced and deliver quality that lasts. Many of our designs are made and finished in the UK. Because of this, we’re often thought to be prohibitively expensive but we’re not – we’ve been working hard to introduce newer, more affordable lines to make our brand accessible to everyone.

How do you work with customers to create their perfect bathroom? Many people lack confidence when planning a bathroom – they buy bits and pieces rather than thinking about the whole look. We offer a consultation service for £200 to help overcome this – it includes 3D design, working plans and site visits if necessary – and it’s refundable on any spend over £3,000.

Top tips for an affordable bathroom? Consider a built-in bath with shower over, or create a shower space by building a stud wall so you only need a shower door and then you can use decorative tiles on the inside of the shower and either use cheaper, plainer tiles on the outside or just paint it.

What’s the best thing to splurge on? Make it the brassware as that’s the statement piece. My favourite finishes are brushed or polished nickel – brass, while gorgeous, is high-maintenance, and on-trend black chrome isn’t practical in a hard water area.

Turn to page 30 to get a 20% discount on Fired Earth bathrooms; firedearth.com