It’s not just a bathroom
Interior designer LESLEY TAYLOR on how to style one of the most important rooms in your home
BEING confined with our family during lockdown over the last few weeks has made us all really scrutinise the space in which we live.
While we all appreciate the opportunity to spend time with loved ones, the downside is, it also highlights areas of our homes that we may wish to improve.
It’s fair to say, many of us are going to have quite long home renovation lists by the time this is all over.
For many, one thing that has become apparent is that the bathroom is so much more than just a place to bathe the kids, it also offers a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of family life. So, when you think about investing time in creating a bathroom, it makes complete sense that it would need to be not only functional, but also a perfect place to relax.
SIZE DOES MATTER
WHEN it comes to renovating a bathroom, a one-size fits all approach just won’t cut it.
In fact, one of the most important factors when considering a bathroom project is size.
A small bathroom needs careful planning to ensure you can accommodate the practical aspects we all demand from the room.
If, however, the space is generous then it gives you an opportunity to create more than just a functional area and you can really personalise your space.
For example, one of the biggest bathroom trends is the addition of elements normally found in other rooms of the home such as freestanding cabinets. Not only are they great for additional storage, but if you fancy a good read while soaking in the tub, they are a fabulous makeshift library.
ACCESSORISE
DRESSING a room is essential if you want to stamp your own personality on a home; from creating a picture wall alongside a staircase to choosing the perfect bedding for the master suite. But often, people tend to miss these finishing touches when it comes to the bathroom.
Granted, most people will have a toothbrush holder, a soap dispenser and towels that complement the suite, but what about framed artwork, vintage storage crates or multiple wall-hung mirrors instead of just one.
House plants and spa-style accessories are a must have for a bathroom, one of my personal favourites is the bath rack. This clever little accessory is the ultimate in pampering solutions as it not only will support an iPhone or glass of wine while you’re chilling in the bath, but the kids will love it too. I remember spending many an hour swimming under the bath rack my grandma had over her bath, many many years ago!
Not sure where to start with accessories? Just apply the same thinking process as you would to any other room in the home.
SITTING PRETTY
YOU don’t have to be traditional when it comes to bathroom furniture. Got an old armchair in storage that doesn’t fit in with the rest of your home decor? If room allows, place it in the bathroom.
It doesn’t necessarily have to serve a purpose. If it looks good and you like it, then great.
If you take a more practical approach to your interior design, a wooden stool or thin wooden bench will complement most existing bathroom schemes and double as a towel holder or a place to drape your dressing gown while you’re in the shower.