Be afraid to embrace the dark

DON’T

‘Dark and moody’ isn’t generally seen as a great personality trait, but in your bathroom? Bring it on, says Sarah. “Darker shades of wallpaper, tiles or paint combined with moody lighting can work well, particularly in a powder room where there is often no natural light. A small space that’s only used sporadically, unlike a main bathroom, is the perfect place to choose

something a little adventurous in a darker palette.”

DON’T forget storage

It doesn’t matter how soothing your colour palette is; if your bathroom is cluttered you can kiss tranquillity goodbye. “Plan practical storage solutions from the outset and make it a priority, not an afterthought,” says Mia Nixon from ABI Interiors. “Choose a vanity with plenty of storage (drawers are generally more useful than cupboards) and inside, keep things tidy with adjustable shelf dividers and clear acrylic organisers. For cupboards, turntables make the contents more accessible.” A roomy shaving cabinet and baskets

on a vanity shelving will also keep your wet zone clutter-free.

DO make lights the hero

One feature people often overlook is lighting, says Ben. “At its best, bathroom lighting blends function with decorative charm: wall sconces or pendants subtly convey that your bathroom is more than just a wet zone and an integral part of your home where significant time is spent. Fittings made of glass, ceramic and metal can play a hero role in the space and shouldn’t

be overshadowed by simple downlights.”

DO feel confident about choosing tiles

Where to start? “Look at your home’s overall design narrative, including its style, colours and what lighting is available,” says Christie Wood, Beaumont Tiles design specialist. “Next, start

collecting tiles that fit with your style and palette, then you can experiment with various combinations in a flat lay. Look at colour, texture, and size, and the interplay between them and try bringing in metallics with your tapware and accessories alongside vanity and cabinetry swatches.” Lastly, you can always ask for

samples to help you make your choice.

This page, above: These mixers (from left) ‘Milli Voir’ and ‘Milli Pure’, from Reece Bathrooms, and ‘Milani’, from ABI Interiors, are ideal for a dark bathroom. This page, top right: A bold bathroom by One Four Interiors uses black to create a scene-stealing look.

This page, bottom right: Cement wall tiles add a pretty pink touch to this bathroom. Opposite page: This space, designed by Studio Trio, is a perfect example of a bathroom that successfully

melds beauty with functionality.