Bathroom Bliss

Remodelling in Style

Looking at the multitude of different bathroom styles currently available, you would be forgiven for thinking that when it comes to decorating, anything goes. But if you take a closer look, you’ll find that the different designs share a common thread – universal design principles that you can apply to your own bathroom, whatever your style choice.

RECONFIGURE THE LAYOUT Extra space in cramped bathrooms can be freed up by swapping a separate bath and shower for a two-in-one option, as well as making do with only one basin as opposed to two. You could also look into removing, moving or replacing items such as light fixtures and cabinets.

CHOOSE TIMELESS FITTINGS A bathroom with classic features is unaffected by the passage of time or changes in style trends. Sticking to timeless, well-made bathroom items means you won’t have to spend money on new fixtures every few years.

Think of quality fittings like standalone or corner bathtubs, subway tiles and nickel fixtures as investment pieces or the backbone of your bathroom. Not only do these items look good now, they’ll retain their appeal for years to come.

LIMIT YOUR OPTIONS Cramming too many different materials into one small space could result in a messy and unwelcoming bathroom that nobody wants to use. To avoid falling into this visual clutter trap, limit the number of different materials and finishes you use and scale back on the décor.

To do this successfully, use some of the colours, textures and finishes you’ve already used in your home. By repeating the same design elements throughout your bathroom, it adds cohesion to the space while keeping it simple and elegant.

INVEST IN STORAGE Something as simple as a vanity with cabinets and drawers can free up bathroom surfaces. If your bathroom doesn’t have enough room for a freestanding cabinet, you can also look into wall units, shelves, baskets, bins, trays and product organisers. The more storage, the less clutter.

SPLURGE A LITTLE Planning a remodelling project is always a balancing act, especially when it comes to the budget. The reality is, to make room in the budget for big ticket items, you’ll have to pinch a few pennies in other areas to make this happen. Fortunately, the bathroom, being one of the smallest rooms in the home, allows you to splurge where it matters most.

If you’re unsure about where to spend your money, take inspiration from luxury hotel rooms. Splurge on bath towels. Anything you use on your skin should be made of the best quality you can afford. Luxurious towels may cost you a little more upfront, but unlike cheap towels which tend to wear faster, luxury towels will last for years to come.

You also want to spend a little bit more on lighting. Statement light fixtures can take your bathroom design to a whole new level – just remember to use suitable lighting for different zones. You can also create a high-end look in the bathroom by making simple changes like installing a fulllength mirror above your vanity or tiling your bathroom from floor to ceiling.

For more lifestyle tips and advice, visit the Lifestyle section on www.property24.com.