DESIGN GUIDE
Interior designer Susie Atkinson, who recently created a new bathtub for Drummonds, shares her expert advice on planning a bathroom
When you’re designing a bathroom it’s important to create a space that feels warm and welcoming. If the space allows you to have a separate bath and shower then this would always be my preference. However, if the space isn’t large enough, I always prioritise the bath.
I like to include two basins when designing a larger bathroom. I prefer freestanding basins rather than a vanity unit because they take up less volume and o!en bring more elegance to the space. This is particularly the case if you are able to have storage behind the mirror.
To create a welcoming atmosphere in your bathroom
remember to think about continuity of the space. This may mean that all your sanitaryware comes from the same provider. However, this is simply a ma"er of personal preference.
If possible, try to make sure that the loo isn’t the !rst feature you see when you open the bathroom door. It’s a good idea to place the loo out of #rst sight.
When thinking about placing other bathroom features,
consider their functionality. The positioning of the disposal pipe can a$ect the design, for example. This is particularly the case in smaller bathrooms.
If under"oor heating can be installed, I would always
recommend having it. This comes back to the idea of creating a warm and welcoming environment.
In my opinion it is well worth the extra cost. Lighting is a key feature in any bathroom. I like to vary it with di$erent lighting levels and sources.
When choosing what to put on the walls, use whatever best !ts your space. In a larger bathroom, wallpapers can bring in colour and really li! the room. My choice of paint colour would always be a warm tone, usually ecru.
When I am considering brassware, I do believe it’s be#er to play it safe, as these are expensive items that can’t easily be changed. My preference would be to use nickel or antique brass as these are timeless and blend well with traditional or contemporary spaces.
It isn’t always essential to be faithful to the period of the house when thinking about your bathroom. Sometimes a contemporary bathroom is seen as more desirable. However, I prefer classical bathrooms with classic #"ings.
You can create a sense of warmth in your bathroom
through your selection of textures and !nishings. For example by using beautifully designed bathmats, towels, baskets and other so! accessories to balance the glass, tiles and marble that o!en feature.