A modern twist on Victorian style.
Vintage-look tiles meet minimalist fittings in this beautifully balanced new bathroom
CAN YOU DESCRIBE THE PROJECT?
The property, in Chelsea, was once two apartments, one above the other, which we amalgamated to create a four-bedroom duplex. A portion of the lower living room was taken for this en suite. The bay window was ideal for the bath, but we had to do a lot of work to plan the new waste that runs back to the communal services.
WHAT WAS THE DESIGN BRIEF?
The client wanted elements of a traditional English bathroom, and he has a particular fondness for Victorian-style tiles. Our brief was to translate his classical ideas in a contemporary way in order to achieve a modern, yet elegant space.
WHERE DID YOU START?
From the ground up, with the requisite Victorian-style floor tiles. After much hunting, we discovered the perfect pattern on an industrial-style, concrete-look porcelain base. The wall tiles are in veined white marble to inject a touch of luxury and timelessness.
CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE VANITY UNIT DESIGN?
This is a unique piece designed in-house. The feet are in stainless steel and the main unit features drawers and doors with a recessed handle, all in stained oak. The inspiration is from the Forties, which complements the beautiful Art Deco mirrors. The top is made out of chunky white Caesarstone, a very durable composite, and the basins are undermounted to provide a contemporary flat surface.
IS THERE A SHOWER?
Yes, in fact it is more of a shower room to the right of the vanity unit. Inside, there are black tiles on the floor and walls and even the ceiling is painted black. The effect is very cocooning.
ARE THERE ANY OTHER NOTABLE DETAILS?
The brassware is minimal, modern and sculptural – it was important to match this with more traditional elements. I would also suggest storage is today’s new luxury, particularly in urban homes. This bathroom features 50cm-deep, full height storage behind stained oak doors, which can handle any amount of towels and toiletries.