DREAM BATHROOM Stylish metalwork makes for a standout space

CRISP METALWORK AND SUBTLE TEXTURES give THIS TAILORED BATHROOM An AIR Of STRUCTURED ELEGANCE

DESIGNER Katie Mccrum, director, Mccrum Interior Design, 07767 473444, mccruminteriordesign.co.uk.

THE PROPERTY A three-bedroom apartment in a red-brick mansion block in London’s Marylebone.

DESIGN BRIEF Architecturally, the space was extremely challenging as it was full of odd angles and boxings. The goal was to scale it all back and achieve a sleek, luxurious bathroom that could be effortlessly shared.‘our aim was to create a haven of relaxation. Clever lighting design was key, along with storage solutions, and providing a special wow factor when entering the room,’ says Katie.

THE BUDGET Around £35,000.

LAYOUT

Separating the wet space at the back of the room from the dry area in front was inspired by two design ideas – the introduction of Crittall-style screens to create a stunning dividing feature and a desire to make the vanity area feel like a dressing room. Including two showers and two vanity areas takes the pressure off in the mornings, allowing the owners to share the space without needing to take turns.

SURFACES

The wall tiles are marble-look porcelain chosen for its delicate softness and movement. The vanity units are topped in the same material, effectively linking the wet and dry areas. To lend a subtle urban feel, all the non-tiled walls are finished in Microcrete, a cement-based coating that is sealed against moisture. A slender brass trim between the two wall surfaces provides a neat connection, while referencing the brass taps. The floor is clad in slip-rated porcelain tiles that are a close match to those on the walls.

BRASSWARE

‘The Watermark Collection is very special in the way it blends beautiful craftsmanship with elegant engineering. All the finishes are wonderful and would work in a scheme like this,’ says Katie. After pondering the options, she and the owners plumped for Tarnished Brass, which has a wonderful aged patina that perfectly suits the design vision.

LIGHTING

Planned in collaboration with home automation specialists, Pinchpoint, the Lutron-controlled lighting scheme is focused on effects rather than visible fittings. There is practical feature lighting in the recess areas behind each shower and around the perimeter of both vanity mirrors, while in the wet area, a coffered ceiling conceals LEDS that flood light down the walls to create a soothing, atmospheric mood that can be enjoyed when bathing.

STYLING

Although the overall colour palette is in muted neutrals, this bathroom is far from boring. Fine details, like the brass-trimmed mirrors and brass tile trim provide subtle connections between the two spaces, leaving the dynamic black-framed screens to create impact. ‘Good lighting and layers of textures will help lift any neutral scheme, allowing it to be calming but never bland,’ adds Katie.