‘I WANTED A SMART YET PRACTICAL ROOM’ Ditching the bath transformed this dated bathroom
Ditching the bath made all the difference when transforming a cramped and dated bathroom into a modern showering space
Gina Smith, a personal assistant, lives in a three-bedroom period mill conversion in Cheshire. The tired bathroom had seen better days and, with two children having recently flown the nest, Gina felt it was time for a serious update
Describe your old bathroom
It was never my style as we inherited it when we moved in about six years ago. The suite was rather fussy for my taste and the large fixtures and fittings took up too much floor space. What’s more, I don’t think any of us ever actually used the bath! However, it was only when the timber surround started showing signs of rot, due to a hidden leak, that I decided to act.
What were you aiming to achieve?
I wanted the key feature of the room to be a spacious showering area, so I thought a sleek wet room would be the ideal solution, both in terms of style and space.
Why did you decide to remove the bath?
As a shower lover, I was happy to sacrifice the bath in favour of a wet room. My plumber tried to persuade me to upgrade the existing arrangement, but this would have been too much of a compromise, and I’ve never regretted my decision. Replacing the bulky tub with a sheet of glass also helped open up the room – although it is still possible to reinstate a bath, if required, at a later date.
Did you consider changing the layout?
No, there wasn’t anything wrong with it; it was just that the existing suite was rather big. I also wanted my new Crittal-style shower screen to be the focal point of the room, so positioning it opposite the entrance was the obvious choice. However, I was still able to regain valuable floor space by pushing back the toilet cistern into an existing stud wall and reducing the depth of my vanity unit.
Who carried out the work?
A friend recommended a local plumber, who was able to take on the entire project. It was all fairly straightforward and I was delighted when he offered to source and supply the underfloor heating kit, wet room tray and waste for £350.
How long did it all take?
Three weeks. It would have been quicker, but opening up the stud walls – the second of which now houses a handy storage niche – and a last-minute decision to add underfloor heating, slowed things down a little. Reusing all the pipework helped keep costs down, as did retaining the boxing-in at the head of the bath and simply swapping the old shower for a sleek concealed model.
What was your inspiration behind the look of the room?
I’m a fan of Crittall windows and industrial styling. I think it works well in older homes, so when I spotted a black grid shower screen in a magazine, I copied the idea of teaming it with black brassware and marble. My luxe wall and distressed floor finishes are, however, more practical, porcelain alternatives. Most of the fixtures and fittings are the result of time spent online – there are some great quality bargains out there, including my fabulous designer radiator and countertop basins. The vanity design is a nice touch…
Right from the start I wanted twin basins, as I think they inject a touch of luxury. The reclaimed shelving was spotted on Ebay and, as it is made to order, I was able to specify the exact length and depth, thus ensuring a streamlined space-saving finish.
Are you pleased with the results?
Yes, it’s lovely to walk over warm tiles in the morning and be able to take an invigorating shower. I particularly like the vanity area, as all that storage ensures the room remains tidy, while my must-have shower screen really adds character.