Designing and planning a stylish bathroom
How to plan a stylish small bathroom
If there’s one room in the home that offers pure privacy and a sanctuary for relaxation, it’s the bathroom. And while we may lust over the vast spaces we see as we scroll Instagram or flick through a glossy magazine, for many of us, a compact bathroom or en-suite is the reality. But don’t fret, as there are plenty of ways you can achieve a design that offers form and function.
The key to any interior project is to take your time. Do your research, get as much information as you need, talk to the experts, find out all the practical information on your home’s plumbing and don’t forget to factor in the labour cost and time as well as the beautiful products you have your eye on.
A gorgeous bathroom will keep its value and make your property attractive to buyers if you decide to move on in the future. So, make this renovation about what you want and what will enhance your everyday living, making you feel fabulous morning, noon and night.
Victoria + Albert Barcelona 64 Basins and Perrin & Rowe Langbourn Wall-Mounted Three-Hole Basin Set in Pewter Planning a Bathroom
1. Think about what you want and need
When planning a bathroom, start by considering who will be using the space and what function it needs to serve. Is it a family bathroom, in which case you’ll definitely need a bath with a bath shower mixer (Perrin & Rowe Deco pictured) for washing hair, as well as decent storage for toys. A luxurious en-suite on the other hand could be more personalised to you, while a guest bathroom can be a great place to try out an eye-catching wallpaper design or paint colour.
2. Measure up then measure again
Get the tape measure out and note down the dimensions for the floor space and walls. Sketch out a rough plan and indicate where the door and any windows are, as well as their measurements. It’s also a good idea to draw in your current layout, so that any potential designers can see where the existing plumbing lies.
Perrin & Rowe 3120 Deco Floor Mounted Bath-Shower Mixer in Chrome3. Pick the perfect bath
You may think a freestanding bath is only for large bathrooms, but the great news is that you can have a luxurious standalone tub in a smaller space. As Nigel Palmer, Head of Communications Marketing for House of Rohl, explains, “In recent years, Victoria + Albert has increased its range of smaller format baths, especially at just 1500mm long, in response to growing demand. We still prioritise style and comfort, but these baths can fit into alcoves that would typically be fitted with an inset bath. They also use less water and are quicker to fill, so fit with a modern lifestyle.”
Explore the full range of Victoria + Albert 1500 baths here.
Image Credit: Victoria + Albert Vetralla 1500 Bath. Design: Woods + Warner | Photography by Simon WhitbreadIf reducing water consumption is important to you, the Ledro bath (pictured) uses a third less water than a typical freestanding design yet it envelopes you in its deep slipper shape, plus like all Victoria + Albert baths it’s made from QUARRYCAST™ - a unique blend of Volcanic Limestone™ and high-performance resins which is naturally insulating so the water stays warm for longer.
When space dictates a back to wall design, the Lussari 1600 is sleek, simple and space-saving with a spacious deck for brassware and bath-time essentials.
Victoria + Albert Ledro4. Select the right bath/shower mixer
Once you’ve chosen the perfect bath for your space, consider a freestanding bath/shower mixer to complement. Perrin & Rowe offers a variety of designs, which are all designed and crafted in the UK including hand polishing to ensure a lustrous finish - the Deco bath-shower mixer can take around 12 hours of hand-polishing to give it the depth of finish it is renowned for.
If you want something modern, then Riobel (pictured) is a great option with brassware inspired by the sculptural shapes of contemporary architecture.
Choose from four distinctive collections available in chrome and black.
Riobel GS Single Lever Basin Mixer
5. Choose a basin and tap to suit
The basin and tap are also key components of any bathroom, no matter how small it is. There is so much choice from House of Rohl, including freestanding basins, drop-in and undermount basins and washstands from Victoria + Albert allowing for greater personalisation and design flair.
“Ceramic basins remain most common,” explains Nigel Palmer, “but there are alternatives that offer different qualities. Victoria + Albert make their basins from Volcanic Limestone™ blended with a special resin, which produces a natural white material that is immensely strong. We’re seeing a strong preference for matt finishes rather than gloss. Matt provides a satin finish that gently diffuses the light for a touch of luxury.”
Statement basins are hugely popular, especially as a countertop design. You can order any basin in the Victoria + Albert range in over 200 RAL colours, so let your imagination run wild!
Victoria + Albert Edge 45 Basin in RAL 9004 Signal BlackHow to design a bathroom
6. Consider brassware finishes
“With any brassware, the main advice is always to invest in quality,” says Nigel Palmer. “The bathroom is a harsh environment, and taps get a lot of use. Quality ensures longevity. Then it is down to personal taste. Choose for yourself, not the nominal ‘future owner’ of the property. Find a design that speaks to you. Using special and beautiful objects, made with craftsmanship and artistry, is - in its own small way - life-enhancing.”
Perrin & Rowe Armstrong 3681SB Wall-Mounted Single-Lever Basin Mixer - Satin Brass7. Consider the colour scheme
When considering how to design a bathroom, colour and texture must also come into play. Use your compact bathroom as a space to show off your personality and indulge your creative side.
Victoria + Albert’s entire range of baths and basins can be specified in any of 200 RAL colours - so they can be matched against almost anything. There is a choice of gloss or matt too, so it is possible to have a matt bath with a gloss exterior colour or vice versa, expanding the choice still further. Sage and olive greens are currently popular.
8. Keep it low maintenance
The beauty of a small bathroom is that it’s quick and easy to clean. Your freestanding bath, basin and bath/shower mixer and taps are really simple to shine up with a regular wipe down using a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Try to wipe down after each use to prevent water spots.
Choosing the best bathroom layout
9. Ask the experts
You can get all the advice and inspiration you need from those in the know such as our partner showrooms around the world displaying and selling Perrin & Rowe, Riobel and Victoria + Albert. Find your nearest showroom here.
10. Find inspiration
You can find ideas and inspiration everywhere, from hotel and spa bathrooms, friends’ homes, Instagram, Houzz, Pinterest, brochures and glossy interiors mags.
11. Double up with twin basins
“Catherine Zeta-Jones, married to Michael Douglas for 25 years, has been quoted as saying the secret of a happy marriage is separate bathrooms. At House of Rohl, we have seen a trend towards larger vanity units, with twin washbasins. Increasingly these are countertop basins, sitting on top of the unit rather than within it, adding a design feature to the room.
For an extra touch of luxury, opt for a matt finish to gently diffuse the light.” Nigel Palmer, Head of Communications Marketing for House of Rohl.
12. Go big on storage
Once you’ve selected your beautiful products to create your perfect layout, don’t forget to include savvy storage. Vanity units are your best friend when it comes to keeping clutter hidden. Opt for drawer designs or units with integrated storage to keep the space looking calm and clean.
Image credit: Victoria + Albert Napoli 57 Basin. Design: Valentine Interiors + Design | Build: Justyn Dunn | Photography: Loic Le GuillyWhat are the rules when designing a bathroom?
13. Stick to a budget
Work out how much you want to spend, including labour, and stick to it. Always have a little put aside for any unforeseen issues.
14. Check your water pressure
Not the most exciting step, but an important one. Make sure your water pressure matches your chosen fittings. Many brassware collections need a certain pressure to work properly, and a booster pump might be worth the investment.
15. Pick the right materials
From acrylic to stone composite, your bath material matters. Victoria + Albert’s QUARRYCAST™ material made from a unique blend of Volcanic Limestone™ and high-performance resins is a brilliant choice - warm to the touch, strong and naturally insulating. Plus, it holds heat beautifully.
Victoria + Albert Amiata16. Never overlook lighting
Layered lighting can give your bathroom a mix of both task and ambient lighting. Always check the IP rating to ensure the lighting is waterproof for the different zones.
17. Be organised
Planning and designing a new bathroom can be a stress-free journey but only if you remain focussed and get organised.
18. Stay true to your style
Last but not least - this space is for you, so make it personal. Whether you love traditional touches or modern minimalism, House of Rohl has the pieces to bring your vision to life. Take a look at our full quality bathroom collection or get inspired by interior designer, Emma Merry’s expert Q&A.
Inspired by the way you live
@rosannafalconer
@halfpenny_at_home
@phoebenicol.interiors
@howarkdesign