Prespa L-shaped Shower Bath, by BathEmpire

Benefit both worlds

The trend in recent years has turned mainly to showers, with baths being seen as more of a luxury treat at the end of a hard week at work. Yet, when considering the resale value of our property, we are constantly reminded that a modern bath is needed to sell the idea of a ‘family’ home. Therefore, why not gain the benefits of both worlds, and merge the two in a shower bath.

However, if space is really at a premium, then a wet room presents a solution. With a stylish glass screen sealing the shower area, a wet room allows maximum use of the central space in a room, as other essential items can be placed around it.

Space Savers

Holt Counter Top Basin, by BathEmpire

As mentioned in our earlier post on large bathrooms, dark furniture is definitely making a comeback.

You can finish the contemporary look with some Lassen Wenge furniture, such as this floor standing cabinet. The integrated basin stands securely above the deep drawers, which benefit from soft-close technology meaning the sharp sound of slamming cupboards is now a thing of the past.

As an alternative, should you fancy a more open look, then you may be suited to this Holt counter top basin. Combined with the powerful angular design of the Canim mixer tap and the Virginia tower radiator, this look will be equally elegant.

For further products suited to urban bathrooms, be sure to check out the range at BathEmpire.

Baringo Freestanding Bath by BathEmpire

Unlike smaller areas – where there are a limited set of opportunities – the freedom you have with large bathrooms mean that a plethora of choices are available to you. From contemporary minimalism to vintage design, take the time to plan the atmosphere you are aiming for – and take care to avoid a mish-mash of styles.

Big, bold and elegant

Throughout the week, showers take priority and there are some recent entrants onto the market which really shout style. A few weeks ago, we posted about this huge half-metre shower head; if you want to remain the envy of your friends, this really is a product to consider.

Natasha Radiator by BathEmpire

However, at the weekend after a long week, it is your duty to chill out and relax in a bath. A freestanding bath, such as this Baringo bath, is an excellent centrepiece to capture attention. Other items, such as this contemporary Sinoe toilet and Palena pedestal basin will complement but not distract attention from the bath, ensuring that it remains the focal point of the room.

Sleek and contemporary

In days gone by, radiators have not been associated with chic design. They were only installed in bathrooms due to the ultimate need to keep warm, and were located at the side of rooms or placed in less conspicuous areas. However, the rise of chrome radiators have drawn attention once again to the humble radiator, and nowadays there are a variety of designs. The slender chrome panels of this radiator are sure to command a powerful presence in any room.

Given that dark colours are making a comeback, combine with Dark Wenge furniture to complete the contemporary, minimalist theme.

Be sure to check out the best selling items suited to larger bathrooms at BathEmpire.

After all, when you’re having a bath or shower it’s one of the few chances in your day when you get to escape from modern life.

The shape of the Cohora freestanding bath from BathEmpire makes it resemble a pebble

In my own bathroom, for example, I have pebbles which I’ve collected from trips to the beach, a couple of plants and a grey slate floor.

There are lots of other ideas which can help to bring the outdoors in, and make your bathroom seem like a place where you can be at-one with nature, which in turn can help you relax.

One great idea is to have shelves, and even work benches, made from natural wood.

As long as it’s treated, it should be able to withstand the moisture in the bathroom – just as wooden floors can.

Choosing bathroom storage in natural materials – wood, perhaps, or simple wicker will also help to breathe life into the room.

Driftwood tealight holders from buythesea-bymail.co.uk

The accessories you choose can be really important too. Think about buying decorative shells, and candle-holders or plant pots made from wood or stone.

If you’re prepared to undertake the maintenance then a fish tank in the bathroom could work well – you could have one set into a half-wall to divide areas of the bathroom – for instance to screen the toilet off from the bath.

Obviously the biggest ‘bang for your buck’ can come from a simple re-paint. There are some great natural shades around at the moment, from sand to slate grey.

When you’re choosing your bathroom suite, it’s best to go for shapes that seems natural – perhaps rounded, simple shapes, as opposed to anything overly ornate.

Last but not least, if it’s possible for you to open up the view from your bathroom – perhaps by having clear rather than frosted glass in the window, but then having a blind that you can pull upwards (these do exist) for privacy – then go for it.

After all, a view out into nature is the best way to make your bathroom feel natural!