Oshi Basin Mixer Tap, from BathEmpire

To help you make the right choice, we have listed the following steps and to help narrow down the options available:

Overall Style
Firstly, look at the overall decoration and style of the wider bathroom, and select a tap accordingly. A sleek chrome mixer tap, such as the Khone Basin Mixer Tap, would be a better option than trying to push a traditional style on a modern bathroom.

The Shape
It is always a good idea to match the shape of taps. So, if you are going for a bathroom with a rounded style overall, then match it with rounded taps. Similarly, if the shower head and bathroom suite have an angular design, make sure you purchase square taps. Generally, for traditionally styled showers, rounded bathroom designs suit better.

Bath or Shower Bath?
For the bath, there are a few more options – separate bath taps, bath shower mixers, and overflow fillers.

Basically, the bath shower mixers have a hand held shower outlet option connected to the main tap valve. The alternative to these are the bar mixer valves, or bar shower mixer valves; the only difference is that the bar shower mixers are thermostatic (only allowing the hot water temperature to reach 38 degrees Celsius). If you prefer, you can manually override this feature to allow hotter showers.

Overflow fillers can be fitted to straight baths; because you can use them to fill the bath, you will not need to purchase bath taps to install onto the bath. The overflow filler will let water trickle into the bath, and there are many styles available, some even with pop-up wastes. These fillers are great for a contemporary, minimalist finish.

Ease of Use
One thing you must look at is who is most likely to use the taps. If you have young children, or elderly persons using the bathroom who may have difficulty turning the tap on, then look for a lever operated tap. Another factor to look out for is ceramic disc technology. These ceramic discs have replaced the rubber washers, and so will prevent tight taps. A little consideration before the purchase ensures that everyone will be able to use the bathroom with ease!

Millions around the world will be celebrating the Chinese New Year, and 2012 represents the year of the dragon. What better way to get in tune with this than to add an Asian influence to your bathroom? Below, we cover some tips on how to decorate your Asian inspired bathroom.

Inspired by Nature

Getting an Asian influence ultimately depends on introducing a natural theme to your bathroom. A great way is to introduce green colours into the bathroom, and what better way to do this than via leaves? Use a stencil to paint an array of leaves onto the wall, or choose a fitting (such as a window blind or wall photo) in rich green or blue.

The year of the Dragon is inspired by elegant and mysterious black, dark blue and rich blue green tones. So don’t limit yourself, as the stencil can also be used to decorate the wall with Asian symbols. Remember, when adding symbols, dark colours are best suited, so ensure to keep all walls and tiles in pale tone.

Bamboo

Any exposed wood fittings also fit well with an Asian theme. Raw bamboo shoots can be added to any bathroom accessory. You can also get creative, and hang long bamboo from the ceiling to make a distinction between the shower area and the basin and toilet, or to cover an area of storage.
On wooden furniture, avoid any lacquered finishes and steer towards fittings which have a deep wood grain; to highlight the grain, paint all fittings with a good quality varnish.

Plants

All plants are essential to complete the theme, and a few soothing orchids perched above the basin would provide a complimentary finishing touch.

Khana Counter Top Basin, from BathEmpire

Don’t avoid the modern!

The Zen influence isn’t really conveyed through contemporary, ultra-chic units and shiny chrome – although including a few of these pieces in the final bathroom will not spoil the theme. The Khana counter top basin (left) from BathEmpire is ideal.

Counter top basins feature heavily in any Asian inspired bathroom, and you should always opt for a curved design and avoid harsh edges. There is no reason why you cannot add a chrome basin mixer tap to complement this bathroom basin, as long as all the essential design principles discussed are maintained.

Photo Credit: Nikisublime, Flickr.

Before you start, ensure that the shower tray is protected with cardboard or some other soft material while the work is progressing.

A Quadrant Shower Tray, from BathEmpire

Difficulty: Moderate/Hard
Timing: 8 hours for installation, but up to 24 hours before first use.
Tools:

• Jigsaw
• Spirit Level
• Claw Hammer
• Sealant Gun
• Tape Measure
• Adjustable pipe wrench
• Set of Screwdrivers
• Set of Chisels
• Drill
• Bucket

Step 1 – Plan

In your bathroom, decide where you want to put your shower enclosure tray, and mark in pencil the outline on the floor and walls. If there is an existing floor covering such as carpet or lino, ensure that this is removed. Also ensure that all walls surrounding the tray are in good condition, and free of mould or other structural damage.

Step 1a – Make an Access Hatch (Only for Level or Flush Installation)

If you choose to install the tray flush with the ground, or as a raised tray, you will not have the option to move it; therefore, this stage presents an ideal opportunity to create an access hatch.

This hatch is created so that, should there be any problem in future with the drainage of water away from the shower tray, all fittings can be checked with minimal disruption.

Choose a location near to the waste outlet, and cut a hatch with the jigsaw large enough so the main waste can be comfortably accessed.

Step 2 – Fix the Waste

The Fast Flow Waste can be swivelled in any direction, so you can position the outlet in the best possible way. When the waste outlet is attached, ensure the seal is completely watertight using silicone sealant and/or industrial tape where applicable. Remember to test the fitting is watertight at this stage!

You must also make sure that there is a fall in the waste system (a slight downward angle) for water to flow away effectively.

Screw the leg securely to the BathEmpire EasyPlumb Tray

Step 3 – Fix the Tray

Firstly, turn the tray over onto a covered flat surface (so it does not get scratched) and screw the legs into place. Once you are happy that these are secure, place against the desired location; using a spirit level, adjust the height of the legs so that the tray remains completely flat.

The tray can be fixed into place using a firm cement mix (consisting of four parts industrial sand to one part cement).

Step 4 – Add the Side Panel

Using the clips, secure the panel into place.

Once the tray and the major fixtures are in place, all that is left to do is attach the side panel to cover the internal fittings. Be aware that if the floor or walls are angled, the gaps will have to be filled using silicone sealant.

Step 5 – Add the Sealant

It is recommended to tile the wall after the installation of the tray to provide for a water tight joint. If you cannot do this, then ensure that a silicone sealer is applied not only to the edges where the tray meets the tiles, but also to seal the tray to the floor when finished.
Ensure to leave the mortar to completely dry for at least 24 hours before first use.

Note: If at any stage you are unsure about how to proceed, we recommend that you contact a qualified plumber for expert advice.

If you would like further advice in choosing your ideal bathroom, feel free to contact the BathEmpire team.

Given the truly diverse range of bathroom furniture and design available today, it is easier than ever to create a space which is both accessible and contemporary, in a style that is suited to your taste!

In the second part of this series, we focus on baths and shower enclosures.

For most people, bathrooms are fairly easy to navigate. However, once a user is faced with joint and muscular weakness, the perception of what is ‘easy’ changes very quickly.

Bathing can become somewhat more of an ordeal, and the hardest part of the process being actually getting in and out of the bathtub. One move would be to install a walk-in bath, level with the floor; however, given the price costs of such units, this would not be a viable option for many people.

Of course consult with the rest of your family first, but getting rid of the bath and opting for a shower enclosure instead can be an excellent solution – and a little less harsh on the wallet!

2 Way Shower Mixer by BathEmpire

No Burning

Choose a thermostatic temperature control and make scalding a distant memory. Such a feature will guarantee a steady stream of water, so those with limited mobility or motor control will not have to worry about moving out of the way of the scalding water. If someone flushes the toilet or opens a tap elsewhere in the house, the shower experience won’t be affected.

Slimline Tray

One essential feature to look out for when considering showers is slimline trays. While most quality shower trays are between close to 100 mm in height, there is growing popularity for more slender versions.

Some varieties, such as the Quadrant Shower Enclosure, include a slim 44mm tray with the purchase. The absence of the high step will certainly help accessibility, as less effort will be required to enter the shower, and hence less strain will be felt on the joints.

Wet Room, 1000mm, by BathEmpire

Ultimate Ease of Access

To fully negate the mobility concerns, it may be worth investing in a wet room. With no obstacles to consider, such as doors, steps or handles, wet rooms make life much easier for those with walking aids. It also enables those with chairs to manoeuvre under the shower. Although installation costs may be higher for concealing all plumbing under floor level, the result would allow independence for many years to come.

Today, there are a numerous options which combine style and practicality, ensuring a designer solution to everyday life. If you would like help or advice in creating your ideal bathroom, feel free to contact the BathEmpire team.

Given the truly diverse range of bathroom furniture and design available today, it is easier than ever to create a space which is both accessible and contemporary, in a style that is suited to your taste!

In the first part of this series, we focus on bathroom taps.

Keila Basin Mixer Tap by BathEmpire

Long Handle Taps

Traditionally, bathroom taps have been ornate with cross handles, requiring a clockwise turn to make the water flow. However, for those with arthritic joints, muscular weakness or inaccurate motor skills, this task would not be as easy.

Therefore, consider mixer taps with a long, single handle, such as those in the Kelia or Nachi range. These taps often require minimal effort – a simple movement to the left or right – to elicit the flow of water.

A good way to measure the resistance of the lever is to operate it with a single finger. If the task proved easy, then it is also likely that those with physical impairments will also find the task manageable.

Only ¼ Turn To Close Tap

Another feature to look out for in all taps is ceramic discs, which replace the customary rubber washer. Before, when tightening taps, rubber washers were used to prevent dripping. However, as these wore down, users would experience a stiff and perpetually dripping tap.

Now, a mere ¼ turn of the tap will stop the flow of water. No longer will frustration be caused by stiff taps, which may seem like you will need a spanner to open them! This process is illustrated in the video below:

Today, there are a numerous options which combine style and practicality, ensuring a designer solution to everyday life. If you would like help or advice in creating your ideal bathroom, feel free to contact the BathEmpire team.

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.

For me, ideally, it would have a huge bathtub, filled with luxurious bathing salts, it would be dimly lit with soft candlelight and would have views to die for.

This bathroom at the Silavadee Pool Spa Resort in Koh Samui, Thailand, looks like romantic bliss to me.

Heaven: the bathroom at the Silavadee Pool Spa Resort Koh Samui, Thailand. Image courtesy of kiwicollection.com

What else…? Fluffy white towels and bathrobes, beautiful décor (personally I’d choose something calming, so I could imagine I was on holiday in Thailand), and perhaps a bottle of champagne and two glasses chilling in an ice bucket.

Sounds idyllic doesn’t it?

As February 14th approaches, it’s worth remembering that  the bathroom can be one of the most romantic places in the house – a place where you can escape.

So if your bathroom is boring, bland, or a bit grotty, then you’re missing out.

Lessing freestanding bath, BathEmpire

The first thing to do is get the basics right. You need a big bath – ideally situated by the window. You’ll also need a heated towel rail so you can keep the towels and bathrobes toasty.

Get the colour scheme right – neutral, calming colours can look very cosy and romantic when lit with candlelight, although you could consider rich tones on the walls, in colours such as plum, teal or fuchsia for a different effect.

Then you need to set the scene… banish all clutter so you can relax rather than thinking about clearing up!

Invest in spacious bathroom cabinets where everything can have a place and only keep the most luxurious and attractive products on display.

Dim the lights, light quality scented candles here and there in the room.

If you’re ready to start creating your romantic bathroom in time for Valentine’s Day or ‘just because’, then take a look at BathEmpire now. Next day delivery is available.