Bathroom ideas and trends

There is a wide variety of products for bathroom walls, floors and vanities including ceramic tiles, timber, concrete, glass, travertine, stainless steel, granite, marble and river rock. There are endless tiles available and you are sure to find a tile in the texture, colour, shape and size to suit any style. There are even porcelain tiles that mimic other materials such as Carrara marble, concrete and timber. A simple tile laid in an eye catching pattern can add wow factor to your bathroom. Tiles that are laid in a mosaic pattern, herringbone, basket weave, windmill or subway patterns are just a few of the interesting and clever ways to add a unique style to the room.

Designing a bathroom can be a time consuming exercise. There is not a lot of scope for change once certain elements are in place, so it is best to take your time making all the decisions. Visit bathroom shops, search the internet, browse magazines and watch relevant programs on TV for ideas on trends, colours, styles and Do’s and Don’ts. An architect, Bathroom designer or Bathroom specialist can also give you expert advice on the design of your bathroom from start to finish.

Some of the key things that you will need to considered are:

- Room Size      

- Layout                          

- Bath tub            

- Free standing bath tub

- Shower/bath      

- Shower head

- Toilet      

- Bidet

- Vanity

- Storage

- Heating

- Exhaust

- Tapware

- Lighting

- Position of towel rails

- Natural light and ventilation

- Colour scheme

- Accessories

Of course many decisions will be determined not only by your budget but by such things as whether it is a new build or a renovation, the period of your home and the size of the room. If it is the one and only bathroom, a family bathroom or a combined bathroom/laundry it should be as functional, practical and spacious as possible.  

A guest bathroom or en suite may have less space but provide more scope for whimsy. You can create a hotel luxe, French chic, Scandinavian simplicity or relaxed day spa look. If you have a period home and are updating the bathrooms you can readily find baths, vanities, taps and tiles that can give a modern slant on an old look. Colour and accessories also play a big part in the overall appearance of the room. You may choose a natural look with stones and timbers which would be complemented nicely with lush green plants. A simple pale colour palette can be livened up with bright towels and décor items. Or the addition of a large pendant light or chandelier can create a luxurious feel and relaxed mood.

Be sure to get a number of quotes before you embark on the creation of your new bathroom. You could project manage a renovation yourself by sourcing the materials & products you require and then finding a builder, tiler, plumber, electrician, painter and rubbish removalist to do the work. Or you could find a Bathroom specialist who will be able to offer advice, source products and trades, oversee and complete the job from start to finish. Go to the home improvement listings at Homeimprovement2day for all your requirements.