Expert Advice on Remodelling Your Bathroom - Top Tips
Planning Your Remodel
Set a Budget
Determine Your Budget Range
Start by deciding how much you are willing to spend. Consider your financial situation and how much value the remodel will add to your home.
Research Costs
Research the costs of materials, fixtures, and labour. Look into the price range for tiles, countertops, vanities, plumbing, and electrical work. This helps you understand what you can afford and where you might need to compromise.
Include a Contingency Fund
Allocate 10-20% of your budget for unexpected expenses. Issues like hidden water damage or structural problems can arise during the remodel, so it’s wise to have extra funds set aside.
Get Multiple Quotes
Obtain quotes from several contractors to ensure you’re getting a fair price. Compare their services and prices to make an informed decision.
Design Considerations
Choose Space-Saving Fixtures
Select compact, multi-functional fixtures. Wall-mounted sinks and toilets free up floor space, making the bathroom feel larger. Corner sinks and rounded vanities can also save space while providing necessary functionality.
Use Built-In Storage
Incorporate built-in storage solutions to keep the bathroom organised without taking up extra space. Recessed shelves, medicine cabinets, and built-in niches in the shower can store essentials neatly and efficiently.
Utilise Vertical Space
Make use of vertical space by installing shelves or cabinets that extend upwards. Tall, narrow storage units and wall-mounted cabinets can hold toiletries and towels without crowding the room.
Light and Reflective Surfaces
Use light colours and reflective surfaces to make the space appear larger. Light-coloured tiles, mirrors, and glass shower enclosures can create an airy, open feel. Mirrors, in particular, can enhance the perception of space by reflecting light and giving the illusion of a larger area.
Choose the Right Materials
Durable and Non-Porous Flooring
Opt for non-porous flooring materials like porcelain or ceramic tiles that are highly resistant to moisture and stains. For a luxurious touch, consider natural stone like marble or granite, but ensure it's properly sealed to prevent water damage. Large-format tiles can minimise grout lines, reducing maintenance and creating a sleek look.
Moisture-Resistant Wall Materials
For walls, prioritise materials that can handle high humidity and frequent cleaning. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are excellent for their durability and ease of maintenance. Glass tiles can add a contemporary touch and reflect light, making the space feel larger.
Innovative and Hygienic Surfaces
Consider innovative materials like Beyonstone™ for sinks and countertops. Beyonstone™ offers exceptional resistance to impact, stains, scratches, and yellowing, and can withstand the use of chemical products. It is also easily restored from stains and damages. Additionally, Beyonstone™ provides antifungal, antibacterial, and self-cleaning properties, ensuring a hygienic and low-maintenance surface.
Advanced Waterproofing Solutions
Incorporate advanced waterproofing solutions such as waterproof membranes and backer boards for showers and wet areas. These materials prevent water infiltration and protect underlying structures from damage.
Style and Aesthetics
Understand Colour Psychology
Colour psychology can help you create the desired mood in your bathroom. Cool colours like blues and greens create a sense of calmness and relaxation, making them ideal for a spa-like atmosphere. Warm colours like reds, oranges, and yellows create an energising and welcoming environment. Neutral tones such as whites, greys, and beiges offer a timeless and versatile backdrop.
Start with a Base Colour
Select a base colour that will dominate the space. This could be a neutral shade for a classic look or a bold hue for a more dramatic effect. Use this base colour for the main elements like walls, floors, and major fixtures.
Choose Complementary Accent Colours
Pick one or two accent colours to complement the base colour. These can be used for smaller elements such as towels, accessories, and decorative items. Complementary colours can add depth and interest without overwhelming the space. Tools like colour wheels can help you identify harmonious combinations.
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Consider the Size and Lighting
The size of your bathroom and the amount of natural light it receives should influence your colour choices. Lighter colours can make small bathrooms feel more spacious, while darker shades can add cosiness to larger spaces. Ensure that your colour scheme works well under both natural and artificial lighting.
Test Paint Samples
Before committing to a colour scheme, test paint samples on your bathroom walls. Watch how the colours look at different times of the day and under different lighting conditions.
Incorporate Texture and Patterns
Make things interesting by incorporating different textures and patterns within your colour scheme. Textured tiles, patterned wallpaper, or mosaic accents can enhance the overall design. Ensure that these elements complement your colour palette to maintain a cohesive look.
Use Colour to Highlight Features
Use your colour scheme to highlight architectural features or focal points in the bathroom. For example, a bold colour can be used to draw attention to a beautiful vanity or a unique tile design.
Practical Tips - Energy and Water Efficiency
Dual-Flush Toilets
Consider installing a dual-flush toilet, which offers two flushing options: a lower volume for liquid waste and a higher volume for solid waste. This can save a significant amount of water over time.
Use a Water Heater Timer
Install a timer on your water heater to reduce energy usage. A timer can ensure that the water heater only operates during peak usage times, saving energy and reducing your utility bills.
Greywater Recycling Systems
Consider incorporating a greywater recycling system, which collects water from sinks, showers, and washing machines for reuse in toilet flushing or irrigation. This can significantly reduce your household's overall water consumption.
Smart Water Monitoring Systems
Use smart water monitoring systems to track your water usage and identify potential areas for improvement. These systems can provide real-time data and alerts for leaks, helping you manage water use more effectively.
Insulate Water Pipes
Insulate your water pipes to reduce heat loss and improve the efficiency of your hot water system. This can help you save energy and reduce the time it takes for hot water to reach your taps, reducing water waste.
Plan for Accessibility
Install Grab Bars
Place grab bars in strategic locations such as near the toilet, in the shower, and beside the bathtub. These provide support and stability, reducing the risk of falls.
Choose a Walk-In Shower
A walk-in shower with a low or no threshold is easier to access than a traditional bathtub. Include a built-in or fold-down shower seat for added convenience and safety. Non-slip flooring in the shower area is essential to prevent accidents.
Non-Slip Flooring
Install non-slip flooring throughout the bathroom to reduce the risk of slips and falls. Textured tiles, rubber flooring, or specially designed non-slip vinyl can provide a safer surface.
Adjustable Showerheads
An adjustable showerhead with a handheld option can make showering easier for individuals with limited mobility. Mount it on a sliding bar to allow for height adjustments, accommodating users of different heights and needs.
Comfort-Height Toilets
Comfort-height toilets are taller than standard models, making it easier for individuals with mobility issues to sit and stand. These toilets reduce strain on the knees and back, providing a more comfortable experience.
Widen Doorways
If space allows, widen doorways to accommodate wheelchairs or walkers. A doorway width of at least 32 inches is recommended for accessibility. Consider pocket doors or sliding doors to save space and improve manoeuvrability.
Accessible Storage
Ensure storage solutions are within easy reach. Lower shelves, pull-out drawers, and open shelving can make it easier to access toiletries and other essentials. Avoid high cabinets that require reaching or climbing.
Summary
We know that planning a bathroom remodel can feel like a scary and overwhelming task, but hopefully this article helped you understand some of the key points to consider.
If you’re ready to start your bathroom remodel, contact 34 St. John for professional advice and high-quality products. Schedule a consultation and begin transforming your bathroom into a beautiful, functional space.
About Kevin Sears
Kevin Sears is a bathroom and interior design blogger here at 34 St John. He creates original content utilising his extensive knowledge of the bathroom industry and latest trends.
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![How to Pull Off an Open Plan Bedroom Bathroom Design]()
How to Pull Off an Open Plan Bedroom Bathroom Design
Imagine a space where morning light spills across Italian marble floors, sweeping from your silk-draped bed to your freestanding stone bath. An open plan bedroom bathroom revolutionises the way we think about personal space, offering a fresh approach to modern living. This guide will take you through the essential elements of creating a successful open plan design, from practical considerations to luxury finishes. Whether you're renovating or building from scratch, you'll discover how to craft a space that perfectly maintains the privacy and comfort you need. Making Space Work Smarter The secret to an exceptional open plan layout lies in how you'll actually live in it. Map out your morning routine, from the first stretch in bed to your final glance in the mirror. Position your vanity unit where natural light hits your face, not your back. Consider placing your shower or tub where you can glimpse the morning sky. A partial wall at 4-5 feet height can house plumbing while doubling as a backdrop for your bed. https://pin.it/76sQe36Xr Choosing Materials That Last Skip the standard bathroom tiles. Instead, experiment with continuous surfaces that can handle both wet and dry areas. Polished concrete flows beautifully from bedroom to bathroom, developing a rich patina over time. For walls, marine-grade teak brings warmth while withstanding moisture. If marble catches your eye, book-matched slabs create dramatic impact, consider carrying a single piece up the wall and across the floor. Every material you choose will be on constant display, so invest in quality that can handle daily exposure to moisture. https://pin.it/7DVvJ88PH Making Privacy Work Make sure to address the elephant in the room - privacy. Consider installing electrochromic glass panels that switch from clear to opaque. Or take inspiration from Japanese architecture with sliding wooden screens that double as art pieces. Think of privacy elements as art installations that enhance rather than divide your space. https://pin.it/1RI2V8e43 Mastering the Light Your lighting should tell a story throughout the day, starting with discreet LED strips tucked beneath floating vanities and along floor transitions to guide your midnight wanderings with a gentle glow. By your bed, mount reading lights that pivot smoothly to wash your bathroom space in warmth when desired. Let nature play its part by carving out a skylight above your shower, where sunlight paints shifting patterns across marble and glass. https://pin.it/NeM0pHYdf Controlling Climate and Comfort The most important aspect of open plan bathrooms is perfecting the climate control. Install a multi-speed ventilation system with separate fans for shower and toilet areas. Underfloor heating should extend throughout the entire space, with separate zones for wet and dry areas. Position air vents strategically to prevent steam from condensing on your bedroom mirrors and to keep your bedding fresh. Adding a heated towel rack will also help manage moisture while keeping linens fresh and ready for use. https://pin.it/4eqSukEUE Smart Storage Solutions Your space should work like a well-designed yacht where every inch serves a purpose. Create a shower niche visible from your bed with enough depth to showcase art pieces when not storing toiletries. Place a rotating closet system within arm's reach of your shower, ensuring tomorrow's outfit is always perfectly positioned for your morning routine. The artistry lies in concealing these storage solutions so thoroughly that they vanish into your design. Getting the Details Right Success lies in the details that bridge both spaces. Install a surround-sound speaker system with waterproof bathroom speakers that sync perfectly with your bedroom audio, letting your music flow seamlessly as you move between spaces. Select unified fixtures and accessories in brass throughout, from your shower head to your bedside lamps. Try to hide charging stations inside vanity drawers where your devices can power up while staying protected from bathroom steam. Position a beverage station where it's reachable from both your bed and bath, perfect for morning coffee while you run the shower or evening tea as you wind down. These thoughtful connections between bedroom and bathroom spaces transform two rooms into one luxurious retreat where every detail feels considered. https://pin.it/6GEAhra34 -
![How to Create a Boutique Hotel Style Bathroom]()
How to Create a Boutique Hotel Style Bathroom
That moment when you swing open a hotel bathroom door and your breath catches, it's not just clever marketing at work. Forget the myth that you need massive square footage, what matters most is the strategic choices that transform your daily routine into a retreat experience. Whether you're planning a full renovation or looking to upgrade your existing space, we want to show you how to create a hotel style bathroom that makes you feel like you're on vacation every single day. https://pin.it/4zwJ9TLQP Take Inspiration from Hotel Styles The world's most memorable boutique hotels each tell a unique design story. Consider the minimalist theme of Copenhagen's hotels, where fluted wooden vanities meet curved mirrors and matte black fixtures. Or step into a Parisian bathroom where bold marble contrasts with industrial black metalwork and vintage-inspired lighting. For a more relaxed vibe, look to Australia's coastal hotels, where bleached wood meets textured limestone and oversized windows blur the line between indoors and out. https://pin.it/5naKT5V8x Choose a Relaxing Colour Palette Colour sets the mood for your daily rituals. The most spa-like hotel bathrooms start with a powerful base; think crisp whites with subtle grey veining, creamy stone that catches morning light, or charcoal that grounds the space. Layer in contrast through fixtures and finishes, matte black taps against white tiles create visual anchors, while brushed brass brings warmth to cool greys. The trick lies in restraint, limit yourself to three finishes and let natural materials add subtle variations. https://pin.it/3kboxkJ8l Add Fluted Furniture for Texture Transform flat surfaces into visual stories with fluted details, a design tactic borrowed from the world's leading hotels. A fluted wooden vanity turns a basic storage piece into a sculptural element. Modern boutique hotels often use this architectural detail in unexpected ways, think curved fluted tiles wrapping around a shower enclosure, or a reeded glass partition that separates the vanity from the toilet. https://pin.it/VImnFOOlb Focus on Comfortable Lighting Light makes or breaks a bathroom's atmosphere, it's why hotel bathrooms always seem to make you look better. The secret lies in strategic layering; mount sconces at eye level to eliminate unflattering shadows, install dimmable downlights for tasks, and add a backlit mirror that creates that coveted soft glow around your reflection. Install dimmers on every circuit, including the shower light, and watch your bathroom transform into a personal sanctuary. No single light source should do all the work, it's the interplay between layers that creates that perfect boutique hotel ambiance. https://pin.it/1Qynhg4Zm Choose High-Quality Materials The magic of hotel bathrooms isn't just what you see, it's what you touch. Focus your design plans on the daily contact points, taps that feel perfectly weighted, shower controls that turn with precision, drawers that glide shut silently. Choose large-format porcelain tiles that give you premium looks with practical benefits, better durability, easier cleaning, and none of the maintenance headaches. When it comes to brassware, invest in finishes that get better with age. Quality shows in the details, the smooth edges of a vanity top, the solid feel of a shower screen, the precise alignment of tile work. https://pin.it/1P47NeaDO Include a Freestanding Bath or Walk-In Shower The heart of every standout hotel bathroom is either a statement shower or bath that makes you want to linger. A freestanding tub, thoughtfully positioned to catch natural light, transforms your evenings into a moment of escape. If you have a smaller bathroom, consider a walk-in shower with floor-to-ceiling glass creates that same sense of luxury while making your bathroom feel larger than it is. https://pin.it/HDY4atFVp Layer Soft Textiles Invest in properly weighted towels that get softer with each wash, and buy extras so you can rotate them like hotels do. A deeply cushioned bath mat in pure cotton or bamboo makes that first step out of the shower feel indulgent. Skip the budget bathrobes and find one that's worthy of keeping on display, think waffle-weave cotton or soft linen that looks better and slightly rumpled. Keep your palette tonal with warm whites, soft greys, or deep charcoals to create that considered look. Then master the art of display, roll your hand towels instead of folding them, stack your bath sheets with precision, and keep your robe draped. https://pin.it/4Theqqge8 Keep Storage Simple and Tidy Start with a vanity unit that works hard, think deep drawers with internal organisers, a hidden electrical socket for your toothbrush, and a designated spot for every daily essential. If you're adding open shelving, treat it like a display space rather than storage, a few carefully chosen trinkets in natural materials make more impact than a cluster of products. Incorporate a med-cabinet behind your mirror for those less-than-photogenic necessities, and consider built-in shower niches that keep shampoo bottles off the floor. The goal isn't minimal living, it's smart storage that lets you keep everything you need within reach while maintaining that calm, collected hotel feeling. https://pin.it/5Z0CdyDQk Add a Touch of Greenery Boutique hotels know that greenery connects you to that holiday feeling faster than any design trick. Choose plants that love steamy conditions, a cascading fern creating shadows in your shower alcove, a glossy lily thriving on your vanity, or a statement monstera commanding attention in a corner. Try to think beyond the basic bathroom plant, keep your pots simple in natural materials like terracotta or concrete. And here's the insider tip; one oversized plant makes more impact than several small ones. https://pin.it/1T0gAwx18 Finish with Personal Touches Creating a boutique hotel-inspired bathroom is about focusing on the elements that matter most, whether that's a rainfall shower that drenches away stress or perfectly positioned lights that make every reflection flattering. Keep your palette restrained, your storage smart, and your materials honest. When each element serves both form and function, you'll create a space that feels like your own personal sanctuary, no room service required. For more guidance, you can consult our bathroom design service, where experts are ready to help bring your vision to life. -
![15 Ideas for a Glam Black and White Bathroom Design]()
15 Ideas for a Glam Black and White Bathroom Design
When it comes to bathroom design, few combinations capture attention like black and white. These two colours are uniquely versatile. They fit effortlessly into various styles but are most at home in a glamorous, luxury-inspired setting Let’s dive into 15 ways to create a stunning black and white bathroom that matches your vision of glamour. 1. Add a pop of colour to keep things bright https://pin.it/2ZElYT4VK Choosing a colour to compliment the backdrop of black and white has to be chosen carefully. When aiming for glam, only a handful of colours fit the bill, like dark greens, bold reds, gold or brass, and deep blues. While these colours are on the darker end of the spectrum, they still make a powerful statement the moment you step into your bathroom. To create this effect, consider using the colour in a standout piece like a vanity unit, an accent wall, or a unique decorative sculpture. 2. Use art to switch up the scenery https://pin.it/7eEIJeTab Art is a brilliant way to express your personality through design, adding a deeply personal touch to your home. While it’s key to showcase your individual style, be sure to choose art pieces that complement the glam black and white theme. Framed artwork has long been popular for creating a focal point, but current trends are taking it a step further, with art extending beyond frames and onto the walls themselves for a more immersive experience. 3. Make it feel warmer with brass or matte black taps https://pin.it/27CFQyjrF Adding a bit of glam and luxury to a monochrome bathroom can be as simple as upgrading your shower or basin taps. Brass or matte black taps will give the space a fresh, sophisticated edge. Your hard furnishings are also the best way to modernise your space - so if your bathroom is feeling a little dated and needs bringing into the present, perhaps consider trendy metals and a fresh paint job before a complete refurbishment. 4. Give the space texture with fluted furniture (super trendy) https://pin.it/7FNtpmvTD Fluted furniture is a huge trend at the moment. You’ll find fluted breakfast bars, fluted vanity units or even beds in all of the top hotels and bars. Adding texture to our furniture gives it a unique edge, especially with the high-end feel of a monochrome theme. These pieces act as subtle focal points. To round out the look, consider adding more fluted furniture to the space. 5. Be very specific about your lighting https://pin.it/26R0edJhw Setting the tone in your bathroom with adjustable lighting is a perfect way to create an immersive spa-like experience. In a black and white bathroom, lighting can brighten beautifully against the white during the day or soften into a moody ambiance in the evening. For a touch of added glamour in your bathroom, consider smart lighting that gradually dims as the day transitions to night. 6. Install floor-to-ceiling mirrors https://pin.it/4Ibw2B91M A full-height mirror transforms your bathroom's sense of space. Position it opposite a window to bounce natural light throughout the room, or place it behind your vanity to create depth. Consider adding a subtle frame in matt black or brass to tie it into your colour scheme. 7. Choose natural stone https://pin.it/53wBamQrb Marble remains the ultimate choice for a monochrome bathroom. Black and white marble creates natural pattern variation without overwhelming the space. Use it for your worktops, splashbacks or shower walls. If marble exceeds your budget, porcelain tiles with a marble effect are a great alternative. You can also opt for stone-look baths, as they offer all luxurious and natural-looking benefits of stone without the cold surface 8. Mix your patterns https://pin.it/2FI9cadL0 Combine different patterns whilst keeping your colour scheme strict. A patterned floor paired with white wall tiles creates interest without too much chaos. The key is to vary the scale - try large floor patterns with smaller wall details 9. Frame your windows https://pin.it/5VowTNBcV Window treatments deserve attention in a monochrome scheme. Opt for: Roman blinds in water-resistant fabric Plantation shutters in pure white Simple roller blinds with black trim The right window dressing helps manage light and maintains privacy whilst complementing your design. 10. Create clever storage https://pin.it/1I16gUgWx Storage solutions should blend seamlessly into your scheme. Tall wall cabinets in matt black hide everyday items and minimise clutter, whilst open shelving in white offers space to display your favourite pieces. Remember to include a mix of hidden and visible storage. 11. Layer your lighting https://pin.it/7w01Elmz4 Your bathroom needs three lighting types: task lighting around mirrors, ambient lighting for general illumination, and accent lighting to highlight features. Install dimmers on each circuit to control the mood. 12. Select statement tiles https://pin.it/2dkuNrFKA Make one surface the star. A black herringbone pattern on the floor paired with plain white walls creates impact without overwhelming the space. Keep other elements simple when using statement tiles, and switch up the texture with plush white towels on show. 13. Add a touch of nature https://pin.it/6oHidmYpA Introduce organic materials to soften the stark black and white palette. A wooden bath mat, woven baskets, or potted plants can break up the monochrome scheme and add warmth. Think about bringing in natural textures like: Rattan toilet roll holders Wooden shelving Terracotta plant pots Woven storage baskets These natural elements prevent the bathroom from feeling too clinical, adding depth and character to your monochrome design. They also create a connection with nature, making the space feel more inviting and lived-in. Choose pieces with simple lines that won't compete with your black and white theme, but instead complement the overall aesthetic. A single large plant with dark green leaves can be really striking against a white backdrop. 14. Consider your shower screen https://pin.it/bu9gVTEpp Shower screens offer a chance to add character. Clear glass with black framework creates an industrial edge, whilst plain glass with minimal fixtures maintains simplicity. Choose a finish that matches your other metalwork. 15. Create zones https://pin.it/4fvBS29kk Define different areas through thoughtful design. Use tiles to create a shower zone, or paint to highlight the bath area. These subtle divisions help organise the space whilst maintaining visual flow. We love this zoned bathroom because they’ve used different patterns, materials and colours in quite a small space - and it works!
