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Small Bathroom Designs: 6 Ideas for Your Downstairs Cloakroom
When you’re designing a small bathroom, it can often feel like you have to prioritize function over style. You’ve only got so much room to experiment with and it’s easy for fixtures to make the space look cramped.
With the right downstairs cloakroom ideas, though, you can optimize your use of space while adding a distinct and timeless style. In this article, we explore six ideas to help you do so. Look out for tips from interior designers, smart, space-saving product recommendations and installation tips.
6 downstairs cloakroom ideas to optimize your space
Ready to get started? We’ve included tips you can implement right away as well as larger, more transformative ideas.
1. Choose the right colour for your walls
It’s common knowledge that lighter colours tend to be more effective in making a room look larger. And as Interior Designer Tanya Peters points out, “‘A light wall colour will allow the natural light to move around the space.” Here are some excellent colour choices for your bathroom walls:
- Creams, whites and beiges
- Pale, pastel blues and greens
- Light grey
If you want to add brighter colours, you can do so in accents. These will create a sense of depth and add a touch of sophistication, but you need to make sure that the overall colour scheme is unbroken light.
2. Make good use of mirrors
Mirrors are a great trick when you’re looking to maximize space in a room. By strategically placing them across from a natural light source or adjacent to light fixtures, you can amplify the perception of depth and create the illusion of a larger space.
Mirrored cabinets are also a great way to achieve this effect, providing extra storage space at the same time. Take a look at ours as an example — it even comes with inbuilt lights to make your room feel more inviting.
3. Choose the right lighting solution
The optimal lighting solution will enhance your bathroom, making it appear larger and more inviting. The wrong choice can make your space feel dingy and claustrophobic.
Consider incorporating these tips into your lighting plan:
- Maximize natural light by keeping windows unobstructed and using frosted glass for privacy
- Install a skylight if no windows are available
- Combine different types of lighting, such as ambient, task, and accent lights, to create depth
- Use overhead fixtures, vanity lights, and wall sconces strategically to eliminate shadows and evenly illuminate the room
- Use lighting fixtures with a high Color Rendering Index (CRI) to add brightness to colours in the space
4. Use vertical space
Designer Natalia Miyar describes that “'Decorating vertically allows you to utilize different levels and is a great way to make use of empty space in a scheme.” You can make the most out of your bathroom, by including these features:
- A wall-mounted toilet brush to keep the floor clear
- A wall-hung toilet to create a sleek, modern look
- Wall-mounted storage units to keep your bathroom organized (more on storage later)
5. Install a cloakroom basin
A cloakroom basin, also known as a wall-hung basin, is specifically designed to fit into tight spaces like corners. This allows you to make efficient use of space and create a more streamlined bathroom layout. You can also incorporate extra storage solutions underneath it.
6. Minimize clutter
The biggest thing to avoid in a small bathroom is clutter. All of the light-optimizing and space-saving tricks in the world can’t save you if you simply have too many things in your room.
Introduce wall-hung vanities, mirrored cabinets and plenty of containers to keep your space tidy. You should also look to introduce open shelving to break things up visually.
Making your small bathroom work for you
If you’re ready to transform your small bathroom and want help bringing these downstairs cloakroom ideas to life, get in touch. Our range of wall-hung accessories, innovative toilets and smart storage solutions are exactly what you need to create a sleek, modern design.Related Products
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There’s nothing quite like a statement freestanding bath for a luxury statement-making bathroom design. They can be used in countless ways to enhance a bathroom depending on your style preferences, and aren’t just restricted to huge spaces. We’ve put together a selection of freestanding bath ideas to help get your creative juices flowing: Surround Your Freestanding Bath With Plants https://pin.it/6uRmWst63 The ideal nature-inspired bathroom design. Tuck your freestanding bath in a corner and surround it with different houseplants to help you benefit from all of the psychological advantages of being in nature . Monochrome Freestanding Bath https://pin.it/kFSrbIb7q Combine black and white decor with a white freestanding bath to make a huge impact on your bathroom. It’s a statement piece and works excellently with white marbled tiles or flooring, including black or grey veins. A Spiritual Half-Moon Freestanding Bath https://pin.it/7c2uF1p7H This oval bath style gives off zen vibes with its almost perfectly spherical look. Its smooth curves around the sides blend in beautifully with the background, minimising sharp shapes and edges and emanating a feeling of calm and relaxation. A Freestanding Bath With A View https://pin.it/1jgx0tQcp An ideal choice if you don’t have space for a freestanding bath in your bathroom, but do have a vast open area overlooking your garden or balcony area. It’s the sort of style you see in 5* hotels, allowing you to relax in the tub with amazing views spread out before you. Space-Saving Freestanding Bath https://pin.it/4cJVHxXpf We love this idea with our Orta Solid Surface Bath as it helps you get a freestanding bath into a small area. Tuck it away in a corner to minimise the space it takes up and combine with an open shower/wet room. The perfect way to design a practical bathroom with room to relax. Tapless Freestanding Bath https://pin.it/4ovIO0Ci6 The double ended bath helps you create loads of extra space in the tub to lie back and relax. Instead of having the taps on the bath itself, build one into a nearby wall and place the tub next to it. Water flows in, but you’re not losing a few inches to the metal fittings! Home Spa Freestanding Bath https://pin.it/41ZbpyQRD Of all the freestanding bath ideas, this one is the best for any home spa lovers. We love pairing a bath with brickwork on the walls and very soft/warm lighting. Neutral tiles and some wooden mats further create the ambience and feeling of being in a real spa. All you’re missing is the calming spa music in the background! Egg-Shaped Bath https://pin.it/6qYUknq2r This has to be the ultimate trend for any modern bathroom design - the egg bath. By having one side of the bath slope down at a softer angle, it gives you a lovely back support to lie back and seriously relax. No more sitting upright or sliding down your 90 degree bath angle, this is pure luxury!
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Bathroom Ideas for a Tiny Downstairs Toilet - Furniture, Design, Fittings
Light, Expansive Colour Scheme https://pin.it/2Mq0O8K4n In a small bathroom, you’ll want to avoid colours that are too bold or too dark. Dark colours across the walls can make the room feel a little claustrophobic and stuffy, while lots of bold colours can be overwhelming in a more enclosed space. We recommend opting for neutral colours, such as white, creme, light browns or light greys. These colours provide the perfect backdrop for adding brighter accents to the room. Patterned Tiles Tiles with vertical lines give the sense of height and space in a smaller room. Consider adding one feature wall of tiles that stretch up to the ceiling, to give the space character and also help draw the eye up the long wall. Wall Hung Furniture https://pin.it/4cqSVYK2K Adding floating fixtures is a great way to maximise space and make your bathroom feel uncluttered. Opt for a Wall Hung toilet or a floating Vanity Unit instead of floor-fixed furniture. Strategically Placed Mirrors https://pin.it/OKA3MeJCF Opt for a mirrored cabinet in your bathroom and place it where natural light can reflect off of it. A large mirror above the sink or mirrored cabinets can reflect light and make the room feel more spacious. Handy Storage Solutions Incorporate handy storage solutions such as built-in shelves and under-sink storage. These will keep your bathroom organised and free of clutter without compromising on style. Cloakroom Fixtures https://pin.it/2S7Gh6v2e You can get special bathroom basins and vanity units designed specifically for cloakrooms. Our cloakroom basin is the perfect example of a small unit, with a basin, that is built for small bathrooms. Colourful Art It’s always good to draw the eye and give the brain something to focus on when in a small space. Adding mini art pieces that are interesting and creative to the walls can give your space a sense of intrigue and imagination - occupying the mind to focus on the art instead of the size of the space! Greenery and Plant Life Introduce small potted plants or hanging planters to bring a bit of nature indoors. Plants like ferns and succulents thrive in humid environments and can add a fresh, lively touch. Minimalist Design https://pin.it/6EOWXFs6G With your furniture and fittings, you’ll want to opt for pieces with clean lines and a modern, minimalist feel. Less is more, in this case, and you could end up with a space that feels quite overwhelming and cluttered if you go for very busy pieces of furniture. -
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. https://pin.it/4wVmtuqdc 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. -
9 Tips and Ideas for a Colour Drenched Bathroom
Colour drenching is simply choosing a single colour and having every single piece of furniture, wallpaper and tiling in that one colour, for example. Colour drenching is hugely on-trend, whether it’s single-colour outfits or interior living spaces. It’s certainly a bold statement choice - not for the faint hearted, but how exactly do you implement colour drenching? This blog will give you 9 tips and ideas to help you get your colour drenched bathroom just right. 1. Choose a Bespoke Colour Scheme https://pin.it/3ok76dNpV Start by selecting a bespoke colour scheme that reflects your personality. It helps to understand what you want to get from spending time in your bathroom - are you one to soak in the bath with a few candles and a book? Or is your bathroom where you have a cold shower in the morning and play your favourite playlist to get pumped before the gym? Choose colours that facilitate your personal needs. According to colour psychology, different hues evoke different emotions. For example, blues and greens are calming and can create a spa-like atmosphere, while reds and oranges are energising and can make the space feel warm and lively. 2. Use Colour Blocking Colour blocking typically involves choosing different colours for different walls, but since we’re colour drenching, you can opt for a slightly different version of this technique. For instance, you can paint one wall in a vibrant shade of blue while keeping the other walls a more muted or pastel blue. Alternatively, use coloured tiles to create bold patterns. Colour blocking can help break up the intensity of colour drenching and can even help you section off different parts of your bathroom. 3. Incorporate Accent Colours Introduce accent colours through accessories and fixtures. Towels, rugs, soap dispensers, and even tap handles in bold hues can add pops of colour without overwhelming the space. This works especially well if you choose a more neutral colour for your colour drench, and then use your accessories and fixtures as an opportunity to go bright and bold. 4. Use Different Textures https://pin.it/6XJrDbZP6 Using different textures and finishes within the same colour family, such as glossy tiles, matte paint, and plush towels, adds depth and interest. You can even play with shaggy rugs near your freestanding bath, or clay plant pots to create interest in the corners of the room. 5. Play with Patterns Pattern drenching in a bathroom, a design approach popularised by interior designer Kelly Wearstler, involves enveloping the space in a single pattern across various surfaces. This technique can make a small bathroom feel larger and more cohesive. To achieve this, choose a pattern that complements your overall design theme and apply it to walls, floors, and even the ceiling. Balancing the boldness of the pattern with neutral fixtures and minimal decor ensures the space remains elegant and not overwhelming. 6. Balance with Neutrals https://pin.it/1rcIlrznP While bold colours can be invigorating, balancing them with neutral tones can prevent the space from feeling overwhelming. Use white, grey, or beige for larger elements like bathtubs, sinks, and countertops. This balance ensures that the bold colours stand out without dominating the entire space. 7. Highlight with Lighting Proper lighting can enhance the impact of your colour choices. Use warm lighting to highlight warmer tones like reds and oranges, and cool lighting to accentuate blues and greens. Layering different types of lighting, such as ambient, task, and accent lighting, can create a balanced and calming atmosphere. 8. Ceiling Colour for a Cohesive Look https://pin.it/1Iq8Gd7lE Often overlooked, the ceiling is the perfect opportunity to enhance your colour-drenched bathroom. Painting the ceiling in the same bold hue as the walls can create a cohesive, enveloping effect that makes the space feel more unified and immersive. This technique can also make the room feel larger and more harmonious. Colour psychology suggests that continuing the colour onto the ceiling can create a sense of completeness and continuity, enhancing the overall impact of the colour scheme. 9. Add Greenery for a Fresh Touch Incorporate plants into your colour-drenched bathroom for a fresh, natural element. Greenery can complement any colour scheme and add a sense of tranquillity. Choose plants that thrive in humid environments, such as ferns, orchids, and spider plants, to ensure they flourish in your bathroom.