Victorian Bathroom Design Ideas: Rediscovering Timeless Elegance
The Victorian aesthetic subscribes to the “more is more” philosophy, which seems at odds with the minimalist modern interior design ethos. But the elegant maximalist style of the early 19th century works surprisingly well in a contemporary bathroom setting.
Free-standing, centrepiece bathtubs; jewel tones; ornate washstands; patterned tiles; traditional radiators, and vintage basins can take a humdrum space and transform it into the lap of luxury, where bubble baths abound and cosiness is compulsory.
Sound good? Well, if you’re thinking of giving your bathroom a facelift with a Victorian twist, you’re in the right place, as, today, we’re presenting you with a myriad of beautiful Victorian bathroom ideas.
Defining Victorian Bathroom Design
It wasn’t until the 1920s that the modern bathroom was introduced to smaller new-build houses in England, so during the Victorian era - spanning 1837 to 1901 - only the wealthy enjoyed such a luxury.
But the elite of the time didn’t want just any bathrooms, they wanted lavish spaces teeming with ornate furniture to match the rest of their home.
Free-standing tubs with incredibly detailed feet and brass fixtures were a must-have, as were large mirrors with intricate frames - the likes of which you’ll see skirting masterwork paintings.
Flooring and tiles would often be intricately patterned with sinuous, repeating designs, and stained glass windows were essential for those who preferred to powder their nose in ultimate privacy.
High tank sinks were here, there, and everywhere, sometimes two to a room! And if the patterns weren’t to someone’s taste, solid wooden flooring was simply the done thing.
The Timeless Elegance Of Victorian Bathroom Designs
The idea of a completely Victorian style in a contemporary house is outlandish, but when it comes to the bathroom, there are numerous ways to introduce the elegance of this by-gone era.
Why is this the case?
Well, bathrooms are already distinct from the other rooms in our houses. You don’t expect to open a bathroom door of a home to be greeted by the same aesthetic you were in the lounge, kitchen, or bedroom.
The bathroom really is its own thing, and you can take advantage of this with a few eye-catching Victorian pieces. Visitors won’t be left questioning why the bathroom is so stylised when perhaps the rest of the house isn’t, they’ll simply be awestruck by the splendour of the space.
What’s more, although the Victorian style is defined by elaborate details, it’s actually quite tame and tasteful.
Because of this, the Victorian bathroom is aging remarkably well and is still very much in vogue. It’s a way to blend elevated style with modern comforts, so you feel like royalty every time you walk in the room.
Top Victorian Bathroom Ideas For Modern Homes
Central Freestanding Tub
Understandably, people worry whether moving their bathtub to the middle of the room will eat up too much space, but let this stunning design ease your mind.
It tells us that with the right amount of light, white walls, and a rugged wooden floor, the room can feel exceedingly open and airy, even with a large centrepiece embellished with stunning Victorian faucets.
Of course, it helps that this particular bathroom is quite large and has a very high ceiling, but you could take a lot of the same design principles and apply them to a smaller space.
Browse our freestanding bathtubs
Patterned Flooring
Patterns were BIG during the Victorian period, especially where flooring was concerned, and this design embraces this aspect of the style wholeheartedly.
We think this was a wise move for a bathroom with a slanted ceiling, as it celebrates the space's structural quirks. What’s more, the natural light streaming in from multiple skylights really makes the details of the tiles pop.
Now, an abundance of patterns can make a room feel smaller, but note how the designer has countered this shrinking effect with the enlarging impact of a full-wall mirror and simple white walls.
Props deserved for the chandelier placement as well — Hanging from the highest part of the ceiling, it’s glamorous and decidedly Victorian without imposing on the space below.
Twin Sinks With Brass Fixtures
Another staple of Victorian-era bathrooms was brass.
A darker metal, brass has a distinctly antiquated appearance, even when brand new, so if you’re looking for a sort of time machine experience when entering your bathroom, brass is the way to do it.
We’d also be remiss if we didn’t mention how beautifully this design blends Victorian aesthetics with mid-century minimalism to form something that seems to be highly practical and incredibly stylish.
Small Room, Big Style
Here’s a very clever contemporary Victorian design that makes excellent use of a very compact space.
The ornate, free-standing bath is obviously the most luxurious piece of furniture in the room, but it also blends in with the hexagonal floor tiles of a similar color, meaning your eye is drawn to the beaten-up antique stool.
Even though the bath, with its gold fittings, is resplendent and quite clearly brand new, the stool ages the scene significantly and holds the extravagance of the bath in check.
It’s a thought-provoking combination of replica and genuine Victorian furniture that adds a lot of depth and balance to the room.
Modern/Victorian Blend
Roughly a quarter of this bathroom is dedicated to the uber-modern shower, but some choice features dotted around the other three-quarters of the room add some quintessential Victorian charm to the space.
The towel rack is plumbed into a traditional radiator, the toilet is classically designed, and the very angular shape of the stand-alone sink is as Victorian as it gets.
Some might think that this bathroom is a little on the fence or doesn’t know what it is, but we feel that it’s the perfect combination of antiquated statement pieces and modern amenities.
The figurative lines between modern and Victorian aesthetics are blurred here, but the way in which the towel rack/radiator literally blends the styles into a single unit is remarkable.
Patterned Walls
It wasn’t just the floors that were often patterned in Victorian England, but the walls too. Both would be a bit much in this day and age, but choosing one or the other and setting it against a plain wood floor or white wall can garner incredible results.
Take this design, for example, with wonderful William Morris-esque nature patterns interrupted by a decorative fireplace and tall, Victorian-style doors in a deep muted blue. Is it quirky? Absolutely. Does it work? Absolutely!
The free-standing bathtub is also a work of art, but thanks to the lovely wooden flooring, it doesn’t feel like a hat on a hat, so to speak.
Monochrome Masterpiece
One way to bring Victorian style into the 21st century is to utilize design tropes of the era and give them a modern flavour, as is evident in the above bathroom.
The tub is a classic Victorian shape, and the faucets are quite typical too, as is the patterned flooring, yet there’s no way you’d ever see this bathroom and immediately think… Victorian.
To make this look fresh, the designer has opted for a stark monochrome pallet, creating a cornucopia of contrast — Even the Victorian taps are black to stand out against the blinding white of the bathtub.
The contemporary take on the bathroom chandelier isn’t lost on us either, again, marrying old style with a new veneer.
How To Create Your Own Victorian Bathroom
Fixtures
Victorian style is all about the details, so don’t neglect your fixtures when redesigning your bathroom.
Thanks to the Industrial Revolution, brass was the metal of the Victorian era, as it was easy and cost-effective to mass produce — As opposed to forging iron by hand.
In bathrooms, brass faucets often had a swan-neck design with ornate detailing.
And don’t forget your radiators. A modern radiator can really fracture the scene, so we’d recommend having classic designs installed, perhaps with a few extra bars for warming and drying towels.
Colour Schemes
Jewel tones were the pinnacle of style during the reign of Queen Victoria — We’re talking reds, yellows, greens, blues, and purples.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match various shades, but choosing subtle tones ensures your design won’t end up too loud.
You should also feel free to venture beyond jewel tones, as colour is one of the ways you can bring your Victorian aesthetic into the present.
Delve into our guide on choosing a colour scheme for your bathroom to find the perfect mood for your space.
Tiles
Patterned tiles were one of the most prominent aspects of Victorian bathrooms. The more intricate the patterns were, the better, but that’s not to say you have to choose the busiest designs in the world.
There has never been more variety of patterned tiles than there is right now, so be sure to choose something that appeals to you. Even if the patterning is fairly subtle, it’s still a nod to the Victorian aesthetic, just with your own flare worked in, which, ultimately, is the goal.
Accessories
Accessories are the finishing touches that can make your Victorian bathroom feel that much more magical.
Vintage soap and shampoo caddies can be a fantastic addition, as can an antique chair or stool against a wall, and if at all possible, opt for a chandelier instead of pendant or recessed lighting.
Final Thoughts
To say Victorian bathroom designs are very in right now wouldn’t be right, as the timeless nature of the aesthetic means it’s unlikely it will ever truly fall out of style.
Modern bathrooms are typically quite sterile, prioritizing function over fashion, but the Victorian themes discussed here today prove that you can have the best of both worlds — A bathroom that looks breath-taking and caters to your modern needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Incorporate Victorian Bathroom Ideas Into A Small Bathroom?
Victorian design prefers a large open space, but if you’re discerning in your choice of Victorian artifacts, you can still make it work remarkably well in a small bathroom.
A free-standing bathtub is a must, but instead of using it as a centrepiece, have it snug against a wall. A vintage radiator is another fantastic addition, as it stays well out of the way but looks fantastic.
Avoid too many patterns, as they can shrink the room visually, and you don’t want to overwhelm the space. Opt for rich, wooden floors, and if you do crave patterns, why not tile an accent wall?
Chandeliers might not be an option unless you have a particularly high ceiling, so experiment with some ornate, short-hanging pendant lights instead.
Can I Incorporate Victorian Design Elements Into A Non-Victorian Home?
Unless you have a super sleek, hyper-modern interior aesthetic, you can absolutely incorporate some Victorian design elements here and there, especially in the bathroom.
As mentioned earlier, the bathroom is the most unique room in most houses, giving you more leeway when it comes to experimenting with styles different to those established in the rest of your home.
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The ultimate goal when designing a bathroom is to create your own personal sanctuary; a place where you can go to unwind and disconnect from the stress of your day. But it can be hard to nail down the components that help create a cosy bathroom - key elements might include warm bathroom colours, earthing materials and dark toned accessories, but how do all of these go together? Cold colours can make a space feel clinical whilst an overload of different shades quickly gets overwhelming. Picking the most suitable materials is a fine art as these will play a key role in setting the tone. And creating a sanctuary you want to return to time and time again means finding the balance between these key elements. In this guide, we explore everything you need to know about choosing the right colours and materials as well as how you can pair them together in a cohesive design. Choosing warm bathroom colours As Color Psychology describes, warm colours are those that are on the right side of the colour wheel “advancing toward the eye, while cool colours recede.” They are often reminiscent of natural elements like sunshine and fire which is why we associate them with a sense of safety and comfort. At the same time, warm colours are empowering. Bathroom designers often opt for cool colours such as blues and greens to create a relaxing atmosphere, but a warm bathroom can be the opposite, truly energising and invigorating. Popular warm colour palettes for bathrooms To ensure cohesion and balance, it’s best to opt for warm colours of the same variety and to carefully choose the shades of your furniture. In this section, we look at how a few key colour palettes can look. Earthy tones https://pin.it/5qE3VhS Colours like beige, taupe and terracotta make a space feel cosy and inviting. The best way to implement this scheme is to opt for deeper shades on areas (such as walls) to ground the space while adding accents through lighter shades. Pastels https://pin.it/5vMQYZl If you’re looking for something more soft and comforting, colours like peach, coral and blush are highly effective. It’s best to balance these shades against white and neutral colours so as not to make the space appear overly gimmicky. Rich hues https://pin.it/31Pgzot For those seeking a touch of opulence, rich hues such as deep red, warm burgundy, and burnt orange can be an excellent choice. The key is to consider them as accent colours and place them in decorative tiles or accessories. Choosing the right materials The bathroom fixtures you choose should contribute towards the aesthetic you have created through colour. And, in a warm bathroom, this means opting for natural materials such as these: Wood. Wooden fixtures, such as vanity cabinets and shelves, add a sense of calm and complement colours like beige, taupe, and terracotta. Stone. Luxurious yet grounded, stone makes a perfect flooring choice in bathrooms featuring deep red or warm burgundy shades. Bamboo. Bamboo is an eco-friendly choice for bathroom fixtures with a light, natural hue that complements soft pastels. Copper. Copper ensures that warmth is maintained across key fixtures, pairing well with rich hues like deep red and burnt orange to add a sense of sophistication. Clay. Clay tiles can be used as accents, offering a rustic texture that aligns well with earthy tones. Creating a Cohesive Design To balance warm colours and natural materials, it’s important to create a sense of visual flow. This is, as Interior Designer Jelian Caligner describes, “a thoughtful orchestration of design elements that guides the observer’s eye through a balanced narrative that seamlessly marries form and function.” Here are five main tips for doing so: Repeat key warm colours at focal points such as the vanity area or bathtub. Then echo them through accessories and accents. Balance textures by layering to add depth. For example, if you have smooth, glossy tiles, set them against textured elements like a woven basket for storage. Select warm lighting. Opt for soft white bulbs to ensure your lighting fixtures align with your colour palette. Add greenery. Create an even more welcoming space with elements of nature. Choose the right furnishings. Look to St John for elevated pieces in your favourite earthy tones. Summary In the search for a warm and inviting bathroom, understanding the nuances of colour psychology and material selection is key. By embracing the right shades from the colour wheel and pairing them with complementary materials, you can achieve a harmonious balance. Whether you're drawn to the grounding nature of earthy tones or the elegance of rich hues, the key lies in cohesion. With the right blend of colours, materials, and design principles, your bathroom can become a true sanctuary, reflecting both comfort and sophistication.
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What is the best paint colour for a small bathroom?
In this article, we will explore the best paint colours for small bathrooms, focusing on how different hues and finishes can transform a confined area into a bright, inviting, and stylish space. We’ll look into the psychological effects of colours, offer top recommendations from our design experts, and provide practical tips on how to use colour to your advantage. Psychological Impact of Colours This is particularly important if you have a small bathroom, as the colour you choose can either make it feel even smaller, or can give you the sense that it is much larger. You want to choose colours that feel airy, open, and light. So let’s look into some colour psychology. Light and Neutral Colours Light and neutral colours are often recommended for small bathrooms because they create a sense of openness and airiness. Whites, light greys, and beiges are classic choices that can make a small bathroom look clean and spacious. Soft pastels, such as pale blue or blush pink, can add a subtle touch of colour without overwhelming the space. Cool Colours Colours, such as blues, greens, and lavenders, have a calming and refreshing effect. These shades can make a small bathroom feel very calming, providing a sense of relaxation and tranquillity. Soft shades of blue and green are really effective in creating a spa-like atmosphere. These colours also pair well with white fixtures and decor, giving your bathroom an overall sense of cleanliness and peace. Warm Colours Warm colours, including light yellows, peaches, and soft pinks, can add warmth and cosiness to a small bathroom. Warm colours can work beautifully in bathrooms with plenty of natural light, creating a cheerful and welcoming environment. Top Colour Recommendations White https://pin.it/5YYRlvwQV White is a classic choice for small bathrooms. It reflects light, making the space appear larger and brighter. Examples include pure white, off-white, and ivory. Pair with white or light-coloured tiles and fixtures to create a seamless, airy look. Light Grey https://pin.it/44v0inahP Light grey offers a modern and sophisticated touch without overwhelming the space. Examples include pale grey, dove grey, and silver. Combine with chrome or brushed nickel fixtures for a contemporary feel. Beige https://pin.it/5DBOoP7EV Beige is a warm neutral that adds a cosy yet open feel to a small bathroom. Examples include cream, tan, and sand. Accentuate with natural elements like wood or wicker. Soft Pastel https://pin.it/1lYbypYLh Pastels provide a hint of colour while maintaining a light, airy atmosphere. Examples include soft pink, baby blue, and mint green. Use pastel accents in accessories and towels to tie the look together. Soft Blue https://pin.it/PPp6C71z1 Blue is calming and refreshing, perfect for creating a spa-like environment. Examples include sky blue, powder blue, and seafoam. Pair with white trim and fixtures to enhance the fresh, clean feel. Green https://pin.it/55RNwXEUK Green evokes a sense of nature and tranquillity. Examples include sage, mint, and light olive. Complement with natural stone or ceramic elements for an organic look. Lavender https://pin.it/10GfwaBVs Lavender adds a touch of elegance and serenity. Examples include pale lavender, lilac, and periwinkle. Use alongside silver or white accents to create a sophisticated atmosphere. Light Yellow https://pin.it/5YVOvtcHN Yellow brings warmth and a cheerful feel, ideal for brightening a small space. Examples include pale yellow, buttercream, and soft gold. Combine with white or light wood tones to balance the warmth. Peach https://pin.it/578a9h3QH Peach adds a soft, warm glow, making the bathroom feel cosy yet open. Examples include light peach, coral, and apricot. Pair with brass or gold fixtures for a vintage charm. Soft Pink https://pin.it/hI5BUwmuY Pink creates a gentle, soothing environment. Examples include blush, rose, and salmon. Use in moderation with white or grey elements to prevent overwhelming the space. And there you have it; 10 ideal colours for a small bathroom. Don’t forget, you can always consult our bathroom design service who will help you create the bathroom of your dreams, no matter how small your space is! -
7 Best Bathroom Vanity Unit Styles
When it comes to designing your dream bathroom, the vanity unit that you choose plays a crucial role in setting the tone and functionality of the space. Whether you're working with a large family bathroom or a compact cloakroom, choosing the right vanity style can complete the look that you’re going for and provide the right amount of storage space that you need. In this blog, we'll explore seven of the best bathroom vanity unit styles that cater to all types of style preferences and needs. Double Basin Vanity Ever stayed in a 5* hotel and been bowled over when you see a double basin in the bathroom? We get it. That’s why we wanted to include the option of a double basin in our list. These are ideal for a couple who have a luxurious ensuite, or even a family bathroom where you’re sharing the space. It makes things much easier when you’re able to get ready for work at the same time - no need to wait for your partner to finish using the sink! Naturally, the double basin vanity is very much suited to large spaces. They come in two sizes - 1200mm and 1400mm so you’ll want to make sure you have enough space for the rest of your bathroom essentials too. Cloakroom Vanity If you have a small bathroom, the double vanity is probably not for you. But don’t fret, we have just the thing! Small bathrooms still need storage space, and that’s where the cloakroom vanity comes in. At a width of 450mm, it’s the ideal little vanity, giving you a one draw storage space, a neat little sink and a sleek and minimal look. Pair it with a mirror directly above to give the space a sense of openness, and it will start to feel much bigger than it is. Two Drawer Vanity One of the most important and also undervalued aspects to consider in your bathroom is storage space. Think about the amount of clutter that can build up - cleaning products, personal hygiene products, bathroom towels, makeup, personal grooming products, the list goes on. And there’s nothing worse than having all of that clutter build up around the edges of your sink - especially stressful if you’re a family. The two drawer vanity is the perfect storage solution in this instance. For the same width, you get double the storage - what’s not to love? Our two drawer vanities are super popular for this very reason - but they also offer a wide range of choice when it comes to style. With Scanalato, you can pick any colour. With Raffinata, you’ve got minimal chic like never before. And with Tasca you’ve got Italian-made elegance at its finest. Single Drawer Vanity We’ve been singing the praises of two drawers for storage reasons, but there’s also a need for minimalism in some instances. The one drawer vanity is suited to individuals or couples - where one drawer is enough for their storage needs, and they’d prefer to have the sense of more space than more storage. We also offer the option of open storage alongside the single drawer, which breaks up the look and gives the eye a different area of focus. Fold up some towels for a neat, spa-like look, or put your most used products here for ease of access. Countertop Vanity Countertop Vanity Units are a fantastic option for you if you want to choose a custom basin on top. They’re also an option if you want a wall hung basin with a clear countertop space or if you simply need extra storage space and have quite a large bathroom. All of our countertops are made with the stunningly modern Beyondstone, soft to the touch, sleek and scratch resistant. Bloc Basin Vanity The bloc basin vanity had to be included as the ultimate statement-maker. You’re a fashion-forward, modernist, who likes to go against the grain. It’s a bold centre-piece, perfectly suited to the large or medium sized bathroom space that could do with a feature that draws the eye and frames the space. With thick, heavy sides, the bloc basin is unmissable. Bespoke Colour Vanity We decided to save our best pick for last. Because you get to choose ANY colour you like - and what’s more statement-making than that? You can use our colour picker on your desired vanity unit to choose a RAL option, or if you want to opt for Farrow and Ball or a bespoke colour option, you can fill out the enquiry form. It’s also wise to read our guide 7 things to consider when choosing a bespoke bathroom colour. -
Remodeling Your Bathroom - 20 Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Our Experts
Remodelling Your Bathroom - 20 Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Our Experts 1. What are the first steps in planning a bathroom remodel? The first steps in planning a bathroom remodel involve setting a clear vision and budget. Start by identifying your needs and preferences, such as the desired layout, fixtures, and style. Create a detailed list of the changes you want to make and prioritise them. Research the costs associated with these changes to develop a realistic budget. Next, measure your bathroom space to ensure your plans will fit. Consulting with a bathroom design professional can help refine your ideas and provide valuable insights. Finally, gather quotes from contractors to compare prices and services, and choose a reputable one to begin your remodel. 2. How do I set a realistic budget for my bathroom remodel? Start by researching the average costs of bathroom renovations in your area, considering factors like materials, labour, and design complexity. Break down your budget into categories such as fixtures, flooring, plumbing, and electrical work. Allocate a portion of your budget for unexpected expenses, typically around 10-20%, to cover any unforeseen issues that may arise during the project. Prioritise your spending on essential items and features that add the most value to your bathroom. Comparing quotes from multiple contractors can help you get a fair price and avoid overspending. Keeping a detailed budget plan and tracking your expenses throughout the project will ensure you stay within your financial limits. 3.What are the latest trends in bathroom design? The latest trends in bathroom design focus on creating a spa-like atmosphere with modern, luxurious touches. Key trends include: Minimalist aesthetics - Clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and a focus on functionality. Natural materials - Use of stone, wood, and natural fibres to bring an earthy feel. Bold colours - Dark, moody colours like navy and forest green, balanced with lighter tones. Smart technology - Integration of smart showers, touchless taps, and heated floors. Freestanding tubs - Elegant and statement-making, these tubs add a luxurious touch. Large format tiles - Reducing grout lines for a seamless look and easier cleaning. Black fixtures - Matte black taps, showerheads, and hardware for a modern, sleek appearance. 4. How can I maximise space in a small bathroom? Maximising space in a small bathroom involves clever design and storage solutions. Here are some tips: Opt for wall-mounted sinks, toilets, and vanities to free up floor space. Install shelves, cabinets, and towel racks higher up on the walls to utilise vertical space efficiently. Large mirrors can create the illusion of more space by reflecting light and making the room appear larger. Consider sliding doors for showers and cabinets to save space otherwise taken up by swinging doors. Choose a cloakroom basin and furniture designed for small spaces. Use clear glass for shower enclosures to maintain an open feel. Incorporate built-in niches and shelves for storage within the shower and above the toilet. 5. What are the best materials for bathroom flooring? The best materials for bathroom flooring are those that offer durability, water resistance, and ease of maintenance. Popular options include porcelain and ceramic tiles, vinyl flooring, natural stone or engineered wood. Each material offers unique benefits, so choose one that fits your style, budget, and maintenance preferences. 6. Should I choose a walk-in shower or a bathtub? Choosing between a walk-in shower and a bathtub depends on your needs and bathroom space. Walk-in showers are ideal for small bathrooms, offering accessibility, modern aesthetics, and easy maintenance. They can be designed with various features like rain showerheads and built-in benches, providing a spa-like experience. Bathtubs, on the other hand, are perfect for relaxation and are great for households with young children. They add a touch of luxury and can increase the home's resale value. If space and budget allow, a combination of both a walk-in shower and a bathtub offers the best of both worlds. 7. What is the best type of lighting for a bathroom? The best type of lighting for a bathroom combines ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a well-lit, functional space. Ambient lighting provides overall illumination and can be achieved with ceiling-mounted fixtures or recessed lights. Task lighting is essential for grooming activities and should be placed around mirrors, typically in the form of wall-mounted sconces or LED strip lights. Accent lighting highlights architectural features or decorative elements and can be achieved with spotlights or under-cabinet lights. You might consider using dimmer switches to adjust the lighting levels and create a relaxing atmosphere. 8. How do I ensure proper ventilation in my bathroom? Installing an exhaust fan is the most effective way to ensure adequate ventilation. Choose a fan with the right capacity for your bathroom size, measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). The fan should vent directly to the outside, not into the attic or another interior space. Additionally, open windows and doors after showering to allow fresh air circulation. Regularly clean the exhaust fan and check for any blockages to maintain optimal performance. 9. What adds most value to a bathroom? High-quality fixtures and fittings, such as modern taps, showerheads, and toilets, are essential. Installing energy-efficient and water-saving features, like low-flow showers and dual-flush toilets, can attract eco-conscious buyers. Adding underfloor heating and a heated towel rail provides luxury and comfort. Ample storage solutions, such as built-in cabinets and vanity units, maximise space and organisation. A fresh coat of paint in neutral tones, new tiles, and updated lighting can transform the look of the bathroom. Overall, a well-designed, functional, and stylish bathroom definitely boosts a home’s value. 10. Do I need planning permission to renovate my bathroom? In the UK, planning permission is generally not required for standard bathroom renovations, such as updating fixtures, tiling, or plumbing. However, if your renovation involves structural changes, altering the property’s exterior, or expanding the bathroom size, you may need planning permission. Always ensure that electrical and plumbing work complies with building regulations and is carried out by certified professionals. 11. Is it easy to renovate a bathroom? Simple updates, such as painting, replacing fixtures, or installing new accessories, can be manageable DIY projects. However, more extensive renovations involving plumbing, electrical work, or structural changes require professional expertise. Hiring a qualified contractor can streamline the process and ensure the work meets building regulations and quality standards. 12. How often should you renovate your bathroom? Renovating your bathroom every 7-10 years is a general guideline to keep it looking fresh and functional. However, the frequency can vary based on several factors, including the quality of the original materials, the level of wear and tear, and changing personal preferences or lifestyle needs. Regular maintenance and small updates, such as repainting, replacing worn fixtures, and re-caulking, can extend the time between major renovations. If you notice persistent issues like leaks, mold, or outdated plumbing, it might be time for a more comprehensive renovation. 13. How can I create more storage space in my bathroom? Install wall-mounted cabinets and shelves to keep essentials within reach without taking up floor space. Use the area above the toilet for additional shelving or cabinets. Incorporate built-in niches in the shower for toiletries. Opt for a vanity unit with drawers and cabinets to store items out of sight. Use baskets, organisers, and trays to keep smaller items tidy. Mirrors with integrated storage can also help. 14. What are the best paint colours for a bathroom? The best paint colours for a bathroom create a relaxing and refreshing atmosphere. Light and neutral tones are popular choices as they make the space feel larger and brighter. Whites, soft greys, and beiges provide a clean and timeless look. Pale blues and greens evoke a sense of calm and tranquility, reminiscent of water and nature. For a more dramatic effect, consider darker shades like navy or charcoal, balanced with lighter accents. 15. How do I prevent mold and mildew in the bathroom? Preventing mold and mildew in the bathroom involves controlling moisture and maintaining cleanliness. Ensure good ventilation by using exhaust fans and opening windows to reduce humidity. Clean surfaces regularly with mold-inhibiting cleaners and wipe down wet surfaces after use, especially shower walls and floors. Keep grout lines sealed to prevent moisture from seeping in, and apply mold-resistant paint to walls and ceilings. In particularly humid bathrooms, using a dehumidifier can help keep moisture levels in check. 16. What are the most durable materials for bathroom walls? Durable materials for bathroom walls must withstand moisture and frequent cleaning. Ceramic or porcelain tiles are highly durable and water-resistant, available in various styles. Acrylic panels are easy to install, water-resistant, and low-maintenance. Glass tiles offer a stylish, water-resistant, and easy-to-clean option. Vinyl wallpaper is moisture-resistant and available in various designs, making it suitable for bathrooms. Moisture-resistant paint is specially formulated to resist moisture and mould. Beadboard or wainscoting adds texture and style and is best when treated with water-resistant paint or sealant. These materials provide long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing wall coverings for bathrooms. 17. How do I choose the right mirror for my bathroom? Select a mirror that fits the scale of your vanity and bathroom, as larger mirrors can make small spaces feel bigger. Match the mirror style with your bathroom décor, whether it's framed, frameless, or decorative. Functionality is also crucial; consider mirrors with integrated lighting, storage, or anti-fog features for added convenience. 18. How can I make my bathroom more accessible for people with disabilities? Install grab bars near the toilet, shower, and bathtub to provide support. Choose a walk-in shower with a low or no threshold and consider adding a built-in or fold-down shower seat. Non-slip flooring throughout the bathroom is essential to prevent falls. Use adjustable showerheads mounted on a sliding bar for ease of use. Opt for a comfort-height toilet, which is taller than standard models, to reduce strain when sitting and standing. Ensure storage solutions are within easy reach, and consider widening doorways to accommodate wheelchairs or walkers. 19. How can I make my bathroom more eco-friendly? Start by installing water-saving fixtures, such as low-flow showerheads, dual-flush toilets, and aerated taps, which significantly reduce water consumption. Opt for energy-efficient lighting, like LED bulbs, to lower energy use and electricity bills. Choose sustainable materials for your bathroom renovation. Recycled glass, bamboo, and reclaimed wood are excellent choices for countertops, flooring, and cabinetry. Consider using eco-friendly paints with low or zero VOCs (volatile organic compounds) to improve indoor air quality. For a greener cleaning routine, switch to natural cleaning products that are free from harsh chemicals. These are safer for both your health and the environment. Lastly, ensure proper ventilation to prevent mould growth and reduce the need for chemical cleaners. By making these changes, you can create a bathroom that is both stylish and environmentally responsible. 20. How do I choose the right vanity for my bathroom? Start by measuring your bathroom to determine the appropriate vanity size. For small spaces, compact units like the 450mm vanities are ideal, while larger bathrooms can accommodate wider units like the 1200mm double sink options. Match the vanity style to your bathroom décor—34 St John offers a variety of finishes, including walnut, oak, and numerous colours. Functionality is crucial; look for vanities with ample storage, such as multiple drawers and shelves, to keep your space organised. Finally, ensure you choose a high-quality vanity within your budget, as investing in durable materials will provide long-lasting value.