Irish Interiors Magazine Spring/Summer 2019

BATHROOM BLITZ
It’s well worth taking time out to consult the experts when planning a bathroom remodel, advises interior designer Tanya Lyons

What are the keys things to consider when planning a bathroom remodel?

With social media being an integral part of modern society, it is not surprizing that much research is done before embarking on a remodel. Stunning photographs of Industrial design or sleek Modernism in our inboxes daily . A treasure trove of creative inspiration. So why are we uncertain?

Design is a sum of all parts. To be successful, it must deliver a brief, your brief. A remodel must work within parameters to deliver a space that fulfils your aspirations of practicality and inner expression. Fundamentally, engaging a bathroom design specialist is key to helping you realise your vision. Bathrooms are a relatively small space and an experienced designer can deliver a functional layout without compromising creativity .

Selecting a recommended contractor who will work in unison with you and your designer will deliver superior results. When considering a remodel of your bathroom, think about your heating system and if you want to change it in the future. It is often over looked with quick decisions. If you intend to address your boiler down the line, do it now! A new heating system can offer much more possibilities to the showers and bath taps you can use.

Consider if the space is cold. A contractor can insulate your walls and provide a luxurious underfloor heating system that is very economical to run. Consider if you really need the bath and what type of showering experience you like, not what is in vogue.

Whether you like ambient or bright bathrooms, lighting can transform a bathroom and allow endless possibilities to create a tranquil space.

Are baths being replaced by showers or is there still a place for the family bathtub?

With design evolving and getting intrinsic to our self-expression, the one thing that remains constant is the family unit. While luxurious wet rooms and showers are being desired and coveted, the primary fundamental is a bathtub with young children.

Free standing baths are making a significant comeback for both traditional and contemporary interiors. The bathroom has become a sanctuary , a place to enjoy and unwind in a Spa like experience, of which the bath and wet room are integral to this.

Exciting technology has allowed an exploration of many options with innovative materials being used for shower trays also. Freestanding baths are fluid in design and represent a plush lifestyle along with a practical need. Complimented with stunning new brassware, the bathtub is definitely hanging around!

What are the latest trends in vanity units? Are people going for double units?

Bathrooms have never been more exciting, showcasing a vibrant approach to design in bijou spaces. Sharing space is often difficult, especially with busy lifestyles and so there has been a significant increase to incorporate a double vanity unit or to have a large counter top with symmetrical useable space to share.

With stylish and innovative design houses bringing a fresh and sophisticated approach to design, the new trends are streamlined and conceptual.

From Industrial design to moderism, a new confidence has transcended into individualism with bespoke colours for units in stunning blues and reds, vibrant and subtle, or vintage woods, offset with brushed brass or matt black brassware and hardware. Elements of oxidised metals are used in juxtaposition to clean lines and matt finishes. Glass fronted units or countertop quirky basins sitting boldly on retro or vintage wood countertops. Leading Swiss brand Laufen, has become revered with outstanding innovate design for modern bathrooms.

With minimalist approaches favoured by many in design, our lifestyle choices dictate that we need storage, so how do we cohesively put the two together?

There are many options of wall storage units in all sizes to suit your storage needs and space capability. Leading design houses like Dansani have created an endless edit of units to suit all requirements.

If visible storage units are not sympathetic to your design requirement, there are beautifully designed recessed storage cabinets that sit fully into your wall with just a mirror to see.

Which are the latest developments in brassware in terms of styles, materials and eco-friendly options?

In a society where sustainability has to be a pre-requisite in our thinking, manufacturers together with designers have got on board with the latest technologies, not only to produce unrivalled design, but the latest in energy saving and water saving technologies.

New metal finishes emerging are a softer brushed brass , brushed steel, an unapologetic matt black and a sophisticated elegance with nickle , echoed in both traditional and contemporary designs captivating the very essence of good design.

Showers in compliment to basin taps and bath fillers, technology has advanced with leading brands to offer ecological options.

When it comes to tiling, what are the latest options for shower and floor surfaces?

Tile design has never been more about choice with seductive blacks, clean cut minimalist subway tiles and a stylish mix of Encaustic Moroccan tiles to indulge the senses. With retro and vintage distressed woods ebbing their way forward in chevron and herringbone designs, a strong and definite emergence of the large format tile has never been more apparent.

Strong forms of industrial concrete have become more versatile with designers at the helm, offsetting them with geometric or vibrant design pattern tiles to give a softer eclecticism for walls and floors. The wet room should have a continuity with a seamless approach to the full floor space.

Ceramics and porcelains are foremost as a design choice for flooring and walls alike with an extensive choice of design and colours. Ask your bathroom specialist what finish best suits your needs and what works in a wet space.

So what should you be mindful of to get the best from your renovation ?

One of the biggest pitfalls in doing a bathroom re-model is not to engage an experienced Interior Designer. A designer should respectfully guide you through the design process and find out what your aspirations are and what you hope to achieve. In doing so, you will learn the importance of a layout for flow and function. It is very important to get a good plan and be spatially aware.

People often make the mistake of choosing a vanity unit and squeezing it in. Your space and visual aesthetic should not be a compromise if executed properly. With advanced technologies, there are so many options available to you that can up spec your bathroom considerably. Rimless and eco -friendly toilets, water and energy saving brassware, low iron glass, LED lighting and much more.

With Social media images being the seed of our thoughts, unfortunately mistakes are made by using too many tile patterns, like, brick bond and chevron for both wall and floors. A striking pattern like chevron needs clean lines to accentuate it and balance it.

Not going for the best contractor to do your job is another oversight. Trust your instinct. An experienced person will offer and do the best work. Lighting should be part of your overall design. Lighting can transform a space by illuminating for both function and ambience.

Author: Tanya Lyons

Irish Interiors Magazine 2009