Immersive bathroom makeovers

Bigger is better, but smart use of space is equally awe-inspiring when defining cutting-edge bathrooms of the 21st century.

Ensuites and bathrooms are becoming larger and more luxurious.

Mazzei Homes’ managing director, Daniel Mazzei, attributes greater product accessibility, the proliferation of online resources and the creation of a “me” space as the main reasons driving the trend.

“(In relation to products) there has been a recent increase in retailers and wholesalers providing special fittings and fixtures from across the globe — everything from expensive hand-crafted European items to well-made and affordable Chinese alternatives,” Mazzei says.

“Retailers, such as Reece, have really lifted their game in the past couple of years by creating beautiful showrooms that entice customers to think beyond what they might have previously achieved.”

Websites, such as Pinterest and Houzz, which showcase the latest trends have also raised the standards of what builders and renovators can expect from their wet areas.

Day-spa appeal

The rise of a “me” space, evoking a home-based day spa, is perhaps the greatest factor in the desire for luxury.

“Ensuites (in the main bedrooms) are increasingly being viewed by clients as more than just places to get ready in the morning,” Mazzei says.

“They are being treated as breakaway rooms. A glass of wine, a good book and a beautiful freestanding bath create the perfect relaxation space and clients are taking full advantage of this. There’s no better way to unwind from a stressful day.”

Timeless style of monochrome

Having watched bathroom trends come and go for more than 45 years, Signorino Tile Gallery managing director John Signorino says the Nordic and minimalist style in vogue was focusing heavily on a monochrome black-and-white palette.

Signorino says bathrooms were increasingly being given a “day spa” feel for a “luxury hotel, home-away-from-home” style. This is created by using earthy materials, such as limestone, in partnership with simple textures and calming colours.

“Mixing materials such as wood, stone and concrete are becoming quite popular in bathrooms. Limestone would provide a rougher, earthy texture, whereas wood and concrete would provide smoother contrasting surfaces,” Signorino says.

Seeing the light

If you’re aiming for industrial chic in your bathroom, GoLights recommends using outdoor lights as wall lights as they are IP (Ingress Protection) rated and contain waterproof material.

Generally speaking, the higher the IP rating, the better the protection.

It’s rarely mentioned, but lighting should always be zoned in wet areas.

Lighting around the mirror should be bright for applying make-up or shaving but should have the flexibility of soft, ambient light when the time comes to relax.

Trend watch

Freestanding bathOversized showers with fixed-glass panels (mostly without doors) Non-standard porcelain or marble floor and wall tilesFloating vanities with twin basinsBlack tapware against white accents