Aegean Free Standing Bath

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Description from Albion Bath

Aegean Free Standing Bath is manufactured using Albion’s unique stone cast process using our Iso-Enamel resulting in a bath that is over 7cm thick.

Inspired by the Fire-Clay baths of New York in the early 20th Century, Aegean is a must for those who delight in sumptuous bathing. The Aegean is available in two sizes. The 1700mm long model will suit regular sized bathrooms but for those wanting to make a more dramatic statement – (if this is possible – the 1700 long bath is hardly discreet) – an 1800mm long version is offered. As with our Etruscan bath, the Aegean has a clever integral overflow System that is actually cast into the wall of the bath. This feature maintains the visual elegance of the exterior design. The bath is intended to be used with either wall mounted taps or taps mounted on stand pipes.

Albion’s unique Iso-Enamel material creates a bath that is strong, solid and durable. Importantly, our material overcomes the drawbacks of cast iron, such as extreme weight and high heat loss from your bathing water. With Iso Enamel, your bathing water will stay hotter for longer – no more topping up with the hot tap. To clean your Iso Enamel bath, simply use any modern, liquid cleaners. If your unlucky to scuff your new bath, Iso-Enamel can be easily polished back to a high shine.

To combine your Aegean Free Standing Bath with functional showering, choose our Effusio Over-Bath Shower system. This will give you the day-to-day practicality of a shower. But still with the luxury of stylish bathing.

The Aegean Free Standing Bath and has generous depth for the most sumptuous bathing. Supplied without tap holes, this new addition to our range is suitable for most tap formats.

Small Bathtub Designs Made For Ultimate Relaxation

Read article : Small Bathtub Designs Made For Ultimate Relaxation

A small bathtub is a nice alternative to a regular one and not only because it’d free up more space in the bathroom. These amazing soaking freestanding tubs are made for relaxation and, well, soaking. Besides you can easily turn one into a shower and use the rest of that bathroom space for washers, storage, or simply to create an airy look in an already cramped room.

Small Bathtub Designs of Every Shape

Small bathtubs come in all shapes and different sizes. They aren’t just circular or oval. There are classical claw feet freestanding tubs in minimized versions, square tubs and all kinds of forms in between.

Small Bathtub Designs Made For Ultimate Relaxation" width="900" height="900" />Cyrano Acrylic Slipper 44″ white tub

This Barclay‘s Cyrano Acrylic Slipper tub is just 44″ with the beautiful brushed nickel imperial feet and a roll top. It goes to show that even if your bathroom is tiny you can still create a vintage style interior with a classic tub that won’t take up too much space.

It is ideal for the bedroom too because you won’t end up giving too much of the floor space to the bathroom area. Even though tiny it still has the presence that people like so much about the clawfoot tubs.

Small Bathtub Designs Made For Ultimate Relaxation" width="800" height="800" />Marmorin small soaking tub

Circular shape is probably the most popular among the soaking tubs but this Marmorin Jena shoe-shaped design is all about ergonomics. It may look bigger than it really is but it’s all because of its high back that allows to really lean back and enjoy your me-time.

This form is getting more widespread but it surely requires a bit more space. Well, at least you can sit back and hide from the world behind those tall tub walls.

Small Bathtubs Made of Metal

Asti Copper Japanese soaking tub

Material is as important as the shape of a tub. Copper is a huge design trend right now and the bathtubs that are made of it can surely add some style points to a modern bathroom. This 39″ Asti Copper Japanese Soaking Tub from Signature Hardware has an amazing albeit simple design and can probably fit into the tiniest of bathrooms.

Copper is not only quite easy to clean and maintain, it is also antibacterial. It looks well as it ages and if you choose really carefully it will serve you for quite a long time. Decor tip: match copper with teal or turquoise accents for a truly stunning look.

43″ Simone Polished Stainless Steel soaking tub

Like it or not the round shape is simply the most efficient when it comes to small bathtubs. This is another one of Signature Hardware‘s mini tubs, a 43″ Simone Polished Stainless Steel Soaking Tub, stylish and very small.

It would surely fit into any small bathroom and make it look amazing. The modern stainless steel finish can go well with both traditional and ultra modern or minimalist decorating styles. It all depends on what you’re going for.

Square Freestanding Bath Tub 41' x 41' from ADM Bathroom Design" width="900" height="900" />Square Freestanding Bath Tub 41′ x 41′ from ADM Bathroom Design

Of course, if a square tub works better for your floor plan then you’re in luck because there are quite a lot of them on the market right now. For instance, this ADM Bathroom Design square tub is a perfect fit for a small bathroom, especially if you’re planning to tuck it into a corner.

Some square tubs feature a circle carved up inside of them leaving some space around the angles for storing small things like shampoos and soaps. Some even feature a mini deck with steps to make it easier to get in.

Circular Small Bathtubs

Aquatica TrueOfuro freestanding solid surface bathtub

Speaking of tall and small bathtubs, going upwards is always a valid way to economically use space regardless of the room. In a small bathroom a tall soaking tub leaves so much free space to simply move around.

Circular soaking tubs can often be quite deep and tall like the Aquatica‘s TrueOfuro freestanding tub. It is quite small but a grown adult can clearly fit in it without any problem.

Aquatica Purescape freestanding acrylic bathtub

Purescape tub from Aquatica is designed by the same principle but it has a modern look to it. It also features the decorative rings that make it look like a collapsable cup.

Speaking of which, soaking tubs often have cup-like shapes but there are other small tub designs that resemble things like bowls and even vases.

Colorful Small Bathtubs

Acrylic mini bathtub

While round tubs look more impressive in the middle of the room or beside a bed or a window, they can also quite successfully fit into a corner. This Glass Design acrylic mini tub has its back raised and while it’s circular there’s little space wasted between it and the wall.

Beside shapes, sizes and materials the color of a bathtub is a whole different factor that diversifies the choice. Surely most of them are still white on the inside but the sides come in all the different colors from red to blue to golden.

Flower style back bathtub

Another great small bathtub design from Glass Design looks more like a flower vase (perhaps hence the name) and features a black exterior but the white insides.

Sure, it may not look as convenient or practical but just look at how little floor space it occupies. You can probably stand upright inside of it, which would eliminate the need for a shower. But the question is how does one get in?

Mini Gold Leaf tub

Their Mini Gold Leaf small bathtub can really transform a tiny bathroom. Its beautiful finish would definitely make for a luxury bath interior.

Since its back is raised and a bit pointed, it too fits well into the corner. Although who would want to tuck it in there rather than placing it right in the middle of the room?

Traditional Small Bathtubs

Tubby Torre bathtub

Freestanding bathtubs are very popular right now. But if you need a mini version that would fit into a tiny bathroom the Tubby Torre from Albion Bath Co. is a perfect option.

Painted into a beautiful dark bronze the bathtub would make a gorgeous addition to any bathroom or even bedroom. It’s compact enough to leave a lot of free space in the room. And it’s beautiful enough to pass as a full-sized luxury freestanding tub.

Tubby too short roll top bathtub

Tubby Too Short is another contender for a small luxury bathroom. This mini clawfoot tub painted into bright purple really calls for a mock vintage style or maybe even shabby chic.

It is a great way to add a pop of color to a small bathroom. It both creates a focal point in the interior and requires no additional decorative accents.

Small Bathtubs Made of Marble

Papillon Bathtub in Marble Sandstone and Granite by Stone Forest

Though stone isn’t accessible to most, the bathtubs made out of it can look truly incredible. Even the small ones. Stone Forest shows what marble sandstone can do to such a mundane thing as a bathtub.

Beside the high cost natural stone requires tremendous maintenance. So if you think you want one be sure to do your homework and find out what you’re getting into before the purchase.

EAU Soaking tub

Stone Forest knows a thing or two about impressive stonework. This small bathtub was presented at ICFF and also at IDS12. It earned a 2011 BOY Merit Award from Interior Design Magazine and general media attention for its impeccable design.

Finished with a sealant (like this one), stone bathtubs require careful cleaning. If the sealant is damaged your tub could end up with stains and scratches. But even with sealant intact you still want to wipe it dry after each use. This is done to prevent mineral and soap scum buildup. Do you think you’re ready for such a commitment?

Small Bathtubs Made of Stone

GRAL tub by SIGN

The GRAL bathtub by SIGN looks like an oversized sink and while small it’s definitely a luxury tub as it was made out of a single excavated stone piece.

If you’re trying to save both space and money though you can surely find an equivalent shape among more modest modern tubs on the market.

Circular bathtub in home by Carver + Schicketanz

As we already mentioned, a small bathtub doesn’t have to only be a solution to the lack of space. In a spacious bathroom it can simply allow you to add features that aren’t fit for the other rooms.

This beautiful stone bath is doing just that in a house designed by Carver + Schicketanz. There’s plenty of space in the indoor/outdoor room with some serious furnishings that offer plenty of storage space.

SPA bathtub designed by nespoli e novara for Neutra Design" width="800" height="493" />SPA bathtub designed by nespoli e novara for Neutra Design

SPA bathtubs are definitely the ones that allow you to soak well and relax. This one was designed by nespoli e novara for Neutra Design and it surely looks relaxing. Available in a range of various stones including moonstone and granite it makes for a luxury addition to a small bathroom.

While you may think it’s not as versatile a small bathtub can double as a shower or even a whirl tub.  So even those who lack space can enjoy a piece of their favorite SPA right at home.

Small Bathtubs in Interior Design

JAUREGUI Architecture Interiors Construction" width="800" height="530" />Designed by JAUREGUI Architecture Interiors Construction

Think small bathtubs can’t look impressive? Then you didn’t see this bathroom designed by JAUREGUI Architecture Interiors Construction. Featuring a built-in round bathtub with a marble ring and a waterfall tap this interior is out of this world.

Of course, the glazed walls and a marble fireplace add considerably to the interior design. But you can’t deny that you’ve never seen a tub like this one before.

Master bathroom with a coffee cup bathtub

Another bathtub you may have never seen before is this coffee cup-shaped bathtub complemented with a themed feature wall. It’s cute but nevertheless impressive. A cleverly incorporated mirror makes the small room feel more spacious.

And still there’s plenty of space for storage, toilet, bidet and a sink with a vanity. What an incredible idea and execution!

Teal bathroom with a small freestanding tub

As you can see even a simple small bathtub can look impressive when it’s a bowl-shaped freestanding design accented with bright teal tiles as a backdrop for a pristine white vessel.

Bubble pendant lights play into the picture full of circular shapes. And a wooden ladder that may look a bit out of place adds its own charm to the look.

Bedroom/bathroom by Finnis Architects

This is a great example of how you can combine the bedroom and bathroom by Finnis Architects. A small bathtub doesn’t get in the way and a half wall gives it a bit of privacy.

There are quite a few challenges when it comes to moving a bathtub into the bedroom but in the end of the day the look is definitely worth it.

Small Built-In Bathtubs

Sunken Concrete Bathtub by Lance Workshop" width="800" height="1067" />Sunken Concrete Bathtub by Lance Workshop

A small bathtub doesn’t have to be freestanding of course. If you need or want to build it into the floor or between the walls you can do that especially in a particularly tight room.

This pulley shower system by Lance Workshop features a sunken concrete bathtub that can easily provide residents with both quick morning showers and the prolonged relaxing bathing sessions.

Michaela Scherrer tiny spa bath

In Michaela Scherrer‘s Pasadena bungalow the concrete SPA bathtub features a partially hidden shower and thick enough borders to keep the appropriate toiletries within a hand’s reach.

As you can see you don’t need a fancy tub or tiles to create your own SPA bath. The white plastered walls and grey concrete work quite nicely together making for a very modern minimal look.

Small bathtub in an Oriental Warehouse Loft

Wood is another material on the rise in the bathtub design. Wooden tubs like this one in the Oriental Warehouse are too high-maintenance but they provide the bathroom with an unparalleled look and feel.

Since they too feature a sealant, cleaning and maintenance should be directed at keeping it intact so the water wouldn’t harm the wood.

A small bathtub is not only space-efficient but can also help to create an amazing bathroom interior design. Besides it can also double as a shower or a hot tub. It can look impressive especially if made out of stone and the downsized traditional versions can allow you to have a vintage or traditional look without requiring much space.

The 23 Most Romantic Hotels in the Caribbean

Read article : The 23 Most Romantic Hotels in the Caribbean

With infinity pools overlooking the water, canopied beds ideal for cuddling, and elegant spas for couples' massages, many Caribbean hotels were designed for romantic escapes. But of course, some are better than others for vacationing with a significant other, so we set out to find the best of the best. After visiting hundreds (and hundreds) of hotels throughout St. Lucia, Aruba, Barbados, Jamaica, the Bahamas, and dozens more Caribbean destinations, we compared and evaluated each breathtaking property. Take a look at the most romantic hotels in the Caribbean, and get inspired!

1. 

   Romantic? Undoubtedly. Unique? Absolutely. Expensive? For sure. Through an innovative, open fourth wall, each of Jade's 29 enormous suites overlooks the sea from its canopied bed, raised whirlpool tub, and (in all but the entry-level category) private infinity pool. Getting to Jade Mountain can be tedious, even nauseating, but its organic cuisine, doting service, unwavering silence (no TVs, radios, or children), and extraordinary design make the long journey worthwhile.

2. 

   Interiors here are designed by fashion icon Oscar de la Renta, and the 30 rooms feature comfortable four-poster beds with crisp, white Frette linens and unique wicker canopies. Bathrooms have coral floors, deep hot tubs, large stand-up glass showers, and toiletries from L'Occitane -- about as good as it gets in the D.R. The best part: the nightly turndown includes a drawn bath with floating red flower petals and tea lights. Tortuga Bay's luxury Six Senses Spa is one of the D.R.'s best.

3. 

   This unique luxury resort in St. Lucia is made up of 32 one- and two-bedroom villas, each carefully carved into the surrounding hillside overlooking the island’s iconic twin Pitons. The treehouse-style villas -- which have missing fourth walls, and in most cases, private plunge pools -- are a main draw, as are the spectacular views and lush grounds. The resort also features some fabulous amenities, such as an infinity lagoon pool, a gorgeous open-air restaurant and bar, a (tiny) open-air fitness center, and a lovely spa with a multi-level series of small outdoor mineral pools. All of this comes at a price, but Ladera is still significantly cheaper than the ultra-glam Jade Mountain (rates are often around half as much). Ladera is within close range of several of the island’s best tourist destinations -- notable cocoa plantations are within walking distance, the pristine white sands of Jalousie beach are a short drive away, and tourist hot spots like the volcano and Tet-Paul nature trails are both nearby.

4. 

   This 23-room luxury boutique hotel is a Balinese-inspired paradise in Curacao where the details make the difference -- hand-carved teakwood pieces, gift bags left on the beds, and candles lit all around the property are just a few examples. The highlights of the resort are the elegant rooms and villas, some with private pools, the excellent fine-dining restaurant, and a lovely (though man-made) stretch of tranquil beach. This is the top luxury resort on Curacao, without contest.

5. 

   One of Jamaica's most romantic escape (for adults only), the Caves' 11 unique, private cottages and suites are tucked along lush garden paths and dramatic seaside cliffs (there's no beach) carved with steep stairways down to the water and into incredible grottos.. A top-shelf bar, an Aveda spa, free cooking classes, and intimate, incredibly attentive service make it Jamaica's best all-inclusive. High-quality food celebrates local ingredients, and the scene is laid-back and bohemian -- suited to travelers who appreciate outdoor showers and artful decor in favor of conventional luxury.

6. 

   This luxury all-inclusive resort is one of the most elegant and well-regarded hotels on the island, with 64 posh suites dotting a quarter mile of beachfront. Spice Island is a serene oasis amidst the bustling Grand Anse beach area, with clean lines, and a polished, upscale vibe that still maintains the laid-back charm of the Caribbean. The resort includes two restaurants, a beautiful spa, and a variety of activities, but peace and relaxation are also easy to find. The nice pool area is quiet and private, yet the beach -- though beautiful and clean -- is shared by locals and guests of nearby resorts.

7. 

   Accessed via a 30-minute boat ride from Providenciales, this 1,000-acre resort on a private island is the definition of tranquility. With an incredible infinity-edge pool, world-renowned COMO Shambhala Spa, waterfront Balinese-style villas, doting service, and more than three miles of pristine beaches, it's easily one of the most luxurious and romantic options in the Caribbean. But hefty price tags put it out of reach for many, and the rare level of privacy comes as the cost of convenience -- a boat commute is required to reach any nightlife or shopping.

8. 

   This luxurious Viceroy is truly a stunner. It has arguably the best location on St. Lucia, right in between the Pitons, St. Lucia's famous volcanic spires, and on a beautiful white-sand beach. Its 79 rooms are minimalistic, chic, and mostly white, and all come with private plunge pools, butlers, and 24-hour room service; the larger villas and cottages offer living rooms and huge bathrooms (some with outdoor showers and hot tubs). Features include a family-friendly pool, fitness center, tennis courts, and free water sports. The romantic tree-house spa is one of the island's best. The resort's restaurants and bars are pricey, but all-inclusive rates are available to help guests keep costs in check. Unlike Ladera and Jade Mountain, the other two St. Lucia properties on this list, Sugar Beach does allows children, but it tries to ensure peace and quiet for couples, as well, and opened an adult-only beach in spring 2016. 

9. 

   The Geejam is made up of only five private, high-tech cottages on the lush (rainy) foothills of Port Antonio. The setting is gorgeous, the service is extraordinary, and one of the Caribbean's most beautiful beaches is only 10 minutes away. Quiet seclusion it has; a pool, spa facilities, and direct beach access it does not.

10. 

    This adults-only luxury resort offers just two room types: deluxe rooms on the second floor, and slightly larger junior suites on the lower level with access to the beach. Sprawling across 11 acres on the west coast of Barbados, the property is situated closer to the waterfront than others in the area, due to it being built before legislation forced future resorts to build further inland. The pink Colonial-style property is romantic, and offers two restaurants and bars, as well as free afternoon tea on the terrace. Because there are only 72 rooms, the beach never feels crowded. Excellent amenities include an outdoor pool, tennis courts, and free non-motorized water sports. But all this comes at a price -- room and restaurant prices are some of the steepest in Barbados.

11. 

    One of Barbados' most exclusive resorts, The House is the definition of luxury. Located on the ritzy west coast, the adult-only property doesn’t even have a sign out front on the road. The property is secluded and private, with manicured gardens, koi ponds, and a chic lounge area. The rooms are spacious and contemporary with upscale amenities including a massage jet shower and a free bottle of rum punch. Thoughtful freebies include welcome drinks, champagne breakfast, and jet lag revival massages. There is no spa on-site -- surprising for a hotel of this caliber.

12. 

    This is called One&Only for good reason -- there’s nothing quite like it on Paradise Island, or anywhere in the Bahamas for that matter. The 106 rooms and suites, split into two sections, are luxurious, though those in the newer Crescent Wing are a bit more modern and stylish. Guests have access to the amenities at the Atlantis but the advantage of being removed from the crowds. Expansive manicured grounds have two outdoor pools, a romantic garden and statuary modeled after Versailles (a dream for weddings), and the endless stretch of white-sand beach and turquoise waves. Health and wellness nuts are spoilt for choice with daily yoga, an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, an indoor/outdoorfitness center, and a Balinese-style spa with private villas. After a day in the sun, guests return to the room to find champagne and strawberries waiting, and many choose to begin their evening with sunset drinks at Jean-Georges' Dune restaurant.

13. 

    Rosewood Tucker's Point's obvious lures aside -- four pools, a private beach, a championship golf club, a tranquil spa, four restaurants, and spacious rooms featuring million-dollar views -- it’s the fine-tuned details that make this 200-acre property truly spectacular. For example, in the library just behind the lobby, old photos of Bermudian cricket matches, cabinets filled with china, and an antique Oriental rug feel like a swanky 1920s living room frozen in time. Rosewood is easily one of Bermuda’s top luxury resorts, but the rates are also higher here than anywhere else on the island. But perfection (or near-perfection) has its price, and at Tucker’s Point, it’s well worth it.

14. 

    Crowded beaches are unheard of on this private island resort where a maximum of 28 guests at a time have free range of 50 acres and three beaches. Personal boats for daily excursions, on-call service, spacious villas with fully stocked kitchens and wet bars, and a host of all-inclusive activities make Fowl Cay a standout gem in the Exumas. However, some of the villas feature outdated decor and worn furnishings that seem inconsistent with the resort's high nightly rates.

15. 

    If you ever wondered where the stars might go for R&R, look no further than the minimalist Le Sereno, a chic five-pearl boutique hotel reserved for travelers seeking all-around luxury. The simple, elegant interiors by famed designer Christian Liaigre are matched by top-notch amenities and lovely views of the ocean, and the option of in-room (or oceanfront) spa treatments as well as 24-hour room service makes for a truly pampering experience. The hotel’s restaurant, while tasty, is quite pricey -- even for fancy St. Barth's -- and the semi-private beach is not as pretty or wide as the island’s numerous other strips of sand. The hotel is best for couples who don’t mind paying a little extra and renting a car to reach the secluded romance of this hillside hotel.

16. 

    This luxury boutique is heavy on style and refinement, with British Colonial design and 28 huge multi-room suites (they start at 1,080 square feet) featuring kitchens, terraces, and high-end bathrooms. Property highlights include a lovely, tranquil pool, personal beachfront service, a small but spectacular spa, and one of the Providenciales’ most romantic dinner spots. However, its remote location on the point of the beautiful, 12-mile Grace Bay beach -- while peaceful and quiet -- makes it necessary for guests to rely on expensive taxis or car rentals to explore the island.

17. 

    The Caribbean Club is a luxury boutique hotel located on Grand Cayman’s famous Seven Mile Beach. The 37 spacious suites and villas are individually owned and exquisitely decorated, and all have full kitchens, balconies with ocean views, and marble bathrooms with separate whirlpool tubs and rainfall showers. The Club has one of the nicest stretches of beach along the Seven Mile coast with white sand, turquoise water, and calm waves. The beach and pool areas are not crowded, allowing for a quiet and serene tropical getaway. The restaurant here is one of the best on the island, but note that there is no spa.

18. 

    Easily the most luxurious resort in St. Martin, the 55-acre La Samanna resort brings tranquility to an otherwise tourist-filled island. Featuring two beautiful pools, an extensive wine cellar, a yoga and Pilates studio, a European-style spa, and the island's most pristine beach, this 81-room, eight-villa retreat is hard to beat. The vibe is about as fancy as it gets for St. Martin, so of course everything -- from the nightly rates to the dinners and spa treatments -- comes at a sky-high cost.

19. 

    Decked out in signature pink, the 112-room Sandy Lane is the creme de la creme of Barbados -- indeed, it's one of the most luxurious resorts in the world -- known for unparalleled service and distinct touches. Guest amenities run rampant; perhaps the most noteworthy is access to the super exclusive Green Monkey golf course with a separate apparel line that can only be purchased after completion. A Rolls Royce Phantom, top-notch spa, outstanding restaurants, and celebrity sightings are just a few aspects that set the elegant Palladian-style hotel apart from the rest. This is a very special place, for those who can afford it.

20. 

    Sandals is the epitome of a couples-only Caribbean mega-resort. With 11 restaurants, 373 luxurious rooms, and six pools, it's expansive, if not a bit overwhelming. You could easily get lost in the 27 acres of meticulously groomed gardens and along the pathwayswinding between buildings. The Sandals brand is evident at every turn, and the experience can feel generic, pre-packaged, and lacking in authenticity. However, this popular upscale all-inclusive with elegant rooms is definitely dedicated to creating memorable, romantic getaways. (Just be prepared to share yours with a few hundred other couples.)

21. 

    The relaxed, tranquil environment of this adults-only boutique resort is a major part of its appeal. This isn't Antigua's fanciest property, but it doesn't need to be: Simple Caribbean style (think: thatched roofs, stone, and rattan), a truly gorgeous beach, and all-inclusive food that's better than average for the island make for a winning combo. Water sports are also included in the rate, but the ocean here can get a bit rough so guests shouldn't count on being able to swim in it every day.

22. 

    The Bucuti is a romantic, adults-only resort at the southern end of Eagle Beach. This intimate, 104-room property has 14 acres of beach, and the main activity here involves lingering on the sand under shaded palapas; there's also a chic infinity edge pool. Rooms are stylish and have higher-end amenities such as iHome systems, charging docks, and built-in TVs in the bathroom mirrors. A free breakfast buffet is served daily, and dining is a highlight -- including five-course menus at the intimate gourmet spot, Carte Blanche -- and plenty more restaurants are within walking distance. The resort sees a high percentage of repeat visitors, so book early.

23. 

    This charming all-inclusive boutique resort, situated on a bluff overlooking the sea, features 57 separate cottage-style rooms painted in Caribbean pinks and blues. The rooms have a rustic style featuring exposed wood beams, and some have private plunge pools. It is a posh adults-only property catering to couples, wedding parties, and honeymooners -- but it offers a much more intimate atmosphere than massive couples-only resorts like Sandals.

Pics: Making a splash with bathroom decor

Read article : Pics: Making a splash with bathroom decor

Cape Town - There is no more personal a room than the bathroom, and homeowners can use this private space to embrace their own personal style.

At the centre of any domestic bathroom is the ever-important basin and tap. It is important to pair the two to ensure a unique style and statement bathroom feature.

Craig Taylor of Bathroom Butler says spending time and money on designing a bathroom space is becoming increasingly important.

“From its former role as a hidden, exclusively functional space, the bathroom has achieved the status of a proper room, with the same importance placed on decorating it as the rest of the home. As such, it has increasingly become the object of the careful attention of both homeowners and architects, who treat it as a privileged space that can assume different functions.

“The bathroom of today is treated as a central core of the home – a place to linger and relax. We spend an increasing amount of time in our bathrooms each day, whether it’s bathing the kids, getting ready for work or a night out, or washing away the day gone by. Putting some thought into the design of your bathroom can make a huge impact on your experience,” says Taylor.

Modern moods go organic

The use of chrome, brushed satin or polished satin in tap material has an enduring elegance, suited to most bathroom styles. But the shape and profile of the tap can offer a different look and feel.

Jasmin Kraneveldt of tile and sanitaryware supplier Bathroom Bizarre says the trend is towards organic bathroom design, rather than opulence and colour.

“As well as incorporating the constantly growing eco-friendly trend, bathrooms this year will also adopt more open space, as well as striking sanitary fittings and showers that stand as features in their own right. It is all about interesting designs, practically attractive layout and clean and unfussy lines.”

The contemporary school of design that embraces minimalism and modern brassware is no exception. Clean, simple lines offer neat, fresh appeal.

A mixer allows for easy use and cuts down on clutter around the tap. A paddle or lever handle, whether situated on the top of the spout or at the side of the tap, is an effective way to manage the water source.

The spout is likely to be elegant and functional, with angular lines for a more dramatic, modern look. Square tap profiles that tie in with accessories can also bring an up-to-date look and energy.

Waterfall spouts are popular for baths and basin as they deliver water in a quiet, splayed fashion, rather than the usual stream.

Today’s taps are also environment friendly.

“The modern bathroom is fresh, elegant, slick and unafraid to experiment with new trends for the realisation of a relaxed living environment. And it is increasingly drawing from our natural surrounds to achieve this,” says Taylor.

Chrome continues to dominate the material choice for taps. It can be brushed or lightly buffed for an attractive appearance.

Black, diamond-finish taps, with single tap heads or mixers, offer a distinct texture and hue, which is highly contemporary.

The basin itself should be clinical, with defined edges and placed on a cool, modern surface, such as granite or Corian. Open cabinetry and suspended vanities complete a modern look.

“Floating vanities and free-standing baths make for clean, chic and modern-looking bathrooms. Fittings such as floating vanities which attach directly on to the wall can help create a larger-looking and more flowing space in the bathroom area, as well as providing a clean and modern atmosphere,” says Kraneveldt.

Basins can be found in a variety of interesting materials, such as enamel and steel. Glass and quartz offer new-age fabrics that modernise the interior of bathrooms. Other materials suited to the modern bathroom are copper and ceramic with a metallic finish.

Bette, bathroom suppliers, uses all-natural raw materials, such as glass and titanium steel, for the manufacture of a unique product that is strong, scratch-resistant, impact-resistant and permanently retains its shape.

This combination of steel and enamel means the product will keep its brand-new look for many years.

Modern shapes include square and rectangular basins or free-standing pedestal basins in a chunky rounded finish.

Water-saving taps are another must-have item in the up-to-date bathroom.

“Different faucet manufacturers use different methods to ensure their taps are water efficient – namely aerators, flow restrictors, and cartridges built into the mixers that lower the flow rate,” says Kraneveldt.

Traditional trends

A stand-out characteristic of traditional styles is the fabric used. Standard brass is an economical option and can incorporate other materials, such as pot metal or plastic. DZR brass is high quality, with the perfect amount of zinc included in the make-up. It ensures no leaching and guarantees a longer-lasting product, ideal for bathroom taps, and the brass can be polished to a high sheen.

The inset basin is placed directly into a pre-designated cavity. The rim peeps over the edge of the surface top, which is often placed on a full piece of furniture.

The underslung basin sits below the surface, creating a concealed receptacle that shows off the surface top. The hidden sink also has hygiene advantages as the top can be easily cleaned.

A set-top basin can also boast clean, simple lines.

Bathroom Bizarre has recently introduced a new imported range of ultra-thin basins.

A pedestal sink can conform to tradition, says Kraneveldt. “Freestanding pedestal basins are a great way to make a strong visual statement in a bathroom, thanks to their distinctive aesthetic, and they are a great option for a bathroom where space is at a premium.”

She says vintage-inspired pedestal basins have made a huge comeback. “It’s a pure example of what goes around, comes around.”

Old-fashioned spouts boast chunky base elements with vintage detail around the spout extension which can include ornate curves with a kink and “chess piece-style” components. And the handles of the widespread three-hole configurations are often traditional side handles. The ever-popular spider handles are still very much in vogue.

Classic basins need to conform to simple, clean lines and styles of installation to stand the test of time. Round and oval shapes offer a restful feel, ideal to pair with established tap styles. Although most traditional basins are in classic white porcelain, there are eclectic options available, such as stone and pure granite, offering a rustic take.

How you mount taps makes all the difference

The placement of spouts and bath and basin mixers or tap handles can alter the style dramatically.

HOME looks at a few options:

The areas around a drop-in basin offer superb opportunities to surface-mount taps on either side of a spout.

The surface-mounted tap will make use of either a curved extension, with a sharp square edge that allows the spout to sit horizontally over the basin or bath or gently protrude over the lip of the basin. The lever is then situated either to the side of the spout or at the back, in the case of basins.

Wall-mounted spouts can feature a small curved end or a sharp 90 degree drop with a spout long enough to reach over the basin or bath

An elevated spout can be serviced by a wall mixer or paddle handle.

Wall spouts have a modern, up-to-date appeal and can be positioned to fill the basin directly from the wall.

Monoblock basin mixers feature all-in taps and spout placed on the surface as one element.

Samantha Hartshorne, Independent HOME

Pictures: Bathroom Bizarre and Bathroom Butler

Showers & Enclosures

Read article : Showers & Enclosures

Discover a vast range of traditional and contemporary bathroom products on offer online and instore at the Bathroom Discount Centre. They take great pride in catering for every kind of bathroom design, style and budget.

With a solid track record of 35+ years’ experience in serving clients in London and all over the UK, Bathroom Discount Centre have built an excellent reputation as a professional and trustworthy bathroom supplier for all your needs. If you are thinking of having your bathroom, en suite, shower room, wet room or cloakroom upgraded, refurbished or redesigned, the Bathroom Discount Centre should be your first port of call.

The key to their many years of success is that they do whatever they possibly can to truly cater for clients’ needs and desires. Keeping a close eye on industry developments, fashion trends and technological advancements, Bathroom Discount Centre make sure that they always stock a wide selection of beautiful bathroom products for every taste.

But that’s not all. To keep their customers coming back, they’ve made a point of keeping their prices unbelievably competitive, regularly checking them against competitors. Should you find one of the products cheaper elsewhere,they’ll do our best to price match the lower quote.

Whether you are looking for the most luxurious Heritage freestanding cast iron double ended roll top bath, a Bathe In Stone crème polished onyx sit on bowl basin or a high tech Hudson Reed LED infinity mirror, you will find it all and at fantastic prices at The Bathroom Discount Centre.

Bathroom Discount Centre stock many leading UK and international bathroom brands including Ashton & Bentley, Bette, Bisque, Burlington, ClearGreen, Clearwater, Crosswater, Duravit, Hansgrohe, JIS, Just Taps, Kaldewei, Kudos, Laufen, Lefroy Brooks, Matki, Reina, Roper Rhodes, Saneux, Warmup and many more.

The website is at the heart of the business; it’s where you’ll find a continuously updated choice of expertly curated bathroom products at the best possible prices – all easily accessible from the comfort of your home and available at the touch of a button.

Visit www.bathdisc.co.uk and view the selection of high end branded products for baths, taps, basins, toilets, showers and shower enclosures, heating and lighting, mirrors, cabinets and accessories.

In addition to a wealth of bathroom products from leading brands that can be purchased online, the Bathroom Discount Centre’s friendly and knowledgeable customer services team is always at your service. Call 0207 385 2330 or email sales@bathdisc.co.uk and ask any questions about any of their products. They can also provide helpful assistance for buying online.

If you would like to be personally inspired by the latest bathroom trends and products at affordable prices, they warmly invite you to visit them in Fulham, West London, and browse the 9 stunning bathroom showrooms showcasing the cutting edge of bathroom design. Their expert team will be more than happy to show you around and answer any queries you may have. The Bathroom Discount Centre is open all day every day.

297 Munster Road
Fulham
London
SM6 7DW

Showroom 0207 381 4222 / Sales 0207 385 2330

A Small Bathroom That Feels Big

Read article : A Small Bathroom That Feels Big

The small bath problem and proposed solutions

Lead photo

Bathroom after remodeling

The kitchen may be the heart of the home, but over the past 20 years, the bathroom has morphed into the home's soul—a savored refuge from our busy world. Once little more than utilitarian space, the bath has expanded, both in size and in role, to serve as a pleasing retreat.

How to create such a retreat in an ordinary, compact 5 x 9-ft. bathroom could easily leave the owner feeling like a, well, lost soul. Remodeling a bath built to accommodate a standard 5-ft. tub, a toilet and a vanity without adding footage can be a challenge.

Just ask Pam Peterson, who wanted to mine more space from her small 1954 bathroom. She turned to designer Matthew Rain of Abode Drafting, who, along with the remodelers at Mike Otto Construction, “grew” her limited space without changing the room's footprint and added modern elegance to a dated room.

Their solution relied on several fixes: reconfiguring the linen closet; brightening up the fixtures; updating the wall, tile and floor surfaces; and radically changing the vanity.

The Bathroom, Before and After

An oversized vanity and solid-color harvest gold tile visually shrank this already small bathroom.

With the installation of bright fixtures and right-sized pieces, this bathroom gains a big-time feel.

Bathroom before remodeling

Fewer doors, more space

More storage, fewer swinging doors

This corner is now functional storage with an open look and feel. Eliminating most of the cabinet doors and adding a pocket door created a greater sense of space.

Rain cleaned up the structural clutter by rethinking the original linen closet. It had four cabinet doors in the bathroom and another access door from the hallway. “With all those cabinet doors and the big bathroom door, I felt I was always dodging and weaving anytime I needed to get something,” says Peterson of the old layout. “Some door was always in the way.”

The new design turned a bad closet into a great one by shedding all but one of the bathroom cabinet doors and removing the hallway cabinetry entirely. “The new wall space in the hall allowed us to turn the old bathroom door into a pocket door. Eliminating a door 'in-swing' immediately gives a room a bigger feel,” says Rain.

The new bathroom storage area has five custom open shelves made of red oak (to match the room's new light-toned trim), perfect for stacks of towels (photo). “By leaving these shelves open, it also adds to the room's feeling of spaciousness,” says Rain, “and because you can quickly grab a towel, it's functional as well.”

Tiled for a big feel

Mixed tile colors

The rough edges and rich colors of the tile create the illusion of natural stone, but in reality, it's low-maintenance porcelain. Because the mosaic style breaks up the color pattern, the eye perceives that the room is larger.

Despite the recent interest in retro fashion, there is little nostalgia for the old harvest gold look. In this bathroom, the wall and floor surfaces were replaced with an easy-to-clean porcelain tile in a palette of warm colors—including gold.

While the mosaic tile is beautiful, it also serves a design purpose. “Both the scale of the 2-inch tile and the random arrangement give the feeling of being in a larger room,” says Rain. He found 2-in. tile that could be ordered in a random mix, which took the guesswork out of how much of each tile color to purchase for a mosaic (photo). “The dark floor tiles in a larger format, here a 6-by-6, also add to the spaciousness,” Rain says.

Bright, clean and open for small spaces

Photo 1: Open sink console

To accent the open space underneath the console vanity, a polished chrome finish P-trap was used.

Photo 2: New faucet and a refinished tub

The brushed nickel finish was selected for its long wear and because “it simply doesn't show dirt as much,” says designer Matthew Rain. The bathtub was refinished so it would match the clean white color of the new fixtures.

Peterson wanted a crisp look that wasn't overly modern. “I didn't want anything too elaborate in this little bath. It's hard to appreciate things in such a small room because there is no place to stand back and take it in,” she says. “I wanted a look with simple lines.”

Rain selected nearly all of the fixtures and accessories from Kohler's Memoirs collection. “The style matched up well with my client's tastes and the products were 'right-sized' for the scale of the room,” says Rain, adding that shopping online saved him and his client hours of legwork.

After 50 years of use, the tub was beginning to show its age. Replacement wasn't feasible without either special ordering an expensive custom bathtub to fit the constraints of the room or undertaking a more extensive remodel. “Because it's a high-quality cast-iron tub, I decided to spend $500 to refinish it,” says Peterson (Photo 2). “It looks good and saved money in demolition and installation costs.”

Warranties on tub refinishing vary but usually hover around the five-year mark. “I've found that a refinished tub will last about seven years when it's used every day or around 10 with low use,” says remodeler Mike Otto.

The old vanity was dated and with its clunky style took up too much space in the small bath. A contemporary console sink with square legs was used as a replacement with eye-popping results (Photo 1). The console style offers enough space to place toiletries by the basin but without the chunkiness of a traditional vanity.

“This is probably one of the biggest changes in the room when it comes to opening things up,” says Peterson. “I had wanted some unique pieces in the room and this is definitely one of them.”