Say Hello to the New Bathroom

Posted: 24 July 2009 by Metricon Homes

Tags: colours, design, ensuite, environment, shower, trends, vanities

For many years the bathroom has been a functional room for washing; a dedicated workspace that serves its function well. But things are changing. Just as the kitchen transformed from a pokey room at the side of the house into a centralised hub, the bathroom is finally getting some attention!

Metricon’s Interior Designer – Danielle – suggests today’s bathroom is a place for relaxing. It has clear lines, organic shapes and a variety of textures. White is still dominant, however, black is back, and we’re also seeing hints of gold and splashes of vibrant colour.

“The biggest trend in bathrooms is our changing perception of its use. Bathrooms are becoming a real sanctuary, a place for relaxing, particularly for women.

We’re taking inspiration from hotels and spa retreats and replicating this into our display homes. More attention is being paid to the ensuite, merging the main bedroom and ensuite into one open-plan area or parent’s retreat. People will feel like they are constantly on holidays,” suggests Danielle.

A freestanding deep soaker bath is a popular choice as a feature in this space. If there is not enough room – a double shower is another option.

“The Baroque period is popular in interiors and is moving over into bathrooms. The textured and patterned vinyl wallpaper is appearing in bathrooms as a feature wall. Also coloured mosaic tiles are hugely popular amongst home buyers,” Danielle mentioned.

Our concern for the environment is also translating into the bathroom. Water saving, WELS-rated fittings are becoming the norm. New flat-style basins inspired by public bathrooms in restaurants and bars, are not only creating a wonderful streamlined look, but also saving thousands of litres of water also.

Design trends at a glance:

• Ensuites are opening up and becoming part of the main bedroom suite – inspired by hotel resorts.
• The bathroom, once just a service area, is now viewed as a spa-like sanctuary.
• Black and white, feature walls, wallpaper and splashes of colour are deemed future trends.
• Square shapes are still prominent, but softer around edges.
• Freestanding baths are in vogue, the bigger the better.
• Streamlines shallow basins for minimalist look that also saves water.
• His-and-her basins and showers.
• Either large format tiles or tiny mosaics are used.