Clean Living

Today’s bathroom is as functional and beautiful as any other room in the home. We look at eight inspiring designs that combine style, practicality and comfort

- Tess Paterson

INSIDE OUT

Connecting to an outdoor area helps to introduce a spa-like feel. This ceiling-height picture window creates a seamless link to a private courtyard, with the added benefit of an outdoor shower. Painting the courtyard walls in white enhances the indoor-outdoor flow, echoed by the tiled bathroom walls. A modern bath shape makes a bold statement, while the Ethiopian table adds texture.

Tip: Framing a large window in wood adds an element of warmth, offsetting the crisp, white finishes.

PURE AND SIMPLE

Fuss-free and practical, this space was designed as a boys’ bathroom adjacent to a teen den. The all-white, walk-in shower is clad in simple subway tiles, with a porthole window adding a bold visual element. Building in a narrow rectangular shelf provides useful storage space for toiletries – a clever component that breaks the starkness of the tiles.

Tip: Choose matt, non-slip flooring such as vinyl or timber for high-traffic kids’ bathrooms.

PALE AND INTERESTING

All-white bathrooms often produce a feeling of tranquillity and abundant space – the trick is to create layers of interest among the monochrome. This detailed vanity has profiled drawer fronts, plus a brass-toned kickplate and contrasting handles. Set against the luxe marble cladding (light veining introduces the subtlest gray shades), the brass-framed mirrors echo the metallic edging in the shower-door surround.

Tip: Correctly positioned task lights will ensure the right illumination for your vanity area.