‘I love period style, but wanted a modern look'

If you’re torn between clean, contemporary lines and the character of traditional design, check out how Cat McCauley found the perfect balance in her new bathroom

- LINDA CLAYTON

HOW CAT AND JAMES DID IT

‘I’d grown to like the panelling as it’s in keeping with the house. I didn’t go for a traditional-style suite, though, because they are fiddly to clean, but chose simple fixtures, going bolder with the things I’ll be able to change. I wanted a freestanding bath to be the focus and placed it away from the wall so it would be easy to clean around. The three windows and two doors made it tricky to fit in a shower, but a walk-in design worked next to the bath. The Cheshire Bathroom Company made a screen to blend in. The installation work took four weeks and cost around £14,000.’

Make it work for you

CAT’S CHOICE: PANELLING

Love the look of Cat’s smartly clad walls? Find out if panelling is the perfect finishing touch for your bathroom

Originally installed to protect walls and hide damp, panelling is enjoying a style revival. We love the instant character wall panelling can provide, especially in featureless rooms. And of course it is a practical way to keep scuffs at bay.

Q Why do I need it?