Some are chosen for the love of the work and hung to be admired and enjoyed, others are placed to tie together the colour or design elements of a room. Either way, the placement, colours and form of these 19 artworks -– and how they complement their surroundings – show just how intentional art can become the perfect finishing touch for a space.
A stone for every look While our love of classic marble in kitchens and bathrooms shows little sign of slowing down, other natural alternatives, such as onyx, malachite and agate, are rising in popularity alongside it. Onyx, it seems, is a particular designer favourite. “Onyx is a type of marble that comes in many beautiful colours and exotic veining patterns,” says Allira Bell, a stylist at Temple & Webster. “But unlike classic marble, onyx is uniquely translucent, which gives it something of an ‘otherworldly’ appearance and highlights the richness of its many layers.”
When it comes to adding personality to the bathroom, it’s often difficult to find a balance between materials that won’t be affected by moisture (goodbye canvases) and good looks. Hanging multiple mirrors is great way around that, while servicing the need for side views of oneself before heading out for the night
Another way to stage a bath is to frame it by cabinetry at either end, as Leighton Design Group has done in this serene bathroom. The curved feature wall and crystal chandelier add drama, while the built-in cabinets bookend the bath and balance the room. It’s a clever way to add some hidden storage in the bottom cabinets, as well as display shelving and a couple of additional towel rails.
tyle up your over-the-bath shower Problem: You still can’t include a separate shower space, but want to make a feature of your fittings. Solution: Here, the on-trend black shower has turned an over-bath spray into a stylish statement. If you don’t fancy black, you could go for another finish, such as copper.
Fit in a shower and bath Problem: There’s not enough space for the separate shower and bath you’ve always wanted. Solution: In this cleverly designed wash space, a wet room floor means there’s no need for a dedicated shower enclosure. Instead, the designers have installed a showerhead next to the bath. A neat screen divides the space from the rest of the room, but the transparent glass keeps it looking airy.
Be a space invader Problem: You’re unable to build recessed shelving, or you need even more storage. Solution: Think creatively about your small-space storage and look around for under-used areas, such as the foot of the bath. Here, a simple platform has been built above the ledge to give two tiers of storage instead of one. Make the most of small areas, such as wall space beside a window or a high spot above the doorway, and construct shelves to fit. Even a small shelf can be useful for storing toiletries.
Create extra storage Problem: You’ve squeezed in your shower, loo and sink, but now you’re left with zero room for storage. Solution: Rather than use up valuable space, create some extra areas by getting a builder or joiner to cut into the wall. In this compact washroom, storage niches have been built into the shower area and wall above the toilet, providing plenty of space for towels and toiletries.
Build in to awkward areas Problem: Your loft bathroom’s sloping roof is presenting a challenge. Solution: Take the opportunity to be creative with your design and build right into the space. Here, the designers have used every centimetre by constructing a mirrored unit that fits snugly into the eaves. The toilet has been placed directly below the shortest area, which leaves more vertical room for standing at the washbasin.
1. Free up floor space Problem: You’re feeling crammed in your tiny bathroom. Solution: Create the illusion of space by freeing up the floor area. Choose wall-hung sinks and toilets that float above ground and leave the area below clear. Your washroom will feel airier, and you’ll create some versatile storage space for stowing baskets or rubbish bins beneath the sink.
. Tight-space treasure.
colour
Don’t be afraid of the dark Here, RISE Design Studio shows how even a small bathroom can be made to feel like a sanctuary. The star of this space is the wall covering – clay plaster in a deep blue-grey. This makes the room feel less ‘bathroomy’, as do the interesting brass taps, the plant and the artwork, which have been positioned so they can be appreciated from the tub.
Unusual vanities The bathroom today is less a utility room and more of an extension of the living and relaxation spaces in our homes, says Thompson. “As a result, people are looking for special furniture pieces for their bathrooms that tell a story, whether it’s a custom-made vanity with a beautiful stone top or an antique cabinet
We specified a larger tile size for the bathroom to add to the illusion of space. Contrasting white tiles on the wall create depth when you look into the space. The bathroom was landlocked so brought in natural light through a skylight in the ceiling.
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