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Sanitaryware and baths
Left image: Emani basin by Keramag
Right image: Orbis bath by Koralle
Sanitaryware and baths come in an endless variety of shapes, sizes and styles to suit all installation requirements and design preferences. From the smallest wall-mounted corner basin to generously proportioned double-ended baths, each piece allows you to express your individuality and transforms your bathroom from a purely functional space into a personal haven.
Right image: Orbis bath by Koralle
Sanitaryware and baths come in an endless variety of shapes, sizes and styles to suit all installation requirements and design preferences. From the smallest wall-mounted corner basin to generously proportioned double-ended baths, each piece allows you to express your individuality and transforms your bathroom from a purely functional space into a personal haven.
Basins
Although your choice of tiles and colour scheme set the tone of your bathroom, it is the sanitaryware and fittings that determines its design style. Modern wall-hung basins in graphic shapes will give a clean look to contemporary spaces, while Art Deco style pedestal basins add an element of grandeur to traditional bathrooms.
Basin made from stone, glass and resin have become increasingly popular. Signalling a move away from the all-white suite, they add another layer of texture and colour to the bathroom environment.
Your choice of basin will also influence the style of tap that you put with it, so consider both elements at the same time. Counter-mounted vessel basins will require a wall-mounted or high tap so that the water is delivered in the optimal position.
Vanity units provide storage space below the basin. For a contemporary look opt for a wide wall-hung model with a surface mounted basin.
If you have the space, double basins are a practical choice for multi-user households. They add symmetry and create a focal point in the bathroom.
Baths
While showers are a great way to start the day, taking time out to luxuriate in a warm bath is hard to beat. Ergonomics are key to a relaxing bath. Visit a bathroom showroom, take off your shoes and try them out. Is it long enough? Wide enough? Does it support you back?
Whatever the size of your bathroom there is a bath to suit your lifestyle – from large double-ended models with centrally mounted taps to corner baths and roll top baths. If your space dictates that you need a small bath then consider an integrated bath filler – these allow you to fill the bath without a spout taking up precious space.
Acrylic and pressed steel are the most common materials used today – both are strong and durable, however the manufacturing process used to form acrylic baths allows for wider variety of shapes and designs.
For a nostalgic look choose an enamelled free-standing cast iron bath with ball and claw feet. Or make a statement with a large stone bath – although check first that your floor will be able to cope with the additional weight.
If your bath is also your main showering area then look out for models specifically designed to cope with this. They are the same length as a standard bath but are wider at one end to create a comfortable showering area. Usually these are available as left or right hand options to cope with different bathroom layouts.
WCs and bidets
For a cohesive look, your choice of WC and bidet should match the style of your basin. If you have chosen a wall-hung basin, then choose a wall-hung WC and bidet to complement it.
WC styles include: close-coupled – where the cistern and pan are attached to one another, and back-to-wall – where the cistern is concealed in the wall or bathroom furniture. Wall-hung WC’s are similar in style to back-to-wall models only the pan is suspended from the wall, rather than being floor-mounted.
Dual-flush WCs play an essential role in water saving. These are activated by a push button or activation plate and allow you to select the amount of water used for each flush – usually 3litres or 6litres.
Next: Shower trays, screens and enclosures
Although your choice of tiles and colour scheme set the tone of your bathroom, it is the sanitaryware and fittings that determines its design style. Modern wall-hung basins in graphic shapes will give a clean look to contemporary spaces, while Art Deco style pedestal basins add an element of grandeur to traditional bathrooms.
Basin made from stone, glass and resin have become increasingly popular. Signalling a move away from the all-white suite, they add another layer of texture and colour to the bathroom environment.
Your choice of basin will also influence the style of tap that you put with it, so consider both elements at the same time. Counter-mounted vessel basins will require a wall-mounted or high tap so that the water is delivered in the optimal position.
Vanity units provide storage space below the basin. For a contemporary look opt for a wide wall-hung model with a surface mounted basin.
If you have the space, double basins are a practical choice for multi-user households. They add symmetry and create a focal point in the bathroom.
Baths
While showers are a great way to start the day, taking time out to luxuriate in a warm bath is hard to beat. Ergonomics are key to a relaxing bath. Visit a bathroom showroom, take off your shoes and try them out. Is it long enough? Wide enough? Does it support you back?
Whatever the size of your bathroom there is a bath to suit your lifestyle – from large double-ended models with centrally mounted taps to corner baths and roll top baths. If your space dictates that you need a small bath then consider an integrated bath filler – these allow you to fill the bath without a spout taking up precious space.
Acrylic and pressed steel are the most common materials used today – both are strong and durable, however the manufacturing process used to form acrylic baths allows for wider variety of shapes and designs.
For a nostalgic look choose an enamelled free-standing cast iron bath with ball and claw feet. Or make a statement with a large stone bath – although check first that your floor will be able to cope with the additional weight.
If your bath is also your main showering area then look out for models specifically designed to cope with this. They are the same length as a standard bath but are wider at one end to create a comfortable showering area. Usually these are available as left or right hand options to cope with different bathroom layouts.
WCs and bidets
For a cohesive look, your choice of WC and bidet should match the style of your basin. If you have chosen a wall-hung basin, then choose a wall-hung WC and bidet to complement it.
WC styles include: close-coupled – where the cistern and pan are attached to one another, and back-to-wall – where the cistern is concealed in the wall or bathroom furniture. Wall-hung WC’s are similar in style to back-to-wall models only the pan is suspended from the wall, rather than being floor-mounted.
Dual-flush WCs play an essential role in water saving. These are activated by a push button or activation plate and allow you to select the amount of water used for each flush – usually 3litres or 6litres.
Next: Shower trays, screens and enclosures
