Cloakroom Sinks

Cloakroom sinks feature compact proportions to help maximise the space in your cloakroom suite and most have a wall-mounted design to provide the illusion of a larger room. Cloakroom sinks such as the Balterley Bathrooms Compass collection feature a contemporary design to create a stylish focal point in your cloakroom suite. The Compass range includes an asymmetric basin which will fit into the corner of your cloakroom to help make the most of what could be wasted space. It also features a handed design so make sure to check if you need a left or right handed version before you buy.

Cloakroom Furniture

Including a compact vanity unit and basin is now a very popular way to create an ultra-modern look and feel to your cloakroom suite as well as providing you with somewhere to keep any toiletries hidden away from view. Vanity units such as the Ultra Zone Compact collection are perfect for creating a chic, modern cloakroom suite and they are available in a range of contemporary finishes including white gloss, red gloss, oak, walnut and black wood so you can achieve a look that reflects your own individual style.

Space Saving Toilets

Choosing a toilet which has a shorter projection than standard is a definite must for maximising the floor space in your cloakroom suite. Look out for toilets which measure just 600mm from front to back such as the Balterley Compass toilet. Corner toilets provide a good solution for a small space too and will help to make the best possible use of space. For a very contemporary look wall-hung toilets are ideal and as the actual pan hangs off the wall your cloakroom suite will look more spacious.

Cloakroom Taps

Cloakroom taps have been specifically designed for small spaces and will look more in proportion with a compact sink. There are a variety of designs available ranging from the bold and daring to the more sleek and subtle. For a chic, contemporary look the Phoenix CA single lever mini basin mono tap is perfect. This features an open spout design to create a waterfall style effect. The right style of tap can really make all the difference to the overall look of your cloakroom suite.

If you do have the space install a separate bath and shower enclosure, which will appeal to everyone, but if you only have a small bathroom make sure you install a shower over the bath and fit a bath screen for a neat finish.

With so many types of baths available it can be tricky to choose the right one to suit your bathroom as well as your requirements. Here is a useful guide to helping you choose the right bath to suit you.

Standard rectangular baths

Straight acrylic or steel baths are ideal for showering as they feature a flat edge for a bath screen and they come in  a wide range of sizes too. Double ended baths where the waste, overflow and taps are in the middle are perfect for a family bathroom and will provide a very modern look too. Straight baths whether single or double ended will appeal to a wide range of tastes and offer a practical bathing solution.

Shower baths

The best solution for a small bathroom that doesn’t have the space for a separate bath and shower enclosure. A shower bath has one end wider than the other, which creates a space for showering as well as featuring plenty of room for a comfortable soak too. This type of bath is available in two designs including square and p-shaped, they also come complete with a screen to protect  the floor from getting covered in water.

Freestanding baths

Available in both traditional and contemporary designs to complement the style of your bathroom. A freestanding bath provides a luxurious bathing experience and will become the main focal point of the bathroom. Freestanding baths are also available in a choice of sizes including a compact 1500mm, which is great for a small bathroom.

Corner baths

Ideal for a bathroom with an awkward shape, helping you to make the most of what could otherwise be wasted space. Or a different alternative to a straight bath to create a touch of luxury. Some corner baths feature a handed design, so it’s important to check whether you require a left or right hand version before you buy.

Each new Bauhaus collection features a range of wall mounted vanity units complete with a high quality basin in a variety of sizes to suit your available space. There are also a choice of mirrors that have been designed to perfectly complement each new collection as well as additional tall storage units if you require extra space for spare towels and toiletries.

The Bauhaus Celeste bathroom furniture collection will transform the look of any bathroom into an ultra-chic space. The collection includes a range of wall mounted vanity units in choice of finishes including Graphite, American Walnut, White Gloss and Calico as well as a variety of widths which include 600mm, 800mm and 1100mm. Celeste also features wall mounted tall units and back lit mirrors to complete the look.

The Linea Round and Linea Square collections feature a simple, timeless design to create a neat, streamlined look in any bathroom. The range includes wall mounted vanity units in a variety of sizes and finishes, which include Graphite, Teakwood, Blackwood and White Gloss, either featuring a round or square basin design. If you require more storage choose from one of the matching tower units, which can be fitted with the Linea laundry basket. Enhance the look of the Linea bathroom furniture with one of the coordinating back lit mirrors.

The Bauhaus Solo bathroom furniture collection will create an ultra-sleek look and is ideal for a small bathroom or en-suite, the range features three wall-mounted vanity units each measuring 550mm in width and in a choice of finishes including Graphite, Calico and White Gloss. Each vanity unit has plenty of storage space for all your bathroom essentials and to enhance the design of the furniture there is a choice of two back lit mirrors.

1.Choose a designer basin such as the Roca Urban London countertop basin, which is perfect for creating an eye-catching feature in your bathroom. If you have the space why not install two countertop basins next to each for a more luxurious feel?

2. Position a contemporary freestanding bath in the centre of the bathroom for some real wow factor. Contemporary freestanding baths are available in a variety of shapes and sizes ranging from angular to the more curvy, plus you can be sure to bathe in style and comfort too.

3. Create a sleek, streamlined look in your designer bathroom with a walk in shower enclosure. A walk in shower features minimal styling and has plenty of showering space so you can shower in style every day.

4. For the ultimate designer look install a waterproof TV so you can watch all your favourite soaps whilst having a relaxing soak in the bath. Waterproof TV’s come in a range of sizes and frame finishes which will easily blend into your designer bathroom.

5. Your choice of taps can make a big difference to the overall look of your designer bathroom. Open spout taps such as the Crosswater Love Me taps are ideal for creating a designer statement or if you want to create a more minimal look why not opt for wall mounted taps, which will look great with a countertop basin.

6. Bathroom furniture such as the Adatto Casa range will create a feeling of luxury, as well as providing you with somewhere to store away all your essential items out of sight for a clutter free space.

7. To create a bright and airy space install a large illuminated mirror such as the Laufen Pro 700x1175mm mirror, which will bounce the light around as well as making it easier to apply make-up or shave.

8. Don’t forget about heating too, a designer heated towel rail or radiator will help to enhance the look of your bathroom as well as creating a warm and inviting space.

9. Opt for natural materials and textures such as marble and stone, which will provide a luxury designer feel as well as creating a look that will stand the test of time.

10. Finally, complete the look of your designer bathroom with some stylish coordinating accessories and plenty of bright lighting to bring the room to life.

Can’t decide between a bath or a shower enclosure?

If you don’t have the space or can’t decide between a separate bath and shower enclosure then a bathroom suite with a shower bath will the best option. Shower baths feature an innovative design that allows you to combine bathing and showering in the same space and you don’t have the dilemma of having to choose between installing a bath or a shower enclosure.

Only have a small bathroom?

If you have a small bathroom there are bathroom suites which have been specifically designed for compact spaces. These feature baths, basins and toilets which have compact proportions to help maximise the available room. Wall-mounted items are perfect for small bathrooms too as they help to provide the illusion of more floor space.

Want something different?

Bathroom suites with corner baths are ideal for a more awkward shape bathroom, but can also provide a different alternative to a straight bath. Corner baths are available in a range of sizes and feature plenty of bathing space for a relaxing soak.

Create a feeling of luxury

For those who want to create a feeling of luxury a bathroom suite with a freestanding bath is the ideal choice. Freestanding baths are available in contemporary and traditional designs and provide the perfect way to relax and unwind after a long day.

Buying a complete bathroom suite package is a great way to not only save money but ensures that you achieve a fully coordinating look too. Before buying a new bathroom suite think about the look and feel that you want to create and ensure that you measure the room accurately.

Author: Liz Robinson

Before

After

As you can see from the before and after photos Jane’s bathroom has undergone a dramatic transformation and you can hardly believe that it’s the same room! After receiving fantastic help and advice from Rory at Big Bathroom Shop Jane finally decided on a range of bathroom products that best suited her tastes and requirements.

“I wouldn’t have been very confident to buy this sort of thing online if it wasn’t for the fantastic help, website photos and after sales care from Rory,” says Jane Waddell.

Totally transformed the new bathroom looks fresh and modern and makes the most of the available space. The bathroom now includes a separate bath and shower enclosure, which has minimalistic styling to provide a more streamlined look. The Milano back to wall furniture suite and wall cabinets feature a walnut finish, which adds a feeling of warmth and along with the Hudson Reed cabinet provides plenty of storage space for bathroom essentials. To complete the look of the new bathroom the Ultra Muse basin mono mixer fits in perfectly.

Get the look

Ultra Pacific 800mm hinged shower door

Ultra 1000x800mm Pearlstone shower tray

Milano 1600x750mm steel bath

Milano walnut back to wall furniture suite

Milano 2400mm walnut plinth

Milano walnut wall cabinet

Hudson Reed Risa mirrored cabinet with light

Ultra Muse basin mono mixer

Author: Liz Robinson

What alternative cleaning products can I use?

Vinegar is ideal for cleaning your bathroom and the acidic qualities will effectively cut through dirt as well as tackle limescale too. Make sure you use white vinegar though as the smell isn’t as strong and it’s also recommended that you dilute equal measures of water and vinegar, this solution can then be poured into a plastic spray bottle, which allows you to easily clean the tiles, mirror, bath and shower. Bi-carbonate of soda is also great for cleaning and is very affordable.

To ensure your bath or shower enclosure is easier to clean make sure you rinse around after bathing or showering, this helps to prevent the build up of dirt, the same also applies to your basin; rinsing regularly ensures dirty marks and soap scum won’t build-up as quickly.

What should I use to clean the taps?

All you need to keep your taps looking like new is an old toothbrush and half a lemon, first gently scrub away any dirt with an old toothbrush and then rub with half a lemon. Lemon juice is also ideal for getting rid of limescale too. Afterwards rinse your taps and polish with a soft cloth.

How can I get rid of mould in the bathroom?

Mould can look really unsightly and can even cause health problems too, but it is a common problem in a lot of bathrooms which is usually caused by condensation and it’s important that you tackle the problem as soon as possible. Mould in the tile grout can be removed by dipping an old toothbrush in bleach and gently scrubbing. Another effective alternative is to mix bi-carbonate of soda and water together to form a paste, then apply to the mould, leave for 15 minutes and scrub off. Ensuring your bathroom is sufficiently ventilated will also help to prevent the growth of mould.

What’s the best way to clean the shower curtain?

Shower curtains can easily become dirty and can get stained with mildew, a good way to get rid of these stains is to mix a very weak solution of bleach and water or you can use washing detergent and leave the curtain to soak in the bath. The majority of shower curtains can be put in washing machine, just make sure that they go in on a cool or delicate wash.

How can I get rid of limescale on the shower head?

Limescale can quickly build-up on your shower head if you don’t clean it on a regular basis, this can block the small holes and prevent your shower from providing an efficient flow of water. To remove the built up limescale unscrew the shower head and leave to soak in a bowl of vinegar and water for 1-2 hours and if needed scrub with a stiff brush.

Keep dust to a minimum

Finally, keep dust to a minimum with a micro fibre cloth and use a feather dust on a long handle for hard to reach areas.

Author: Liz Robinson

1. Before choosing any new bathroom furniture or storage it is a good idea to have a good clear out in your bathroom and only keep what you need on a daily basis, this will help you to be better organised.

2. A vanity unit is a very popular way to store all your bathroom essentials out of sight; opt for a wall-mounted version to provide the illusion of more floor space. Vanity units are available in a wide range of sizes and finishes to suit every style of bathroom.

3. A tall tower unit or cupboard will provide you with additional storage space for spare towels and toiletries and the slim design is ideal for smaller spaces.

4. Installing a mirrored bathroom cabinet above the basin ensures that everything you require on a day-to-day basis is within easy reach; choose one with lights to provide you with essential illumination.

5. Glass bathroom shelving will provide you with useful storage space for perfumes or candles as well as still maintaining a clean, minimal look.

6. Surfaces around your bath or shower can easily become cluttered with shampoo and shower gel, so make sure you install a shower tidy to keep your toiletries neatly and safely stored out of the way.

7. Don’t leave your wet towels on the floor after a bath or shower, instead choose a stylish heated towel rail to provide you with the luxury of warm, dry towels.

8. A smart linen basket such as the Phoenix Euro will easily blend in with white gloss bathroom furniture.

9. If you have a small bathroom such as a cloakroom suite opt for a compact vanity unit, which measures just 450mm in width. The Phoenix Cube collection is ideal and is available in a range of contemporary finishes.

10. A matching set of coordinating accessories will provide a more uniform look to your bathroom and everything will have its own place such as the hand towel, dressing gown, toilet roll and soap.

Author: Liz Robinson

1. Create a focal point in your modern bathroom with a statement bath such as the Milano Double Ended Freestanding Bath from Big Bathroom Shop, this will not only add some wow factor but will ensure of a totally relaxing bathing experience.

2. If your bathroom is large enough install a separate shower enclosure, rather than having a shower over the bath. Walk in shower enclosures are perfect for achieving a very modern and streamlined look as well as featuring lots of showering space too.

3. Enhance the look of your walk in shower enclosure with a large, drench style fixed shower head mounted from the wall or the ceiling; combine this with a thermostatic shower valve for a neat finish.

4. Including bathroom furniture in your modern bathroom is a definite must for keeping all your toiletries stored away out of sight; this will ensure that your bathroom looks neat and organised. A wall-mounted vanity unit in a warm wood finish such as walnut will provide a touch of luxury and help to enhance a feeling space.

5. If your freestanding bath is installed against the wall opt for a wall-mounted bath tap to provide a more luxurious look and feel to your modern bathroom.

6. Countertop basins are now more popular than ever for modern bathrooms and are ideal for creating a hotel-spa feel. Countertop basins are available in a huge range of styles and designs, but for the ultimate modern look the Roca Urban collection is perfect.

7. A heated towel rail will make the perfect addition to your modern bathroom as not only will it provide you with warm, dry towels but will help to enhance the overall look of the room too.

8. Install an illuminated mirror which will look very stylish in your modern bathroom as well as providing you with essential illumination when applying make-up or shaving.

9. Create a coordinated look with a set of bathroom accessories such as the Crosswater Modest range, which will help bring the look of your modern bathroom together.

10. Complete your new bathroom with some candles and fluffy towels and opt for a neutral colour scheme for a feeling of relaxation.

Author: Liz Robinson

Showers usually fall into three different categories, which include mixer, electric and power. So, to help you decide here are the basics on each different type of shower.

Mixer showers

A mixer shower uses water from both the hot and cold water supplies and features a higher flow rate compared to an electric shower. Mixer showers are ideal for homes that have plenty of available hot water, but if your water flow rate is on the poor side then you will require a pump to provide a sufficient flow of water. To prevent sudden bursts of hot water and the water dwindling when other taps in the house are turned on or the toilet is flushed make sure you choose a thermostatic shower valve, this will ensure you and your family can shower in complete safety.

Electric showers

Electric showers are a very popular choice as they are easy to install and provide instant hot water at the flick of a switch. An electric shower works by heating the mains cold water supply as it passes over a heating element in the unit. This type of shower is the only one that works separately from the hot water system, which means that if your boiler fails you can still have a hot shower, they are also suitable for both high and low pressure systems.

Power showers

A power shower works in a similar way to a mixer shower, in that it uses both the hot and cold water supplies, but instead features an integrated pump for a more invigorating showering experience. Power showers can only be installed with a gravity-fed low pressure system and are therefore not suitable for connecting to the mains cold water supply, high pressure systems and combi-boilers.

How high should I install the shower?

The minimum recommended height for installing your shower at is 1.8 metres from the floor, but if you are over 6ft tall you may feel that this is too low. Some bathroom installers will fit the shower at a height of 2.1 metres, or even higher depending on the ceiling height.

How can I keep my shower in top condition?

If you have hard water you will need to clean the shower head on a regular basis to prevent lime-scale from building up and to help keep the water flowing at a constant pressure. Also, keep the rest of your shower squeaky clean by using warm, soapy water, then rinsing and polishing with a soft cloth afterwards.

Showerheads

Showerheads are available in a wide range of styles including fixed heads which come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are ideal for creating an ultra- modern look. Fixed shower heads can be mounted on the wall or from the ceiling and create a refreshing flow of water. Some shower heads, which are connected to a hose, feature various spray patterns so you can create a shower to suit your needs.