The bathroom is an essential room in any home, where you get ready for the day and relax after a long day's work. Yet it is often overlooked when it comes to decorating and furnishing. Choosing the right furniture for your bathroom can make a big difference to the look and functionality of this space. In this article, we'll explore the different types of bathroom furniture available and give you tips on how to choose the ones that best suit your space.
Storage furniture
Bathroom cabinets
Bathroom cabinets are a popular choice for storage. They come in a variety of sizes, styles and finishes, making them suitable for almost any bathroom. Wall-mounted cabinets are ideal for smaller bathrooms, as they maximise the use of vertical space. For a larger bathroom, you can opt for a mirror cabinet that offers extra storage space behind the mirror.
Suspended shelves
Hanging shelves are another stylish storage option for the bathroom. They add a modern touch to the space and can be used to display towels, decorations or toiletries. Floating shelves are particularly suitable for smaller bathrooms, as they don't take up much floor space.
Washbasin furniture
Built-in washbasins
The choice of washbasin is an important decision in the design of your bathroom. Built-in washbasins are recessed into the countertop, creating a sleek, modern appearance. They are available in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials, including ceramic, solid surface and natural stone. Built-in basins are easy to clean and provide extra counter space.
Vanity units are a versatile option that combine a washbasin and storage in a single unit. They are available in a range of styles, from traditional to modern, and offer plenty of storage capacity for your toiletries. Make sure you measure your space before buying a vanity unit to ensure it fits perfectly in your bathroom.
Materials and finishes
When choosing bathroom furniture, think about the materials and finishes that suit your style and needs. Bathroom furniture is generally exposed to moisture, so it's important to choose water-resistant materials. Solid wood, marine plywood and composite materials such as Corian solid surface are excellent options.
When it comes to finishes, bathroom furniture is available in a variety of colours and textures. Natural wood finishes add natural warmth and charm, while lacquered finishes offer a sleek, modern look. Choose a finish that matches the rest of your bathroom to create a cohesive look.
Space planning
Maximising space
When choosing furniture for your bathroom, think about maximising the use of the space available. If you have a small bathroom, consider multi-functional furniture that can double up as storage and vanity units. Overhead shelving and wall cabinets can also free up floor space for a more open look.
Consistency of style
Make sure the furniture you choose matches the overall style of your bathroom. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look, a rustic style or something in between, make sure your furniture blends harmoniously into the overall aesthetic of the room. This will create a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing bathroom.
Made-to-measure vs. ready-to-use furniture
Made-to-measure furniture
When you're looking for bathroom furniture, you'll come across two main options: made-to-measure furniture and ready-to-use furniture. Bespoke furniture is made specifically to suit your space and needs. They offer a personalised solution, ideal for bathrooms with unique dimensions or configurations. However, made-to-measure furniture can be more expensive and require a longer lead time.
Ready-to-use furniture
Ready-to-use furniture is available from furniture shops and renovation centres. They are prefabricated and ready to install. This option is faster and often more affordable than custom-made furniture. However, you may have to compromise on dimensions and features to find a piece of furniture that suits your space.
Current trends in bathroom furniture
Minimalism
Minimalism is a growing trend in bathroom design. Minimalist bathroom furniture is characterised by clean lines, neutral colours and simple design. They create a soothing, contemporary atmosphere in the bathroom. Wall-hung furniture and built-in shelving also contribute to this clean aesthetic.
Saving space
In small bathrooms, saving space is essential. Bathroom furniture designed to maximise the use of space is becoming increasingly popular. Compact vanity units, narrow wall cabinets and sliding shelves are all solutions for optimising the space available.
Conclusion
Choosing the right bathroom furniture is a crucial decision in creating a space that is functional, aesthetically pleasing and tailored to your needs. Whether you opt for made-to-measure or ready-to-use furniture, make sure you take into account the layout of the space, consistency of style, current trends and economy of space. By combining these factors, you can design a bathroom that meets all your requirements, transforming this space into a place to relax and prepare for every day ahead.