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Bathrooms RENO ADDICT

New minimal bathroomware from Raymor

The old adage ‘less is more’ certainly comes to mind with Raymor’s fresh new range of bathroom wares that combine clean, modern lines with subtle curves and smart design solutions for compact bathing spaces.

Raymor Timber Hero-Green

And it was this simple, unfettered design that inspired an organic themed bathroom with timber-look tiles and a large, living green wall as its eye-catching feature.

The timber tiles and green feature wall called for simple bathroom fixtures and fittings so as not to overwhelm the space – exactly where Raymor’s new range fits in.

Raymor Wentworth Wall Hung Vanity TThe wall hung Wentworth vanity features a crisp white ceramic top and gloss white polyurethane cabinetry. Minimal bevel grip finger pulls and soft close drawers complete the look and make it just as beautiful to use. And while it looks compact in size, the Jamaica bath has added depth for full body immersion – an indulgent design feature.

Tanami Bath Set 160mm

The Tanami collection of tap ware features gentle curves and is aptly named as it invokes the simplicity of Japanese design.

But when it comes to a fabulous design solution for a compact space, the Byron wall faced toilet suite really comes up trumps. The concealed cistern makes it the perfect choice for a tiny powder room or small bathroom.

Visit Raymor or tradelink for more.

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Bathrooms RENO ADDICT Shopping

Monochrome and contemporary bathroom products from Raymor

You really can’t beat the timeless yet dramatic classic that is black and white; and the latest range of products from Raymor fit perfectly into this contemporary style.

Raymor Platform Aruba-O (1)

With the Aruba freestanding Curve Bath taking centre stage, it makes a statement while never being domineering, thanks to its perfectly proportioned curves. The Sturt bath filler, with hand shower, creates a self-contained ablutions area within the bath thanks to its dual function.

Raymor PLATFORM BW DEATIL 1

The Salt vanity has a deliberately understated look so as not to detract from the striking colour palette and hero bath. Feature rich, it is a 900mm wide floor standing model, all white with integrated basin and three drawers and a cupboard with soft close drawers and door. So while sleek and low-key it also provides ample storage to ensure no unnecessary bathroom clutter.

Raymor PLATFORM BW 03

Reinforcing the efficiency of this bathroom is the multifunctional Winton Dual Shower Column featuring 220mm square overhead shower plus a hand-held shower on a hose and integrated soap dish.

All the accessories in the bathroom are from the Ceduna collection – towel rails, robe hooks, toothbrush holder, soap dish and toilet tissue holder all mirror the soft curves of the key bathroom fixtures. Each piece is of brass construction with bright chrome finish.

These Raymor products are available from May exclusively at Tradelink Plumbing Centres and Northern’s Plumbing Supplies nationally. For more information.

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Bathrooms Design RENO ADDICT Shopping

5 tips to save money but create an expensive look with bathroom tiles

You’re in the midst of a bathroom renovation and after spending considerable time, effort and money on bathware products, you find your leftover budget for floor and wall tiles is looking a bit bruised and battered. No need to panic, you will be pleasantly surprised to discover you can still achieve a luxurious look without the high price tag normally associated with glamorous tiles. The trick is knowing which tiles to choose and how to place them in your bathroom.

Subway tiles

The classic white subway tile has been around since the 1900s yet is still well loved today, mostly due to its inherently simple design style and timeless allure. Subway tiles remain as one of the most economical tiles on the market and are so versatile as they can be dressed up in several ways to achieve various effects. Traditionally, subway tiles have been applied in a brick bond pattern, but if you’re going for a more modern look, consider laying tiles vertically, stacking (one on top of the other), diagonally or in a chevron pattern. Applying different colour grout is another popular technique to accentuate and highlight each individual tile whilst creating a grid like effect on the walls.

Image: Urbis Magazine
Image: Urbis Magazine

The resurgence of subway tiles means there are now a myriad of colours, sizes and finishes available. Prices will vary once you drift away from plain white and will be determined by a number of factors including colour, size, finish, and where the tiles are manufactured.

Image: Perini Tiles
Image: Perini Tiles

All eyes on the floor

Bathroom floors are generally smaller spaces to tile than walls, so spend a little more here and keep wall tiles simple and low budget. This is your opportunity to introduce personality to your bathroom and create a design statement with strong visual interest that makes the floor the hero of the space. Select tiles that are patterned, colourful or textured.

Darren and Dea's bathroom floor tiles in their first Block
Darren and Dea’s bathroom floor tiles in their first Block

Create a feature wall with pattern

Select a wall in your bathroom that would make the perfect feature wall and use patterned tiles to highlight the space. This wall may be behind your vanity, inside the shower or the first wall you see as you walk into the bathroom. You could even get creative and tile part of the wall (instead of the entire wall) to play up specific bathroom features. Ensure the remaining walls and floors are tiled in a simple colour to not only keep costs down but to also ensure there’s not too much competing with your feature.

Image: Perini
Image: Perini (featuring their Arcade tiles)

Classic monochrome

Use the same neutral or classic monochrome tile on floors and walls and allow fixtures and accessories to stand out. Select a tile with minimal movement and variation in a soothing tone to act as a simple backdrop while towels, flowers, candles and even vanity units take centre stage. No need to go fancy or high end with your tiles, just be sure to select the correct colour tone that will complement other colours in your space.

Image: Shareen Joel Design. Click for further info
Image: Shareen Joel Design. Click for further info

Black beauty

A beautifully bold bathroom with black tiles on floors and walls will create a striking effect, not to mention a little wow factor. White bathware will pop against the black backdrop adding drama and sophistication. Use the same black tile on floors and walls, but vary the size to create a balanced space. Select a mid range tile with little or no surface movement that will amp up the opulence yet won’t break the budget.

— Kate Fuller works in product development for Perini Tiles in Melbourne.

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Bathrooms Design RENO ADDICT Shopping

Beautiful new bathroom range inspired by nature

Taking its inspiration from the great outdoors, the new range of bathroom products from Raymor features clean lines, simple proportions and a palette of white and lush greens.

OUT DOOR BATHROOM 01

An immediate standout is the deep, softly rounded Aruba freestanding bath, which is teamed with the clever Daly swivel bath spout in polished chrome.

Mirroring the lines of the bath is the wall-hung Byron toilet with in-wall cistern and wall-hung Loongara basin with integrated counter space. The counter space is large enough to fit toiletries and matching Ceduna accessories – again with a rounded profile. All of the accessories in the bathroom – from towel rails to toilet roll holder – are from the Ceduna range, ensuring there are no visual interruptions to the softly curved profiles of the bathroom fixtures.

OUT DOOR BATHROOM 08

The final piece to this bathroom is the ‘wet room’ approach to showering – an open shower with a single shower screen separating the water from the wash hand basin. It features the 3-star WELS Malaney round disc shower and the Lavas shower mixer.

Raymor bathroom products are available exclusively from Tradelink branches nationally. Visit Tradelink for more details.

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Bathrooms Expert Tips Furniture Styling

Bathroom styling ideas with accessories

By Daniela Santilli

A well-designed and accessorised bathroom is key to creating a space full of character. With the bathroom continuing to form part of the wider living zone where bathrooms, bedrooms and dressing rooms become one continuous space, we are noticing a trend toward accessorising in the bathroom as an effective tool for performing a mini facelift and adding life into a once purely functional area of the home.

Kartell by Laufen 750 Transparent Crystal Rack
Kartell by Laufen 750 Transparent Crystal Rack
Kartell by Laufen Tangerine Orange Stool
Kartell by Laufen Tangerine Orange Stool

As spaces in the home become more integrated, so too does the functional and decorative role of furniture, accessories and decorative lighting. Traditional complementary furniture such as mirrors, tall boys and floating cabinetry continue to be important in personalising and creating style in the bathroom space, but we’re also seeing more furniture like stools, chairs and shelves appearing. Creating bathroom products that are both functional and decorative has been a focus for designers, as seen in the stunning Kartell by Laufen collection designed by Ludovica+Roberto Palomba. This is a great example of this integrated approach, with the polycarbonate mirrors, racks, cabinets and stools as appropriate in the bathroom as they would be elsewhere in the home.

Milli Edge Freestanding Toilet Column
Milli Edge Freestanding Toilet Column

Also providing innovative space-saving solutions are multi-purpose accessories, like the Milli Edge freestanding toilet column which elegantly stores a toilet roll and brush holder. Similarly, the Laufen Pro A wash basin with stand not only looks striking but is a clever way to store towels.

[contextly_sidebar id=”efpEWHGTw2yBt3zMTGyQmpFBbfL50DNK”]In our recent survey, we were surprised to see mirrors emerging as the fourth most important item in the bathroom. This is a strong indication that customers are using decorative accessories to evolve and add character to their bathroom look. Many ranges are also designed to complement each other, creating families of products to ensure customers are offered a coordinated look, rather than having to search for individual accessories to create a unified style, For example, the Milli and Mizu ranges not only include beautifully designed tapware, they also include a range of matching accessories like soap dishes, toothbrush holders, towel rails, toilet brush holders and soap dispensers.

Milli Glance Soap Dish
Milli Glance Soap Dish
Milli Glance Basin Mixer Matte Black
Milli Glance Basin Mixer Matte Black

For an even simpler update, adding small touches can be an effective way to enhance the look and feel of a bathroom. Good quality towels are a worthwhile investment and lend an air of luxury, while scented candles and flowers will make a space feel inviting and reinvigorated. Add a luxurious handwash to the mix to tie the space together and give it a finished look.

–Daniela Santilli is Reece Bathrooms’ business manager.

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Bathrooms Design RENO ADDICT Shopping

8 distinctive designs for the modern bathroom

The perfect furnishing solution for the modern bathroom, Italian brand Modulnova have created eight distinctive designs that can be customised in terms of components, materials, finishes and textures.

reno addict Modulnova Surf Fresco bathroom:van:storage

the nest 45 reno addict

Combining contemporary design with bold functionality and beautiful manmade and natural materials, the Modulnova range features an array of standout finishes. These include cement resin that emulates concrete yet is smooth to the touch; Kerlite, a ceramic material more durable than stone and lighter than aluminum; natural timbers; bold veneers; and the strikingly grand Piasentina stone. Each finish displays beautiful tonal variations in a palette of natural hues.

nest 45 reno addict

Key to the look is the perception of space, with sleek wall cabinetry and sliding or lift-up doors; complex integrated storage to reduce visual clutter; and drawers and doors that are completely handleless.

Modulnova Infinity bathroom:piasentina stone:oxidised oak:bath:2 reno addict

Modulnova is one of the brands under The Nest 45 umbrella – a new approach to innovative Italian furniture design for the kitchen, bathroom, living and bedroom. Visit their website.

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Bathrooms

The deluxe full body shower experience from iB Rubinetterie

Discreetly built into the wall, the Wallpaper shower column designed by iB Rubinetterie not only saves space but exudes simplicity and sophistication.

iB Rubinetterie interiors addict 2

With only a perfectly integrated stainless steel panel being visible, the Wallpaper offers a deluxe shower experience thanks to the thermostatic valves, three shower functions which can be utilised simultaneously, and a lavish showerhead.

iB Rubinetterie interiors addict

iB Rubinetterie is a dynamic, family-run business who pride themselves on values and objectives in quality, functionality, design and ecological sustainability. With 30 years of experience in the designer tapware and bathroom accessories industry, founder Elio Bregoli has transferred the passion for his work and his entrepreneurial capacity to his sons Andrea and Davide, who designed Wallpaper.

Combining the striking design of the shower, the space-saving concealed column and the luxury full body shower experience; Wallpaper by iB Rubinetterie perfects the bathroom landscape. Retailing for $3,300, it is exclusively distributed nationally by Paco Jaanson. For more information.

Categories
House Tours The Block

The Block Glasshouse en suite room reveals

Well, it was a night of mixed reviews and plenty of drama and whingeing, was it not?! But I’m very glad the boys took out the top prize and I think they deserved it. I can’t help but like these two; they’re so much fun and they seem to be genuinely nice guys. But I can’t not mention Dee’s super harsh bitching about Shaynna at the end of the episode. Definitely a step too far in my opinion. I’m a big fan of Dee and Darren’s style but the attitude I’ve been trying to ignore is bugging me now.  Anyway, back to the important stuff: the design!

CARLENE & MICHAEL

Poor Carlene and Michael and their lack of a door! Thank goodness the judges could at least see they intended to have one! Darren said it was very glassy (yes glassy, not classy!) and fitting for the Block Glasshouse. Neale loved the joinery, sink and benchtop but found the room a bit cold. Shaynna said the pendants didn’t really work and they would have been better off with something in a timber finish. Darren, on the other hand, said he wouldn’t change anything and they’d done a really amazing job. And let’s just not talk about the dried flowers…

The Block in Melbourne

Get Carlene and Michael’s look: Jensen pendants, copper vase.

CHRIS & JENNA

H2 Rm8 C&J Ensuite EA 22

This bathroom made Carlene and Michael’s missing door seem like nothing! Although it was full of great features, the judges couldn’t ignore the fact it was seriously unfinished (despite them carrying on working for 10 minutes after Scotty blew the whistle (naughty!). Shaynna loved the texture and shadows of the geometric tiles. I’m still undecided. I love the concept of 3D tiles but I wasn’t loving the scale of these. Brave choice though, good on them.

Everyone loved the exposed copper pipe leading to the shower and the fact that there was a bath. But as Neale said, you turn one way and it’s a bathroom by the contestants who got 30/30 for their main bathroom and you turn the other way and it’s a mess! Neale said they’d tried to do too much and incorporate too many ideas while Darren said he could see its potential and it was a real shame it hadn’t been finished in time. And just to put the boot in a little more, Shaynna and Neale both agreed the styling was really bad. Awkward!

Get Chris and Jenna’s look: Ando pendant in concrete, driftwood drum stool, emScents candle, VERE body products.

MAX & KARSTAN

H3 Rm8 M&K Ensuite EA 02

It started off well with Max and Karstan’s reveal but very quickly seemed to turn sour. Shaynna said the room left her cold and felt a bit clinical. Neale said it was very hard. Mr Nice Guy Darren said it flowed very nicely from the en suite with its simple palette, while Neale said it felt dated. Darren made a big deal of the lighting and said the pair always make great choices in that department. He said it felt consistent with the rest of the apartment but didn’t appeal to him personally. I actually really liked its gloss and hotel feel. I also like a dark tiled bathroom. And not just because I think it will hide dust…

Get Max and Karstan’s look: Unika pendant, Tolo LED lights, Glasshouse Bora Bora candle.

SHANNON & SIMON: WINNERS!

H4 Rm8 S&S Ensuite EA 37

Well of COURSE they all loved the timber bath. “Oh my God, that’s awesome,” said Shaynna, who loved it so much she kicked off her heels and hopped in to try it out for size. Neale said the boys had absolutely nailed it and Darren said it was really really good. It was quite obvious the boys were going to win. Shaynna said it felt like a high end hotel suite and all the judges agreed this bathroom would become a key selling point for their apartment and something buyers would go crazy for. I absolutely loved this bathroom and think it totally deserved the win. I am a real bath lover and that timber tub is now on my dream house wish list!

H4 Rm8 S&S Ensuite EA 11

Get Shannon and Simon’s winning look: Lab pendants, Nord pendant, Octopus ornament, Sibella Court Gypsy book, Wood and Water timber bath.

DARREN & DEE

H5 Rm8 D&D Ensuite EA 55

It may be small but Darren and Dee’s en suite looked pretty perfectly formed to me. Darren said it took your breath away but in a really gentle way. Neale said it was just beautiful. But Shaynna said there wasn’t enough storage (which did not go down well with Dee: understatement of the year!).

H5 Rm8 D&D Ensuite EA 62

Get Darren and Dee’s look: Constellation single pendant.

I’d love to know which was your favourite and what you thought of Chris and Jenna’s 3D tiles and the boys’ timber bath?

Categories
Bathrooms Designers

Minosa win top KBDi bathroom award for the second year

Last week, we brought you the kitchen design winner from the prestigious KBDi awards. This week, we have the bathroom design winner for you and it’s Darren Genner and the Minosa Design team. Again! They’ve picked up the gong for the second year in a row. And here’s why…

minosa-bathroom-design-kbdi-darren-genner-01

The winning bathroom was a Rose Bay terrace project. The room was narrow with a  large window which couldn’t be moved and the client wanted to have the bathroom open to the bedroom.

minosa-bathroom-design-kbdi-darren-genner-03

The brief was to create a dynamic and engaging space that was open to the adjoining bedroom. The space had to be original, easy to look at, open plan, with subtle bling, a vanity that didn’t look like a vanity and concealed storage. Not much to ask then!

minosa-bathroom-design-kbdi-darren-genner-02

Creating a centre wall to divide the space gave another wall to work but also, cleverly, the chance to offer privacy to the toilet and the shower.

minosa-bathroom-design-kbdi-darren-genner-09

Next to the unmovable window was the ideal space for the bath placement, but the window had to be treated for those long Sunday sleep-ins, so a sheer curtain was used to soften things up and make it feel more connected to the bedroom.

minosa-bathroom-design-kbdi-darren-genner-08

This toilet was left to the end of the room, concealed by a sliding glass screen to add privacy. The extractor fan is fitted with a steam sensor so the fan turns on once the steam hits the ceiling.

minosa-bathroom-design-kbdi-darren-genner-05 Pieta grey marble was chosen to give a natural element, with a custom tile pattern made up of 600×600 tiles, splitting and rotating every other one. Bisazza glass mosaics where chosen to add a touch of decoration and shine.

Do you like this bathroom as much as we do?

Find out more about Minosa Design.

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Bathrooms The Block

Get the look: The Block Glasshouse main bathroom reveals that wowed the judges

It was a pretty big call to have the main bathrooms done so early in the series and to be honest I was a little concerned after an unfinished room last week. But boy, the Blockheads didn’t disappoint! All their main bathrooms were stunning!

MC01

Let’s start with Michael and Carlene’s main bathroom. How amazing are those white glossy tiles in a herringbone pattern against the darker ones? Marble: need I say more? Neale was a fan of another beautiful tall door and said it had a real sense of theatre. Shaynna (and her all-important storage test) was impressed with the built-in drawers, however she thought the lights needed to come down. Shaynna was also concerned about the practicality of the shower with the steps being slippery (and I would have to agree). Neale said the bathroom says confidence and I have to agree; these two are ones to watch.

MC02

Get Michael and Carlene’s look: beaker pendant light, tube pendant light, rounded pendant light, stoneware cup, candle.

CJ01

As I write this, I am still trying to get my head around the fact it’s only week two of The Block and Chris and Jenna actually delivered this room. It’s out of control! I am in love! It is a fine example of bathroom perfection and they most definitely deserved the perfect score they received from the judges. I love the fact that it has direct access to the guest bedroom, the wet room style shower area and the light box. You can tell a lot of thought and planning went into this one.

Shaynna’s mouth dropped wide open, she said it felt enormous and I have to agree. She called it the perfect Melbourne outdoor shower as you’re inside but it feels like the outdoors. Darren said the cabinetry was perfect (you would want to it to be with Chris being a cabinet maker). Neale said it was truly world class and a million dollar bathroom.

CJ02

Get Chris & Jenna’s look: pendant light, hand wash.

MK01

Max and Karstan’s bathroom felt enormous, Neale liked that they kept the styling sophisticated. Shaynna was lost for words and when she found them she said it was mind blowing! I thought the double access to the linen cupboard was sheer genius and storage queen Shaynna loved it! The judges were concerned there was no under floor heating or matt tiles but all agreed it was a great bounce back from last week.

MK02

Get Max and Karstan’s look: pendant lights, storage basket, set of towels.

SS01

Last week’s winners Simon and Shannon’s vanity got a big wow from all three judges; they also loved the heated floor. However practical Shaynna found the power points awkward and the judges didn’t like that the cistern wasn’t concealed. Neale said it was a lovely contemporary bathroom but something didn’t feel quite right. I liked the boys bathroom and feel it has that contemporary hotel bathroom vibe but there just wasn’t anything I loved from it. What did you think, given they won last week?

SS02

Get Simon and Shannon’s look: copper baskets, side table, towels.

DD01

I loved Darren and Deanne’s vanity and mirror and that pendant hanging over the bath tub framed by that gorgeous window. Neale said it was a beautiful bathroom and it was a combo of the pendant, window and tiles on the floor. Darren said it was a combo of everything (you could tell he really loved this bathroom). Neale said it was an urban classic aesthetic that was new to The Block and I have to agree, I like that they are bringing a different look to the show.

DD02

Get Darren and Deanne’s look: pendant light, mirror, pixel towels, soap dish.

Main bathroom week is never easy, there is a lot of pressure as you need to set the scene for the remaining bathrooms you’ve got to do. There were some big scores this week! I’m so glad Chris & Jenna smashed it with a perfect score of 30 out of 30 as they deserved it! That bathroom looks like it’s from the pages of a magazine.

Did you agree with the judges? Whose bathroom was your favourite this week?

If there’s something you liked that’s not mentioned here, you can get more looks from all the couples’ rooms at The Block Shop.

Kathryn is our girl on the ground in Melbourne and Block correspondent while Jen and Olivia are overseas (the globetrotters!). You can follow her design adventures on Instagram @thedesignrookie.

 

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Bathrooms Expert Tips

Five tips for winter-proofing your bathroom

By Belinda Geels

The bathroom can be quite the chilly place thanks to its hard surfaces like tiles, stone and ceramic. But it doesn’t have to be this way! Here are five tips on how to winter-proof your bathroom.

Underfloor heating

For a lasting warming solution, underfloor heating is not only a sound investment but is now considered an affordable luxury for new Australian homes. It is one of most efficient ways to heat your home and because it transfers more natural radiant heat, its also one of the cleanest.

For new builds, the Auspex Radiant system allows you to indulge in the luxury of underfloor heating at a fraction of the cost as this system uses energy efficient gas boilers and radiant heat transfer to achieve a comfortable natural heat. For an underfloor heating solution that can be installed during a renovation, Stiebel Eltron offers an electric above slab solution. Because it can be installed just underneath tiles, it’s ideal for renovations in smaller spaces like bathrooms.

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Hydrotherm Milan Mobile Heated Rail Black

Hot water units

Having a hot water unit that’s going to allow for long hot showers at the end of a dreary day is another essential for the cooler months. Whether you’re replacing an old unit or looking for a brand new system, our Hot Water Decisions Guide is a great online tool that will help you choose the unit that perfectly suits your home and your usage requirements. There are plenty of electric, gas, continuous flow and solar hot water systems available, with our Thermann range proving one of the most popular thanks to its innovative modular design, efficiency and reliability.

Overhead heat lamps

If underfloor heating isn’t an option or you want to add heat from above, overhead lamps are the perfect answer. The benefit of installing this type of heater over others is twofold: they heat the space quickly and efficiently, and their overhead position means they’re out of the way.

These heaters are usually found as part of an all-in-one unit that combines an exhaust fan, lights and heater, so if you’re tight on space or budget this is a perfect option for you.

Heated towel rails

Heated towel rails like those in the Milli Edge and Kado ranges not only add a touch of luxury, but will also dry your wet towels quickly and conveniently in those colder months. There are also moveable options like the Hydrotherm Milan Mobile available which can be stored away during the warmer months — great for rentals or when space is at a premium.

With a range of sizes and finishes to suit any bathroom design and budget, heated towel rails are an easy and affordable winter warmer accessory, and have become one of the must-have items in the Australian bathroom.

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Kado Quad Wall Mounted Heated Rails

Soft furnishings

While some options like new hot water units or underfloor heating require more forward planning, there are still many ways to add warmth to the bathroom without extensive renovations. Adding soft furnishings like natural-fibre rugs and bathmats will do wonders to soften hard surfaces and make your bathing experience a lot more cosy.

And, never underestimate the power of a fluffy bath robe and a cosy set of slippers. Having these on hand as you step out of the bath or shower is one of the simplest and cheapest ways to keep toasty in those
 winter months!

–Belinda Geels is marketing manager for Reece Bathrooms.

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Bathrooms Expert Tips The Block

Timber in the bathroom? Not just for The Block!

Following the first Block bathroom reveals a lot of you asked me if it was really practical to use timber in the bathroom or did it just look good? I asked Reece Bathrooms’ Belinda Geels for her expert advice.

Timber has been a big feature of many of The Block teams’ bathroom spaces this season. From the bespoke timber vanity tops in Brad and Dale’s bathrooms and feature paneling in Alisa and Lysandra’s main bathroom, to Steve and Chantelle’s parquetry ceiling feature and the stunning full timber wall in Kyal and Kara’s perfect score main bathroom, it’s been a winning element of many of the standout bathrooms from both the fans and favourites.

Image courtesy of Perini
Image courtesy of Perini

We often get questions from customers about how to properly use this beautiful material in bathroom spaces, particularly when it comes to reducing the risks of swelling or warping of timber in damp spaces or close to wet areas. To help out those of you looking to recreate some of The Block’s best looks at home, we’ve compiled top tips from our experts and industry partners on using timber in everything from vanities to flooring and feature walls in your bathroom.

Timber choice is key

Whether you’re looking to use wood for your vanity, flooring, walls or furniture, your timber selection is crucial. As well considering the look and feel of your timber, it’s important to think about the tightness of the wood grain. According to Stephen Royce from Australian bathroom product manufacturer Formed, solid timbers with a tight grain are best for bathroom spaces as they’re less likely to be affected by moisture. Think mahogany, teak, cedar or even bamboo (preferably local plantation grown) for best results.

Image courtesy of Reece Bathrooms
Image courtesy of Reece Bathrooms

Seal for success

One of the most common questions asked about timber in the bathroom is around the risk of expansion or warping. According to Stephen, regardless of the timber you choose for your bathroom space or how you plan to use it, you must ensure that it is properly sealed and waterproofed.

“It all comes down to using the correct seal. Sealing prevents moisture getting into the timber, and can reduce any issues with warping, staining or significant expansion or contraction,” he says.

Sealing is the most important factor in the process, as it helps make the timber more resistant to water and moisture. There are various water, oil and wax-based sealants available on the market, which are suitable for different timbers and applications. Be sure to speak to an expert to help select the best sealant for your timber and to ensure it is properly applied. To be doubly sure that your timber doesn’t stain or warp, make sure you wipe up any water that may pool on its surface as quickly as possible.

Image courtesy of Perini
Image courtesy of Perini

Ventilation must-dos

Timber looks beautiful in the bathroom, however, as it’s a natural material, it pays to ensure you’ve got the right ventilation in place. A well-ventilated bathroom space will reduce the moisture in the air as quickly as possible, helping ensure the timber will respond well over time as the product ages.

Kyal and Kara's winning bathroom from The Block
Kyal and Kara’s winning bathroom from The Block

Fake it

If using natural timber is not for you, there are now plenty of great ‘timber look’ options available, particularly for flooring.

Kate Fuller from our tiling partner Perini Tiles says porcelain timber tiles are becoming increasingly popular. As well as looking and feeling like real timber, they’re perfect for wet areas like bathrooms as they’re water resistant, low maintenance and durable. They won’t warp or scratch and don’t require the sealing or oiling real timbers need in damp spaces.

“Timber tiles have become so popular there is now an abundant of colours and textures available — from oak, blackwood, spotted gum to recycled, raw and coloured options. Advancements in tile technology and digital ink printing ensure tiles perfectly simulate the look and feel of the real thing with no two tiles looking alike,” Kate says.

Reece Bathrooms provide the bathroom products and accessories you see on The Block each week. Check out www.reece.com.au for more bathroom inspiration and how to incorporate the timber look into your bathroom.

Categories
Bathrooms

Buttrose’s bathroom tips

Ita Buttrose recently underwent a bathroom makeover in her country home and has offered her advice for a hassle-free bathroom renovation.

Granite Transformations - Ita Buttrose Bathroom
Ita’s bathroom

Less is more – a pristine, uncluttered layout utilising clever storage will make your bathroom appear spacious and inviting. Make the most of the space by adding a large mirror to make your space appear larger and more open.

Choose neutral colours – A white, off-white or neutral colour scheme gives the illusion of more space. For a pop of colour, introduce vibrant accessories and bath towels that can be updated as often as you like for a new look.

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Interiors Addict

Tips and tricks for small bathrooms

Coordinated by Nuffnang

Today, I’m guest posting over at the Realestate.com.au blog with my tips and tricks for small bathrooms.

mimosa_design

Read the full article.

Image courtesy of Minosa Design

Categories
Bathrooms Homewares

Ziporah towels: art for your bathroom

For a very long time there’s only been one clear choice for colourful and patterned bathroom towels and that’s Missoni! Now the 3 girls behind Ziporah are trying to change all that with a new Aussie brand.

Ziporah12-757x1024

We decided we would create towels together after recognising a gap in the market for colour, luxury and affordability. After frustrating shopping trips, visits to a trade fair here and there, industry research and loads of questions, things just naturally brought us together,” said their designer, Antoinette Murray.

ZiporahCollection

We decided Ziporah would create unique, artisan designed towels to “make over” a bathroom space, like a beautiful rug can do for a living room or cushions can do for a neutral sofa. We also agreed we would not compromise on quality.”

Categories
Bathrooms

New easy online 3D bathroom planner lets you design yourself

Whether you’re designing a brand new bathroom or planning a renovation, it’s now easier than ever thanks to the 3D Bathroom Planner recently launched by Reece.

Reece 3D Planner - Bring your bathroom plans to life

This innovative online planning tool is already helping home owners become their own designer and bring bathroom ideas to life in just a few clicks. You to select and swap products to create the perfect look for your bathroom space.

Reece marketing manager Belinda Geels said that making the bathroom design experience as easy and visual as possible was key to its development. As well as allowing users to select from the entire range of Reece bathroom products and preview how they’ll look, the 3D Bathroom Planner also lets you choose fittings, lighting and tiles to complete the look.

Categories
Bathrooms Furniture

Timber furniture for the bathroom. Why not?

It’s not often you get to shop furniture for your bathroom and as a total bath FIEND, I love this new Pirch range by Rogerseller.

pirch rogerseller 3

The Bath Bridge ($445) and Side Table ($795) are designed to let you create your own bathing sanctuary. Sounds good to me! I’ve been known to take the odd glass of wine, magazine and scented candle into the bathroom!

The range is handcrafted from American Black Walnut by a local fine furniture craftsman and complimented with solid surface inserts. The timber is enhanced by a matte seal finish preventing moisture damage, while the solid surface inserts provide a durable platform, avoiding stains.

pirch rogerseller 2

The side table sits perfectly under all freestanding baths, with the Bridge designed to span across the bath.

Categories
Bathrooms Bedrooms

The parents’ retreat: a new trend in interiors?

By Darren Genner

Over the years we have seen movements in interior spaces that have made really big impacts on how we live our lives and how we socially connect with our family and friends.

A Minosa Design job in Sydney
A Minosa Design job in Sydney

There was the open plan kitchen that has effectively revolutionised the way we live and connect with all members of the household, and the indoor/outdoor connection where the humble back door has become metres of glass that open and allow a seamless connection to the outside. Outdoor cooking and entertaining areas almost become part of the interior, increasing our living space.

So what’s next? The parents’ retreat!