Tag: baths

Earthy luxe: Concrete Nation’s stunning coloured basins and baths

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date October 27, 2020
No Comments on Earthy luxe: Concrete Nation’s stunning coloured basins and baths

Equal parts earthy and stylish, the Concrete Nation range of bespoke concrete baths and basins are some of the most beautiful we’ve come across. The creation of husband and wife team Jason and Kate Lett, who design and manufacture the range in Queensland’s Burleigh Heads, the brand is a favourite of upscale interior designers and architects both here and abroad. It’s not hard to see why!

“The focus of our brand has always been to showcase the natural beauty of concrete. We don’t want perfection, but rather a perfectly imperfect finish that can only be achieved with handmade products. Our handcrafted products tell a story and are more than just a sink or a bath but rather a work of art,” says Kate, who hails from America and has a background in fashion design.

Kate met her New Zealander husband Jason when he was playing rugby and working for a builder in the US. In 2013, after the birth of their first daughter, the pair moved to Australia and combined talents to launch Concrete Nation together.

Eschewing trends, the brand believes the more earthy tones are the perfect complement to a natural product such as concrete. “Rather than creating products in the latest trendy designs or colours, our goal is to be innovative, push the boundaries and create designs that are unexpected,” says Kate who, with her fashion background, understands the unique ways that colour, texture and design intersect.

And while Kate brings design acumen to the business, it’s Jason that delivers on the technical front, having completed a course in fibreglass reinforced concrete when living in America. “He was so taken with the endless possibilities of concrete and began to dabble in it in the US,” says Kate of the time before launching the business.

Super strong and highly durable, the range is constructed from the aforementioned fibreglass reinforced concrete making it half the weight of pure concrete and 10 times stronger due to the addition of glass.

The Concrete Nation palette was developed through using different percentages of oxides that are mixed the whole way through the concrete, ensuring the colour runs through the whole product and isn’t just painted on top.

The company has solid sustainability credentials too with a commitment to offering ethical, high quality products that are safe for the consumer and the environment. “We use zero VOC concrete composition as well as zero VOC natural oxides. Almost all of our materials are sourced from within Australia, reducing transport emissions too,” says Kate. Last year, the company made the decision to switch to renewable energy with its manufacturing facility and headquarters now operating solely on solar power. It also has a recycled filtration system that reuses wastewater and reduces waste.

In the beginning, the company offered custom bench tops, vanities and dining tables for local residential and commercial projects, but the duo always wanted to expand.

“We soon realised if we wanted to grow the business beyond the Gold Coast, we needed to create products that were easier to transport. We recognised that there was a void in the market for unique bathroom products. At the time, there was absolutely nothing like it in the market and the response was overwhelmingly positive,” says Kate.

The gloriously textured Malta basin in nude

Since opening, Concrete Nation has expanded its product offering and colour range and now has stockists and distributors all around the globe. “We are currently working with some of the best interior designers and architects for upscale residential, commercial, multi-residential, hospitality and retail projects. In a disposable society, our products are designed to stand the test of time.”

Showroom — The Concrete Nation showroom in Burleigh Heads, QLD

Another look at the Valencia bath; this time in a delicious mango hue

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“Concrete bunker” Sydney apartment takes out top gong

The inaugural Design Files Design Awards were handed out last week with Matt Woods Design taking out the ‘Interior Design’ award for its beautiful Sydney apartment project ‘Perfect Storm’. Dubbed…

Tags basins, bathrooms, baths, Burleigh heads, concrete, concrete basins, concrete nation

Bathrooms Furniture Outdoor & Exteriors

Outdoor baths: 6 of South Australia’s best for your next holiday!

Post author By Skye Viviers
Post date October 5, 2020
No Comments on Outdoor baths: 6 of South Australia’s best for your next holiday!

With borders now open to South Australia from all states (excluding Victoria), we’ve rounded up the state’s six best accommodation options with outdoor baths for those thinking about visiting! The incredible views from the baths at these glorious retreats will have you ready to start basking in the natural beauty of the great outdoors.

TinyHome Private Escape

TinyHome Private Escape is situated on an idyllic, organic farm in the heart of the Adelaide Hills. It consists of a sustainable tiny house, built from re-homed materials, and flanked by beautiful, rolling fields containing friendly cows, grazing kangaroos and gorgeous natural wildlife, which can be viewed from its relaxing outdoor bath. It is ideally situated near wineries, micro-breweries, art galleries and nature walks.

Ode to the Orchard

At Ode to the Orchard in the Adelaide Hills, unwind in this rustic and charming cottage, just a short walk from its titular orchard, which guests are encouraged to explore. It contains a traditional wood-fired Aga, which has the additional benefit of keeping the house warm and cosy, and a clawfoot bathtub, perfect for stargazing or enjoying a picturesque sunset.

The Cliff House

The Cliff House, on Kangaroo Island, is a luxurious retreat, overlooking Snelling’s Beach. It has a gorgeous sunken pit with an open fire, and heated cliff-edge jacuzzi. It also has a private helicopter landing area nearby, making this house perfect for weddings or other special events.

One KI

One KI is a stunning Kangaroo Island eco-retreat, with an outdoor bath and shower overlooking the ocean. This lavish getaway includes three-course dinners prepared by a private chef, crafted from fresh and local produce, and includes incredible South Australian wines. It also has private access to the nearby beach, and the surrounding area is filled with amazing wildlife.

Kingsford Homestead

Kingsford Homestead, in the Barossa Valley, is an opulent retreat, marrying sophisticated style and rural charm, as evidenced through the placement of this elegant bath in the picturesque countryside. Originally owned by a 19th Century pastoralist, it may be better known to some readers as the set of McLeod’s Daughters. It can accommodate 14 guests overnight, and up to 300 for on-site events.

Naiko Retreat

The Naiko Retreat, located on the Fleurieu Peninsula and surrounded by conservation parks, is the height of luxurious escapism. It boasts a gorgeous French Invicta fireplace, panoramic views of the coast through its floor-to-ceiling windows, and a free standing bath with stunning views. This retreat is eco-centric and sustainable; the surrounding wildlife further inspires this return to the natural world.

Where’s my suitcase?!

For more on visiting South Australia

Bath love: influencers share their favourite tubs!

Being in lockdown for more than two months had many Australians looking to their bathrooms for some much needed spa-like sanctuary! With the colder months upon us, some interiors personalities…

What would Jono do: bath tubs over the decades

Interior designer and stylist Jono Fleming shares his views on the latest Block room reveals, how bath tubs have changed over the decades and if they’re worth investing in. Over…

Australian bathroom trends: September 2020 edition

It’s been a while between bathroom trend round-ups, but I can assure you it was worth the wait. From Beaumont Tiles’ new complete bathroom packages to Fibonacci Stone’s stunning new…

Tags bath, baths, holiday accommodation, outdoor bathroom, south australia

Bathrooms Design Shopping

Australian bathroom trends: March 2020 edition

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date March 31, 2020
1 Comment on Australian bathroom trends: March 2020 edition

Agape Lariana bathtub — Agape 'Lariana' bathtub

From unusual statement bath tubs to elegant Art Deco inspired tapware, March has seen a couple of exciting new ranges hit the bathroom scene. Plus, Kohler’s new DIY tap ware collection features interchangeable spouts and handles that let you become the designer!

Agape bathtubs: If statement bath tubs are your jam then you can’t go past the latest collection from Italy’s Agape. Available locally at Artedomus, there’s three new styles; the super original and organic inspired ‘DR’ (designed by Marcio Kogan), the beautifully curved and compact ‘Cuna’ and the unusual ‘Lariana.’

Agape 'DR' bathtub — The highly original Agape ‘DR’ bathtub

Agape 'Cuna' bathtub. Image: Derek Swalwell — Agape ‘Cuna’ bathtub. Image: Derek Swalwell

I.B. Rubinetterie Belmondo tap ware collection: Designed by Italian architect and designer Maurizio Duranti, this elegant new range features unique angular and octagonal shapes inspired by the Art Deco period of the 1920’s and 1930’s. The clean lined range is available in three finishes; chrome, gold and rose gold. From $150.

Kohler Components tap ware: With a range of different spouts and handles that can be easily interchanged, the latest from Kohler lets you custom create your own individual bathroom look. The minimalist range has three spouts and four handles to choose from, and is currently available in polished chrome, with new finishes being added soon.

“With Components the client is the designer. They are part of the design process,” says Bruno Chenesseau, design studio director, Kohler Kitchen and Bath EMEA. From $79.

Kohler Components products — Create your own custom tap look with the collection’s interchangeable parts

Kohler Components — This smart lever handle design is part of the Components collection

Highgrove Bathrooms matte white freestanding baths: This new lightweight acrylic bath collection features three designs, all finished with an on-trend, matte white finish. From straight to more rounded edges, the lightweight acrylic designs are ideal for spaces where weight constraints are an issue (the material is much lighter than solid surface and stone tubs).

Furthermore, acrylic provides excellent thermal insulation properties for increased heat retention, so you can sit back and relax for longer. The baths are available in 1500mm or 1700mm lengths and start from $1450.

The 'Alder' bath tub — The ‘Alder’ freestanding bath

Highgrove Bathrooms Aspen bath — The ‘Aspen’ is a back-to-wall freestanding bath

The 'Acacia' freestanding bath — The ‘Acacia’ freestanding bath

February 2020 bathroom trends

Tags agape, australian bathroom trends, bath, bathroom, bathroom design, baths, highgrove bathrooms, iB Rubinetterie, kohler, tap ware, taps

Bathrooms Design Interviews Shopping

Bathroom ideas: The artist behind Merwe’s unique wares

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date March 10, 2020
No Comments on Bathroom ideas: The artist behind Merwe’s unique wares

Given that Australian bathroom brand Merwe’s distinctive bronze basins have an almost sculptural quality, it didn’t surprise me to find out that the company founder is a fine artist. And while Jacques van der Merwe’s artistic repertoire includes painting, drawing, sculpture and photography, today we’re focusing on how he came to create his gorgeous bathroom wares, out of a rainforest on Queensland’s Tamborine Mountain.

The Merwe studio, nestled in rainforest on Queensland’s Mt Tamborine

Originally from South Africa, Jacques emigrated to Australia 12 years ago, with his wife Madeleen. With 21 years’ experience in the bathroom ware design industry, manufacturing for the international market, the couple were stood in good stead to launch Merwe in 2017.

“After so long in the industry, we found that the market was looking for something different. Our aim is to produce products that are comfortable, practical and original in the bathroom environment,” says Jacques. And with designs crafted out of solid surface, bronze, copper, zinc and brass, the brand’s unique material palette certainly sets them apart.

Merwe works with several hand-picked manufacturers across the world but creates all of its bronze and zinc basins in Queensland. “They are made by hand and personally patinated here at the Merwe studio,” says Jacques of the items which are among the brand’s most popular.

Merwe also has the capacity to custom make metal basins and vanities – specifically brass and copper

And unique aesthetics aside, Merwe has an environmentally sustainable focus too; it uses 95 percent recycled bronze to create its bronze basins. “The copper is salvaged primarily from old cables and piping,” says Jacques.

From metal basins that are hand-finished by a professional artist, to solid surface bathtubs designed with ergonomics in mind, the range is is filled with thoughtful, interesting details. “For instance, we found that you cannot comfortably recline in a bathtub with a sharp edge as you need extra pillows to make yourself comfortable,” says Jacques who, in response, created a design with a curve to support the neck.

“Ergonomics and aesthetics are intrinsically tied together when developing iconic bathroom ware, ensuring longevity in quality and design.”

For more on Merwe | Australian bathroom trends: February 2020 edition

Tags basins, bathroom, bathroom wares, bathrooms, baths, design, merwe

Bathrooms RENO ADDICT

Great value bathroom vanities online, direct to your door

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date January 27, 2015
6 Comments on Great value bathroom vanities online, direct to your door

If you liked Shannon & Simon’s timber bathtub, check these out

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date October 27, 2014
1 Comment on If you liked Shannon & Simon’s timber bathtub, check these out

It was one of our favourite features from The Block Glasshouse and now you (for an investment of $15,800) can get a taste of Simon and Shannon’s elegant luxury! (Their particular tub was from Wood and Water).

Inspired by traditional Japanese wooden bathtubs, which for centuries have been heralded for their healing powers, Italian firm Rapsel have created the Ofurò bathtub, a luxe soaking tub made of decay-resistant larch wood. Created entirely from larch, (even the plug!) the finish is natural; ideal for showing off the beautiful, unblemished wood grain.

With Japanese wooden bathtubs historically used as places for quiet contemplation and wellness, rather than vessels to cleanse oneself, Rapsel drew inspiration from this to create a unique bathtub of European attributes. The end result is a pure form, which allows for complete immersion, capturing all of the principles of a harmonious and relaxing bath.

With an aesthetic so opulent, the Ofurò is sure to make a focal point of any bathroom. So the question is, anyone got a spare 15 grand I could borrow?!

For further information on the Ofurò bathtub from Rapsel, visit the Candana showroom or their website.

Tags bathroom, baths, bathtub, japanese tubs, Ofurò, Rapsel, simon and shannon, the block, the block glasshouse, tubs, wooden bathtubs

Bathrooms Expert Tips

9 ways to make the most out of a small bathroom

Post author By Guest Poster
Post date September 26, 2014
9 Comments on 9 ways to make the most out of a small bathroom

By Samantha Magatelli

Most new builds have bathrooms that are designed to be much bigger than the bathrooms designed 20 or so years ago. So what do you do when you buy a beautiful character home that is perfect, apart from the pokey bathroom that comes with it?

Here are some tips to create the maximum space in a smaller than average bathroom:

http://www.blossomandbright.com/the-block-glasshouse-staircase-laundry-and-powder-room-reveals/ — Source: Blossom and Bright

Floating vanities can make the room appear larger as they give the illusion that the floor keeps on going.
Two basins are not needed in a bathroom in my opinion; they just take up extra space. Couples aren’t generally in there at the same time every day, so save room by putting the basin to one side. This way you maximise the amount of space on the bench for things like hairdryers, make-up etc. otherwise electrical items end up in the basin, and that can be dangerous!
If the wall where the vanity will be going is double bricked, you will have room in the cavity to recess the mirror cabinet creating extra hidden storage.
Source: Design Tribe
Hidden cisterns are the same idea as the recessed mirror. If the wall behind the toilet is double bricked (which more often that not it is) you will have room for a hidden cistern to be placed in-between the cavity. For homes that are timber-framed it is even easier. If these are not options in your home, you can create a half wall (around 1200mm in height) for the in-wall cistern to sit into, which will also act as a shelf for storing candles or decorative items. You can also use this as an opportunity to tile the half wall in a feature tile for a bit of interest in the room.
Recessed shelves/boxes in the shower are great for storing objects like shampoo and conditioner instead of having a shelf take up more room in the shower. Again, this will need to be on a double bricked wall or a timber-framed wall.
Source: Afamily
Larger tiles are a must for making a room appear larger as there aren’t as many grout lines closing the walls in. Also, laying them horizontally tricks the eye to follow the line across the wall, making the room feel larger. Choose a rectified tile so you can lay them close together and have minimal grout lines, which makes it easier for cleaning.
Tiling to the ceiling will also give that feeling of space so that the room appears larger than it is, as the light will reflect a lot better on a tile than on a painted wall.
Unless you have small children, I don’t think baths are necessary, especially in a small bathroom. They take up a lot of room unless you create a shower/bath combination, which isn’t always the most stylish option.
Source: Est Magazine
Lighting is another important factor to make a room appear larger. It is vital to use nice, bright lighting in a bathroom in the correct positions so there are no nasty dark shadows. I would suggest using LED down lights, or starlights, as they are more economical than a halogen, and come in a cool or warm tone to complement the colours used in the space.

– Samantha Magatelli is an interior designer at S&S Interiors.

Tags bathroom, baths, recess, showers, small bathroom, space, storage, vanities

Bathrooms

Is this the bathroom of the future?

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date August 20, 2014
2 Comments on Is this the bathroom of the future?

When Australia’s SJB Architects were invited to design the Bathroom of the Future for Kohler’s flagship store in Shanghai, China they envisaged a luxurious cocoon of new age materials equipped with the very latest innovations.

SJB was one of only four leading architectural firms from around the world invited by Kohler to design a bathroom showcasing one of five themes: Chinese, Contemporary, Classic, Transitional and Futuristic. The project was developed as a means of commemorating Kohler’s 140th anniversary as a global leader in the field of bathroom design and technology.

SJB architect Tristan Wong, who spearheaded the design, felt the bathroom of the future could be a global traveller’s retreat and as such located in the hull of a ship or fuselage of a jet. Wong’s vision is of a seamless, folding cocoon of new age materials – inspired by the highly sculpted, dynamic forms emerging in car and boat design – melding highly evolved technology with a tactile experience that imparts a feeling of invigoration and vitality to anyone entering the space.

Walls and ceiling fold and merge to conceal lighting, speakers and exhaust fan, transporting what is essentially a highly practical multi-disciplinary bathing space to an exciting and dynamic level. The yacht-style timber flooring provides warmth underfoot which complements the long, carbon fibre vanity that morphs into a daybed.

“We made an intentional shift away from the more traditional bathroom materials of tile and stone that often have a cold, utilitarian feel, to the highly versatile Kerlite which is a kind of ceramic porcelain. We chose a combination of white Kerlite for a clean, bright feeling and a bronze-champagne Kerlite to create warmth and contrast. Carbon fibre was the other material used extensively in the design. Chosen for its malleability, strength and waterproof qualities, it was the perfect choice for the vanity and daybed. It also has a great aesthetic, with the woven strands of filament visible through the resin,” said Tristan.

Kohler’s SOK overflowing bath was chosen for both its luxury and its ability for contained overflow, even in rough seas and occasional turbulence. Designed for two people, the Sok offers deep immersion and the option of chromatherapy and bubble massage.

The futuristic Numi toilet, a Bluetooth enabled ‘hub’ offering music, night light, warm air for the feet and automatically opening and closing lid and seat, is placed in the space as much for its sculptural effect as its versatility. It is perfectly complemented by a pair of low slung, rectangular Forefront basins.

“We chose the Karbon taps as they are an incredible piece of engineering and design, constructed in part from carbon fibre, one of the lightest and strongest materials available, and with a joystick control. This really IS a product of the future,” Tristan said.

To complete the look, is the multifunctional, electronically controlled shower area equipped with watertile overhead shower panels and wall mounted body sprays to create an all-enveloping, totally luxurious showering experience.

“Kohler’s ability to create new, varied and continually innovative products meant that when it came to designing a bathroom of the future Kohler already had a number of cutting edge products that were suitable. There was a seamless integration between our design and the existing Kohler products, almost as though they had been custom designed! From an architect’s perspective this is key to Kohler’s success – they invest heavily in design that challenges the norm and is cutting edge in both its aesthetic and engineering.

“Mirrored walls in the bathroom have integrated PC screens to enable the global nomad to reconnect with the world after having enjoyed a precious interlude of relaxation and rejuvenation courtesy of a space delivered in an altogether unique and futuristic way.”

Kohler bathroom products have been available in Australia since 1991 and are available nationally from E&S Trading (VIC), Galvin Design (WA) and Routleys Kitchens Bathrooms (SA). Kohler Co. is one of America’s oldest and largest privately held companies. Founded in 1873, the Kohler brand is a global leader in the design and manufacture of kitchen and bath products, engines and power generation systems, cabinetry, tile and home interiors.

Tags american, bathroom, baths, design, futuristic, interiors, kohler, showers, sjb, taps, tristan wong