The bathroom has become a key element of our homes—a place for so much more than our daily routine. On any one day the bathroom may have to be an oasis of relaxation, a room for reinvigoration, a space for transformation and even somewhere to play.
Robin Levien, the designer behind renowned Ideal Standard ranges such as Concept Air, Concept Freedom, Concept Space and Tesi, talks us through his top 5 predictions for future design trends we need to consider when changing up our bathroom spaces.
1. Multi-generational bathrooms
The recession has played a key influence in shaping the bathroom market. A fragile economy has meant that children are living at home for longer, whilst the UK’s ageing population and increase in care home fees have led to the evolution of the multi-generational bathroom.
Inclusive design is at the heart of Ideal Standard’s ethos, with products designed to support a range of mobility and access needs, which are elegant as well as functional. Ideal Standard’s Concept Freedom range aims to include less abled customers, rather than alienate them, through a collection of ceramics, brassware and showers that are well designed, elegant and functional.
Robin Levien, world-renowned designer and creative catalyst behind many of the Ideal Standard bathroom ranges
Be it support rails for steady access or adjusted height basins for comfortable washing, all are discreetly integrated into the bathroom setup, making them suitable for all generations.
Discover more about Independent Living bathrooms at VictoriaPlum.com.
2. 1950s Scandinavian design
The British bathroom industry has long been influenced by continental Europe, and this latest evolution in has seen Scandinavian design creeping into the UK market. Consumers are opting for pale timbers and natural hues such as beiges, greys and browns to create an aura of calm in the bathroom space.
Clean lines and simple forms give the Tesi collection a contemporary edge
3. Freestanding baths
In the past 50 years, house sizes have shrunk considerably meaning that bathrooms have also had to adapt. However, this doesn’t mean we have to compromise on our ideal bathroom. Many consumers are opting for slimline furnishings, which maximise the amount of space available. Ideal Standard’s Concept Space range of ceramics, baths and storage solutions is designed to transform any space—however small or awkward—into a beautiful use of space.
You needn't compromise when choosing a luxurious freestanding bath for your space
However, a large number of consumers are putting practicality aside to focus on making a bold statement in their bathroom, with the introduction of a freestanding bath. Concept Air offers a statement tub to help the consumer create a space for relaxation away from the pressures of modern day life.
4. Bold colours
Consumers are becoming bolder, expressing their new found optimism by creating brightly coloured bathrooms. Moroccan and Islamic influences are permeating the market, complimenting this growing sense of confidence.
The stagnant housing market has also given homeowners the opportunity to create their ideal living space that is personal to them, rather than trying to appeal to a potential buyer.
Discover more about getting creative with colour in your bathroom.
Being creative with your bathroom design can also be achieved through patterns and accessories
5. Vanity basins
The basin forms a part of our daily ritual, and these rectangular ceramic basins, with combined storage cabinets fitted snugly underneath, help to manage the clutter that is an inevitable part of everyday life. However, the extra space provided by a vanity basin also allows consumers the opportunity to impress visitors by displaying personal possessions and treasured ornaments, such as designer perfumes and expensive cosmetics. A fine example being the range of Concept Air vanity basins and furniture units, which come in a range of beautiful finishes that suite a variety of bathroom decors.
The flat deck area of the vanity basin makes it easier to clean and provides surface storage space. However, given their sizeable dimensions, it is better to use a more compact version, like those from the Concept Space range, in a cloakroom bathroom under-the-stairs.
More from Ideal Standard
Victoria Plum are proud to work in partnership with Ideal Standard, bringing you the largest selection of exquisitely designed bathroom suites, furniture and more, from the UK’s leading bathroom brand. Shop Ideal Standard now.
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