1. Timber treatment
Designer and builder Zaher Khalil of Zaas Homes chose whitewashed oak-look ‘Timber Brown’ 900mm x 150mm tiles from Western Distributors for this bathroom, colour-matching an epoxy grout with the timber grain. “By keeping the filling lines narrow, it looks like timber panelling,” says Zaher.
2. Black to basics
Sleek ‘Vivid Slimline’ pieces from Phoenix Tapware play against a hidden-outlet basin (or similar try Laufen’s ‘Kartell by Laufen’ basins).
3. Space odyssey
If you don’t have the luxury of space, you can always create the illusion of it. Choosing the right glass is one trick. “Even though it’s more expensive, I went with a single fixed panel of Starphire super-clear glass from IL Building Services for the shower as it’s ultra-clear and looks virtually invisible,” says designer and builder Zaher Khalil. He also angled the ceiling to enhance the volume and allow more light to bounce around the room.
"The size of tile can make a difference. These long, rectangular tiles laid in a brick pattern visually elongate the room”
Zaher Khalil
4. Textural tactics
Contemporary spaces can feel stark and cold, so it’s vital to balance minimalist lines with textural finishes. Rather than opt for glossy surfaces, a ‘Riva’ 1700mm back-to-wall freestanding bath from Allure Bathrooms was selected for its softer, acrylic matt finish.
Its gentle curves instil an organic feel, too, in keeping with the room’s tranquil quality. Laminex ‘Impressions’ in Domain Nuance on the custom vanity also has a lovely tactile feel and boosts the sensory appeal of a zone grounded by ‘Gun Metal’ 600mm x 300mm floortiles from Western Distributors.
5. Sky high
If you don't have bathroom windows, install a skylight. An abundance of natural light streams through a skylight above the freestanding bath. Without the distraction of the outside world, this truly feels like a spa-like sanctuary.
