The handbasin and its surroundings are the functional heart of the bathroom. lt’s here that most activities – from making up to shaving – take place, so it follows that most equipment and accessories are necessarily grouped around the basin. Storage, lighting, a mirror and so on must all be provided.
As always, it is best to plan ahead:
don’t be tempted into buying an eyecatching item on impulse. Bathroom furniture and accessories come in a vast array of styles, colours and materials; shop around in order to assemble a personal selection.
Do you want a fitted look, with streamlined, built-in cupboards offering a maximum amount of hidden storage?
Or would you prefer to keep more of your toiletries on display, and within easy reach when needed? Would traditional or modern fittings be most in keeping with the style of your bathroom? Should the colours be plain white, dark hardwood A or perhaps bright primaries?
Bathroom furniture and accessories can be made from wood, laminate, or plastic; accessories are also available in chrome, china and porcelain.
Honey-coloured pine or dark hardwood is warm to the touch; sealed with a polyurethane varnish, wood can resist the damage inflicted by heat and steam. Laminates and plastic are both ideal for bathroom use since they are hard- wearing, easy to clean and come in bright colours and delicate shades.
Chrome accessories, which were particularly popular in the 1920s and 1930s, complement the chrome taps that are still commonly found in today’s bathrooms. And brass creates a luxurious effect. For a prettier, less masculine look, choose china or porcelain which is often decorated with delicate flowers or birds. Beware, though – china is easy to break or chip.