Creating the ultimate bathroom is about combining practicality with comfort. The right choices in design, layout, and technology can transform your space into somewhere that feels both functional and relaxing. In this guide, we’ll cover:
Choosing the Right Fixtures and Fittings – From taps and showers in modern chrome to classic brass, plus the benefits of freestanding baths versus space-saving built-ins.
Maximising Storage Without Sacrificing Style – Smart vanity units, mirrored cabinets, and clever shelving ideas to keep things organised.
Lighting That Works for Every Mood – Task, ambient, and accent lighting options that balance style with energy efficiency.
Creating a Spa-Like Atmosphere – Walk-in showers, underfloor heating, and natural materials that bring comfort and calm.
Smart Technology in the Bathroom – Digital showers, heated mirrors, and sensor features that add convenience and efficiency.
This blog will help you plan a bathroom that’s practical for everyday use while offering those finishing touches that make it feel special.
Choosing the Right Fixtures and Fittings
When choosing taps and showers, the style and finish make a big difference to the overall look of your bathroom. Modern designs often feature clean lines and minimal shapes, ideal for a sleek, contemporary space, while traditional styles bring in classic detailing that suits period homes. Finishes are just as important: chrome is versatile and timeless, matt black creates a bold and brass adds warmth and character; the Astini Brushed Brass Range is becoming increasingly popular due to its vast matching product range, from showers to tumblers, bath wastes to radiators. Matching the style and finish across your fittings helps create a consistent, well-planned feel.
Baths and basins are the centrepieces of any bathroom, and your choice will depend on space and the look you want to achieve. A freestanding bath adds a touch of luxury, becoming a statement feature, but it works best in larger bathrooms. Built-in baths, on the other hand, are practical and space-saving, especially in family homes. The same applies to basins: countertop designs can feel high-end, while integrated options maximise space. Whatever you choose, prioritise quality—durable materials and good warranties are worth the investment, ensuring your fixtures perform well and last for years.
Maximising Storage Without Sacrificing Style
Maximising storage in your bathroom doesn’t mean compromising on style. Smart vanity units, whether wall-hung for a modern floating look or floor-standing for extra capacity, give you practical organisation without wasting space. Mirrored cabinets are another clever option, combining everyday functionality with hidden storage while reflecting light to make the room feel larger. Open shelving works well for keeping essentials close at hand and can double as a display for neatly folded towels or decorative items. In smaller bathrooms, focus on space-saving solutions like slimline units, corner fittings, and vertical storage to keep the room clutter-free and easy to use.
Lighting That Works for Every Mood
Bathroom Ceiling Lighting
Ceiling lighting is the main source of illumination in most bathrooms, creating a bright and even spread of light across the whole room. Flush and semi-flush fittings work well in compact spaces, such as the Sensio Zala Square - Bathroom Ceiling Light. While recessed spotlights or a central pendant can suit larger layouts. Always choose bathroom-rated fittings to handle moisture safely. Ceiling lights set the base layer of lighting, giving you clear visibility and functionality, which you can then build on with wall or accent lighting for a balanced finish.
Bathroom Wall Lighting
Wall lighting like the Sensio Ember - Bathroom Wall light adds targeted illumination and creates a warmer, more inviting atmosphere. Placing wall lights beside or above the mirror helps reduce shadows when shaving, applying makeup, or carrying out everyday routines. They can also act as decorative features, adding personality and design interest to the room. With finishes ranging from chrome and brass to matt black, wall lights can be matched to taps and fittings for a coordinated look. Adjustable wall lights are especially useful in bathrooms where flexibility is needed, offering both style and practicality.
Bathroom LED Mirror Cabinets
LED mirror cabinets combine task lighting and storage in one design, making them ideal for modern bathrooms. The integrated LED lighting on the Astini Jemima Single Door LED Mirror Cabinet 500x700 mm provides clear, shadow-free illumination, perfect for grooming, while the cabinet interior keeps toiletries neatly organised. Many models feature extras such as demister pads, shaver sockets, and adjustable shelves. By reflecting light, LED mirror cabinets also help smaller bathrooms feel more spacious, adding both functionality and a sleek, modern touch.
Creating a Spa-Like Atmosphere
Walk-In Showers – Open designs with glass panels
Walk-in showers with clear glass panels create an open, spacious feel while keeping the layout practical. Their minimalist design works well in both small and large bathrooms, offering easy access and a modern look that enhances comfort and style.
Freestanding Baths – A centrepiece for relaxation
A freestanding bath instantly becomes the focal point of a bathroom, adding a sense of luxury and calm. Positioned as a standalone feature, it invites relaxation and works as a statement piece that elevates the overall design.
Natural Materials – Stone, wood, and soft textiles
Incorporating natural materials helps soften the bathroom environment and adds warmth. Stone and wood finishes bring texture and character, while soft textiles like cotton towels and bath mats provide comfort and balance to the space.
Finishing Touches – Plants, towels, and accessories
Small details complete the bathroom and make it feel personal. Greenery introduces freshness, neatly folded towels add a homely touch, and carefully chosen accessories like soap dispensers or storage baskets tie the design together.
What style of vanity unit works best for a small bathroom?
For compact bathrooms, wall-hung or cloakroom vanity units are ideal. They free up floor space and help the room feel larger, while still offering storage.
How do I size a vanity correctly for my bathroom layout?
Measure the width, depth, and height of the available space. Account for obstacles (doors, radiators, taps), allow clearance for doors or drawers to open, and ensure it complements your basin and plumbing setup.
What’s the difference between countertop basin units and inset basin units?
Countertop basins sit on top of the unit, creating a stylish, modern look and allowing for more visible basin shapes. Inset basins are built into the unit’s surface, offering a cleaner, more integrated look and easier maintenance.
Are vanity units with double basins worth getting?
Yes, if multiple people regularly use the same bathroom. Double basin vanity units reduce morning traffic, help maintain personal space, and are functional for couples or families—but they need sufficient width and plumbing support.
What finishes and materials are best for durability and style?
Choose finishes like oak, wood tones, gloss white or muted tones that fit your décor. Materials that resist moisture and have durable cabinetry will last longer. Matching finish styles across your fixtures helps maintain a cohesive look.
To Conclude...
Achieving the ultimate bathroom is about combining practicality with comfort. The right fixtures, clever storage, and well-planned lighting create a space that works day to day, while touches like freestanding baths, walk-in showers, and natural materials bring a sense of relaxation. Smart technology and thoughtful accessories add the final layer, making the bathroom not only functional but also enjoyable to spend time in. By focusing on what matters most to you, it’s possible to design a bathroom that feels organised, stylish, and built for long-term use.
Ready to start planning your own bathroom upgrade? Explore our wide range of taps, sinks, baths, andbathroom furnitureat Taps UK to find the right pieces for your home.
Taps UK is a prominent online retailer in the United Kingdom, specializing in a wide variety of kitchen and bathroom products. The company boasts a large selection of taps, sinks, and accessories from both well-known industry brands and its own exclusive lines, catering to a broad customer base that includes the general public as well as trade professionals like developers and builders.
