subject: Wood And Stone: Natural Materials In Bathroom Design [print this page] In bathroom design, certain trends and styles come and go. Some stay with us consistently for years at a time, much as sparse minimalism did for the last decade, and others spend some time in the wilderness before making a triumphant return. The use of natural materials and colours in the bathroom is one trend that fell out of favour in the late 1990s but has is now enjoying a huge resurgence in popularity and growing rapidly as the must-have decor theme for the modern bathroom.
This idea of bringing the natural back into the bathroom stems primarily from a reaction to the minimalism that dominated bathroom styling through the first decade of this century. Whilst sparse, minimal bathrooms could be calm and serene, with white walls and sanitaryware, bathrooms could very easily feel a little sterile and unwelcoming. As the bathroom is a place in which we like to be able to relax and unwind from time to time, it makes sense to utilise the tactile appeal, the warmth and personality of natural materials and colours, to create the most inviting and comfortable bathroom environment possible.
Natural stone tiles are particularly dense, and so ideal for bathroom use. Whether you intend to use them as floor tiles, to waterproof an entire wet room set up, or just for a small splash protection area behind your basin, these tiles, with their unique grains and patterns, will do the job your require of them to the highest quality, whilst looking fantastic all the while.
Bathroom furniture is the other key area where natural materials can be best put to use. Solid wood cabinets and cupboards will immediately lend your bathroom a rich, warm solidity, whether you opt for fresh lighter shades, such as oak or pine, or take a bolder path and choose a dark, decadent shade, such as walnut or wenge, your bathroom will instantly feel like a more decadent and lavish space. There are wood effect veneers available, but nothing can hold a candle to the real thing, so this in an area where its truly worth choosing your products for their build-quality.
Most modern bathroom furniture can now bought pre-treated with a water-resistant coating to protect it from the rigours of daily bathroom life. After all, we do expose our bathrooms to a great deal of steam and moisture, and splashes and drips are inevitable, so this is a great way to protect your furniture from warping and mildew. Do be sure to wipe up any major spills and to air out your bathroom after each use, though, just to be extra careful.
Have a click around and examine some of the products currently available. I guarantee youll find some natural products to fall in love with within minutes.
