Freestanding
The sense of luxury you get with freestanding is that the bath or basin becomes sculptural; almost an artwork. In a bathroom we recently designed in Wentworth we installed a stunning freestanding, roll-top copper bath lined with tin. You would think the result would look very traditional, but we made everything else sleek and minimal, so rather than ‘old French farmhouse’, you get a luxurious modern look.
Taps
There’s been a movement away from the square hard lines that have been fashionable for a while and people tend to go for either very chunky taps, or ones that are so minimal you can barely see them. The Axor Massaud range continues to be very popular, as it successfully combines both these features.
People want luxury, but we are all also more aware of the environment – plus there are building regulations – for new builds – to control excessive water usage. Brands such as Hans Grohe sell taps and showers that use compressed air to propel the water out and boost pressure – meaning you still get a luxurious effect, but use less water than you’d realise.
Another trend that’s been around for a while – and is quite a ‘wow’ thing too – is to use light technology; this is where showerheads and taps change colour depending on whether the water is hot or cold.