Bathrooms

Brilliant baths

Written by Karien Slabbert

When it comes to choosing a bath, the possibilities are endless. Options include spa baths, classic ball-and-claw tubs, freestanding, corner, drop-in, three-wall alcove, and under-mount baths.

According to Blanche Burger from Bathroom Bizarre, “The type of bath you choose should not just be a decision made purely on aesthetics, but also on how you will use the tub. It is essential to consider the practical things as well. The answers to all these questions will impact the type of bath you choose.”

Luxury spa

The buzz: The streamlined functionality of a spa bath is the go-to option when creating a rejuvenating sanctuary. These baths use jets to soothe muscles and massage the body with thousands of tiny bubbles.

The look:

A spa-like bathtub with a massaging shower and ergonomic design offers a pampering and indulgent experience. You can also transform your existing bath into a home spa with the sBox® tub bath mixer. According to Hansgrohe, “The hose is stored out of sight in a box built into the tub, allowing for a clean, elegant look.”

Hansgrohe

Slip right in:The slipper bath is the epitome of private relaxation. As one end is slightly deeper than the other, it allows you to kick back and relax. For an added element of luxury, opt for a double slipper bath, where the sides along both ends of the bathtub are raised. Add a floor-standing mixer with shower attachment for an extra layer of de-stressing appeal.

Bathroom Bizarre

Bathroom Bizarre

Making a stand

The buzz: Classical curves or modern clean lines, the freestanding bath is the little black dress of the bathroom world. “The old bath on legs, the modern oval-shaped bath by itself, or two together for him and her – the freestanding bath comes in many guises,” according to Builders Warehouse.

Burger agrees: “Standing as a focal feature, their sculptural design makes for an impactful feature in any bathroom.” Choose from footed, skirted or decked freestanding baths.

The look:

Neoclassical: Feminine in shape and classical in its appeal, the ball-and-claw bath is named after the ornate feet that support the tub. For a look that oozes old-school cool, opt for a Victorian-inspired bathtub in an all-white bathroom.

Builders Warehouse

Builders Warehouse

Dramatic interlude: Graphic silhouettes are edgy and sophisticated, especially when teamed with a matte onyx or grey finish. A sleek, minimalist oval bathtub in this colourway will always look the part in any contemporary bathroom.

Bathroom Bizarre

Soak it up: “Whether your style is beachy, cottage, avant-garde or Victorian, a freestanding bath works well with them all,” say the bathroom boffins at Builders Warehouse.

Builders Warehouse

Tiny treasure: Small in size but big on style, Bijou baths will complement any modern bathroom, no matter the size. Choose from black and white baths with bold lines, a sleek oval design or a Bijou that’s higher and wider on one end.

Bathroom Bizarre

Elemental appeal: Embrace the elements with a freestanding brass or copper bathtub. The epitome of old-world charm, a bateau bath with aged-copper skirting creates a striking focal point in an organic-inspired bathroom. Find one that suits your style at www.victorianbathrooms.co.za.

Victorian Bathrooms

Sleek sophistication

The buzz: Bespoke bathrooms all have one thing in common: They display an alchemy of functionality and style. According to the design experts at Duravit, “The skill is to introduce a stylish interplay between the different zones of the room: the products used should harmonise to ensure formal consistency. They are the thread that runs through a perfectly attuned interior design.”

With a focus on high design, the latest high-end bathtubs make a splash with a finely curated mix of clear contrasts – shapely and refined; glossy and matte.

Post-industrialist elegance: Made from high-gloss white acrylic, the XViu features a prominent metal frame in champagne matte or black matte that supports the freestanding bathtub.

Duravit

Geometric imprint: The Happy D.2 Plus range contrasts soft organic forms with precise geometry. The bathtub with its external panelling in super-matte graphite is the epitome of architecturally inspired cool.

Duravit

Subtly now: With its understated rectangular angles, the Vero Air bathtub concentrates on the essentials of luxury living.

Duravit

THE AUTHOR

Karien Slabbert

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