The art of joyful living is at the heart of KWD’s design philosophy. It flows through every room within a home, applying a scientific formula to designing spaces that work beautifully. Our smart, intrinsic bathroom design solutions intentionally create an environment that prioritises and promotes happiness, contentment, and a sense of well-being.  A bathroom is usually the first room we step into in the morning, so why not make it beautiful? It will set the tone for the day.

1

LAYERS OF TEXTURE

The selection of materials is a pivotal aspect of joyful bathroom design, shaping its aesthetic appeal and tactile experience. Embrace texture and contrast to add visual interest and depth to the space, mixing smooth surfaces with rough-hewn finishes, and glossy tiles with matt accents. From natural stone floors and benchtops to handmade tiles and gleaming tapware,  each material imparts its unique personality to the space. Functionality is important, selecting low maintenance materials recognised for their durability and water resistance. Tiles anchor the space and serve as a backdrop for all other elements. Be a bit bold, or adventurous, or innovative with the type of tiles you choose, how you lay them, where you place them and what colour grout you use. 

 2

COLOUR

A KWD bathroom is all about the exploration of colour to instil joy.  Longevity and functionality are at the forefront of every specification, but beyond that is the intangible sense of romance that playful materiality can bring to a once utilitarian space. The colour palette sets the tone for the entire bathroom, influencing mood and perception in profound ways. Bold and saturated colours introduce energy and personality, infusing a bathroom with vitality and dynamism, and serene hues or warm neutrals evoke a sense of calm and relaxation. 

3

DESIGN DETAILS

A joyful bathroom design is all about the details. A bathroom doesn’t necessarily have to be fully tiled. Consider different wall treatments like strapping, panelling or wallpaper. As long as the shower is separate and waterproof, you can be creative with materials to create a joyful space.  A family home really does call for a bathtub – not only for your own pleasure, but for re-sell value as well. Nothing sets the tone in a bathroom quite like a shapely statement tub.  Placement of the bathtub is also an important consideration, so take care with your space planning. If your space allows, make a feature of the bathtub and make the most of the natural light. 

4

SPACE & LIGHT

Clever space planning is essential for a successful bathroom. Making use of every single square inch of the footprint ensures your bathroom serves you well in terms of functionality. Luxurious bathrooms offer a hotel-like experience, and a spacious bathroom is all about creating a sanctuary. Feature and task lighting are important – task lighting is necessary for doing make up and shaving, and wall sconces or pendants add a sense of luxury and whimsy and can really make a statement.  Lighting also needs to create the right ambience. Dimmer switches are a great option.

5

STORAGE

Bathroom organisation is key for a feeling of wellbeing. Think carefully about how you use the space to ensure everything is at your fingertips and out of sight where possible.  Create a considered storage solution for everything so that the rush of the bathroom routine in the morning is intrinsic, intuitive and automatic.  Incorporating well thought through waist height and eye-level storage will go a long way to elevating the design of a bathroom.  Hidden storage behind mirrors is particularly effective. A thoughtfully crafted layout ensures that every element of the bathroom seamlessly aligns with the needs and preferences of its occupants, fostering a harmonious balance between form and function. If space allows, position a bath in front of full-height windows. Having a view to look out onto adds to the appeal, and full-length curtains sitting behind a bath add softness and privacy. 

  THE LAST WORD…

“At its core, designing a joyful bathroom is about infusing the space with elements that delight the senses and uplift the spirit. It’s about creating an atmosphere that inspires relaxation, rejuvenation, and a sense of well-being—a place where you can escape the chaos of the outside world and reconnect with yourself. Bathrooms are one of the key investment areas in a home. Get the design right, and you can rest assured that they will add significant value to your home. Designing a bathroom can be expensive though, as just about every trade is required to complete the space – plasterers, painters, tilers, plumbers, electricians, cabinetry makers, window furnishing manufacturers plus tapware and door hardware suppliers as well as suppliers for basins, mirrors and lighting. So you want to ensure you get the design right, first time.“

Kate Walker