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When you move into a home, it can be easy to try and squeeze yourself into the existing layout. However, sometimes converting a room or two is can be the small change it takes to make daily life so much easier. That is what Jenny Howard, a brand strategy consultant, did when she converted a bedroom into a family bathroom in a now three-bedroom Victorian cottage in Winchester, where she lives with her son.
‘When we moved in, the cottage only had two bedrooms and no bathroom upstairs, Jenny tells us. 'It was a really inconvenient layout – you had to walk through the living room to get to the downstairs shower room. I decided to convert one of the bedrooms into a family bathroom before starting on a first-floor extension to create two additional bedrooms.'
The total cost of the bathroom project was £10,000. Ever keen to fill up on new bathroom idea inspiration, we wanted to find out all the details of the transformation process.
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'For the bathroom project, I went with Ripples, which meant that the design was much better than I could have managed on my own – there are so many details to consider,' Jenny says. 'I wanted it to be the most relaxing part of the house, so I went for a warm, neutral colour palette. It proved difficult to fit a shower because of the sloping ceilings.'
'But, our designer at Ripples solved this by including the seat in the wet-room ideas, and I took pictures of the wall with masking tape stuck on at head height so we could work out where the main showerhead needed to be!’
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In terms of the bathroom colour scheme, Jenny opted for the colour drenching method, whereby one paint shade is used on the walls and ceiling to add a feeling of height.
‘For warmth and texture, I added natural materials and wall panelling to the simple neutral colour scheme,’ Jenny adds.
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‘Originally, I looked at vintage mirrors for above the basin, but decided to install a made-to-measure design instead, so that I could fit a wall light,' Jenny explains. 'It was important not to have harsh overhead lighting.’
She wanted a classic bathroom that appeared as if it could have been here for years. 'But it also needed to be practical; I have a five-year-old son and there’s always lots of splashing! The recess above the bath is handy for both his toys and my scented candles.’
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Brass fixtures in traditional shapes have timeless appeal, which feature throughout Jenny's cottage. She chose charming bathroom wall art ideas to add a dash of colour and interest.
‘The bathroom is tanked to create one continuous surface, which makes it feel spacious, and I made sure the hand-held shower is within reach of the seat,' Jenny says.
Focus on: vintage vanity unit
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An upcycled piece of furniture used as a bathroom surface adds great character, but how practical is it? The steps below detail how to get this rustic effect in your own bathroom.
- Start by measuring the space before you head off looking for furniture. Browse vintage markets or second-hand furniture shops for good-quality, well-made pieces that can withstand the weight of a basin. Look out for a chest of drawers or a cabinet, rather than a table, to provide somewhere for the plumbing to be hidden.
- Enlist a joiner or plumber to help you convert the piece. If you want a countertop basin, the top surface will need cutting to fit the waste pipe. This style is a goo choice, as the basin will cover the removed area, ensuring a neat finish.
- The entire piece will need sealing, as you would with a wooden kitchen worktop. Osmo oil or yacht varnish will protect it for many years. However, the top surface might need more protection; practical choices include Corian, terrazzo or quartz.
- Or, take out the hard work by using a company that does it for you. Simply Bathroom Furniture sells reclaimed and vintage- inspired options, while Jenny went with a bespoke design from Furnewal.
Get the look
Fake the appearance of a classic check floor with a bath mat in the same pattern. We love Ruggables plush and washable bath mats which are one offer at the moment.
A wooden stool for popping a cup of tea or towel down next to a bath or shower will always add a touch of luxury to a bathroom.
You can't beat a Pooky light for style and quality, you can pair this swan neck wall fitting with a classic white shade or try something a little funkier
Reflecting on the project now, Jenny tells us: 'This project has taught me a lot about how to manage an awkward space and make the most of every centimetre – and being vocal about what I want.'