OLD SCHOOL GLAMOUR

The recent wave of popular period dramas like Downton Abbey and The Crown have inspired bathroom trends that many would have previously dismissed as outdated. Think vintage fittings, chandeliers, ornate brass fittings and sculpted sanitary ware – our new favourite bathrooms are as far removed from minimalism as you can get. As for the pièce de resistance, well, that would have to be a free-standing, roll-top bath – ideally in stark white or a pastel-coloured finish. Our advice is to complement all this with much-needed modern convenience, including a power shower, eco-flushing and taps with ceramic flushing. Now, would ma’am prefer champagne or a pot of tea at bath time?

THE GLOSS EFFECT

Shimmer and sparkle may have seemed kitsch a few years back, but they’ve since found their place in our homes – when effectively curated, of course. So instead of in-your-face metals, opt for glossy finishes that will give your bathroom added ‘wow’ factor instead. One worry with the metallic trend is that it can make a space appear sterile, but you can avoid this by making shine a feature and using it sparingly – perhaps on one wall, a shower cabinet, or in your fittings and fixtures. Complete the look with high-gloss tiles and plenty of glass to add to the illusion of space.

NATURAL HIGH

Wood has become a popular material for use across our homes – and the bathroom is no different. In fact, many suppliers now offer special wall and floor ranges in wood and wood-effect that are designed especially for use around water. This nature-inspired look brings the outdoors in thanks to the use of natural materials including wood and stone. Incorporate it into carved basins or baths, stone tiles, textured wall coverings, wood panelling and cabinets, and cotton fabrics. The resulting feel will be fresh, inviting and almost spa-like.

HIGH IMPACT

If you want to avoid your bathroom turning into a space that’s predictably bland and beige, you may want to go in the completely opposite direction by injecting colour and drama. If you don’t want to rush overboard, start with white sanitaryware and build your look around it; you could opt for bright geometrics, patterned wallpaper, bold black-and-whites, or a vibrant feature wall. Alternatively, if the prospect of going all-out seems too daunting, rein your ideas in and restrict them to your accessories – bright fabrics, blinds, product bottles and knick-knacks can go a long way towards making a bathroom feel fresh and renewed, and filling it with personality.

THE SHOWER HAS IT

Whether your bathroom is bitsy or massive, your shower may well end up being one of its most used features. With that in mind, why not make it the centrepiece? One of the very latest bathroom trends puts the shower firmly in focus, whether you opt for a walk-in, a cubicle or a wet room. Start with a good shower tray and excellent power shower, and then form the space around that – choosing sinks, cabinets, tiles and finishes that complement. If your budget allows, a frameless screen is the ultimate luxury for shower-lovers, by adding wet room-style openness without the dreaded spray.

PATTERNED TILES

Finally, one trend that continues to be a big hit in Malta is the use of patterned tiles in the bathroom. From typical Maltese tiles to ones with a more European or Moroccan feel, patterned tiles effortlessly add focus and complete a space. Do bear in mind that, while these tiles look gorgeous, they can prove quite overpowering, so you may prefer to use them on a feature wall or a sectioned ‘zone’ of your floor, rather than all over. Complete the look by selecting one accent colour from the tiles, and using it in your towels, finishes and accessories.