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The Importance Of Visiting A Bathroom Showroom During The Planning Stages Of A Project

Category: Bathrooms

The Importance Of Visiting A Bathroom Showroom During The Planning Stages Of A Project

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk

Arguably, refurbishing your bathroom is one of the most exciting projects you can undertake in your home. Bathroom designs nowadays can be so versatile and when revamping, you have the opportunity to completely transform this space into a modern dream bathroom. Whether you currently have a traditional bathroom suit and you’d like a wetroom or vice versa, with the right know-how and some professional help, anything really is possible. 

When you’re in the initial planning stages of your bathroom renovation project, many professionals would advise you to visit a bathroom showroom and it can be incredibly helpful to do so. However, many wonder whether this is something that they need to do, especially with all of the inspiration available at the click of a button. If you’re contemplating visiting a local bathroom showroom, below is a list of reasons why it is both important and also beneficial to do so. 

See different products in person 

There is no denying that looking at any products in person is completely different to doing so online. You will be able to see all of the smaller details and also check the quality of the products that you’re interested in. Whenever you purchase products for your bathroom, if you see them in person first, you won’t be disappointed when they arrive, like many are when ordering online. 

Speak to a team of professionals

All bathroom showrooms will be full of experts who can help you to ensure that you’re not just investing in the perfect products, but that you’re also creating the perfect design for both the space you have and also your individual needs. Companies will have dedicated teams to help with all parts of your project and you can speak to them directly when visiting a showroom. 

Be inspired by the different layouts

The vast majority of the time, bathroom showrooms are laid out with lots of different display rooms that you can walk around. By simply standing in some mock-bathrooms, you will get lots of new inspiration for your own design and it is likely that you will come across ideas that you wouldn’t have come up with on your own. Showrooms really can boost your creativity. 

Look at all of the colour options 

It is almost impossible to see exact colours when you’re browsing products online and more often than not, the colour of the product that arrives will be different to the colour that you thought you ordered. By going to a bathroom showroom, you can see all of the colour options that you have in person and ensure that you’re choosing the right colours for your refurb. 

Directly compare all collections

Many homeowners find it difficult to compare products when they aren’t physically next to one another and thankfully when you visit a bathroom showroom, you will have the opportunity to directly compare the choices you have for your new design. This will be incredibly helpful when you’re making important decisions and help to prevent any mistakes being made or regrets. 

Find out more about a bathroom company 

Whenever you’re planning on working alongside a professional company for the design and installation of your bathroom, which is highly recommended, going to their showroom will help you to find out more about them. You can get a feel for their staff, how they treat their customers and also the quality of their products. All of which can be invaluable. 

Visiting a bathroom showroom in Hertfordshire 

All in all, it is fair to say that popping into a local bathroom showroom is always worthwhile whenever you’re working on your bathroom and especially if you’re planning a complete remodel. Seeing a number of different bathroom collections all under one roof, and in person, is undeniably much more helpful than simply browsing the internet and you can guarantee that you will always find a visit of this kind beneficial. 

If you’re looking for a bathroom showroom in Hertfordshire to visit, be sure to get in touch with us here at Hawk K&B. We have two beautiful showrooms, one in the village of Gaddesden Row near Hemel Hempstead and also one in the heart of St Albans, so we will happily direct you to your closest bathroom centre. When popping in, our experienced friendly team will gladly answer any questions that you may have about the products on display and they will go above and beyond to ensure that the visit was worthwhile for you. 

Creating a Classy Cloakroom

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk

More often than not, the cloakroom is the smallest room in the house, tucked away under the stairs or in a far corner of the home. However, it’s one of the most used and not only by family members, but guests too, making it an important room to get right.

classy-cloakroom-wallpaper
Images via Hawk K&B

Due to its size, it’s a great room to experiment with your creativity and be a bit bolder with your design choices. Pattern is often more effective in a smaller space whereas in a larger space it may be overpowering. Here two of our clients opted for patterned wallpaper, one bold and statement Orla Kiely print paired with a glass orange splash back, whilst the other decided on a more subtle print that highlighted the grey tones in the tiles.

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Image via Hawk K&B

However, pattern doesn’t always need to be on the walls. In this cloakroom above, tones are muted and furniture is minimal, yet the patterned tiles on the floor offer a beautiful design element to this simple and stylish room.

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Image via Hawk K&B

Limited space means storage is key and in particular retaining the feeling of space at the same time. Wall hung units are perfect for cloakrooms, leaving floor space free and by adding a floating shelf as we have done here there is hidden storage space. Niche’s in the boxing are also a great additional place for more decorative items.

classy-cloakroom-texture
Image via Hawk K&B

Bring interest to your cloakroom by adding texture. Here we used shiplap panels at either end of this cloakroom to create a unique and inviting space and combined this with other types and colours of wood in the vanity unit and mirror. The blue on the walls also adds a slightly nautical element.

classy-cloakroom-panelling
Image via Hawk K&B

Alternatively, for more of a classic look try tongue-and-groove panelling. It visually frames this stylish cloakroom and the bold colour choice works beautifully with this traditional look in this compact space.

Lighting Your Bathroom

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk

Light is often limited in bathrooms as windows tend to be small or even non-existent. For this reason lighting needs to be well planned and each fixture have a purpose.

Layered lighting is important in any room however in a bathroom it is often an afterthought, with people assuming ceiling lighting will be enough. In fact, the bathroom benefits greatly from various lighting. With limited textures in a bathroom, lighting can enhance the look and feel of a room and can add a spa-like ambience.

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Image via Hawk KB

When thinking about your general, ambient lighting, think about where light is most needed and why. Also consider areas that should be highlighted such as a wall of textured or interesting tiles and do so by directing downlights towards them to create a wash of light over the area.

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Image via Hawk KB

However, a downlight above a mirrored vanity unit will not be enough if you want to use this space effectively, as too much light overhead will create unflattering shadows on the face. Therefore add wall lights for that extra layer of light.

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Image via Hawk KB

Alternatively backlighting a mirror with an LED strip or using a mirror with integrated light such as this circular one from Bagno will not only create the perfect soft light with an added wow factor.

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Image via Hawk KB

Another area where lighting is important is in the shower enclosure. Having one light overhead is unflattering, so provide an even light either side or instead consider washing lights down the back wall of the shower to draw attention to the colour or texture of the tiles.

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Image via Hawk KB

Finally ensure accent lighting key areas of the bathroom such has adding downlights in wall niches or low level lighting under units. These small lights are what will help create a spa-like feel in your bathroom.

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Image via Hawk KB

Accent lighting can also be used to create a feature of your bath as we have done here. Adding uplighters in the floor or placing it on a raised platform with added lighting will highlight your bath as the centerpiece of the room and create a focus.

One important thing to note when lighting your bathroom however, is IP rating. A bathroom is split into various zones, based on the distance between the water and the light fitting, with certain lights being rated between IP0 (in the bath or floor of the shower) and Zone 2 (600mm either side of a water source/shower/bath). However a bathroom designer and fitter such as ourselves will be able to advise on this.

Join Us, We’re Hiring

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk

We are currently seeking an experienced Bathroom Designer to join are friendly team in our Gaddesden Row showroom near Hemel Hempstead on a full time basis.

Working with high net worth clients, you will be designing on a CAD based software programme and presenting the client with visuals, elevations and floor plans. You will have an intricate eye for detail and have experience of ordering products and ensuring schedules are kept up to date. You will be incentivised with commission, on top of your basic salary, on all sales. Excellent communication skills along with administration skills are an absolute. This role is hands on and will involve taking deliveries, ensuring that the showroom is in perfect order and invoicing. A great team player is key in this busy organisation. We would consider a more junior candidate who has worked in a bathroom showroom and is bright, switched on and has a good understanding of bathroom products – training provided. Salary will be dependant on experience. Start date for January 2018. You must live within a maximum of 15 miles from our showroom.

Qualifications and Skills

Educated to A level standard or equivalent.

1 years experience in a design based role.

Knowledge and Experience of CAD

Benefits

28 days annual leave including bank holidays.

Please email katy@hawk.grin-test.co.uk for more information.

Neptune Autumn Winter 2017

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk

Last week we attended the launch of Neptune’s AW17 collection and although outside was bright and sunny, once inside we were transported into a cosy, warming environment filled with deep colours and rich metallics reminiscent of winter woodland tones.

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Image via Hawk K&B

Teal was the colour of the moment, bringing drama to a space but also a sense of calm. Paired with warming tones in, aptly named, ‘fox’ and ‘chestnut’ immediately evoking images of crackling open fires. The overall feel is very British heritage and could be seen and felt through all of Neptune’s Autumn Winter additions.

neptune-barlow

In kitchens it was in the details with black, bronze and leather handles transforming not only the cabinets themselves but the entire room. The new Barlow range of hardware features a simple handle in a black bronze finish, something we have seen creeping into hardware across both kitchens and bathrooms this year. The matt texture means that it will age gracefully and creates a beautiful contrast with oak and painted finished.

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Image via Neptune

The Dylan handle however is a favourite of mine. The addition of this leather toggle handle on dark kitchen cabinetry creates a striking appearance that allows the tan hues to shine, not to mention the texture it brings to the room, a texture and colour that will change and age gently over time.

neptune-edinburgh
Image via Hawk K&B

For bathrooms, Neptune has introduced a brand new range of vanity units, completely different to their existing range but complimentary and just as beautiful. The Edinburgh unit comes in a natural oak with louvered doors and a marble top offering a characterful mix of textures and finishes to your bathroom space. Coming in three sizes, including an open shelf version, the Edinburgh will be a unique addition to any bathroom, small or large.

To compliment the new and existing bathroom collections, Neptune have also introduced the Bamburgh range of accessories. From simple towel rings to taps each has form and function in equal measure.

We are looking forward to introducing these elements into our upcoming kitchen and bathroom designs for next season.

Black & White Bathrooms

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk

Black and white is a classic colour combination that can produce a stunning effect in interiors, particularly bathrooms. The bathroom has never been the place to really show off interior trends, styles and colours however black and white in the bathroom can produce both beautiful classic and contemporary schemes that will remain timeless.

The reason black and white is so effective in bathrooms is due to the impact the colour combination can make, particularly in a small space such as a bathroom. Black absorbs light, whilst white reflects it. The fact that bathrooms are often full of clean lines and bold angles lends itself further to these contrasting tones.

traditional-black-and-white-bathroom
Image Via Decoist

When we think of a monochrome bathroom we usually imagine a classic, traditional style bathroom with a black toilet seat, white metro tiles with black borders and a roll top bath resting on black ornate feet. However recently, black and white has come to the forefront of contemporary bathroom design too.

bette-black-bath-design
Image via Hawk K&B

Luxury bathroom suppliers are now introducing black sanitaryware, with the Bette Loft Bath having launched in black at Ish earlier this year and Villeroy & Boch offering another contemporary bath in a combination of black on the outside and white on the inside.

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Image via Hawk K&B

However if you want to achieve the ultimate in contemporary monochrome bathrooms, choose black furniture such as the Villeroy & Boch Finion range with its matt black finish.

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Image via Hawk K&B

The bathroom set at this year’s Ideal Home Show also demonstrated how a black and white bathroom can produce a beautiful classic contemporary look. Classic chequerboard tiles combined with a contemporary freestanding bath and black countertop sinks create a bathroom that oozes design. The addition of natural materials and textures throughout from the wooden stool, wicker basket and foliage, bring in a softer element and warmer tones to reduce the harsh contrast of the black and white.

black-white-monochrome-bathroom
Images via Hawk K&B

Another element to consider when going monochrome is pattern. With such high contrast, a black and white pattern can really complete your bathroom, particularly a patterned tile. However if you’re looking for something more subtle, choose a dark stone with a natural pattern or inject it through soft furnishings such as curtains or towels like this bathroom above.

black-round-mirror-bathroom-design
Image via Hawk K&B

A black and white bathroom is easy to achieve with the majority of sanitaryware being white, the success of the design comes down to where you will inject the black. From going all out and painting a wall black or choosing a contemporary black cabinet to simply adding in black details through your choice of towels and accessories, such as this bold black mirror above, a monochrome bathroom will always make a statement that will stand the test of time.

Bathroom Trends & Themes – ISH 2017

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk

Last week Frankfurt welcomed around 200,000 visitors, including ourselves, to ISH, The World’s Leading Trade Fair for The Bathroom Experience.  The trade show invited design experts to experience and view some of the most impressive collections from around the world alongside the latest products, technologies and solutions launching onto the market.

This year’s themes for the bathroom were ‘health’, ‘comfort’, ‘individual’, ‘digital’ and ‘responsible’ and these themes certainly ticked all the boxes for us.

However, the theme that really resonated with us was ‘The Individual Bathroom’. Designing a personalised bathroom, individual to the client is essential to what we do. This doesn’t mean extravagant furnishings or particularly original ideas, but a bathroom that is tailored around the needs and wants of the client.

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Image via Grohe

The Grohe Rainshower SmartControl 360 shower system offers the most personalised shower experience yet. Remembering your personalised shower patterns and water temperatures, whether it’s a blood pumping cold blast after a hot gym session or a comfortably warm, massaging spray after a long day at work; with one push of a button your personalised shower is ready and waiting for you.

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Image via Bette

On the bathing front, the BetteLoft built-in bath is perfectly designed with precise contours to fit into the tapered surfaces of a loft space. This means it can offer a more comfortable soak for those with smaller loft bathrooms, making use of the limited space.

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Image via Hawk K&B

Brass was, once again, a key look with copper and gold also making appearances, particularly in brassware. These warm metallics naturally then paired with darker bathroom settings, creating a moody look. A bold step away from the traditional light, white bathrooms we are used to seeing.

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Image via Hawk K&B

Villeroy & Boch’s new collection ‘Finion’ highlighted exactly this, with its black furniture with gold niches and brassware and a holistic lighting concept to create a harmonious light stage. This indirect lighting of the shelves as well as backlighting of the cabinets and mirrors creates a different, softer light not often seen in bathrooms, right down to the elegant mirror light with surrounding LED lighting. All controlled by remote control.

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Image via Villeroy & Boch

For a more personalised experience, a mobile phone charging station for smartphones can be integrated into the side cabinet and shelves or an optional Bluetooth sound system can be built into the mirror.

The variety of individualisation options in Finion are designed to meet the growing demands of a modern lifestyle in every single detail.

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Image via Hawk K&B

It wasn’t just colour either, textured surfaces made a striking appearance across brassware and sanitaryware. These Gessi taps offer a variety of tactile finishes from dimples to quilting, offering the ultimate in bathroom personalisation.

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Image via Hawk K&B

This BetteLoft Ornament bath in enamelled steel not only looks stunning but also demonstrates the tremendous adaptability of glazed titanium steel.

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Image via Hawk K&B

Bette definitely excelled with the textures on their sanitaryware with their Lux Oval Couture range. Upholstered in a comfortable, durable fabric in three colour options, comfort and personalisation define this collection.

It’s clear to see that the bathroom has become a room that is now treasured within the home, a place that is to be designed and personalised around the client. Consistent with our approach to designing bathrooms, we are looking forward to having some of these new collections in our new St Albans showroom opening later this year.

Go Bold with Brassware

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk

Bathrooms are no longer a room that is simply ‘updated’ every few years, bathrooms are now something to be thoughtfully designed and delivered to perfection, right down to the brassware. Because of this, there are now so many more luxurious, colourful and interesting options to bring your bathroom to life.

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Image via Grohe

Finishes are key. Colour but also a mix of textures; polished, matt, brushed or tarnished, and a mix of materials and detailing too are what people are looking to achieve in luxury bathroom design. Grohe have recently extended their range of colours in their brassware to include ‘Warm Sunset, Cool Sunrise, Hard Graphite and Soft Graphite’. The addition of not only colour, but also texture, allows much further individualisation in bathroom design than ever before.

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Image via Grohe

Warm brass, coppers and rose gold tones have been reigning across bathroom brassware recently. The beautiful thing about opting for these warmer colours is the instant luxury they will add to the space and they are a perfect fit for any style of bathroom from light to dark and traditional to contemporary.

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Images via Ann Sacks & Heritage

In a darker room, they add warmth and opulence to create a moody, relaxing room whereas in an all-white bathroom, a copper or rose gold brassware introduces a pop of colour.

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Images via Heritage & Grohe

However if you’re looking for something a little more subtle, mixing metals can also create an added design element to elevate your bathroom design. These Heritage Lymington basin taps in chrome are finished with an inlaid lace detail in gold or for a more contemporary look, Grohe have introduced a flash of gold into their Grandera Mixer taps.

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Image via Perrin & Rowe

For an extra special finish, Perrin & Rowe also offer a 24k gold finish alongside, English bronze, aged, polished and satin brass. Epitomising true luxury, Gold by Perrin & Rowe is pure yellow in colour all thanks to the 24 carat gold plating process and hand polished high shine finish. Each high-quality finish brings a touch of class, sophistication and character to any bathroom: whether that’s traditional or contemporary in style.

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Image via Heritage

Beyond brassware, think about incorporating different metal tones into basins and sanitaryware too. This beautiful Abingdon wash stand from Heritage Bathrooms comes in a rose gold finish and they have also extended their rose gold collection to WC hinges, cistern levers, taps and showers so you can complete your bathroom with this luxurious look.

This is a trend that can be easily added and adapted to any bathroom. With either a selection of warm metallic accents, complete bathroom sets or metallic accessories, you can make your bathroom more luxurious, colourful and interesting.

Preparing the Perfect Guest Bathroom

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk

At this time of year there’s always a constant flow of friends and family coming and going from our homes and it’s important that visitors feel welcome. If you are opening up your house to overnight guests this festive season, it’s important not to forget about the guest bathroom and ensure it is just as warm and welcoming as the rest of your home.

Creating a spa like feel through simple, subtle details will automatically create a relaxing atmosphere in the bathroom and therefore promote a good night’s sleep. Stock up on little amenities that your guests may need such cotton balls or buds and small bars of soap. Alongside little luxuries such as sea sponges, bath salts and loofahs you can treat your guests to a spa-like experience in your own home.

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Image via Hawk K&B

Fresh flowers or plants are also a great addition to a bathroom, adding a natural element to the room. However it’s important to pick a plant that is happy in an often hot and humid atmosphere. Orchid’s make great bathroom plants as they naturally flourish in this environment and don’t require much maintenance.

guest-bathroom-scented-candle-diffuser
Image via Hawk K&B

Scent is extremely important in a bathroom. A beautifully scented candle will not only create a wonderful scent and ambience in the room, but nothing is more relaxing than a bath by flickering candlelight. A diffuser is also perfect for a bathroom as the small space will always be filled with a subtle scent.

luxury-guest-bathroom
Images via Hawk K&B

A luxury guest bathroom cannot go without some luxe linens. Ensure you have plenty of fluffy warm towels, stacked or rolled and for the ultimate finishing touch, add in a bath robe and some slippers to really make your guests feel at home.

Creating a Couple’s Bathroom

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk
couples-bathroom
Image via Hawk K&B

A couple’s bathroom is the epitome of luxury. Having a bathroom that you can not only share with your loved one, but also have your own designated space is the perfect bathroom solution.

The centrepiece of any bathroom, be it for the family or a couple, is the bath. For a couple, a double ended bath is a must, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing and romantic bath together without any hassle of taps in the way. Picking a bath that is deep with high sides is also a good idea to allow you to both be fully submerged under the bubbles.

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Image via Victoria & Albert

Why not add the Victoria & Albert Tombolo bath rack too, the ultimate luxury bathroom accessory for a super relaxing soak.

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Image via Hawk K&B

However for when you’re in more of a rush, a double shower is perfect for a couple’s bathroom. Walk in showers work best to create an uncluttered streamlined look, with two shower heads so everyone has their own space.

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Image via Hawk K&B

A double sink is also a must have.  There are various types to choose from, you can opt for one single double length sink which looks great in contemporary bathrooms, or two basins situated on one unit.

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Image via Hawk K&B

However for those who really want their own space, having two separate vanity units, complete with their own mirror means there will be no crossover between his and hers! Don’t forget the accessories too; a dual toothbrush holder and double hooks for your bathrobes will add those finishing touches to your couple’s bathroom.