We all want a bathroom that stands the test of time.
It’s an interesting concept that takes on two meanings:
- It can mean a bathroom with a timeless design, that doesn’t date as styles change;
- Or a robustly-crafted bathroom with structural work and fixtures that stand the test of time.
In this article, we’ll look at practical renovation ideas to ensure your bathroom achieves both these goals: reflecting timeless elegance, without compromising on quality or functionality.
Use timeless themes to your advantage
When it comes to timeless themes, most people think this means playing it safe. Everything remains plain and neutral – right? But in making nothing stand out, this can actually work against you, and cause your bathroom to date even faster.
There’s nothing wrong with a bathroom that’s more subtle or has a white theme – it’s all about adding the right touches.
Instead of just “playing it safe”, pick a theme that suits the rest of your home. Having a coherent theme across your whole home ensures that everything looks and feels consistent, and it all works together as a timeless capsule.
There are some stunning timeless styles you can use that allow you to really explore different ideas, play with textures, and have fun with your bathroom, without locking it down to any one set time period.
These include both classic traditional styles—think Hamptons, or a relaxing Coastal theme—but also modern themes, like a Revitalising Day Spa look, Glam Chic, or a striking Industrial theme. Simple monochromatic ideas work well, and a black and white combination remains classy and timeless, no matter what.
Choose bathroom designs with the future in mind
Part of creating a timeless bathroom goes beyond aesthetics. It’s also in the execution and layout of your bathroom.
Timeless means being ready for the future. Will your bathroom grow and adapt with your needs in the coming years?
It might be starting a family. It could be when the kids grow up, or further down the track when you need to add mobility aids for ageing parents and relatives.
But in future-proofing your bathroom, and designing it with these needs and changes included right from the start, it ensures your bathroom remains functional—and appealing—long into the future.
Get rid of things you don’t use
While planning for the future is a great strategy, streamlining your bathroom is also a good way to stop it from ageing.
Go the opposite way: eliminate unused or underutilised elements within your bathroom to enhance its visual appeal and functionality, while optimising the space you have available. It helps make your bathroom feel bigger, airier, and creates a feel of uncluttered elegance.
The biggest culprit here is your bathtub. Particularly freestanding bathtubs. Bathtubs have the uncanny ability to age a bathroom immediately.
They look nice and inviting when the room is clean—but how often do you actually use it? Think about it. A freestanding bath usually takes up around 20% of your available space. If you only have a bath three or four times a year, you’re using it less than 1% of the time.
If you only use your bath a handful of times a year, consider what this means in terms of cleaning. Do you really want to be cleaning a fixture that you don’t actually use?
If you’ve got a small bathroom, removing the bath entirely helps to create a more timeless feel, and turn it into a cleaner, brighter space.
Be gentle in your bathroom cleaning and maintenance
At WA Assett, we want you to keep your bathroom renovations looking fresh and inviting for a long time.
A big part of this comes down to a concept we like to call ‘gentle cleaning.’ It’s all about getting rid of typical harsh, caustic household cleaners that can damage your fixtures and fittings and replacing them with a softer solution that still gets the job done.
For regular cleaning, you can simply use a mild detergent mixed with hot soapy water. It gets everything clean, hygienic, and spotless—gently—and doesn’t leave that horrible caustic smell.
If you do use mould killers, we recommend doing so no more than two to four times a year. And when you do, it’s critical that you only leave the product on for a maximum of two minutes, and be sure to thoroughly wash it off all surfaces. Instead of harsh bleaches, try white vinegar instead. Its acidic nature still kills mould, and it won’t damage your surfaces.
Note also however that vinegar should not be used on tapware, as it can separate the finish from the brass underneath and cause pitting and bubbling.
When you’ve finished cleaning your bathroom, to help keep it clean for longer, look into protective bathroom products like Enduroshield and Nanokote. Simply spray them on, and they add a protective layer to your tiles, grout, and glass.
These can help to stop water-marking, and prevent staining and grout discolouration. They’re aquaphobic too, which keeps your bathroom drier, reducing the chance for harmful mould to grow.
Talk to Perth’s bathroom renovation specialists
If you’re thinking about a bathroom renovation, but want to ensure it stands the test of time, it’s best to start with your future in mind.
Choose a timeless theme that’s truly timeless—not just a flash in the pan—and fits in with the rest of your house. Eliminate unnecessary fixtures from your bathroom, while adding in others that will serve you in years to come. And of course, keep it clean, using gentle cleaning products instead of harsh chemicals.
By doing this, you’ll ensure your bathroom defies fleeting trends and stays feeling like home for years to come.
Get in touch with our experienced team today to book an estimate for your bathroom renovation, and see how we can help you create a space that’s ready for your future.
