First floor bathroom and En Suite Shower Facilities, Victorian Detached House in Wiltshire – 2014-2015

This client had lived in this house for a very long time with their life partner, who sadly died. After a couple of years of readjustment, the client  decided that they would refurbish the entire first floor at the back of the house where the bathroom was. I have known both individuals for a number of years so was familiar with how they used the house, and the kind of style that they would find appropriate. This development subsequently led to refurbishing the ground floor rooms too.

Originally they had installed a bathroom with a shower cubicle in the 1970’s, to a very high standard, so it lasted well, just became a little tired (stylistically). The client had quite a specific brief for the overhaul, in that it should be in keeping with the rest of the house, as well as be a little boutique hotel. There was also a plan to provide an en suite shower and toilet to the bedroom at the back of the floor, and a bathroom, only for guests or visitors. In my view this was a mistake, as most people would rather shower than bathe in the morning.

The palette of materials is very simple and inexpensive: Timber boarding painted, stripped floors with rugs, timber Plantation shutters (not inexpensive), to prevent any overlooking from neighbouring houses, but also giving flexibility with daylight, ventilation etc.

Lighting was to be discreet and specifically galvanised metal, as well as virtually invisible downlights. The sanitary-ware is classic in style, and generous in size, so work both visually and practically, as per requirements.

Both the en suite shower room and the bathroom, use the same materials, painted wood, mosaic tiles, glass and galvanised metalwork, so feel like part of the same ‘family’ of rooms.

The client has a collection of large pots which have been displayed very well in the alcove which used to be a shower cubicle with downlights over, and look very splendid.

Apart from the bath/shower issue, the project, carried out by the client with the help of some contractors, has been a success and brought the facilities into this century, without compromising the style and feel of the house.

I was asked to provide some concept sketches illustrating how the spaces could be re-planned and styled, in accordance with the clients wishes and likes.