COMPILED BY Robyn Alexander PHOTOS AXor/Hansgrohe se, Nicolas Mathéus (Paris Apartment), Supplied, MEDIA/MAGAZINEFEATURES.CO.ZA

The Essential Elements

When it comes to bathroom colours, green absolutely rules. Even more popular in some international markets than white, green tiles, paint and even fittings and fixtures have a fresh appeal that adds clean-cut orderliness to a space. They’re also calm-inducing, contributing a sense of nature-inspired peace via shades that include everything from bright apple green to moody emerald and subtle eau de nil. Green works in contemporary as well as classic bathrooms, lending itself just as well to being combined with ultra-sleek baths and basins, for example, as it does to traditional-style brass tapware.

There are a couple of key styling tips when it comes to using green in the bathroom. One: resist combining several different shades of the colour in different elements or areas of the space, as this could result in a messy, amorphous look. Avoid using sage-coloured sanitaryware with jade green on floors or walls, for example; rather offset your chosen green pieces with white or another neutral colour to keep the look smart and modern.

And two: ensure you choose a shade that suits you, and the way you prefer to use the space. For example, bright greens will work for those who want a bathroom to perk them up every morning, while darker tones will result in a more glamorous feel.

Take the Plunge

Adding a bold colour – even one as tranquil and easy to live with as green – to a bathroom can seem daunting. Fortunately, there’s more than one way to express this trend in your space. If you’re the cautious type, consider a single wall clad in green tiles, of which we have many inspiring examples on these pages. From creatively laid subway tiles to classic squares and even green mosaic options, it’s likely you’ll find something out there in the right shade and format to suit your needs. As Cape Town-based industrial designer Elsjé Schonken of Schonken Interiors says, we’re currently seeing “a desire to create a harmonious blend in a bathroom, where the timeless charm of natural materials such as stone and wood coexists with the lively vibrancy of bold colours, creating an oasis within the space”.

Wood, in particular, looks beautiful paired with greens; white and beige will work well too. In the end, says Tammy Holmes, interior designer at Ivy Décor & Design in Johannesburg – in full agreement with most of the bathroom design experts we consulted during the process of creating this issue – it’s really all about your personal preference. “The room should serve your needs, and so should be designed and finished accordingly,” says Tammy. “You can get away with bolder, brighter colours and feature elements in a bathroom because you don’t spend enough time in there to get bored with the look – but always make sure that the room works for you.”

If you’re feeling bold – even if the space you have is small – consider the view of designers Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby, who created the bathroom on the first spread of this section. “The tendency is oft en (particularly at the moment) to paint one wall in one colour, leave another wall in another colour, and have a big picture on a third wall,” Osgerby observes. “And in a compact space, it doesn’t really work.” As an alternative, the designers opted for all-over monochrome green tiles when creating their space. “In terms of colour theory, green is the most calming,” says Osgerby. “It’s a reference to nature. But at the same time, in this instance, it gives us the ability to have a single palette that unifies the entire space.” schonkeninterior.com | ivydecor.co.za | barberosgerby.com

Colour Confidence

Bilala Mabuza, founder and creative director at Cocoon Lifestyle in Joburg, says one of the major trends in bathrooms is a return to colour. “We went through a beige period for a long time, where everything was muted,” she says. “Now, people are using colour again and looking at how it can be applied in different ways.” She adds that it’s possible to introduce green – or any other strong colour – via extras and accessories rather than permanent fixtures. Colourful bath towels and mats will do the trick, for example.

Wall tiles are the ideal way to add colour to a bathroom, and the two Decobella varieties pictured above – also available from Ceramica locally – demonstrate the varied effects that can be generated with different shades, shapes and finishes. Select square Contemporary tiles in Forest to create an elegant, earthy look. Glam things up with Riviera subway tiles in Botanical Green, stacked vertically for up-to-the-minute appeal.

That said, you can also just paint a bathroom wall bright green, even if you’re renting. For a soft, minty pastel version, try Cape May (G5-B2-2) by Plascon – or consider a deep, evocative emerald shade such as Emeraude (049-6) by Duram. Be sure to use a type of paint that’s suitable for bathroom use, such as Plascon’s Velvaglo, and remember that you’ll probably need to return the wall to its original state when you move on.

Another easy, no-stress and budget-friendly way to add green visual interest to a bathroom is by investing in a few indoor plants. Ask your local nursery for advice on which greenery to choose, or check out the low-light planting suggestions at a specialist indoor plant store like Folha or Plantify. cocoonlifestyle.co.za | plascon.co.za | duram.co.za | folhashop.com | plantify.co.za

You’re a Green Dreamer if…

• Tenderstem broccoli is your favourite snack
• You aspire to being a collector of jade netsuke
• You’re convinced heaven looks like the Palm House at Kew Gardens
• You’ll never stop obsessing over Keira Knightley’s green dress in Atonement
• Your post-prandial tipple of choice is absinthe (weekends only!)

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The post Green Dreams appeared first on Visi.

WORDS Robyn Alexander PHOTOS Elsa Young/Bureaux; Supplied; Warren Heath/Bureaux; Greg Cox/Bureaux; Henrique Wilding/Perfect Hideaways/Courtesy of Victorian Bathrooms

MODERN HAVEN: THE ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS  

In an increasingly frenetic world, even our homes have become places from which we work – and where it can sometimes be difficult to find a peaceful corner to retreat to. The Modern Haven trend might just be the answer: it’s all about the bathroom as a space to linger, and in which we relax and regenerate. Intensely personal and private, the Modern Haven bathroom is a place to spend quality time preparing to venture into the outside world – but it’s also more than a dressing room, doing triple duty as a leisure space that features a chair or chaise on which to curl up and read, or just take some much-needed time out. It definitely has a soft rug rather than a bath mat, and might also include luxe curtains, library shelves, a sound system and other entertainment options.  

YOU’LL KNOW MODERN HAVEN IS THE TREND FOR YOU IF…  

• Hygge is always going to reign supreme as your favourite interior aesthetic. 
• The latest Nigella Lawson cookbook is by your bedside.  
• You’d much rather have family photos on your walls than expensive art. 
• Moody autumn is your best season of the year.  
• Your first-choice destination for a weekend away is a luxe yoga retreat.  

SPACE SHIFTERS  

Bathroom manufacturer Duravit suggests we will see our bathrooms as living areas rather than merely functional zones. “Not only are contemporary bathrooms being designed in an increasingly homely style in terms of their sanitary objects and bathroom furniture,” says the brand, “but furnishings, lamps, textiles and accessories are finding their way into this corner of the home.”  

In addition, the bathroom is “no longer merely a place for a daily care and health routine. It has become a place of refuge from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, where you can feel at ease, unwind and be at one with yourself.”  

And how is the space organised? “Room boundaries become fluid, with the washing area and bathtub located in the centre of the bedroom, for instance, and only the toilet being physically separated,” says Duravit. “Floating spaces work because sanitary objects are now designed and installed like furniture – as decorative standalone features made from natural materials such as ceramics, wood and stone, with a look and feel that creates a sense of sanctuary.”  

Italtile’s marketing manager Nicole Russell suggests that South Africans are definitely ready to embrace the trend. “Since Covid, we have seen more consumers investing in their bathrooms, creating sanctuaries more than functional spaces – including natural, soft and soothing elements, initiating a space that can revitalise and bring a soothing experience,” she says.  

Tonic Design cofounder and interior designer Philippe van der Merwe adds a South African perspective of his own, reflecting on the fact that our climate allows for adding an indoor-outdoor dimension to Modern Haven bathrooms.“If you’re designing an entirely new home, there’s nothing better than an indoor bathroom space that also opens fully to a private outdoor area,” he says. “That greenness, rather than hard shiny surfaces, creates a sense of freedom that is true luxury.” 

PERSONAL CHARM  

Owner and partner at Johannesburg design firm Studio 19, Debbie Votin, concurs with Philippe about the desirability of creating an indoor-outdoor feel in new-build bathrooms. “There’s nothing more satisfying than a garden-courtyard atmosphere in a bathroom, so if we can create an indoor- outdoor feeling, our clients love it,” she says. “For downstairs bathrooms, we open up to a garden space full of greenery; upstairs, perhaps it’s an outdoor shower on a patio that opens up, also full of greenery. Plants bring so much joy. If space allows, we add a little ottoman or bench to sit on while you run a bath or get ready for a shower… any kind of pause area is a bonus.”  

Debbie identifies two more key trends that Studio 19 is picking up on. “We are seeing some dramatic moodiness” on the one hand, she says, while on the other, there’s “a really fresh, bright, clean palette”.  

We also asked Debbie for her top renovation tips overall:  

• Light is crucial. “People are sometimes afraid of windows from a privacy perspective,” she says, “but the need to get natural light into the space is paramount, and there are ways of handling privacy with planting and screens.”
• Don’t crowd the space. “Avoid putting so many things in the bathroom that you can’t move,” says Debbie. “Not every bathroom needs a bath and a shower – rather opt for a luxurious shower than two small, poky elements that you won’t enjoy using.”  
• Balance your budget according to your priorities. “Use that bit of marble that’s going to make your space feel extra-special – and don’t skimp on taps!” | studio19.co

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The post In Focus: Modern Bathroom Trend appeared first on Visi.

WORDS Robyn Alexander PHOTOS Greg Cox/Bureaux; Elsa Young/Frank Features; Supplied; Courtesy of The Hoxton; Courtesy of Cara Saven; Courtesy of Veelvlak; Courtesty of Victorian Bathrooms; Warren Heath/Bureaux

ORGANIC OASIS: THE ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS  

While this trend for bathrooms also has a sleek look, it is centred on the abundant use of natural materials. Wood, for example, might seem like an unexpected material for a bathroom, but we’re seeing it used everywhere from floors to walls – and, of course, for vanities and storage. Whether wood works in your space or not, there are many other natural materials – marble, stone, glazed terracotta tiles – available to add that crucial sense of visual and tactile texture to the Organic Oasis bathroom. The ongoing resurgence of indoor planting is also key to this look, with bold floral wallpapers and leafy decals being used to add a botanical feel where spaces aren’t suited to living plants. Colour-wise, think naturals: creams, rich browns, foliage greens – and perhaps a touch of moody maroon.  

YOU KNOW YOU NEED AN ORGANIC OASIS IF…  

• You think no interior is complete without lots of leafy plants 
• Stand-up paddleboarding is the next sporting activity you’d like to try  
• You only (and always) wear natural fibres – and prefer them at home, too 
• Your dream holiday destination is North Island in the Seychelles  
• Tapestries and ceramics are your favourite forms of art  

NATURAL RHYTHM  

Making a bathroom a tranquil oasis is all about balance, says interior designer Kim Stephen. “Glossy finishes need to be juxtaposed with texture,” she says. “Given how much white glossiness one finds in a bathroom, natural materials and tactile finishes are the perfect counter to standard sanitary ware.” And while she agrees that functionality can’t be compromised on, she notes that “mixing materials has become a common practice. People are getting braver with creating bathrooms that are multidimensional in their finishes – wood, tiling, stone – and adding wallpaper, artworks and often, if there is space, furniture that we are used to seeing in other areas of a home.”  

Here are Kim’s key pieces of bathroom design lore: 

• Never tile all the way to the ceiling anywhere other than in the shower You’ll end up with a “tiling jail cell”. 
• Consider what will suit your lifestyle and preferences. Many people automatically put in a bath, but only use it once a year – and the space could be used for a luxurious, walk-in double shower instead. When space is not at a premium, create a separate, closed-off area for the toilet.  
• Prioritise spending on the vanity and countertop stone these are a focal point for most bathrooms, and you can create a truly opulent feel with them, so spending on these areas is always a good idea. kimstephen.com  

Wooden elements are experiencing a surge of popularity in bathrooms. Lucia Murray, marketing and media strategist for Oggie Hardwood Flooring, reminds us that wood is very much a sustainable option that “adds warmth to every room”. And of course, you should ensure that any wood used in the bathroom is finished in a manner appropriate for a space that tends to have higher humidity than other areas of the house. | oggieflooring.com  

LAYER UP  

Interior designer Wendy-Lee Douglas of Douglas and Douglas says her own bathroom dreams include the ultimate luxury of “a freestanding bathtub carved from a block of marble”, and stresses the importance of choosing all finishes and fixtures with multiple criteria in mind. “Sustainable materials should be high on the list, but functionality and quality are important too,” she says. “If you invest in quality fixtures, fittings and sanitary ware, you won’t need to replace them too soon.”  

Asked about current trends in bathroom design, Wendy-Lee emphasises the ideal of making it feel like a cosy room rather than a sterile space. “It needs to be a place you retreat to, a place where you unwind. Consider more freestanding pieces,  and introduce rugs, plants and curtains. Natural materials are an excellent choice when it comes to making things cosy – think wood, metal and natural marble, as these give character and soul to a space.”  

These are Wendy-Lee’s top design tips:  

• Avoid too much built-in cabinetry to the floor. Keep storage elevated and functional.  
• Spend money on good-quality fittings such as Hansgrohe, Geberit and Meir – all have backup service and warranties. 
• Don’t stay too safe! Have fun with the space, and allow it to reflect your personality.

Geberit’s marketing director Kyle Jones concurs that the bathroom has very much moved on from its previous incarnation as a purely functional wet room. “The bathroom has evolved,” he says. “Today, people are trying to create an atmosphere that reflects their own personality, even in the smallest spaces. It’s all about achieving a more natural ambience in the bathroom that appeals to the senses. This approach calls for a combination of conventional bathroom equipment such as a WC, washbasin and shower, as well as a wide variety of materials on the ceilings, walls and floors, and a selection of accessories.” | geberit.co.za

EARTH AND SKY  

According to Kyle Jones, marketing director at Geberit, “Ceramic, wood, natural stone, tiles, glass, wallpaper and metals are just some of the many materials found in the bathrooms of today. And bathroom designers agree that this is not a bad thing. If one thing is clear, it’s that a mix of materials makes it easy to create a cosy ambience, and a place for relaxation with a personal touch.”  

Kyle’s top three trends to note in bathroom design are:  

• Minimalism, with clean lines, simple shapes and neutral colours dominating the space.  
• The use of natural materials such as wood, stone and marble, which has become increasingly popular in bathroom design, and adds warmth and texture.  
• Statement lighting, which is a great way to create a unique atmosphere in the bathroom. This can be tailored to the individual user’s taste and preference.

Asked what he would install in his own bathroom if budget were no object, architect André Krige of Two Five Five says, “A skylight above a shower would be amazing!” He also says he would “install colourful VOLA mixers, taps and showerheads. They cost a fortune, but I just love their range of colours.”  

We asked André for some ultra-practical bathroom design tips:  

• We always recommend a large-enough shower to have two showerheads in the main bathroom – it’s practical for any couple getting ready for work.  
• Spend the money on the things you tend to touch and interact with the most – the mixers, the flush actuator, the shower door.  
• When creating more than one bathroom in a home, avoid using black fittings in one, chrome in another and copper in the third. Stick to one standard throughout – unless you really know what you’re doing.  
• Lighting is important: most often, renovations keep the old light points intact. But there is an opportunity to implement new lighting when renovating, so use it well. And pay attention to lighting design. It’s not fun if you are in the bath and a bright light is shining down on you, for example.  
• Don’t buy fittings by walking around a shop. Wait until you have planned thoroughly and know for sure they are the right size. There is nothing worse than sitting on the WC and feeling as though the basin is in your lap.  
• Toilet paper holders should be on a side wall within reach, not on the back wall next to the pan – because frankly, no-one bends that way! | twofivefive.co.za 

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The post In Focus: Organic Bathroom Design Trend appeared first on Visi.

WORDS Robyn Alexander PHOTOS Steve Herud/25Hours Hotels; Stephan Lemke/25Hours Hotels; Iego Padilla for A-G Studio; Benoît Linero; Dook; Greg Cox/Bureaux; Neil Vosloo; Courtesy of Akashic and Turquoise Interior Design; Supplied

COLOUR CONCEPTS: THE ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS

After years of greige, all-white and monochrome bathrooms, colour is very much back in vogue. But colour usage circa the 2020s is very different from the muddy tones that somehow made their way into bathrooms in the 1970s. And thank goodness for that, we say! This time around, we’re seeing a few key trends: one, a penchant for colour blocking with multiple shades used in a single space; two, plenty of pink; and three: the full gamut of greens.

Adding a touch of colour to the bathroom can be done in a variety of ways, however, from adding plain or patterned colourful tiles to using a botanical wallpaper or even taking the plunge with a marshmallow-pink basin. And, of course, you can always use accessories to add pops of colour to a monochromatic or stark- white look.

THE COLOUR CONCEPTS LOOK IS FOR YOU IF…

• You’d really like to live in fashion designer Halston’s 1970s apartment
• Pop-street artist Keith Haring remains your fave.
• Wearing one colour head to toe (hello, digital lavender!) is your top fashion trend
• You rather wish that traffic lights came in a wider range of shades.
• You’ve always wanted to visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, India.

COLOUR CODE

Almost every expert we spoke to has confirmed that colour is a big trend for bathrooms – including striking combinations of bold shades and tone-on-tone versions of a single shade (green is a particular favourite) as seen on these pages. But they also qualified this on a practical level, saying that as updating this particular space represents a big investment, South African homeowners tend to shy away from overly bold colour statements in bathrooms.

That said, the images we’re featured here demonstrate that combining classic white sanitary ware with colourful tiles, paint and accessories makes this a good way to get a colourful look in your home. And taps – relatively easy to change up if need be – are also available in a variety of colour finishes these days.

“I love love love seeing colour in bathrooms,” says Zimkita Sidumo, interior stylist and co-founder of Blaque Pearl Lifestyle. “But it doesn’t have to be a disco colour palette. Muted tones work well in breaking the grey or cream tiles that we may naturally gravitate towards when renovating a bathroom, so consider a pastel colour palette if you’re a shy adventurer like myself. Darker (rather than primary) shades are also great for creating a sexy, moody bathroom – using a mix of black, dark grey and deep green, for example.” | blaquepearllife.com

TO BOLDLY GO

Architect André Krige of Two Five Five says colour is in the ascendant. “Many residential projects are using bathrooms as an opportunity to create something unique within the larger scope,” he says. “Traditionally, we would see the same finishes of a home replicated in the bathrooms, but lately we are seeing bathrooms that are completely fresh, and often removed from the main design language – and suddenly there is freedom to experiment with colour.” At Two Five Five, he adds, “We like this idea, because a bathroom can be a fun thing to experiment with. Suppliers are welcoming this trend too, with the availability of amazing colours in classic VOLA taps, the new Axor One colour options and various Toniton ranges.” | twofivefive.co.za

Where best to spend on your bathroom? And who else has cool colour options? We asked Zimkita Sidumo to advise.

Invest in eye-catching details.

A great quality bath, a pretty vanity and at least one statement tile can all take a bathroom from blah to beautiful. And remember – even a classic tile can be laid out in
an unexpected pattern to create visual interest.

To get your colour fix, go to…

• Tile Africa – it’s great for renovations on a budget.
• Bella Bathrooms, which has a huge range of taps and sanitary ware.
• Laufen, available from Italtile and other local suppliers, for cool basins in unusual shapes.
• TIC Bathrooms for high-end mixers in a variety of finishes.

PAINT PICKS

Plascon senior brand manager Asheer Jaganath weighs in on bathroom paint.

What are your picks in terms of colour trends for interiors right now? Plascon’s 2023 Colour Combinations include some of the colours that we’ve seen gain popularity and that are predicted to be among the most popular. These colours were inspired by vibrant South African landscapes; they follow a seasonal palette, and are easily tintable in most Plascon product formulations.

When it comes to the practicalities of paint in the bathroom, what should we keep in mind the next time we renovate? Velvaglo Water-Based is our silky and satin sheen enamel that is specifically formulated for high-moisture areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. Also worth considering is Plascon Kitchens and Bathrooms, which has a matt finish while being steam-, moisture- and chip-resistant, making it perfect for bathrooms. Both of these types of paint are water-based products, with zero-VOC (volatile organic compounds) formulations; they have quick drying times and come with a Plascon guarantee. | plascon.co.za

TAP THAT

Nicole Russell, marketing manager at Italtile, talks trends in taps – and bathroom budgets.

What are the key trends that you’re seeing in domestic bathrooms right now? Matt black is still huge when it comes to taps, accessories and so on. We have seen this trend grow over the past two to three years, and do not foresee it fading any time soon. Consumers are also moving towards tap colours other than the normal chrome, such as brushed bronze and my personal all-time favourite, gold.

What is the most common mistake people make when renovating a bathroom? Plumbing must be considered from the very beginning of the process. It is often forgotten, which can be costly.

Where do you suggest spending be prioritised? Tiling should take up a large portion of the budget and focus when planning. And remember to include all items of the project – including practical necessities such as adhesives, grout and labour. It’s no fun to have to adjust your wish list for taps, fixtures or accessories because the essentials for installing finishes or plumbing were not included in the initial budget. | italtile.co.za

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The post In Focus: Bold Colour Bathroom Trend appeared first on Visi.

WORDS Robyn Alexander PHOTOS Daniela Zondagh; Greg Cox/Bureaux; Supplied

SLEEK MINIMALIST: THE ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS

Super-slick and ultimately luxurious, the Sleek Minimalist trend for bathrooms features cleverly hidden storage, sophisticated bathroom tech, and either monochrome or tone-on-tone neutral colours. With an all-white palette the ultimate option for truly dedicated enthusiasts, this look also lends itself to oversized tiles, slabs of stone and plenty of subtle shine. Very dark colour schemes – think deep, rich brown, charcoal or even black walls and floors – also look seriously sophisticated right now. Sanitary ware is integrated into walls wherever possible, and kept studiously simple and linear in design where it does have to be on show. And last but not least, the latest bathroom tech is also key here: it’s time to investigate adding smart toilets, adjustable privacy glass, steam- free mirrors, and touchless fixtures and taps to your bathroom space.

YOU’RE A SLEEK MINIMALIST IF…

• Your favourite film interiors are still those seen in that classic of ’90s sci-fi, Gattaca
• Sculptor Donald Judd is your all-time favourite artist
• You’d love to dress head-to-toe in Jil Sander or Comme des Garçons
• Mindful meditation is your favourite form of exercise
• Your dream holiday is a week at Amangiri Spa, in the spectacular Utah desert

PLAN AHEAD

Our experts agree that when choosing this seamless, slick look for a bathroom renovation, nothing is more important than careful planning.

“Everything in a bathroom must be planned out from the beginning,” explains interior designer and cofounder of Tonic Design, Philippe van der Merwe. “Anything that wasn’t considered – with upfront planning and detailed measurements – is likely to stick out like a sore thumb, and cause problems down the line. Be especially careful about storage with concealed cabinetry, which needs to be built into the space so it feels seamless.”

Architect Chris van Niekerk of CvN agrees that meticulous planning is key. He also thinks that functionality is exceptionally important. “I like to view bathing as a ritualistic daily experience, so it’s really more than function and aesthetics – the space should be about the intimate ritual of cleansing,” he says.

While Chris is wary of following trends too slavishly in bathroom spaces, he says, “One of the current trends I notice and can align with is the intention to create minimal, monastic environments where surfaces are calm and continuous.”

EASY PIECES

Three key pieces of bathroom design advice from Tonic Design’s Philippe van der Merwe:

Functionality and aesthetics go hand in hand. “Functionality is always the first thing we sort out when it comes to design – especially in the bathroom, where you need maximum gain from a relatively small area, because this is such a functional space,” he says. “Functionality is aesthetics as well as function – they are not separate or oppositional. This is why you should consult a professional team who will give you something that’s fully designed.”

Focus on storage – and good lighting! For Philippe, bathrooms must have efficient, well-designed storage to be user-friendly. “Install a narrow and wide cabinet above the vanity for the functionality of being able to simply open a door to locate everything you need,” he says. “No digging around in drawers!” Also essential: “Good lighting – which means no top lighting as it is very unflattering.”

Don’t make these all-too-common mistakes… There are many design mistakes, says Philippe, including “not considering the full functionality of the space, and having too much reverence for baths, especially if you don’t really use them. Always think about how you will use the space, and how it will work best for you.”

TAKE NOTE

We asked architect Chris van Niekerk for his key bathroom design notes.

When budgeting, where should spending be prioritised? High-quality bathroom items and finishes are important, but the scope should extend beyond that. You should think about the atmosphere you’re trying to create, and figure out a way to achieve that within budget. That pertains to the flooring, lighting during the day and night, as well as the experience and sound of running water.

When asked to create a minimalist bathroom, what are the areas on which you focus? Practical considerations such as storage aside, I think about the room as a space that should be as unadorned as possible. A shower does not need to look like a shower; a bath can be part of the floor; the basin can resemble a baptismal font. All these elements can add to an elevated experience.

• And what about the latest tech? Still Bathrooms owner Martina Panzer suggests you consider these cutting- edge technologies:
• Optimal energy use and water efficiency (these are as important as comfort)
• Touchless taps and toilets
• A toilet and bidet in one
• When it comes to luxuries: chromotherapy showers and steam shower combinations.

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The post In Focus: Sleek Minimalist Bathroom Trend appeared first on Visi.

VISI’s latest special issue offers inspiration and design inspiration for your new bathroom.

Long gone are the days when a bathroom got the least design-focused attention in your home. It was a space that primarily needed to be clean and functional, with the only design direction being a nod to the aesthetics of the age.

The age we’re living in now, though, is a very different one. For starters, our hyper-connected world means that our bathrooms have moved beyond pure function to a space that’s a relaxing refuge from a fast-paced life. And secondly, I’d argue that there has never been a time when we’ve collectively been this interested – and this informed – on design aesthetics. To add to that, there are so many beautiful choices to be made.

To help you with those choices, we’ve taken a slightly different tack with this latest edition of
our popular VISI Bathrooms special edition. Robyn Alexander, our fabulously talented editor for this issue, has selected five on-trend looks – Colour Concepts, Sleek Minimalist, Classic Revival, Organic Oasis and Modern Haven – that will inspire your new bathroom. Plus she’s roped in a host of design experts for their insights, and shown you exactly how to shop each trend with our top picks of finishes, furniture, hardware and accessories.

– Steve Smith, Editor-in-Chief | info@visi.co.za

Subscriptions

Want the print magazine?

Subscribe to VISI now and receive a 40% discount off your one-year print subscription. You’ll pay just R396 for six issues delivered directly to your post box. Use any of these methods to subscribe or renew your existing subscription:

• Call Media24 Subscriptions on 087 353 1300
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If you prefer to read your favourite magazine in digital form, on your iPad, tablet or desktop computer, you can subscribe to the digital edition of VISI via the below websites. It will cost from as little as R225 for a one-year subscription – that’s a 50% discount on six issues.

• zinio.com
• magzter.com
• pressreader.com

Not sure where to find the magazine? Here is a list of stockists. You can also buy previous issues via shop.visi.co.za.

The post Introducing VISI Special Edition: Bathrooms Vol. 3 appeared first on Visi.

What are the differences, and which option suits best for you? Here, Decobella breakdowns what you need to know about tiled wall features and backsplashes to help you create the ultimate feel-good space.

The wall space above the cooking counter is a backsplash, and having it tiled, especially behind the stove, is not something new. For centuries, tiles or mosaics have embellished this prominent space in kitchens and bathrooms. The same can be said for bathrooms. A backsplash here would classify as the area above the vanity or basin.

Why Opt for a Backsplash?

A ‘backsplash’ might be thought to serve aesthetic purposes primarily, but on the contrary, there are a few more important reasons:

• Scratch resistance: Think about the utensils, pots and pans that scratch walls. When tiling, visibility is drastically reduced.
• Stains: As with scratches, cleaning a glazed tile is much easier than repainting a backsplash periodically.
• Hygienic: Tiles are resistant to bacterial growth and, because of their low water absorption, microorganisms, mould, etc., are less likely to grow there. While some would go over the top and tile their entire kitchen in a single square or subway tile, if not planned properly, the end result may be disappointing.

Remember Quality Over Quantity

Before comparing a backsplash with a fully tiled wall, we should mention that it is better to have a quality luxury tile installed on the backsplash than an inexpensive plain tile installed on all the walls. Both instances enjoy many benefits, and tiling a backsplash is better than tiling nothing.

Considerations when installing a backsplash in a confined space

There are limitations to small surface dimensions for backsplashes in kitchens, especially in kitchens where an oven hob or hob extension is situated. 

• Consider using small-sized tiles: The most suitable option is to use small subway tiles, squares, or mosaics. The aesthetic appeal looks better than medium to large wall tiles. Using smaller tiles also means you don’t have to cut them to fit the space.
• Contrast adds interest: When using a small backsplash (1m²), try to use colours that contrast or compliment the central colour theme. While colour matching in the same hue is possible, it is often difficult to achieve a desirable finish. If you still want to match the colour of the tile to the colour of the walls, a dark grout on light shades could be sufficient in contrast. This method applies to dark tiles with light grout, too. 
• Make sure the product is suitable: Always opt for porcelain or a glazed ceramic behind stove surfaces. Unglazed tiles or marble mosaics (tumbled) is not a suitable option. Both will tarnish in a brief time span. In addition, maintenance is more intense.

Fully Tiled Feature Walls

When you tile your entire kitchen or bathroom, you take advantage of all the benefits of backsplash installation and make it even better.

Freedom of Layouts and Designs

As you have a larger area, you have a greater variety of products at your disposal. The tiles range from diamond-shaped pattern-specific tiles to marble tiles that complement the kitchen island or countertop.

Capability to Tile According to the Latest Trends

One popular option is to opt for the partial tiling trend AKA the ‘incomplete look’. With this look, one sees an incomplete wall feature, which is supposed to leave one thinking. It is almost a work of art.

Better Flexibility

There is more room to play with, literally. Think: extra colours, textures, sizes, and shapes and lastly, design layouts. A wholly tiled wall surface also gives you the flexibility to match the interior decor, fixtures, or accessories in your space.

Small Bathrooms Or Kitchens

Small-sized bathrooms or kitchens without much natural light can easily be seen as dull or unbalanced spaces. By adding the correct colour and texture will tiles (something you can struggle to find with paint), you’ll be able to liven up the space quite a bit. Think satin matt glazed subway tiles, which aren’t overbearing, but aren’t dull either.

The Argile collection, landing soon, is a good example:

Using Two Different Tiles More Cohesively

It’s nearly impossible to use two tiles on one backsplash and even if so, the options are extremely limited. On the other hand, if you have your walls fully tiled, a suited floor tile can perfect your space, beautifully.

A general rule of thumb would be to use colours are a reference point. Either complimentary, contrasting or harmonious colour matching needs to follow suit.

Wall Surfaces and Playing with Grout Colours

Dark grout makes a statement on white or neutral tiles because it adds contrast. When tiling only the backsplash, the impact of this contrast is limited. Imagine a fully tiled bathroom with white subway tiles and dark grout lines. Beautiful!

For more information, visit decobella.co.za

The post Decorative Tiles: Full Wall Feature vs A Backsplash appeared first on Visi.

WORDS Celeste Jacobs PHOTOS DOOK, Greg Cox, Micky Hoyle, Jac de Villiers, Paris Brummer and Henrique Wilding

At Fifty Seven Waterberg (pictured above), the black concrete and steel define this striking vanity unit by Lumar Fourie of The Concrete Corporation, while linear ceiling panelling accentuates the elongated dimensions of the space.

The muted greys in the open-plan bathroom of this contemporary Cape Town home allow the astounding onyx shower wall to shine.

A timeless Philippe Starck bath, monocoated Joe van Rooyen vanity and minimalist mirrors result in a pleasing balance in this Hyde Park home.

Together with blonde timber and black metallic elements, the play on levels – between the exposed beams and the low vanity – creates contrast, while hidden lighting adds warmth. This Modern Irene home‘s en-suite bathroom’s black stonework and custom-made reflective shower glass by Elite Showers play with the abundant natural light.

A calming, natural colour palette in this Fresnaye apartment is enhanced by soft lighting – and the bath is elevated for a sense of ceremony.

In a family home in Midrand, industrial textures and materials are softened by crisp white fittings and warm lighting, creating a space that’s both welcoming and fresh.

Minimal meets organic in a bathroom that combines irregular shapes with clean lines, and textured stone with matte finishes.

A simple artwork and wooden accents sourced from Japan and India create a soothing, serene atmosphere in Scarborough retreat.

A masterful interplay of textures and contemporary and traditional elements in this bathroom at Kubili House in Thornybush is crowned by a calming view of the bushveld.

Full picture windows in this striking minimal bathroom at Cheetah Plains allows the outdoors right into the space – and make the bath an ideal vantage point for bird-watching and game viewing.

Industrial is taken to the next level in this pared-back West Coast cottage bathroom that features a vintage bath and exposed pipes. The window frames the fields outside during the day and offers a stargazing spectacle by night.

This Muldersdrift farmhouse‘s bathroom combines black metalwork and fittings with timber and concrete finishes for an unexpectedly warm and informal result – an effect that’s enhanced by freestanding ladder shelving and a mirror propped against the wall.

Smart, graphic partitioning makes a feature of the open-plan layout in this slick Higgovale home owned by chef Liam Tomlin.

Traditional and rustic styles and rough and smooth textures work in perfect harmony at Arijiju in the Kenyan highlands.

This contemporary Johannesburg home‘s geometric dreams are brought to life in a largely monochromatic interior accented by a rich jade-green statement wall and basin.

Designed to capture the essence and energy of Johannesburg, this dramatically lit emerald-green bathroom is a jewel-toned statement.

Combining curated art and artefacts – including an off-centre chandelier, sculptures and a Persian rug – this Cape Town City Bowl loft is a haven to relax in, complete with a ledge on which to rest a cup of tea.

Contrasting wall treatments – tiles and wallpaper – and unusual accessories come together to create a striking and eclectic bathroom in this Tamboerskloof home.

Bespoke Katie Lund wallpaper adorns a feature wall in this Bainskloof home, drawing attention to the beamed ceiling.

Linear in the extreme, this stark-white, black-trimmed bathroom is an ode to simplicity.

Rounded shapes and organic textures form a pleasing sense of cohesion and repetition in this minimal Yzerfontein home.

A slipper bath, lit from above by a pendant light and accented by art, adds elegance to an understated space.

With all the hallmarks of a traditional bathroom – arched, shuttered windows; a freestanding tub; classic tapware – plus an unexpected pop of rustic texture in the timber side table, this space is timeless.

A Nguni rug and colourful artwork add personality to a simple scheme.

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The post Spaces We Love: Inspiring Bathrooms from The VISI Archives appeared first on Visi.

The bathroom trends of the moment range from soothingly simple to wildly colourful, with the underlying thread being the intention to create feel-good spaces.

Bare Essentials

When intended as a space to reset and relax as well as cleanse, a bathroom should aim for calming tones and a lack of clutter to soothe body and mind.

Left: Consistent use of light-wood accents contributes another layer of warmth and texture to the overall bathroom design in this house in Montagu. Right: To echo the sleek design of the exterior of this Fresnaye apartment complex, lines were kept sharp and seamless by paying careful attention to the details from the bathroom mirrors (not pictured) which extend into the ceilings to the barely-there air-con vents.

The statuesque ceiling height transforms the shower area of this Vredehoek home into an extraordinary space. Standard 200×200 white tiles were cut into quarters here, creating textural variation.

READ MORE: How to Design a Guest Bathroom

Simple Sanctum

Often a space designed to nurture and inspire, the bathroom can serve as a sanctuary devoted to healing and reflection. Natural textures – and a nod to nature itself – are both contributing factors.

Left: Clean, elegant lines ensure the en-suite bathroom in the Kerala Estate cottage retains a sense of pared-down functionality. Right: A sense of space and immersion in nature is the ultimate luxury – the bathroom in this Yzerfontein beach house is generously proportioned with a large window (not pictured) to give light and a view of the outdoor space.

Left: Crisp and immaculate, the bathrooms combine waxed concrete and zellige tiles on the floor and counters with cupboards dressed in straw by local artisans at this house in Comporta. Right: The bathroom of the guest unit in this Klein Karoo farm house is finished in terrazzo and raw wood.

Fruit Salad

Offering an instant energy burst, colour in a bathroom can be approached on a sliding scale of boldness.

The en-suite bathroom in this Australian home features a curved shower and Artedomus-tiled countertop, with low windows looking out onto the garden. The surrounding landscape also informed the home’s palette – olive-green walls echo the bush surrounds and provide a subdued backdrop for the understated furnishings.

Taking cues from the textures and colours typical of Mexican architecture, deserts and cacti fields, the bathroom (and entire apartment) is a reflection of nature’s hand in design. The variety of natural green shades makes for an ultra-modern bathroom interior that is at once visually striking and calming.

Left: By using candy-pink paint and vintage finds, Etienne Hanekom added femininity to the industrial shell of this Robertson Cottage. Right: Ceramist Charlotte Barkowski designed this Moroccan bathroom according to the works of Piet Mondrian. The bathtub and floors are tadelakt.

READ MORE: Switched On: Bathroom Lighting Tips from The Experts

Clean Sweap

You don’t need much in the way of accessories, storage or even furniture to create impact in a bathroom if you select strong, dramatic surfaces. These bathrooms demonstrate the power of well-chosen materials.

Left: Inspired by brutalist architecture, the spaces of this Australian home (including the bathroom) feature an arresting juxtaposition of wood, marble, terrazzo, velvet, timber and glass. Right: A porthole allows light into the main bathroom of this Cape Town Penthouse which is tiled in solid-granite. 

Dramatic changes in volume and dynamic angles contribute to the multidimensional experience of space in the bathroom of this Midrand home.

Zen Master

Pared down to essentials, consciously understated spaces with no superfluous detail whatsoever can be extremely restful.

Left: The wooden chevron throughout this Fresnaye home transitions to marble in the main understated black and white bathroom. Right: Floor-to-ceiling windows and welcome an abundance of natural light into this minimalist Dubai home.

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The post 5 Bathroom Design Trends to Look out for in 2022 appeared first on Visi.

It’s no fun waking up only to be greeted in the glaring bathroom light by a stranger squinting in the mirror. While there’s nothing to do about the stranger, there’s much ado about the light, according to three local experts.

Francesco Abbate

Spazio

• It is better to install light fittings on each side of the mirror, approximately 80cm apart.
• Avoid putting downlighters above the mirror as they will create vertical shadows over your face.
• When choosing a light fitting to install in your bathroom, make sure that the light source (bulb) is quite powerful, in order to give good illumination, and that the colour temperature of the light source is warm white (3 000 Kelvin).
• Ensure that the light fitting is outside of your peripheral vision to avoid glare.

spaziolighting.com

READ MORE: 5 Bathroom Design Trends to Look Out for in 2022

Paul Pamboukian

Paul Pamboukian Light Design

• General lighting tends to wash over everything, so put the light where needed.
• Position the bathroom vanity mirror light roughly at head height to shine directly on the face. Front light irons out the folds and topographical contours of the face.
• Use a variety of individually controlled lights in different positions. Dimming in a bathroom is essential for creating mood.
• Candlelight creates the most comforting and relaxing ambience and is also handy during load-shedding. Why not go for decorative, permanently mounted candle fixtures?

ppald.com

READ MORE: How to Design a Guest Bathroom

Gibbie Fajardo

LEDS-C4

• The bathroom is one of the most difficult areas in the home to light and it is therefore very important to achieve the correct lighting balance between task – or functional – and ambient light.
• For functionality, wall-mounted fluorescent-type fittings that emit light forward are the best way to lighten vanity mirrors for make-up and shaving purposes.
• To create a comfortable ambient effect, the use of indirect light is most suitable. Using LED strip lighting behind the mirror and under the vanities creates a soft and floating effect.

leds-c4.com/en

Looking for more on bathroom design or architecture? Sign up to our weekly newsletter, here, or take a look at these bathroom trends.

The post Switched On: Bathroom Lighting Tips from the Experts appeared first on Visi.