The owners of the latest Ledbury Studio project were undertaking a complete renovation of their home when they approached Charlie Smallbone and team to design this elegant open-plan kitchen. For this space, their primary goal was to create a kitchen and dining area that could serve as a versatile room for the entire family to cook, dine and spend time in together.
“This kitchen was designed to be both beautiful and practical,” explains Charlie. “The use of different materials and textures creates a dynamic and engaging space, while the layout ensures it meets the needs of a busy family. The combination of metal, marble and quartzite adds depth and interest, making it a room that is not only functional but also a joy to be in.”
The clients wanted a neutral palette, so Charlie selected painted cabinets with a single panel design in Ash White. But then to prevent the solid fronts from overwhelming the space, he added ribbed glass wall cabinets into the mix, bringing an element of lightness and texture that breaks up the uniformity and enhances visual interest.
Various metallic elements throughout the kitchen add Charlie’s signature wow factor. Aged brass handles and kickplates enhance the cabinetry, while the spice rack features delicate brass rails. The kitchen taps are also brass, as are the fittings on the trio of pendants hung over the island. These touches of brass not only add a luxurious feel but also provide a cohesive look to the kitchen.
The central island is another talking point of the space thanks to its reeded surround and stunning Diamond Quartzite top. Home to the kitchen sink as well as a breakfast bar for casual dining, this eye-catching island serves as both a functional workspace and a social centrepiece. The same Diamond Quartzite is used for the adjacent worktop and splashback, elegantly tying all the kitchen elements together and ensuring a harmonious flow throughout.
In contrast to the Ash White cabinets and cool quartzite, the coffee-making station and tall refrigeration cupboards are clad in sheets of zinc that have been aged and patinated. The zinc adds a touch of industrial chic, juxtaposing beautifully with the kitchen’s otherwise polished aesthetic. This contrast both highlights this functional section of the kitchen and adds depth to the overall design.
A walk-in pantry was a must-have addition for the clients, creating convenient storage for the family’s food. Given their passion for cooking, Charlie also integrated a floor-to-ceiling book rack into the design, which is stylishly framed in marble and provides ample space for their collection of cookbooks.
Prices for a Ledbury Studio kitchen start from £70,000.
About Ledbury Studio Ltd
Charlie Smallbone needs little introduction. The founder of iconic brand Smallbone of Devizes, he has been pushing the boundaries of kitchen design for over 40 years. Charlie’s latest venture, Ledbury Studio, was born of his desire to harness the beauty of original materials whilst creating practical kitchens that exude style and elegance.
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As a leader in the bathroom industry, Roca remains at the forefront of design and innovation, delivering products that blend functionality with aesthetic excellence. In our 2025 Trend Report, we are excited to present four key trends shaping the future of bathroom spaces.
First, the blend of open and closed storage in vanity units reflects a desire for balance between personal expression and practicality. Open storage showcases meaningful items, while closed storage keeps essentials out of sight, creating a clean, customised look.
Next, we see a shift towards softer, organic shapes. As homes become sanctuaries, especially bathrooms, the gentle curves of designs like our Tura bathtub promote relaxation and mindfulness, transforming these spaces into havens of calm.
Our third trend addresses the growing need for personalisation among renters. Cue Roca’s Sonata collection, which provides non- permanent solutions that allow renters to customise their bathrooms without making permanent changes, reflecting the trend toward flexibility and personal expression.
Finally, the popularity of warm terracotta, neutral shades and wood-inspired finishes marks a continuing interest in nature. These earthy tones, aligned with the biophilic design movement, create grounding, peaceful environments that promote wellness and stress relief.
I hope you find inspiration in these trends as you explore the innovative possibilities Roca offers, helping you reimagine your bathroom as a space of comfort, beauty and functionality. – Natalie Bird, Marketing Manager, Roca
In recent years, bathroom design has seen a shift towards blending open and closed storage in vanity units. Open storage provides the opportunity for homeowners to showcase their style by displaying beautiful or meaningful items. Whether it’s a collection of perfumes or stylish towels, open shelving in bathroom vanities turns these utilitarian spaces into extensions of personal expression. It invites creativity and gives an open, airy feel to the room, adding visual interest while reflecting individual taste.
On the other hand, closed storage offers a practical solution for hiding clutter. We all have items we’d prefer not to display, from everyday toiletries to cleaning supplies, and closed drawers or cupboards ensure these remain tucked away. This approach is particularly useful for maintaining a clean, organised look in a space that often sees high use. Closed storage, therefore, helps keep the bathroom neat while also reducing visual noise, adding a sleek, minimalist touch.
This trend towards a mix of open and closed storage reflects a broader shift in society, where individuality and customisation are increasingly valued. People are no longer satisfied with cookie-cutter designs; they want to infuse their personality into every corner of their home, even in functional spaces like the bathroom. And this balance between display-worthy items and discreet storage also aligns with contemporary design trends, where spaces are not only about how they look, but how they make you feel.
In 2025, bathroom design will continue to move away from the dominance of harsh, angular lines in favour of softer, more organic shapes. This shift not only reflects aesthetic preferences but also runs parallel with broader lifestyle trends like minimalism and the slow-living movement. At the forefront of this design revolution is Roca’s stunning Tura bathtub, whose clean lines and gentle curves exemplify this trend.
Incorporating more rounded forms into bathroom design is an evolution of minimalism. Where minimalism once meant boxy shapes and sharp corners, today’s interpretation is more fluid and connected to nature.
The Tura bathtub is a perfect example, as it demonstrates how organic forms can embody the simplicity and tranquillity of minimalism while also creating a sense of warmth and calm.
In a world that is increasingly fast-paced and digitally saturated, our homes – and particularly our bathrooms – are becoming spaces of retreat. A bathroom designed with curves and gentle forms promotes a sense of well-being, providing a physical environment that encourages relaxation and mindfulness.
With homeownership increasingly out of reach for many, renting has become the reality for a large section of the population. This shift has brought new challenges for those who wish to personalise their living spaces, particularly in rooms like the bathroom, where fixtures and fittings are usually permanent and difficult to change. Renters are looking for ways to put their stamp on the property, but without risking damage or losing their deposit.
Enter Sonata by Roca, a range of easy-to- install bathroom accessories designed specifically with renters in mind. No need for drilling or screws, the pieces in the Sonata collection can be attached with adhesives, allowing renters to add accessories like towel rings, toilet roll holders and hooks to their walls without incurring the landlord’s wrath.
This approach makes it easier than ever to personalise a rented bathroom, giving tenants the freedom to express their style. Best of all, when it’s time to move, the accessories can be easily removed without leaving any damage and taken to the next bathroom.
The continuing popularity of warm terracotta, neutral shades and wood-inspired finishes in bathroom design reflects a broader movement towards reconnecting with nature. These design elements, inspired by earthy tones and organic materials, beautifully align with the principles of biophilic design, which seeks to strengthen our bond with the natural world. For people in urban environments, this nature-infused approach provides a soothing antidote to the stresses of modern life.
Terracotta hues, reminiscent of clay and sun- kissed landscapes, bring warmth and grounding to a space, creating an inviting and cosy atmosphere. Complementing these tones are wood-inspired finishes, which introduce a tactile, natural texture that amplifies the room’s organic feel. And alongside both of these, neutral shades like soft greys, beiges and off-whites create a calm, serene ambiance perfect for spaces devoted to relaxation and wellness.
Incorporating these natural elements goes beyond aesthetics. It taps into our deep- rooted desire for connection with the outdoors. This design approach allows even the most modern spaces to offer a retreat from urban demands, grounding them in the calming energy of nature.
About Roca London Gallery
Roca have more than 100 years experience of designing bathroom products and kitchen solutions with the aim of increasing peoples quality of life through continuous innovation in the production of sanitary ceramics.
With spectacular coastal and countryside views, this cottage was set to be a dream holiday home in Wales. The brief from our clients was clear. Design a place with plenty of wow factor – think understated yet cool. Somewhere to switch off from the world, relax and unwind with family, friends and, of course, the dogs too.
The interior for this coastal cottage took a sensitive approach to its decor; the studio were mindful of its origin and reinstated the lime plaster, oak beams whilst adding a characterful yet modern take on a farmhouse kitchen.
Firstly, we remodelled the cottage, extending it to suit their need for space. Each bedroom was reconfigured to become more spacious, and furniture was chosen to look simple yet effective, using a mix of metal and timber to be robust and hard-wearing. Plus, loose linen covers over chairs and sofas helps accommodate the dogs.
The result was a charming place, filled with unique character, and ideal for entertaining lots of guests with ease.
Dark bathrooms can be successful small spaces. Instead of going light to try and make the space appear bigger we embraced the intimate size and went dark to create atmosphere.
As this was a second home, it was a budget-conscious project. So, we spent time sourcing the perfect items from markets, antique shops and salvage yards. Pairing these upcycled objects with bespoke pieces, and more glamorous accessories created a contemporary, rustic style.
“Our client requested the ultimate escape. We sourced some unique materials and had fun developing original ideas into each space to help create a haven away from his fast paced world of business.” – Helen, Interior Designer.
About Lewis Knox
A dynamic interior design studio providing bespoke architectural and interior design services. More than 30 years experience in the luxury residential sector.
That quintessentially cosy home is easily attainable over the Christmas and New year period. Roaring fire or crackling wood burner, Scandi-style stockings draped from the mantle, a touch of Hygge with throws and foliage here and there, and all enhanced with subtle candlelight or twinkling fairy lights. How, though, can we continue to create that warmth, atmosphere, and cosy home ambiance throughout the less festive – often downright dull – first quarter of the year?
It can be problematic to create such comfort and cosiness in larger rooms, more so in contemporary or minimalistic spaces. It’s even more difficult in our less lived-in holiday homes. It’s far from impossible, though. We have our ways, so do read on:
A fireplace can create a perfect focal point. Town or country, home or holiday place, we love to suggest a fireplace when we design for our clients – where appropriate, of course. A fireplace brings an instant focal point, adding a suggestion of warmth even when not in use. Perhaps you’re already blessed with an imposing and inviting inglenook, or a chic and stylish modern piece? Maybe we need to work with you to source or design the perfect new one. For new or post mid-century homes – those with no chimney – we could even create bespoke media/firewalls. Newer spaces may suit solely a custom media wall as a focal point, instead. Once you give a room a real focal point, you can truly make sense of the furniture composition; it’s just irresistible and inviting to gather several sumptuous sofas and chairs around a fire – real or otherwise.
A must in any space designated for relaxation and to enjoy spending valuable downtime. Style should NEVER be considered over substance; your furniture simply MUST be fit for purpose. With this – and your comfort – in mind, we work with some of the very finest British-made furniture companies to ensure that perfect seat. This is an area in which it would be very unwise to scrimp. Our recommendation is: spend wisely on your furniture, it is an investment. By doing so, you will reap the rewards of comfort and longevity, of sinking into something akin to a hug after a long, hard day. Solid, wood frames and traditional upholstery techniques can produce chairs or sofas that will last decades. We’d take a perennial family favourite over a throwaway high-street bargain buy every time. The environment appreciates built-to-last, too.
Traditionally, it’s always been warmer, richer shades and tones which are thought to add to a feeling of comfort and cosiness. Berry tones, ochres, and terracotta spring readily to mind but don’t be too hasty to dismiss blues and greens – even stormy greys. A rich teal or a soft navy will add an instant warmth with an elegant edge. Rooms that come into their own after dark lend themselves to these deeper colours, as clever use of artificial lighting in the room can lift them. Farrow and Ball, Zoffany and Little Greene are all a go-to for their wide selections of exquisite colours, simply perfect for these spaces.
By its very definition, a cosy room will have a plethora of upholstery, thus presenting the perfect opportunity to combine distinct and diverse textures to bring depth and interest into a room. Velvet, and wool can sit well together. Jacquards and tweeds are a treat to layer with chunky cable-knit blankets, while the richness of velvet complements leather and suede, or can contrast beautifully with silk or damask. Cushions, rugs, and throws can introduce pleasing textural blends and soften a scheme. They also add an indulgent feel with little investment, so can be added to at will.
None of us likes sitting with bright, overhead spotlights glaring, so we love to suggest a subtle, more custom lighting scheme. We can design a scheme to enhance your favourite details of the room; subtle pin spots to illuminate the fireplace, a reading lamp for a library corner, soft mood lighting or lights to discreetly highlight artwork or favourite objets d’art. Use subtle pin spots to illuminate the fireplace, a reading lamp for a library corner and soft mood lighting to discreetly highlight artwork or favourite objets d’art.
By layering your lighting and ensuring it’s all dimmable, cosiness is assured – yet the brightness can always go up a notch, say when working from home. If you’re hoping for something a little extra, we can collaborate with our lighting and Audio-Visual specialists to incorporate intelligent lighting. Intelligent lighting lets clients flick from scene-to-scene at merely the touch of a button (or phone), to create the perfect soirée, dinner, relaxation, or daytime backdrop. Between us, we can create the most spectacular settings with lighting.
Hard flooring always looks good. It works in a period property or a cool, contemporary bolt hole, but to layer up the room with a rug – or rugs – will always afford a warmth and cosiness. We LOVE a vast rug, one which will allow all the central furniture to sit comfortably thereon. This acts to create a zone around the seating area and just beckons you over to curl up on the sofa. And relax…
A room without artwork will rarely feel cosy. Perhaps your walls are already burgeoning with pieces you love, or maybe you’d like to start from scratch. Regardless of your relationship with art – aficionado or I-know-what-I-like, we can offer guidance on best placement, size, framing or even the style of art that’ll work best for the room.
Often considered an Interior Designer’s best aid but, that’s because there can surely be no cosy home without several plump, feather-filled cushions. It’s a fact. Cosiness demands a veritable plethora of cushions – so much so that, even though they’re mentioned in ‘texture’, they warrant a sub-heading entirely their own. We don’t do small or sparsely filled either; when doing cushions, do it with conviction.
No cosy room can be complete without your personal touch. Here’s where you get your personality across and create a context for your space. Items with which we accessorise a room should be intrinsically YOU. This could be family photos, collected and carefully curated artifacts, plants and flowers. Things you love and things that matter to you, thoughtfully clustered on tables or bookcases, create interesting compositions in the room. These offer somewhere to rest your eyes, to bring a smile or a happy memory as you’re sinking into your squishy sofa. With cushions. Did we mention the cushions?
Fragrance can be so evocative; be it an old favourite perfume, the scent of olive groves, a full-bodied red wine or saddle soap from childhood pony club camps. Aromas have the power to change or enhance mood, so another must-have in all main rooms are scented candle. Take time to find scents that work for you – Espa and Jo Malone candles are beautiful and have a scent to suit everyone. This is so personal for all our clients – but do go soy based wherever possible, for a lovely, clean, non-toxic burn. We have a real penchant for pure white wax ourselves.Take time to find scents that work for you – Espa and Jo Malone candles are beautiful and have a scent to suit everyone.
Let nobody say that January must be the Monday of months, or that February is somehow miserable. Take some of our ideas to keep your home cosy beyond Christmas and right through until Spring. Or contact us today and we’ll help you achieve the ultimate cosy home, all year round. If you have anything you’d like to add – or ask – we’d love to hear from you.
Dulux’s Colour of the Year is a major event in the interiors world, setting the tone for trends over the next 12 months. This year’s shade, True Joy, is a vibrant yellow designed to add a bright pop of colour and a sense of optimism to your space. For those looking to incorporate this look into their bathroom, Roca’s Nu brassware in Honey Yellow is the perfect match.
Studio Inma Bermúdez, in collaboration with Roca, designed the Nu collection to bring a burst of colour and character to your bathroom. With Nu, you can either add a vibrant touch to a neutral space or go bold and let it inspire a full colour scheme – the choice is yours.
What’s more, Nu is designed to make you smile! As you tilt the handle to turn on the tap, a charming surprise is revealed: red and blue dots indicating hot and cold water form a playful smiling face. Paired with the vibrant yellow finish, the Nu ‘smile’ brings an extra dose of joy to your daily routine!
Another standout feature of Roca’s Nu collection is the wide variety of handle options available. Each handle design has its own unique personality, adding a touch of individuality to your bathroom. The Pin handle, with its thin and elongated design, evokes a sense of grace and poise, reminiscent of a bird ready to take flight. On the other hand, the Dome handle embraces a rounded and organic form, creating a soothing and inviting appeal. Meanwhile, the Stripes handle draws inspiration from the grooved knobs found on vintage stereos, adding a nostalgic charm to your taps.
Many of us already aspired to owning a coastal – or country – escape. Now, after the uncertainty of the past couple of years, along with ever-changing hoops to jump through merely to travel abroad, it’s even more desirable. We all long for a bolthole, somewhere to escape to at the end of a demanding week; somewhere to decamp for the Summer, for the children to enjoy the seaside as they grow up. How lovely it would be for them to continue to visit as young adults, too. That’s when we’d know we’d created a long term Happy Place.
It’s essential that a retreat must be every bit as beautiful – and as comfortable – as a main residence, just as tastefully finished and with every conceivable luxury and convenience – albeit usually in a rather more compact space. After we’ve worked on a client’s home, they often entrust us to design, style and optimise their coastal property or holiday home.
We love a coastal project. The design approach is much the same as with all our projects but using the coastal context and taking inspiration from the surroundings, we can embrace a more relaxed, laid-back scheme. Think tranquil palettes, creased linens, driftwood or precious beachcombing finds and rustic timbers and finishes.
Often, a coastal project will involve remodelling a traditional stone cottage or adding an extension to a period property. Occasionally, it’ll be a purpose-built villa or even a luxury chalet on a designated development. While working sympathetically with the building and its plot, crucially, we consider our client’s lifestyle, their needs and desires, and ensure the result will work well for them.
It must be perfect. After all, this is to be THEIR happy place, their sanctuary and the place where many memories will be made. We take that responsibility very seriously indeed.
When designing and planning a coastal retreat or a holiday home of any description, there are countless considerations. Here, we’ll address a selection – but please, do get in touch with your own thoughts or queries.
– First impressions last. A cliché, yes – but only because it’s absolutely true. Your second home needs to look inviting, and that warm welcome feel needs to continue beyond the threshold. If you’re arriving after a difficult week at work, or having endured a hellish journey and struggled through horrific traffic, you need to feel that stress dissipate, and your shoulders relax, the very second you approach.
– Storage. Now, while you don’t expect to need quite so much closet space and storage for larger or occasional items as at home, it still makes sense to allow some convenient storage so as not to clutter calm zones. Storage for an entire family’s lifetime of belongings may not be necessary, but top of the wish list is often a utility-cum-store room for wetsuits, kayaks and other water sports or outdoor paraphernalia.
– We usually recommend that social spaces are given key considerations over the bedrooms in your coastal retreats. Many clients find that they’re perfectly happy with more compact sleeping areas in holiday homes. This can facilitate additional wow factor space and budget allocated to the day-to-day living and social spaces.
– Soft furnishings and bedding can add to the calming, coastal feeling too. But practicality must also be a consideration. It’s probably best to avoid anything too fussy or heavy, and think about cleaning and maintenance too.
– Kitchen space is also important. Whilst we may not choose to spend a great deal of time cooking on traditional holidays, often our coastal retreats are more of a home-from-home. A well-equipped and reasonably roomy kitchen can be high on the list of priorities. A large, scrubbed wooden dining table can really reflect that coastal ambiance, and perhaps consider a decent bar area within the kitchen. Our holiday homes by definition regularly become party central.
– That leads us neatly on to the outdoor space. As would stunning bifold doors… Where room and budget permit, a pool is always likely to be a winning option. Failing that, perhaps dedicate space for entertaining and outdoor catering – be that a sizeable barbecue, a fire pit or pizza oven. Outdoor kitchens, coupled with plenty of dining and lounge seating to enjoy that evening sundowner can add a whole new dimension to our holiday home.
One frequent concern that arises is if the property is also an investment, to be used for holiday lets. Whilst we’d advise on being very clear on insurances and deposits to protect your investment (and its furnishings) we’d also suggest that your ideal client, your target demographic, is someone just like you. Thus, plan and design for YOU. They’ll love your seaside sanctuary just as much as you do, care for it like their own – and return year on year to their own hired happy place.
Typically associated with bespoke kitchens and fitted wardrobes, built in furniture is increasingly finding its way into every corner of the home, from hallways and bathrooms to home offices, dining rooms, and so many other projects. The advantages of fitted furniture are plentiful but not always obvious. Here’s just some of the reasons why it’s a good idea to think beyond the kitchen and take a more holistic approach to fitted furniture when renovating your home.
As with the best kitchen design, fitted furniture is tailormade to fit perfectly within your space, which means no awkward gaps or wasted corners. Unlike off-the-shelf pieces, which might not make the most of a room’s layout, fitted furniture is designed to optimise every available inch. Small hallway with nowhere to discard outerwear? With sleek, built in furniture your entranceway can easily accommodate shoes, coats and bags without encroaching on walkways, making the area feel bigger, tidier and more welcoming. Similarly, fitted furniture in the dining area – for example built in seating with storage inside – can boost storage provisions while working in harmony with the shape and size of the room.
One of the greatest advantages of fitted furniture is the way it allows you to achieve seamless flow throughout the home, which is the key to creating a relaxed and inviting environment. By commissioning fitted pieces for various rooms, you can ensure a consistent aesthetic, whether that’s through coordinating finishes, materials, or design style. This is not about strict matchy-matchy, which can quickly lead to bland, but more geared towards fitted furniture with a common thread that’s subtle yet intentional. A boot room or laundry room fitted with the same cabinetry as your luxury kitchen, for example, creates a sense of unity and flow. Don’t forget, at Roundhouse you have the option to coordinate your luxury kitchen with fitted cabinetry from our Studio Collection in ancillary rooms. Learn how to combine our Design and Studio Collections to help your budget go further while enjoying the benefits of our skilled designers and installation team in every room.
The joy of fitted furniture lies in its ability to be tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle. Whether you want to set up a home office in your kitchen, or are seeking stylish shelving for your dining room, or a smart broom cupboard in your utility room, bespoke fitted furniture can be designed to suit specific requirements. In bathrooms, fitted vanity units can seamlessly integrate basins and storage, making the most of small or irregular spaces while promoting a polished look. The versatility of bespoke furniture means there is endless potential to customise – be it smart chargers inside drawers, his and hers mirrored cabinets or file storage sized to fit your documents. Furniture that’s made to suit your individual requirements doesn’t just look good, it can make your home function more smoothly and efficiently, ultimately resulting in an easier life.
This advantage is really quite simple – by providing designated places for all your belongings, throughout the home, fitted furniture supports clutter-free living and a calmer atmosphere. When working from home, for example, fitted desks, shelving and file storage can create an efficient and organised workspace, keeping paperwork and stationery out of sight but easily accessible. In the utility room, think built in laundry baskets and bespoke wardrobes for outerwear, pull-down clothes rails and cleaning cupboards with specialist storage dividers. This clutter-blitzing benefit not only makes daily life more manageable but also enhances productivity by ensuring everything you need is close to hand and easy to find.
Fitted furniture can be an investment but the outlay is offset by the knowledge that, done well, it can significantly enhance the value of your home. Beautifully made bespoke Roundhouse furniture will undoubtedly be viewed as a premium feature by potential buyers and can help your home stand out in a competitive market. Built in wardrobes, elegantly appointed living rooms, well-organised hallway storage and of course a luxury bespoke kitchen, will all lead to a more desirable property that reflects thoughtful design, quality workmanship and attention to detail. Above all, Roundhouse fitted furniture is built to last, making it a smart investment that brings both immediate enjoyment and long-term benefits.
Why not work with a designer to resolve all your fitted furniture needs and explore the clever built in storage solutions in our inspirational showroom displays? To book a design consultation, click here, or visit any of our Roundhouse showrooms in Wigmore St, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Cambridge, Guildford & Cheltenham. Come and experience the benefits of fitted furniture for yourself!
About Roundhouse Design Ltd
Founded by architects, Roundhouse is a multi-award-winning British company, creating beautiful bespoke kitchens and furniture. Their stunning kitchen designs feature a signature understated aesthetic, influenced by contemporary and traditional design, using innovative materials, texture and colour. Each project is made to measure from a wide range of stunning finishes. Expertly crafted by skilled designers and makers in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Malvern, Worcestershire. Visit any of seven Roundhouse Design kitchen showrooms; Wigmore St, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Cambridge, Guildford & Cheltenham.
Bathrooms are one of the most essential spaces in any home, the focal point for relaxation as well as self-care. Beyond functionality, the aesthetics and comfort of your bathroom can significantly influence your mood and daily routine. This is where choosing the right bathroom furniture becomes crucial. However, with the plethora of options available, selecting the ideal pieces can be overwhelming. In this guide, Natalie Bird, Marketing Manager of Roca UK, provides a simple three-point checklist to help you navigate the process.
To begin, it is vital to assess the available space in your bathroom. Its size and layout will determine what furniture will fit comfortably without making the room feel cramped. Start by measuring the dimensions of your bathroom, including the floor space and the height of the walls. Consider any alcoves, nooks or protruding walls that could affect the placement of furniture. Mark on a plan the toilet, shower and basin, as these are the fixed points around which furniture must fit. Doors and windows can also limit where you place furniture, so ensure there’s enough clearance for doors to open and close and that windows aren’t obstructed. Additionally, evaluate your vertical space – tall cabinets or shelving units can be a great way to add storage without taking up too much floor space.
Before choosing any pieces, it’s important to think about what you need to store and how much space you require. Start by identifying the shortcomings of your current bathroom set-up. Are your toiletries cluttered on the counter? Do you lack space for towels? Understanding these issues will guide you in selecting the right furniture. For instance, vanity units which combine a basin with storage space underneath are excellent for storing everyday items like toiletries, cleaning products and grooming tools. Roca’s Victoria-N range has a wide choice of vanity units with two or three drawers and in widths from 600mm to 1200mm.
In addition, make use of all wall space, including above the bath or toilet. Wall cabinets are perfect for storing items you don’t use daily but want within easy reach, such as medications or spare toilet paper. Also, think about shelving units, which are ideal for displaying decorative items or keeping towels handy. Finally, tall, narrow cabinets provide significant storage without taking up too much floor space – the Extra column unit coordinates with the Victoria-N range and is 1500mm high, so offers plenty of useful storage.
Storage is a highly functional element in the bathroom but that doesn’t mean it can’t also bring something to the look of the space. It’s important to focus on the aesthetics of the pieces you choose and ensure they align with the rest of the bathroom. Whether your bathroom is modern, traditional or somewhere in between, your furniture should both complement and enhance that style. Fortunately, where once bathroom furniture used to come only in timber-effect or white, there are now a whole host of colours and finishes to choose from. For example, the Victoria-N range is available in Sage Green, Light Ash and Walnut melamine, or Matt White or Onyx lacquer. Plus, the integrated handle and the furniture are the same colour for a cohesive look.
Roca’s new Victoria-N vanity unit is available with two or three drawers and in five widths: 600mm, 700mm, 800mm, 1000mm, 1200mm. It pairs with the Extra column unit 1500 x 350mm and 750 x 350mm narrow-depth unit.
Bring a touch of luxurious hotel chic to your bathroom with the new Sonata accessories collection from Roca. Choose between the timeless appeal of classic Chrome or the modern allure of sleek Matt Black. Best of all, pair these accessories with a matching Roca tap for a seamless and coordinated look that elevates your bathroom’s elegance.
“Updating your bathroom with new accessories is a cost-effective way to add style and functionality,” says David Bromell, Head of Marketing at Roca Group. “Our new Sonata collection offers a comprehensive range of 15 pieces, including towel rails and a wall-mounted toilet brush holder, ensuring all your needs are met. What’s more, installation is a breeze with options for traditional screw fixings or convenient adhesive pads, making it perfect for renters or those looking to make future updates.”
Most of the accessories in the Sonata collection are wall-hung, ideal for maximising space in compact bathrooms. By installing the soap dispenser and tumbler on the wall, your basin top remains uncluttered and organised. For those with wall-mounted toilets, the collection includes a matching wall-mounted toilet brush to keep the floor clear. Alternatively, a floor-standing model is also available.
As a finishing touch, the Sonata collection offers a variety of towel holders to suit any bathroom size. Choose from single rails available in 300mm, 400mm, and 600mm lengths, compact towel rings perfect for placing next to the basin, and a spacious four-rail rack that can accommodate towels for the entire family.
Roca’s new Sonata range includes basin accessories, towel rails and hooks, and toilet brush and toilet roll holders, all in a choice of Chrome or Matt Black.
Nestled in the idyllic countryside of Buckinghamshire, Amersham Interiors has established a reputation for creating timeless, bespoke interiors that capture the unique essence of each client’s vision. Recently, our team had the privilege of transforming a house into a charming, functional family home, perfectly blending cottage style with modern comfort. The result is a testament to our dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and personalised design.
Our clients, a lovely family seeking a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life, envisioned a cottage-style home that exuded warmth and tradition without being overly fussy. They desired a space where every member of the family could feel comfortable. Additionally, they loved the idea of incorporating colour into their home, but they preferred shades that were soothing and subtle rather than bold and overpowering.
From the outset, our approach was deeply collaborative. We believe that the best designs emerge from understanding and embracing our clients’ lifestyles, tastes, and needs. We began by sitting down with the family to discuss their vision, preferences, and practical requirements. This initial consultation was crucial in helping us grasp the essence of what they wanted to achieve.
The family’s love for colour was a central theme, but they were clear about their preference for softer tones. Together, we explored a palette that included muted blues, gentle greens, and warm neutrals. These hues provided the perfect backdrop for creating a harmonious and inviting atmosphere.
One of the most enjoyable parts of the process was selecting fabrics and colours that would bring the family’s vision to life. We sourced an array of beautiful, high-quality fabrics that complemented the chosen colour palette. The goal was to find materials that not only looked stunning but also felt comfortable and durable for everyday family life.
For the living room, we chose a combination of soft, textured fabrics in light greens and neutrals, adding depth and interest without overwhelming the space. The curtains, made from a gorgeous linen blend form Linwood fabrics, framed the windows beautifully, allowing natural light to filter through and enhance the room’s airy feel.
In the kitchen, we incorporated vibrant green bespoke joinery, antique lighting, and a reclaimed tile floor. Warmth was introduced with a tartan wool Roman blind made from Moon fabric.
One of the key challenges – and joys – of this project was working within the framework of the home’s existing architectural features. The house had beautiful, traditional elements that we wanted to highlight and preserve. Arched architectural features, original fireplaces, and charming nooks were all integrated into the design, adding to the cottage-style aesthetic.
We carefully chose furnishings and accessories that complemented these features rather than competing with them. Vintage-inspired pieces, combined with contemporary touches, created a balanced look that respected the home’s heritage while providing modern comforts.
A crucial aspect of any interior design project is balancing style with budget. Our goal was to deliver a beautiful and functional space without exceeding the family’s financial considerations. To achieve this, we focused on investing in key pieces that would make the most significant impact while finding cost effective solutions for other elements.
For instance, we splurged on high-quality upholstery for the main living areas, knowing these pieces would see the most use and needed to be both durable and stylish. In contrast, we sourced more affordable yet aesthetically pleasing accessories and decor items to complement the overall design. We also upholstered antique pieces of furniture passed down to the family rather than buying new – these added character and charm to the home.
The outcome of this collaborative journey is a home that truly reflects the family’s desires and needs. Each room exudes a sense of warmth and comfort, with the perfect blend of traditional cottage charm and modern functionality. The chosen colour palette creates a serene and cohesive atmosphere, inviting the family to relax and enjoy their surroundings.
The living areas are spacious yet cosy, ideal for both family gatherings and quiet evenings. The kitchen, a hub of activity, is designed for practicality without sacrificing style, featuring ample storage, efficient workspaces, and charming details that tie the room together.
The use of colour and texture throughout the home ensures a visually appealing environment that feels harmonious and well-considered.
This project underscores the core values of Amersham Interiors: personalised service, attention to detail, and a commitment to creating spaces that our clients love. Our expertise in selecting the best fabrics, colours, and furnishings, combined with our respect for architectural features and budget considerations, allows us to deliver exceptional results.
We believe that every home should be a sanctuary that reflects the unique tastes and lifestyles of its inhabitants. Our collaborative approach ensures that our designs are not only beautiful but also functional and enduring.
Transforming this house into a beautiful family home has been a rewarding experience for the Amersham Interiors team. By combining our design expertise with the family’s vision, we created a space that is both stunning and practical. This project serves as a shining example of how thoughtful, personalised interior design can elevate a home, providing comfort, style, and functionality for years to come.
About Amersham Interiors
Amersham Interiors, established in 1984, specialises in bespoke curtains, blinds, and upholstery, providing luxury personalised interior design services. With decades of experience, our team is dedicated to transforming your space into a haven of comfort and elegance. We take pride in our meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality, ensuring that every piece we create is tailored to your specific tastes and needs. From initial consultation to final installation, we work closely with our clients to bring their vision to life, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.
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