Deconstructed Luxe
Deconstruct : v. To reduce something to its constituent parts in order to reinterpret it.
This takes you to a space that challenges conventional luxury, stripping it back into something minimalist but soothing, raw but beautiful, edgy but relaxed. Feel the character of exposed brickwork and enjoy the warmth of underfloor-heated polished concrete. The simple open shower contrasts with an opulent, deep bath, begging you to sink into its curves.
MINIMALIST BATHROOM FIXTURES
Concrete has gradually become more common in kitchen benchtops, and is now finding its way into bathroom vanities, often with an integral bowl. This trend also features basins in raw brushed metal or solid cast iron.
The latest rimless, wall-hung toilets are a good choice in this realm, and a back-to-wall freestanding bath will maximise space. Add to storage with a recessed mirror cabinet, and go for wall-hung cabinetry with the likes of an integrated rubbish bin to reduce clutter on the floor and create that minimalist feel.
The shower should blend into the bathroom design; if you are unable to go for an open option, use a low-profile shower tray combined with a frameless shower enclosure.
FITTINGS
Experimental shapes are not limited to baths and vanities, designers have been challenging the appearance of the most functional pieces – think a showerhead that looks like a lamp and faucets that resemble door handles, or are simply a slit in the wall for water to emerge from.
Matte black tapware which has become popular in recent years works well for deconstructed luxe, as does gunmetal. You can also consider mixed finishes across tapware and towel rails – throwing in accents of patina brass or copper for pops of interest.
FLOORS AND WALLS
One of the hottest looks for floors this year is polished concrete, which has the added advantage of creating the illusion of space in a small area, as it is laid as one surface. As it is not always possible for bathrooms in split-level houses, an alternative is concrete-look tiles. Slate tiles are also becoming the look of choice for interior designers, taken up a wall as well as across floors – although beware of tiling floor-to-ceiling in smaller spaces as it can feel claustrophobic.
Matte neutrals are the tones to enhance this look, warmed with pops of earthy colours such as ochre, cinnamon, rust and olive green.
ACCESSORIES
The likes of soap trays and toilet brush holders should be unobtrusive and simple, but throw in the odd touch of luxe. An oversized, frameless round mirror is right on trend and works perfectly with this edge look, as do angular individual towel rails. Include several plants and perhaps a chair, quirky stool or freestanding towel ladder. Consider corner floating shelves to make the best use of space.
LIGHTING AND TECHNOLOGY
Abstract lighting enhances that deconstructed appearance, especially when streaming from unexpected places – for example LED strips along the floor to provide illumination for night-time toilet trips. Geometric metal pendant lights are also worth considering. Keep heating and ventilation out of site, warming the room underfloor and going for recessed fans in the ceiling. For the perfect accompaniment, add surround sound.
MICO TIP FOR MINIMALIST BATHROOM DESIGN
Be careful of sliding into too much of an industrial feel, there are nods to this trend, but deconstructed luxe maintains a level of majesty.
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