Touch of Lustre
In today’s homes, bathrooms are no longer an afterthought. They are designed with care and thoughtfully planned, down to the final minute detail. Bathrooms can be a stress-relieving haven. And, to offer the best experience, the bath space should reflect the user’s true self and embrace individualism.
“Whether the user is a globally inspired minimalist or draws inspiration from the rich tones of Indian heritage, the personal space must project the user’s personality. A variety of textures and colours in bathroom ceramics, fittings and other accessories makes it possible for consumers to mix and match, and give their bathroom a makeover where they can embrace escapism,” shares Rupande Shah, Principal Architect, Rupande Shah & Associates.
Selecting the colour scheme
In contemporary styles, people are going for colourful wall tiles or statement wallpapers to glitzy design styles drawing inspiration from Spanish or Mexican design styles or from Greece. In modern settings, where it’s all about minimalism and clean lines with a natural colour palette, colourful bathrooms are being used as a punch to break the monotony, adding to the vibrancy of the house.
A good colour scheme is crucial for the washroom to have the same visual vocabulary as the user. “From monochromatic minimalism to layered maximalism, bathrooms can be designed to tell a unique story depending on the combination of hues used for bathroom accessories. The classic white ceramics and chrome fittings are passé,” asserts Shah.
She further adds, “If one wishes to add colour to this space without moving too far from neutrality, one can go for warm earthy tones and soothing, nature-inspired colours that are perfect for those seeking a comforting and rejuvenating space. And, if the user seeks inspiration from rich Indian roots, then one can go for shades borrowed from the bold Indian colour palette in Peacock, Indigo or Thunder Grey.”
Fascinatingly, just the perfect amount of colour to a bathroom with a neutral colour scheme breaks the monotony and adds a personal touch to the space making it experimental and striking. “From Emerald Greens, and Prussian Blues, to Dark Charcoal hues, these deeply saturated shades give the space a punch from the otherwise neutral palettes.
Rupande Shah
Principal Architect, Rupande Shah & Associates
“If one would like to limit their colour to one artistic flourish, they could think about a boldly coloured basin – providing a beautiful focal point to the room. If the core focus of the bathroom is all about the bath time, they can consider adding a pop of colour with a statement bathtub. ”
Selection of fixtures
According to Shah, darker shades of ceramics pair beautifully with fittings in the trending French Gold, Rose Gold and Matte Black finish. “The incorporation of such lustrous statement accessories creates a jewel boxlike effect in the bathroom. Hence, it’s no surprise that such fittings are becoming the centrepieces in bathrooms.”
However, one should be careful with metallic accessories because when it comes to lustre, ‘less is the new more.’ “Introduce it in the smaller elements to add that luxe factor, in bathroom fittings, light fittings, mirrors or as an accessory. That’s when it really stands out and doesn’t look overbearing in space,” advises Shah.
She further adds, “If one would like to limit their colour to one artistic flourish, they could think about a boldly coloured basin – providing a beautiful focal point to the room. If the core focus of the bathroom is all about the bath time, they can consider adding a pop of colour with a statement bathtub. This will really draw the eye and highlight the room’s intention as a centre for relaxation and self-indulgence.”
Chrome Plated Fittings are other functional options to add colour to Indian bathroom designs. “Using fittings in matte, chrome-plated, or metallic-plated varieties ensures that colour is added in the Indian bathroom design space in splashes and does not overwhelm the space with a single solid continuation of colour. They are the best minimalist solutions to add colour and warm tones without spoiling the neutral tranquillity of the bathroom.”
Fact Sheet
Project Location: Mumbai
Materials used: Ceramics in bold colours (Emerald Green, Prussian Blue, Dark Charcoal, Peacock, Indigo, Thunder Grey)
Fittings in French Gold, Rose Gold, Matte Black, Chrome-plated finishes
Design firm: Rupande Shah & Associates
Powder room vs kid’s bathroom vs master bathroom
The choice of colour palette and the fixtures would vary depending on the type of bathroom. For example, a powder room can be decorated as creatively as one wishes, with elegant touches including an ornate gilt mirror, high-end wallcovering or faux-finished wall treatments, gold or brass fittings, and embellished fingertip towels.
Powder rooms are spaces where one can afford to be more experimental with decorating. “Statement water-resistant wallpapers are guaranteed to create a talking point, and one should not be afraid to pair them with luxurious materials & fittings. Coloured fittings and sanitaryware in powder rooms can be bold,” asserts Shah.
Characterful, cheerful and colourful bathrooms will make kids happy. “The use of colours in walls, floors, ceilings or in the fittings can make their daily routine more enjoyable. Bright colours can affect the mood of the child adding to the vibrancy of the room.”
On the other hand, for the master bathroom, the selections of the colours can be more subtle, following a colour scheme as it will be a private place for adults to relax and rejuvenate, feels Shah. “The colours should reflect their individuality and not overpower it. Colour not only adds to the liveliness of the bathroom space but also adds a personal touch to these relaxing spaces. Colour schemes also impact our thoughts, behaviour and mood. Therefore, the choice of fittings will eventually depend on the client and their personal usage of the space.