Modern bathroom with large floor to ceiling tiles, glass shower and timber vanity

The way we think about bathrooms in our homes has changed in recent years. In addition to being functional and practical, more Australians want their bathroom to be a sanctuary, a private space to escape and switch off from the world.

With so many stunning new products and finishes available in showers, baths, tapware and bathroom accessories, creating a unique luxe bathroom to suit your style has never been easier.

Reece Australia is a trusted supplier for Farmer Constructions (and The Block!) and Australia’s leading bathroom and plumbing products supplier. We caught up with Dean Feltrin from Reece Sunshine Coast to talk about trending luxe products and accessories.

What is fuelling the luxe bathroom trend?

Dean says The Block and other reality renovation TV shows continue to influence renovation trends, which is undoubtedly true for bathrooms and wet rooms.

“The bathroom has always been the most personal and individual space in the house. People treat it like a sanctuary these days, rather than only somewhere to have a shower and brush your teeth. It’s a place where you can create a resort or spa-like environment that creates a sense of relaxation and pampering at home,” Dean said.

The pandemic didn’t only generate a boom in renovations. Spending more time in our homes has also changed what we want from our home environment. New home builds were trending towards more luxurious bathrooms, so it’s no surprise that people with older homes are seeking the same from their bathroom renovation.

7 ideas for bringing a touch of luxe to your bathroom renovation

Dean shares seven ways to bring a sense of elegance and luxury to your bathroom renovation. All products are available from Reece Australia showrooms and online.

1. Wall-mounted tapware

Minimalist bathroom design with freestanding white bath, concrete floor and floating cabinetry

Milli Oria Wall Basin Mixer Outlet System 215mm PVD Brushed Gold (5 Star) – Reece #2265640. Image: Reece Australia.

“Having wall-mounted tapware over the basin rather than basin-mounted taps is a popular trend,” says Dean. “While this may sound like a simple change, wall-mounted taps create a much more sophisticated and minimalist look.”

“There are a couple of things to consider with wall-mounted tapware. First, you need to have the space for it behind the wall, so it’s important to factor this in at the design stage. And secondly, you don’t want too much of a fall from the tap into the basin. The look is not quite right with an inset basin. Choose a nice basin that sits on top of the vanity to finish it off.”  

2. Gold and brushed gold

White doubel herringbone tile feature in shower niche

Kado Aspect Stainless Steel Basin Brushed Gold – Reece #1806088. Mizu Drift MK2 Wall Basin Mixer Set Brushed Gold – Reece #9560003. Image: Reece Australia

“While chrome remains popular, many different finishes have become more fashionable, especially gold and brushed gold tapware and accessories,” says Dean.

“Gold is central to the neoclassic charm style, which effortlessly pairs the modern with the traditional, and it looks exquisite alongside white. We are seeing lots of white, such as oversize white tiles combined with a small amount of feature colour complemented with gold. It’s also a wonderful complement for timber cabinetry.”

    3. Matte finish (solid surface) basins and baths

    Minimalist bathroom design with freestanding white bath, concrete floor and floating cabinetry

    Kado Lussi Cast Solid Surface Freestanding Thin Edge Bath with Plug & Waste 1500mm White. Reece #9509631. Image: Reece Australia

    Matte white (also called solid surface) basins and baths create a softness that the glossier alternatives can’t achieve.

    “Matte finishes bring a beautifully timeless, natural look that is slightly textured to touch and feels more stone-like when you place your hands on the surface,” explains Dean.

    “Sold surface finishes can mark a little easier, so many brands have their own recommended cleaners. Be sure to use the right product to keep your surface looking at its best.”

    4. Vertical heated towel rails

    Minimalist bathroom design with freestanding white bath, concrete floor and floating cabinetry

    Milli Mood Edit Vertical Triple Heated Towel Rail 900 x 38mm Matte Black. Reece #2299136. Image: Reece Australia

    Heated towel rails are a no-brainer for creating an indulgent bathroom. Having access to a dry, warm towel brings a sense of comfort, especially in winter.

    “People are more likely to opt for heated towel rails in ensuites rather than main bathrooms as they open up more space,” says Dean.

    The original style heated towel rails come in three types – wall-mounted, floor-to-ceiling, and swivel-mounted, an ideal space-saving option that can sit flush against the wall when not in use.

    But now there is a new kid on the block and it looks set to become a stayer. Vertical heated towel rails change everything.

    “Vertical heated towel rails save space, look contemporary and suit the minimalist trend,” says Dean. “They are energy efficient and highly effective. For the full spa experience, install rails with an auto heat function and a robe hook.”

    5. Rounded and anti-fog mirrors

    Minimalist bathroom design with freestanding white bath, concrete floor and floating cabinetry

    Kado Aspect 800mm Round LED Mirror. Reece #9507917. Image: Reece Australia

    A mirror can make or break a bathroom so it’s a good idea to consider mirrors when planning a bathroom renovation. A mirror is no longer just a mirror – various effects and add-ons such as LED backlighting, antifog function and built-in Bluetooth speakers can create a personalised bathroom space that feels a little more special.

    Dean suggests circular, arch or oval-shaped mirrors for a softer, more modern look. 

    “Try pairing arch or oval-shaped mirrors side by side over twin basins for some neoclassic charm,” he suggests. “For smaller spaces, consider wall-mounted flush or inset mirrored shaving cabinets to maintain a clean and minimalist look with useful storage space.”

    6. Frameless showers

    Minimalist bathroom design with freestanding white bath, concrete floor and floating cabinetry

    Kado Lux Fixed Shower Screen Panel and Wall Support 1200mm Chrome. Reece #9506300. Image: Reece Australia

    Frameless showers deliver the ultimate seamless elegance. Depending on your space, frameless showers can be curved, angled or hinged and are available in many sizes.

    “Frameless showers create clean lines and more of a wet room look compared with a traditional shower recess,” Dean says. “Add a twin shower with overhead rainwater showerheads to complete the hotel-inspired style.”

    7. Sensor technology

    Minimalist bathroom design with freestanding white bath, concrete floor and floating cabinetry

    Memo Sia Sensor Gooseneck Sink Mixer Tap Dual Function Right Hand Lever Matte Black (4 Star). Reece #2267008. Image: Reece Australia

    Sensor operated taps, soap dispensers and toilet flushing devices create the ultimate hands-free luxury.

    Dean says touchless taps for home bathrooms have come a long way, with built-in motion detectors that work similarly to those in airports but far more elegant in style. 

    “Having no separate taps gives a bathroom a sense of spaciousness and sophistication. Touchless taps come in a wide range of modern shapes and finishes, including matte black, gold, brass and chrome. They can be battery or mains powered. An added advantage is touchless taps can reduce water usage and maintenance costs,” Dean says.

    Creating the luxe look on a mid-range budget

    With so many brands jumping on board with diverse finishes, it’s possible to achieve a luxe look without the massive price tag.

    While European made tapware and accessories generally come with high price tags, Dean says it’s possible to achieve a similar look on a mid-range budget.

    “The secret is to do your homework first. There are loads of online resources like Blueprint by Reece that provide trends for the year, renovation tips, style advice and how to achieve your chosen look,” guides Dean. (You can also check out some of Farmer Constructions projects and tips for ideas.)

    “From there, choose your preferred style, create a wish list of items and come and chat with us in-store. Many items come in various price points or brands to suit different budgets. Also, keep in mind that we can source more products than what you will find in store, so if you see something you like online, take a screenshot and bring it in.”

    Where to find Reece showrooms on the Sunshine Coast:

    • Reece Plumbing Warana: 236 Nicklin Way. Phone 07 5293 3310.
    • Reece Plumbing Maroochydore: 8 Glen Kyle Drive. Phone 07 5376 1210.
    • Reece Plumbing Nambour: Unit 1/1-5 Whalley Creek Close, Burnside. Phone 07 5376 4110.

    There are also showrooms in Noosa and Gympie.

    Main image: ISSY Glide 945mm x 465mm Large Vertical Mirror – Reece #2308811. GROHE Rainshower SmartControl Shower System – Reece #9507891. Image: Reece Australia.

    Planning a bathroom renovation?

    Ready to get started on your bathroom renovation? Farmer Constructions is here to help. Get in touch with Dani for a quote today on 07 5492 9409, email [email protected] or complete the form below and we’ll be in touch!

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