How to renovate a bathroom without losing its character

Published by
Tess Ritchie
September 16, 2014

A small neglected villa in an inner city suburb of Auckland has received a respectful make-over by its new owners. Careful consideration was given to the heritage and soul of the house and this is well illustrated in the striking bathroom.

The challenge, when it comes to bathroom design, is to create a room which has all the convenience of modern living while still honouring the age and character of the house. Too often the renovation of bathrooms is out of sync’ with the style of the home and the result does not fit with the remainder of the house.

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Appreciating the provenance and high quality of the brand, the owners selected Perrin & Rowe bathroomware and tapware, knowing that the timeless fittings would endure with the next phase of the building’s life. The Art Deco range of bathroomware was an inspired choice; the pedestal basin and toilet have simple angular lines which reflect the geometry of the sash-hung window and the chamfered brick- bond tiles. The classical line of the chinaware is complemented by the proportions and detailing of the Perrin & Rowe tapware and shower fittings. Behind the free standing bath, the bath filler on floor legs acts as a sculptural feature against the soft light from the window.

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The Perrin & Rowe wooden toilet seat in black, the black tap levers and black porcelain shower components all relate to the strength and masculinity of the floor tiles. This is not an Art Deco bathroom with black and white geometric tiles and black accent lines around the room – instead the Art Deco basin and toilet offer a classical form which has been utilised to great effect. A simple black and white palette allows the introduction of natural elements to embellish or complement the room; today an antique wooden stool, tomorrow a potted palm to vary the mood.

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The English Tapware Company
englishtapware.com.au