1. A timeless classic
There’s something about a white bathroom… And no, just because it’s white doesn’t mean it necessarily has a ‘clinical’ look and feel.
In Klara McClunan’s bathroom in Newlands, Cape Town, the inclusion of textured tiles, brass fittings and wooden elements creates a clean and crisp space, without feeling cold and impersonal.
“We like the idea of a minimalistic bathroom – a blank canvas,” says Klara.
“However, the textures add interest to the space and give it life. The brass fittings elevate the look and create a sense of sophistication.”
2. On a platform
A raised platform beneath the freestanding bath addresses a plumbing challenge.
This space previously housed a shower, and the platform cleverly conceals the plumbing. It also incorporates a hidden LED strip within the shadow line of the step, which casts a soft, ambient glow at night.
White, small-format wall tiles with subtle colour variations and texture create a ‘handmade’ look.
3. A light touch
Round pendant lights with a metallic finish complement the taps and fittings and were installed at different heights to create depth.
4. Go organic
The curves of the freestanding tub and two top-mounted basins introduce a sculptural element that contrasts with
the clean lines of the room. This also promotes a tranquil, spa-like atmosphere and ties in with the other circular details such as the pendant lights.
5. Vanity fair
A ‘floating’ cabinet made of American oak gives the space a contemporary edge, while also adding warmth and texture.
“We opted for a waterfall-edge granite top, which makes a bold and luxurious statement,” says Klara.
“The granite wraps seamlessly down the side of the vanity, grounding the piece visually and creating a high-end finish.”
6. A restroom
A farmhouse in Durbanville dating from 1935 got a sophisticated update, and this space was no exception.
The guest loo boasts contemporary finishes that have catapulted the home into 2025!
“It’s a new extension at the entrance to the house and I really wanted to create a ‘wow effect’,” says homeowner Anita Griesel.
7. Talking point
The curved walk-in shower in the home’s original bathroom is a showstopper!
“I’ve always been intrigued by the unique rounded wall of the shower and during the renovation
we decided to make it even more of a feature,” says Anita.
Lizbé adds: “We were limited when it came to choice of tiles, but the marble arch-shaped tile proved to be the perfect solution.
“The green colour scheme matches the rest of the house, and the marble reflects the heritage aspect of the home.”
FOCUS ON BATHROOM RENOVATION TIPS
Interior designer Lizbé Fourie offers the following advice:
- Don’t skimp on taps and fittings – they are the hardest-working elements in your bathroom – and don’t forget to check the guarantees!
- Undercounter, or underslung, basins offer clean lines and keep the surface of the vanity clutter-free.
- Try to keep to the same colour scheme and repeat wooden elements as in the rest of your house.
- If you’re unsure about the layout, enlist the help of a professional. However, make a moodboard before your project kicks off, and make this available to the contractors to ensure that you are all on the same page.
- Don’t forget about storage! Generally, a bathroom is a small and hard-working space so be sure to incorporate as much storage as possible, whether shelves, cupboards or wall-mounted cabinets.
- Colourful tiles have made a comeback but renovating a bathroom is expensive and a timeless aesthetic remains a wise choice.
CONTACT 083 301 6946 | instagram.com/fourielizbe
8. Add a fireplace
Interior designer Cheryl Herweg pulled out all the stops during the renovation of her main en-suite bathroom.
In winter, the fireplace is her favourite addition to the updated space for the warmth and ambience it provides, while in summer she enjoys the view into the garden with the doors and windows open.
“I really wanted to create a fresh look and feel with a green-and-white colour scheme combined with natural stone and wooden elements,” explains Cheryl.
“Another favourite feature of mine is the large shower – and there’s loads of storage space in the vanity.”
FOCUS ON BATHROOM TRENDS
Cheryl Herweg of Changing Spaces Interior Design shares her take on the latest in bathroom design:
- A bathroom is an area with hard finishes, so it’s important to soften the space with organic shapes such as a curved freestanding bath or joinery with rounded edges.
- Wood is great for adding warmth in any bathroom.
- Wallpaper adds personality and there are so many designs to choose from.
- I prefer underslung basins to ensure a seamless countertop.
- Keep faucets, shower roses, hinges, etc in the same colour or finish for a uniform feel.
- Plants add life and greenery.
- If possible, add a fireplace to warm up a bathroom, which is a cold space.
CONTACTchangingspacesinteriordesign.com
A smart contrast
Pastels and black are elegant partners.
IT’S IN THE DETAIL
Don’t underestimate the importance of floating shelves and a bath tray for displaying décor items such as candles, diffusers and plants – or for a glass of wine to enjoy while you soak!
9. Black to black
A combination of black mosaics, leathered Rustenburg Granite, large-format tiles and black paint gives new meaning to the concept of layering and colour-drenching!
Black proved to be the ideal choice in creating a moody spa ambience in this Johannesburg bathroom.
“Visually, the square mosaics are really pleasing in contrast to the organic feel of the leathered granite,” say the homeowners.
10. Create atmosphere
LED light strips above the tub enhance a moody feel and highlight the texture of the granite.
11. In the balance
A light 200mm engineered stone quartz top prevents the dark colours from overwhelming the space.
Moody must-haves
Black, gold and natural accents add a touch of drama.
12. Hide it
Wooden cladding used to cover a built-in cistern creates a striking feature in this small guest bathroom.
Since the wall behind the toilet adjoins another room, the cistern could not be recessed.
The front panel of the cladding is a loose component, which allows for easy access to the plumbing if needed.
13. Up the wall
Wallpaper remains a firm favourite in bathrooms, thanks to the availability of water-resistant applications in the past couple of years.
In Jan Sauer Lambrecht’s en-suite bathroom in Richmond in the Northern Cape Karoo, blue-and-white Delft-style wallpaper by Cara Saven forms an impressive focal feature.
The intricate pattern connects the room to its Karoo heritage and references the ceramics that once lined kitchens and cupboards in homes such as this one.
14. Raw beauty
Natural light and raw finishes were the main considerations in the construction of this serene bathroom in a newly built house on the Overberg coastline.
The brickwork on the wall was painted white and left exposed in a few places for texture.
The ceiling is a raw concrete slab, echoing the screeded concrete floor which is continued throughout the house.
15. Sleek and durable
The custom-designed basin in Caesarstone Rugged Concrete was cast on site.
An integrated basin and top creates an elegant, seamless look – and it’s easy to keep clean.
The floating wooden unit below consists of two drawers custom made in oak with a Rubio Monocoat finish in Cotton White.
16. Let there be light
A window extending all the way to the ceiling looks out onto a private fynbos garden and was positioned here for light and ventilation purposes.
A black aluminium Venetian blind is for those who are a little shy!
17. Blend in
On the edge of the Knysna Forest, landscape designer Hannes Stander and floral artist Daniel Ferreira of Ecozest have created a remarkable garden and charming getaway cottages that blend perfectly with this unique setting.
This timber-clad shower in one of the cottages leads out onto a private courtyard with a “semi-al fresco” bath.
Inside, a large shower rose creates the ultimate spa-like experience!
18. Get it bright
“Sunshine yellow” steals the show in creative editor Marian van Wyk and her husband Louis Botma’s guest bathroom in their Plettenberg Bay home.
“Yellow reminds us of 1970s style, which is a theme throughout our décor,” says Marian.
“The colour also adds warmth to the granite floor tiles in this small space, which gets an abundance of natural light but no direct sun.”
19. Focus on metro tiles
Metro or subway tiles have evolved significantly in shape and colour in the past few years.
“Nowadays, longer and thinner tiles as well as smaller finger-like or KitKat tiles in a wide range of colours are popular,” say Nikhil Tricam and Nindya Bucktowar of Kalki Ceramics.
“Because of the adaptability of the materials and the versatility of the colours and glazes, tiles will remain a constant in design; one can really create magic with clever combinations and arrangements.
“We enjoy the use of colours inspired by nature, such as forest greens, warm terracotta tones or bright ochres. These create a relatable palette for people as we have a natural affinity to grounded nature-based textures and finishes.
“We always recommend choosing colours based on the effect they will have on the experience, rather than current trends. This will allow you to enjoy the space for way longer than the duration of any fad.”
CONTACTinstagram.com/kalkiceramics
20. Fom top to bottom
Repeating the same tile on the walls and floor creates a completely immersive sensory experience.
