Among the most crucial decisions is selecting the right toilet, a fixture that must balance efficiency with aesthetics. While traditional floor-mounted models have long been the standard, a growing number of homeowners and designers are now exploring more innovative, space-efficient, and visually appealing solutions.

Options like wall-mounted, skew, and in-wall toilets systems represent a modern evolution in bathroom design, offering compelling advantages over their conventional counterparts.

This comprehensive guide delves into the mechanics, benefits, and considerations for each of these contemporary toilet options. By understanding their unique features, you can make an informed decision that perfectly aligns with your design vision, spatial constraints, and long-term needs.

Understanding Wall-Mounted Toilet Systems

Wall-mounted toilets are a hallmark of modern bathroom design, defined by their clean lines and minimalist aesthetic. They are often the first choice for those seeking to create a sleek, uncluttered space.

How Wall-Mounted Toilets Work

At first glance, a wall-mounted toilet appears to float above the floor, creating a striking visual effect. This is because the entire bowl is attached directly to the wall via a sturdy, hidden steel frame. The most significant component, the cistern (the water tank that holds and releases the flush), is concealed inside the wall cavity, along with all the plumbing. The only visible parts are the toilet bowl itself and the stylish flush plate on the wall. This clever design frees up a considerable amount of visible floor space, making the bathroom feel larger and more open—a crucial benefit in compact or narrow layouts.

Space Efficiency and Aesthetic Appeal

The primary advantage of wall-mounted toilets is their ability to transform a bathroom’s spatial perception. By removing the toilet from the floor and hiding the bulky cistern, they create a seamless and airy environment. This minimalist approach is especially effective in contemporary, Scandinavian, and minimalist interior designs, where clean lines and a lack of visual clutter are paramount. Furthermore, the absence of a floor-based pedestal makes cleaning the bathroom floor incredibly easy, as you can simply mop or sweep underneath the bowl without any obstruction.5 This not only saves time but also significantly improves bathroom hygiene.

Ergonomic and Customisable Features

Beyond aesthetics, wall-mounted toilets offer a surprising degree of customisation. The height of the toilet bowl can be adjusted during installation to suit individual preferences, making them ideal for households with tall or shorter members, or for those with mobility issues who find a standard toilet height uncomfortable. This ergonomic benefit is a key reason for their growing popularity in residential and commercial settings alike. Many models also feature a rimless bowl design, which simplifies cleaning and ensures a more hygienic flush.

Installation and Maintenance Considerations

While their benefits are clear, wall-mounted toilets require careful planning and professional installation. The process is more complex than a standard toilet and is best suited for new builds or major bathroom renovations where the wall structure can be opened up. The installer must fit a specialised load-bearing frame within the wall, which is then securely bolted to the floor and wall studs. This frame is what holds the entire weight of the toilet and the user. The plumbing for both the waste pipe and the water supply must also be carefully routed and connected within the wall cavity.

For maintenance, an access panel is typically installed in the wall, often integrated with the flush plate. While daily use is hassle-free, any significant repairs to the internal components would require a plumber to access the cistern through this panel. While this might sound daunting, the robust nature of modern in-wall systems means they are designed for long-term reliability, and major repairs are infrequent.

The Power of the In-Wall Cistern

The concept of the in-wall cistern is central to the design of a wall-mounted toilet, but it can also be used with other toilet types, creating a unified and streamlined look.

Definition and Structure

An in-wall cistern system is a pre-packaged unit that houses the toilet’s flushing mechanism and water tank entirely within the wall. It is the invisible engine that powers the modern toilet suite. The system typically consists of a sturdy frame, a durable plastic cistern, and a connection point for a flush plate. The flush plate itself is often a stylish, push-button panel that is the only part of the cistern visible to the user.

Advantages of In-Wall Systems

In-wall cisterns deliver a range of significant benefits:

• Exceptional Space Saving: By eliminating the bulky external tank, they can save up to 20 cm of space in a bathroom, a considerable amount in small layouts.
• Enhanced Hygiene and Cleaning: With fewer exposed surfaces and no gaps between the cistern and the wall, these systems are a dream to clean, as there are fewer places for dust and grime to accumulate.
• Superior Noise Reduction: The wall acts as a sound barrier, effectively muffling the noise of the cistern filling with water after a flush, providing a much quieter and more peaceful bathroom experience.
• Aesthetic Flexibility: In-wall cisterns allow for a variety of flush plate designs, from simple buttons to modern sensor-activated plates, which can be chosen to match the bathroom’s other fixtures and fittings.

Installation and Maintenance

The installation of an in-wall cistern requires a wall with sufficient depth, typically at least 10 cm, to accommodate the frame and tank. In new constructions or major remodels, this is easily factored into the design. In older homes, it might require building out the wall slightly to create the necessary cavity. As with wall-mounted toilets, professional installation is crucial to ensure the system is properly sealed and secured. The flush plate doubles as an access point for maintenance. While this can seem intimidating, modern systems are designed to be easily serviced by a qualified plumber, and the need for access is infrequent under normal use.

The Practical Solution: Skew Toilet Pans

While wall-mounted and in-wall toilets are often the go-to for contemporary design, a third modern option, the skew toilet, offers a highly practical solution to a common renovation challenge.

How Skew Toilets Work

A skew toilet is a type of toilet pan designed for specific plumbing configurations. Unlike standard toilets, which are connected to a waste pipe coming straight out of the floor or directly from the back of the wall, a skew toilet has its waste outlet angled to the side. This clever design allows the toilet to connect to a waste pipe that is offset to the left or right, often a legacy of older plumbing layouts or awkward architectural features.

The Practical Problem They Solve

In many renovation projects, a homeowner might want to replace an old toilet but discovers that the existing waste pipe is not in a standard position. Redirecting the pipe through the floor can be an expensive, labour-intensive, and disruptive process, requiring the breaking of concrete slabs or extensive re-plumbing. A skew toilet pan provides an elegant workaround, allowing for a modern toilet installation without the need for major structural changes. It solves a practical problem while still providing a clean and updated look.

Benefits and Ideal Scenarios

• Cost and Time Savings: The most significant advantage of a skew toilet is the avoidance of costly re-plumbing work. It simplifies the installation process, reducing both the overall cost and the time required for the bathroom renovation.
• Problem-Solving Design: They are the perfect solution for tricky spaces where plumbing cannot be easily altered.
• Improved Aesthetics: Modern skew pans have evolved beyond their purely functional origins. Today, many models are streamlined and stylish, offering a far more appealing aesthetic than the bulky toilets they often replace.

Who Should Consider a Skew Toilet?

A skew toilet is an excellent choice for anyone renovating a bathroom in an older home where the existing plumbing layout is non-standard. If you are replacing a toilet and find that the waste pipe is coming from the side rather than the back or floor, a skew toilet is a highly practical and budget-friendly option that can save you significant time and hassle.

Making the Right Choice: A Comparative Summary

Deciding between these modern toilet options depends on a combination of factors: your budget, the nature of your project (new build vs. renovation), and your aesthetic and functional priorities.

• Wall-Mounted Toilets: Best for those prioritising a sleek, minimalist look and who have the budget and scope for a major renovation or new build. Ideal for smaller bathrooms where creating a sense of space is crucial.
• In-Wall Systems: A component of the wall-mounted solution, but can be used with specific floor-mounted pans to hide the cistern. Best for those who want a clean, minimalist aesthetic and quiet operation but may not want the floating bowl.
• Skew Toilets: The practical hero of renovation. Best for homeowners who need to replace a toilet but are faced with non-standard plumbing configurations and want to avoid expensive and disruptive re-plumbing.

A Final Thought

The modern toilet has evolved from a simple necessity into a key design element. By understanding the unique features of wall-mounted, in-wall, and skew systems, you can select a fixture that not only meets your functional needs but also elevates the entire design of your bathroom. The right choice can save you space, simplify cleaning, and provide a quiet, comfortable experience for years to come. Whether you’re planning a complete bathroom renovation or simply upgrading your existing toilet, retailers like MyHomeware offer a comprehensive selection of modern toilet systems to help you find the perfect fit for your space and style preferences.

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Words Carrol Baker

Let’s take the chill out of the air and inject some ambience to create a relaxing retreat in your bathroom. There are many ways you can spruce up the space so it’s warm and welcoming. Creating greenspaces in your bathroom by introducing plants doesn’t just help to purify the air, it creates a feeling of warmth and comfort. Some plants like peace lilies and ivy will thrive in moist bathroom environments.

Mirrors in a bathroom serve a practical function and can also add warmth. When positioned opposite a window, a mirror can bounce light around the room. Opt for larger mirrors where possible to invite in more light to create a cosy feel.

Recycled glass and natural materials like timber, stone and bamboo offer a sense of organic connection to the natural world. Add generous fluffy towels and a large bathmat you can sink your toes into when you step out of the shower.

The right colour scheme can also ramp up the warm and fuzzy feel in this typically cool space. Your bathroom does not have to be neutral – inject splashes of colour to add personality to the space. Soft tactile texture will also introduce warmth. Vanity handles and decor in natural fibres and materials can also add moments of luxury and softness.

Warm as toast

New-generation bathroom heating options are creating cleaner, greener environments and are tapping into smart technology and innovation to generate cosy spaces you’ll love.

Infrared heating in bathrooms has been a gamechanger. Mark Coory, managing director of Capisco, says infrared is perfect for bathrooms for a host of reasons. “Wet or dry, infrared feels like the sun is shining on you,” he says. “It’s radiant heat so instead of heating and moving air, which can feel cool on you if you’re wet, it passes through the air and heats objects and the room directly, including us.” As an added benefit, infrared helps to create a healthy environment in your bathroom. “Because it heats up the environment, it reduces condensation, damp and mould,” adds Mark.

An infrared heater can be positioned on a wall or the ceiling, depending on the model. Some wall-mounted bathroom heaters can have specific sections to warm your towels and heat the room. “This is a great function and they are available in black- or white-glass finishes,” says Mark. “At the premium end we also have the Krystal range designed for ceilings specifically, which boasts a smaller footprint but more heating power.”

Combination heat, lighting and exhaust fans are an efficient way to keep your bathroom warm and offer illumination where and when you need it, as well as remove damp. Malcolm Russell, general manager of marketing at IXL, says there are many advantages of using a three-in-one. It can be installed in a bathroom at the time of the build, or as part of an upgrade or renovation project. “Our Luminate products are a design-led, sleek solution that offers rapid heat via the infrared heat lamp, with the added advantage of an efficient and effective air extraction fan,” he explains. “The Luminate also features a dimmable warm/cool LED light to customise your bathroom lighting environment.”

Underfloor heating — a treat for your feet

If you’ve never considered underfloor heating, it could be time. It helps to keep you and your family snug on chilly mornings, and can also potentially save you money on other heating costs. There are two main types of underfloor heating systems: electric and hydronic. Electric underfloor heating is a great way to keep toasty warm, and it’s energy efficient and on demand, improving comfort.

Sandra Skelly from Comfort Heat says hydronic floor heating is usually utilised for medium-to-large floors and is a systemic floor heating option for a building. “The electric cable floor heating system utilises a number of products for smaller rooms, renovations and new buildings,” she explains.

“Bathrooms usually have a 20–40mm screed bed; the floor heating cable is installed over the waterproof membrane under the screed bed.” This means you’ll have even, comfortable heat, and as a bonus it can also aid in drying towels and shower spaces. Sandra adds that while underfloor heating is an economical heating system, it needs to be designed for the building and planned use of the room. “It also needs to be managed by a thermostat and floor sensor to prevent wasting energy,” she suggests.

Heated towel rails

Experience the ultimate in luxury and comfort with a heated towel rail. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of wrapping a warm towel around you as you step out of a cool shower. There are two popular types – ladders and vertical.

Josh Berry, national bathware manager at Winnings, says it’s important to install the rail at a height that is easily reachable for all users. Typically, the top of the rail should be about 120-150cm from the floor. A towel ladder can of course hold more towels than a vertical rail.

With a ladder rail, towels need to be folded to look tidy, unlike a vertical rail, so factor in these things when making your decision.

Space is another matter. “When considering a 1200mm space for two vertical heated towel rails, you are limited to only heating two towels,” he notes. “However, if you opt for an 840mm x 1500mm heated ladder, such as the Hydrotherm H4 800mm electric towel rail in brushed nickel, you can support more towels for both bath/shower and face.”

Josh adds that they’re noticing a trend in bathroom designs favouring vertical heated towel rails over traditional ladder styles. “Although ladder rails are available in various colours and designs to complement bathroom design and tapware, customers, particularly in ensuites, prefer a vertical rail,” he says. “This preference is due to their design and ease of hanging up towels.”

Josh says towel rails are typically installed with a timer and they recommend using a
Wi-Fi smart switch. “You can set them to turn on automatically in the morning to provide warm towels after your shower, and turn off after a set period to keep your towels dry,”
he explains. “By drying your towels quickly, a heated towel rail helps prevent the growth of mould, mildew and bacteria.”

Position the towel rail close to the shower or bath so you have easy access. Josh says heated towel rails should be installed away from water sources to comply with safety regulations. “Typically, it should be placed outside the ‘splash zone’ of the shower or bath,” he advises.

Let’s talk thermal

Keeping your home warm and welcoming begins with applying good design principles – starting with the building envelope. This is basically the components that make up the outside structure of your home – the roof, exterior walls, floor, windows and exterior doors. In the cooler months, the ideal building envelope is a “tight” one to keep the heat in and stop the cold from entering the home. The thermal mass of your dwelling also has an important part to play.

To keep your bathroom snug and warm, make the most of the thermal mass aspects of your abode. This could be the rendered or brick walls in your bathroom, or the cement slab under your tiles, for example. Fiona Dunin from FMD Architects says thermal mass can absorb heat during the day from direct sunlight and can then re-radiate this warmth back into the home throughout the night.

“Maximise the amount of direct sunlight in the bathroom so you can harness and store the solar gain,” she says. “Basically, you’re collecting heat from sunlight; it soaks into the tiles and slab acting like a heat bank, slowly radiating that heat back into the space.”

The way your home is insulated, and the glazing you choose, can also impact on warmth in the bathroom. Fiona says ensuring external walls are well insulated and that any windows are double-glazed will stop the heat leaking back out of the building. “Homes should always be insulated; in a lot of home renovations, people might think insulation in the bathroom isn’t particularly important, but it is to stop heat transfer,” she says.

Another way to add warmth to a bathroom is through skylights. Fiona says they allow you to bring in natural daylight if you don’t have access to good northern light. “With a skylight over a bath you can look at the moon or watch the colours of a beautiful sunset,” she says. “A skylight placed near a vanity allows you to get direct daylight, so when putting makeup on you aren’t relying on electric light.”

Winter warmers

Imagine the sheer luxury of a soak in the bathtub, with the crackle and warmth of a fireplace nearby. In the UK and parts of Europe, fireplaces often keep people warm and snug during the chilly winters when temperatures drop to well below zero. Sometimes you may even find them in bathrooms.

Here in Australia, you won’t often find a fireplace in a bathroom as our winters are mild compared to Europe and other parts of the world. But it’s a trend to watch for. Kerry White from Castworks says a fireplace in a bathroom is definitely uncommon. “Most consumers who would purchase one would look at the double-sided option, so one side of the fire is in the bedroom and the other side in the bathroom,” she says.

If you’re thinking a wood-burning fire, there are also limitations, adds Kerry. “These include clearances to combustible materials like plaster and wood, and hearths if it’s positioned on a timber or combustible floor.”

This article originally appeared in Luxury Kitchens & Bathrooms.

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One of the primary goals for this renovation was to address the lack of storage in the existing bathroom. By incorporating under-vanity joinery and a strategically positioned integrated shelf detail within the Epoque Ivory wall tiles for hair and body wash products, the space was elevated to provide both functionality and style.

The custom fluted glass shower, framed in black with cross bars, pairs beautifully with the aged brass tapware, while the rich navy tiles add depth and sophistication. This combination is eye-catching during the day and transforms into a serene retreat at night, with soft lighting highlighting the textured surfaces.

Complementing the crisp white window architraves, Staron was chosen for the double vanity, featuring seamlessly integrated Staron basins. Staron not only adds to the bathroom’s visual appeal but also ensures effortless cleaning. Impervious to water, Staron Solid Surfaces is an ideal material for a wide range of applications in bathroom fitouts, offering both durability and elegance.

Working within the existing footprint, Kate transformed the bathroom from a dull, uninspiring space into a tranquil, elegant sanctuary. The result is a place of escape and relaxation—a true retreat for adults to unwind in style.

This bathroom was just one of four that were renovated simultaneously. For the master ensuite it was to be cohesive with the rest of the homes interiors but also feel just that little bit elevated compared to the family bathroom. For consistency Kate used the Staron integrated vanity tops and basins, custom stained timber veneer vanity joinery and the fluted glass across the bathrooms.

For more information

To learn about the many features and benefits of Staron visit Benefits of Staron Solid Surfaces

Kate Carter Design

Evan Ferguson – Paradigm Construction

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For this design, Mario Romano Walls (MR Walls) in the Flame pattern were chosen to elevate the room’s aesthetics. The design is meticulously carved across multiple panels, forming an organic, non-repeating texture that flows seamlessly along the walls. Thanks to MR Walls’ puzzle piece-like interlocking design with undulating edges, the panels slip together with inconspicuous joins, resulting in one continuous, stunning visual display that transforms the small space into a work of art.

Upon entering the powder room, sensor lighting instantly illuminates the walls, casting a soft, ambient glow that enhances the textured design. The three-dimensional carvings of MR Walls are beautifully echoed in the reflection of the adjacent tiles, highlighting intricate details and creating a cohesive, dynamic effect throughout the room.

Creating such a visually impactful light feature with MR Walls is effortless, with over 40 patterns to choose from—and the option for custom designs to meet unique project needs. Each panel is carved to precise, project-specific requirements, ensuring a perfect fit and exceptional design outcome. Installation is simple, and when paired with a lightbox, these panels provide a striking backlit ambiance that transforms any space.

Mario Romano Walls is an excellent lighting solution for various rooms within the home project, offering flexibility for creating dynamic lighting solutions. Further enhancing the lighting effect, multi-color LED systems can be incorporated. These allow the mood of the room to shift effortlessly, adding depth and versatility to the lighting design.

Available from Austaron Surfaces, explore the range of MR Walls here Mario Romano Walls.

For more information

Austaron Surfaces

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The studio celebrates the use of natural materials and soft forms, designing warm, timeless and inviting spaces. The studio balances a minimal approach to design, with a love for custom detailing and personalised interiors tailored to their client’s unique needs.

The studio was tasked with re-imagining the interiors of House E, a home located in Melbourne’s inner-city suburb of Elsternwick. The homeowners had recently downsized from a much larger property, and were envisioning a space that retained similar charm and detail, that reflects their love of traditional styling. Beyond form, the interiors of this family home needed to be functional and sustain their purpose for many years to come.

CJH’s approach was to create a timeless home that carefully balances contemporary and traditional elements. The minimal material palette celebrates natural materials, with a variety of warm-toned woodgrains, leathers and linens, bronze hardware and richly veined natural stone. The palette acts as a neutral foundation, ensuring long-lasting relevance for years to come.

Australian-made Wilsonart Low-Pressure Melamine Panels in Natural Ash, Hewn finish were specified alongside real timber veneer for joinery throughout the home. Originally Wilsonart LPM was specified in the wet spaces in the home and high-traffic areas like the wardrobes instead of real timber veneer for it’s durability and practicality, as well as economic benefits, to ensure the project was delivered within budget. The colour and veining consistency of LPM Natural Ash also played a part in material selection.

Once installed, the quality of the surface material made it difficult for the studio and homeowners to distinguish between the two materials, allowing the studio to deliver seamless joinery that was not only luxurious and beautiful, but also durable and practical for the high-traffic spaces in this family home.

Nestled away from the main living spaces, the master bedroom and walk-in-robe leads you to the master bathroom. The hidden bathroom sanctuary is cocooned in warmth and texture. Natural stone was crafted to create bold, custom features including a monolithic-like bathtub aswell as the benchtop and splashback of the floating vanity. The warmer tones of the natural stone were complimented by subtly textured tiles that line the floors and walls of the space. Bronze tapware, wall sconces and Linear Standard cabinetry hardware complete the luxurious, warm palette.

Wilsonart LPM Natural Ash in Hewn Finish was specified for the floating vanity, as well as overhead cabinetry that frames the overhead mirrors. Natural Ash is a realistic light-coloured, smooth-grained décor, with beige-to-light-brown hues that meld seamlessly into the calming palette. Hewn finish, a unique satin and matt embossed surface reminiscent of naturally hewed timber, further adds realistic texture and tactility to the space.

To add a touch of CJH Studio’s signature custom detailing, the low-pressure melamine panels were laid in a way that created further visual interest and texture in the bathroom. This technique elevates what was once a standard floating vanity, into a unique piece of custom joinery that is a focal point in the room.

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“There is a design language of mixed grain directions used throughout the project, which was achieved with the laminate shifting across doors and drawers in different directions.”

Cassie James-Herrick, director of CJH Studio

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A similar level of detail was carried through to the robes, where Wilsonart Natural LPM was also used for expansive joinery spanning from the floor to the ceiling, fitted with the same bronze Linear Standard hardware found in the bathroom, creating a sense of flow between the adjoining spaces.

While the large home has undergone an extensive transformation with the challenging task of melding the old with the new, CJH studio is no stranger to pushing the boundaries and re-envisioning spaces. The result is a family that beautifully balances form and function, anchored in timeless design that will stand the test of time.

For more information

HVG Building

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Stocks Designer Appliances & Bathrooms has been owned and operated by the Stock family since 1975. One of the first specialist premium appliance retailers in Brisbane, the company has grown over the years, recently being named National Retailer of the Year (2022). As Brisbane’s only one-stop kitchen, laundry and bathroom showroom, Stocks is a favourite of clients and design professionals throughout South East Queensland.

Stocks’ Clayfield and Ashgrove showrooms are the perfect destinations for homeowners, designers, architects and other design professionals to view, select and specify for kitchens, bathrooms and laundries.

As part of the Designer Appliances group, Stocks is a member of the largest independent premium appliance group in Australia. With 23 stores across Australia, the national support and buying power behind this company facilitates its friendly and expert service.

The knowledgeable team and premium-experience showrooms ensure clients receive the best advice when specifying for kitchens, laundries and bathrooms. The broad range means any new kitchen, bathroom or laundry supplied for is on trend and in tune with the home’s broader design style.

Whether completing a renovation or building a new home for yourself or a client, Stocks Designer Appliances & Bathrooms is here to help with choosing the best kitchen and laundry appliances, and the perfect bathroom products for any home, need or lifestyle.

For more information

Stocks Appliances

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Hardware & General first opened as a corner hardware store in 1960. Since then, it has expanded along Winbourne Road, Harbord Road and Pittwater Road in the northern Sydney suburb of Brookvale — and the company has added 20 specialist sales centres.

The company’s renovated and redesigned Brookvale bathroom showroom and adjoining tap showroom have an incredibly impressive depth of choice of brands and products in varying price ranges. This means products can be compared and contrasted before being locked in. What stands out the most when entering the bathroom showroom are the inspirational bathroom concept spaces, which are styled to reflect a variety of design styles to help you visualise your renovation and find the perfect products for it.

Many members of the helpful, highly professional Hardware & General showroom team have worked for the company for more than a decade, meaning they are industry specialists. Their product and technical knowledge is second to none and their deep understanding of projects and associated procedures allows for the proactive solving of problems before they impact the design and construction of your bathroom.

Hardware & General’s Brookvale bathroom showroom boasts beautiful products by an impressive range of brands, including Caroma, PARISI, PARISI Furniture, Marquis, Argent, ADP, Decina, Duravit, Bathe, Gessi, Kaldewei, Hansgrohe, Villeroy & Boch, Abey, Astra Walker, Turner Hastings, Bette, Dorf, Methven and so many more — definitely a must-visit for all Sydneysiders.

For more information

Hardware & General

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For busy people whose shower time is sometimes the only opportunity they get to relax in privacy, separated from kids and the general demands of life, that’s a real problem. It goes without saying that having a steady stream of hot water in your bathroom is something you shouldn’t live without.

In the early 1990s, Rinnai — a company that produces a range of hot water, cooling, heating and renewable products for residential homes — forever changed the way Australians enjoy their hot water with the launch of the country’s first fully electronic gas continuous flow hot water systems. It was a revolutionary leap that provided total confidence and comfort — with the security that your hot water would never run out. They called it Rinnai Infinity and it was embraced enthusiastically by consumers.

Today, on the back of ongoing research and development, the latest Rinnai Infinity units have been refined in an equally revolutionary step that gives them unparalleled performance, exceptional user comfort, outstanding energy efficiency and bonus water conservation technology to help reduce your household’s running costs and environmental footprint — while keeping your shower running hot.

A fantastic feature of the new Rinnai Infinity Continuous Flow models is that they consume no energy until you turn on a tap, meaning you get superior comfort for less money than before. With a range of models available, you can select the right-capacity Rinnai Infinity for your current hot water needs or allow for future increase in demand as your family expands, which is a wise choice that will save you money long-term.

Taking up less space than earlier designs, the slimline Rinnai Infinity Continuous Flow unit offers other technical and sustainability enhancements including precise temperature control display, low-emission burners, enhanced safety monitor and Puretemp stability control. The compact unit will deliver hot water without the need for a power point, making it ideal for replacement of current systems or low-demand hot water applications.

You can customise and complete your Rinnai Infinity Continuous Flow system by installing at least one of a comprehensive range of hot water controllers and accessories to enhance your hot water experience, allowing you to set your desired hot water temperature, turn on the hot tap and enjoy your water just the way you like it.

Made for Australia, Rinnai Infinity Continuous Flow hot water products have been designed and engineered to withstand tough Australian conditions while maintaining performance and reliability. Ubiquitous in homes across the country for 30 years, Rinnai Infinity units are tried and tested, and the obvious choice for your hot water needs. After all, we all deserve a long hot shower and a bit of pampering.

For more information

Rinnai

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In yesteryears, bathrooms have been overlooked and undervalued spaces, often cramming too much into too little. But nowadays, our bathrooms have become our own private oasis, a well-designed escape and a must have luxury for old and new homes alike. Wet areas are usually the first to get a renovation makeover, seeing as how they often hold the most dated elements of style from eras past. Bathrooms have become the key space to create beauty in, where pretty can really pack a punch while still meeting all the practical requirements.

With new builds incorporating three, four or more bathrooms and powder rooms into their floor plan, each wet area can be designed with similarities and selections that speak to each other from either end of the home, while maintaining some unique qualities, ensuring each space is equally unforgettable. Here are some design element to consider.

Timeless tiles and walls of wonder

The tiles you select for your bathroom are ever so important. These are not an easy or cheap item to replace, so make sure your selection will remain elegant as your personal style evolves over the years. Carrara marble floor tiles are sure to stand the test of time and elevate your bathroom to a haven of luxury. Available in a wide range of shapes and sizes, you can get creative with the pattern in each wet room while remaining cohesive in the material. A Coastal or a Country Hamptons home may use an encaustic tile in a dainty repeat pattern, introducing a warm neutral colour palette.

Your shower walls demand attention and are an excellent contender for a statement feature. You may choose to continue the floor tile up the wall to the ceiling, or a totally different tile design may tickle your fancy. Subway, fish scale and herringbone are obvious choices suiting almost every substyle under the Hamptons banner, but modern homes see a more dramatic look, with large slabs of marble and minimal grout lines for a seamless effect. A Moroccan mosaic is an alternative tile pattern that is both subtle and extravagant.

If you choose not to tile every wall from floor to ceiling, you still have some gorgeous design choices remaining. Hardie Groove Lining from James Hardie is a type of VJ panelling that gives the look of tongue and groove timber with the durability of fibre cement. Unlike timber or craft VJ panels, Hardie Groove won’t shrink or swell with exposure to moisture and is ideal for use in wet areas as a feature wall and as a splashback above your vanity.

We sometimes see wainscoting in bathrooms also to really accentuate the classic style. A gorgeous wallpaper above can communicate your individual style and make each wet area feel entirely unique. Another wall combination optimal for a coastal home is using VJ panelling to half height with a lovely dado rail moulding finishing off the top, and grass-cloth wallpaper to the ceiling.

Tasteful benchtops, basins and tapware

For a full family bathroom and a main ensuite, a double basin vanity with lots of bench space is essential. A pedestal vanity is a great way to make use of limited space in a powder room, as will a minimalistic wall-mounted basin.

Tying in Carrara marble benchtops from the kitchen, you can then select an undermount basin or a feature vessel basin that sits upon the benchtop. In a Modern Hamptons home, you may opt for an integrated sink that is made from concrete or stone for a seamless look.

Traditionally, we see hob-mounted vanity taps (meaning it is installed directly into the benchtop surface) for a visually appealing finish. Wall-mounted taps maximise your bench space while appearing stylishly modern. Consider the distance to your basin and your preferred neck shape to decide which fitting is right for you.

Frameless shower screens will not distract from the glamourous jewels that are your shower head and tap. A handheld shower head is a regular addition to the usual set, and in Classic Hamptons homes we see beautiful porcelain handles make a statement in the tapware.

As in the kitchen, choose a tapware finish that speaks to your individual Hamptons style. If you are thinking of mixing metals in a bathroom, matte black with polished nickel or chrome are always a great pairing.

Creative cabinetry and storage

It is the constant struggle of every family to have enough storage. Never is this truer than in a bathroom, where the footprint is limited and so many things demand significant space. A thoughtfully designed vanity should alleviate your storage woes and inject design elements sure to be the envy of all.

A Shaker-style door profile is the go-to choice for a Hamptons home, and a combination of cupboard doors and drawers makes sorting your bathroom products a breeze. Colour is key here, setting the tone for the atmosphere you want in your bathrooms.

Are you aiming for classic and calming? You can’t go wrong with an off-white. Are you more coastal inclined and little bit fun? Play around with different shades of blue. Maybe you appreciate an organic country aesthetic more? Then oak timber is for you. Modern-leaning millennials may elect for a dramatic black vanity or a white-on-white look. And if you want that tropical feeling, a warm walnut wood with faux bamboo framing would look extraordinary.

If you’re looking for vanity door fronts that are equally chic and visually interesting, other designs include rattan inserts, a Chippendale trellis, a VJ like linear groove pattern or reeded timber. Repurposed consoles or buffets sometimes get a new life acting as a bathroom vanity, sure to take your breath away every time you see it.

Much like the kitchen, knobs on doors and half-moon pull handles on drawers are simple and timeless selections.

Reflect the light

The finishing touches of a bathroom should not be rushed or undervalued — they could make or break this space. A gorgeous mirror above your vanity is a like a crown on the head of this regal room. We see a lot of frameless mirrors in a variety of circles, arches and rectangle shapes, but it is so much more special to see brass or bamboo framing your reflection. A nickel porthole mirror is a great option for coastal bathrooms or even a frame upholstered in luxurious velvet to coordinate with the colours of your feature wallpaper. Each basin should be directly under a mirror, so it is up to you whether you add one mirror of full horizontal length or a pair of two.

Wall sconces either side of your mirrors are a worthy investment also. A bathroom should be well lit, with both natural and artificial light. Here is where you could mix your metals, contrasting your tap and hardware finishes with another material for your lighting.

Don’t miss the opportunity to hang a wow-factor pendant over your bath! Whether it be centralised or off to one end, this will become a divine focal point and provide a calming ambience for your bubble bath routine.

This article originally appeared in Hamptons Living #1

The post Hamptons Styling for your Bathroom appeared first on Completehome.

A clear brief sets the parameters of your budget and what you are looking for when it comes to your chosen living style and aesthetics. However, this doesn’t come without effort. Good communication between you and your architect is key.

But how do you find the right architect to work with in the first place? Rob Harris, director of Elements at Home Architecture & Building Design suggests thinking about your ideal brief and budget first to find someone who will suit your needs.

“Think about your brief. Is it a new home or a renovation? Are you looking for a single or double storey?” he says. “Work out your budget — an approximate figure is fine at this stage. Letting me know if you have a $100,000 or $500,000 budget helps me to tell you what you can and cannot do.”

Choosing your architect

With so many architects to choose from, it can feel a little overwhelming. Each one has a different style and costs can vary. Rob suggests asking people for referrals first, especially from those who are local.

“Referrals are the best. Finding someone local is important and preferred but not critical,” he says. “Just make sure to review their website and check for a name and number and if there are examples showcased of work that you like.” Asking questions such as “does their work feel relatable?” and “are there any testimonials or reviews?” helps narrow down the pool of choices to someone you will feel comfortable working with.

In these days of social media, this can make it a little easier. Rob suggests checking out a company’s Instagram page and starting an initial conversation. “It’s important to have a connection and you will know that through your first meeting.”

Creating the brief

The brief is the final product of a collaboration between you and your architect. It will be used throughout the build of your dream home to keep everyone on the same page. To create the perfect brief, Rob recommends clients do a brain dump onto paper of everything they want.

“When I meet clients for the first time, I ask them to download everything in their head — to give me their wish list,” he says. “Ideally they will have thought about this prior to our meeting and have lots of notes and images.”

A word document full of images, a Pinterest board or scrapbook of magazine cut-outs helps architects find a starting point. It defines your style and provides insight into what you want your dream home to look like.

“I also want to know how your family lives,” says Rob. “How do they function and interact during the week and on weekends? Do you have children and what are their ages? It’s important to consider not only the now, but what your future needs are. I have personal experience to help with this as my children are teenagers and I understand the requirements of a growing family and how these requirements change over the years.”

What to avoid

When creating and finalising a brief, sometimes things can go haywire. An architect can misunderstand a sketch or a client may feel undecided. Here are a few tips Rob recommends might help with finalising that all-important brief:

1. Often items are forgotten during the first meeting. Rob suggests writing a list of bullet points, like a wish list, before the meeting so you can discuss them.
2. Some clients are fixated on a particular way of planning their house. They have a specific layout in mind. If, in your architect’s opinion, it doesn’t work because the spaces don’t flow well, the orientation to the sun is wrong or there is poor circulation space (the areas people walk through), your architect will tell you and will suggest and design the best way to do it. “I will also draw the way the clients want to do it and explain the pros and cons for each; ultimately it is the owners’ decision,” says Rob.
3. Often clients want to show their sketches or ideas. “I don’t want to see them initially as I don’t want to be influenced by them,” says Rob. “I will come up with my own design based on their brief and, more often than not, I will come up with something different, something they haven’t thought about. That’s the best part.”

Find architect Rob Harris’s work at Elements of Home, elementsofhome.com.au or
@elements_of_home on Instagram.

Photo by Maria Orlova

The post Tips for choosing the right architect and starting your build right appeared first on Completehome.