Shabby Chic Bathroom Design – roll top and cast iron baths

SHABBY CHIC
BATHROOM DESIGN

“Shabby chic”, a relatively new phrase used to describe room designs, is an obscure blend of neglect and style. It is one of the most difficult bathroom designs to create, and it takes a bold decision to go for this bathroom style. It almost certainly achieves its full potential in a continental house, either a French chateau or old Spanish villa.

The absolute opposite of a fitted bathroom, the shabby chic look is a mismatch of styles and products. You can even do the unexpected, like put a put a refrigerator in the corner. Nothing is expected to match and
pipe work and plumbing are on show rather than concealed. This style is best suited to those who have inherited a bathroom and want to update it a little rather than fork out on a brand new bathroom suite. 

The key to decoration is neutral tones with a few dark
colours. For the walls choose a matte or flat wall paint. Pale golds and yellows work particularly well as does floral or check patterned wallpaper.

As with the country and traditional bathrooms, cast iron baths are a must. Either a roll-top or slipper bath will do, and although you don‘t want holes or rust, the more dilapidated it looks the better. Even consider running sandpaper over the paint work and claw feet.

For the ultra daring and unconventional use an Asian squat toilet or high-level cistern toilet. It’s always worth looking out for old fittings at antique shops and car boot sales, old faucets and antique radiators.

Counter top basins are highly recommended in this setting, and look out for extremely unusual decorated designs. Place it on a washstand or run-down vanity unit. Add unique ornaments and antique framed mirrors. With all the accessories you get the chance to be truly
adventurous. Toilet brushes, toilet roll holders, toothbrush holders can be almost any style you want.

Remember – the shabby chic look is all about the designers imagination, so let your ideas run wild, and remodel the bathroom in a design like no other.