Bathroom tile zoning for a terraced Victorian property
We speak to designer Rebecca Milnes about her latest North London renovation, including patterned tiles and a cast iron bath
According to recent studies, Victorian houses are still one of Britain’s favourite architectural types of building to look at and live in. But it’s likely that this popularity doesn’t stretch to most Victorian bathrooms – as they were usually adapted from the smallest bedroom space as bathrooms moved inside.
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This was the case for Marcus and Rupinder when they first moved in, here’s what they did.
The project in a nutshell:
Who lives here? Marcus Fairs, founder of Dezeen magazine, his wife Rupinder and their two young children
Location: North London
Property style: Terraced
Designer: Rebecca Milnes, CP Hart
Decade property was originally built: Victorian period
On the top floor of the four storey house, two side-by-side doors from the landing opened on to a small shower and toilet next to another small room with a bath and basin.
“We wanted to replace them with a large family bathroom that all four of us could use at the same time, if needed, without it feeling crowded”, says Marcus.
As part of an extension to the rear of their home the couple created a larger guest room on the first floor, taking the opportunity to extend the top floor above to match and to create the larger bathroom they wanted.
A soaring ceiling and room full of space was the result, equipped with walk-in shower, underfoot heating, a cast iron bath and double wash basin. Now all four members of the family can use the room without it feeling cramped.
The window has also been expanded to capture sweeping views of the city. “We just love the sense of space and luxury,” smiles Marcus.
Designer Rebecca Milnes explains that she focused on creating zones for showering bathing and washing because it was a spacious room.
This zoning was aided by using tiles in sections. “Rupinder picked the striking patterned tiles by the Spanish architect and designer Patricia Urquiola, and the boldness of their look is balanced by sections of plain tiles in similar grey hues,” explains Milnes.
The curves of the mirror and bath help to soften out the sharp lines of the tiles. The free standing bath has a classic traditional look and is the perfect place to gaze out at the street below whilst soaking the day away.
