Those of us living in period homes don't have to miss out on an ultra-modern bathroom. There are numerous ways in which we can create contemporary luxury bathrooms within traditional houses.

Don't be mean with your budget when choosing wall finishes, bathroom furniture and accessories. The overall effect will not be in keeping with the rest of your property. Tiles should both be as large as possible and extend up the entire height of the wall, or tiny and used as a shimmering mosaic. Mirrors should be as generous as possible. Baths in modern stylish curved designs work well in period homes, as do more upbeat contemporary freestanding baths in traditional shapes. The right shower enclosure can add to this modern feel, especially if you choose from one of the frameless or minimalist ranges.

If you have restricted space, it may be difficult to achieve an up-to-the-minute look, which works best with lots of natural light and space. A softer, more traditional look can be achieved in smaller bathrooms by choosing products designed for a limited space. Furniture can make a difference to a small bathroom. Many manufacturers offer stylish, carefully designed furniture that incorporates clever space saving ideas, often needed in smaller bathrooms. Lighting is important, whichever look you are seeking. It can give the impression of shadow and space. Quality halogen lighting, in the form of spotlights or lamps, gives a contemporary feel.

Choosing A Freestanding Bath
Choosing a freestanding bath used to be a luxury reserved for those with a large bathroom, but no longer. Modern technology means that a wide range of designs and sizes are now available, allowing many more people to incorporate a freestanding bath into their bathroom design. With space not an issue, freestanding baths can be built into one wall, included in an ensuite, used with showers over or even built into a corner.

Traditional freestanding baths were made from cast iron, which is very heavy, making the bath difficult to fit. However, modern freestanding baths are made from acrylic, which provides many benefits over cast iron and these are now much more popular. Acrylic baths can be moulded from a single sheet of acrylic and then reinforced for strength and rigidity. This will vary in thickness, typically 4mm to 8mm. A better option is a double-skinned acrylic freestanding bath, which is stronger than a normal acrylic bath and lighter than cast iron. The main advantages of acrylic as a bath material are that it is warm to the touch and retains water temperature longer than baths made from other materials. It is also lighter and therefore easier to transport and install. Acrylic also offers a wide range of colour options, allowing the option of colour co-ordinating a bath to match a bathroom. Designs are not limited; any size or shape bath can be manufactured and this has led to a wide range, both traditional and contemporary.

Traditional freestanding baths, such as the slipper-style bath of Victorian times is one option for a period home. This style of bath offers the option of different feet and taps, so that you can make it the perfect fit for your bathroom. Another traditional style is that of the boat-style bath which has a wonderfully elegant to-the-floor design. For an ultra cool, contemporary bathroom, you could choose a much more angular shaped bath or a modern style slipper bath that has the same shaped tub but can be a to-the-floor model or have a wooden cradle.

A freestanding bath can create a stunning focal point if placed in the centre of a bathroom. Modern shapes can make a real design statement when used in this way. For those so inclined, these baths are also often large enough for two people. There are now freestanding baths available that can give you the Spa experience. A jet spray which can be relaxing or invigorating, with controls that are not only easy to operate but inherently safe and will enhance your bathing experience. Finally, the details make a big difference to an interior. Make sure you choose the right feet and taps to finish off your fantastic new bath properly.

Choosing A Shower Enclosure
When showers first entered the market, they became popular because people with busy lifestyles did not have time for baths. Whilst this is still part of the philosophy of showering, times have changed and in line with the general trend to use the bathroom as a refuge for relaxation, showers have themselves become luxury items.

The range of different shower enclosures can be awe-inspiring, but a useful starting point is to consider the size of enclosure that you want and the space available. You should be able to find the perfect shower enclosure for an en suite, luxury bathroom or family bathroom. Contemporary enclosures that offer the "wow" factor don't necessarily have to take up loads of room. Many leading brands allow you to choose different arrangements and panels, so you can use as many or as few as needed. Some enclosures can be very plain, whilst others are intricately detailed or extremely new and contemporary. Your enclosure also doesn't have to be a rectangular box anymore; there are many designs now that are made up of curves, offering a little individuality to a bathroom.

Finally, you need to decide what you want from your shower. Whether it is just to wash or a pampering experience with jets, hand held showers and seats. The latest shower enclosures incorporate a column as part of the frame that holds all of these different functions. Research the market well before you make any decisions, and whatever budget and space you have available, make sure you consult an expert before you start to draw up your plans.

Buying Advice
1. No one would buy a car without test-driving it first, and your new room can carry a similar price tag, so don't waste your time with a salesman who visits your home with just a door sample to show you. Make sure you visit a showroom and check out the quality for yourself.

2. Don't accept a quote for the design and installation of the room until a retailer has visited your home. Once they have completed a survey, ensure you have a full quotation ..

3. Never pay a deposit of more than 25% of the total value and ensure that you are supplied with a written schedule for payments.

4. Never pay in full until you have received delivery of your goods..

5. Do not sign anything unless you are certain to honour your side of the contract. Some "Terms and Conditions" have expensive cancellation clauses.
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14 August 2008
Close couple toilet & cistern, brand new.
£40
WV12
11 August 2008
Bath lift is unused, boxed and reasonably new. it was an unwanted gift. useful for elderly people who have trouble getting in and out of the bath. 350 pounds ono - pick up only contact lin on 0121 779 7980 or 07928364776.
£350
B93
15 June 2008
Bath, white, in good condition, has hand grips, shower mixer tap to one end 1750x700 £ 50 ono.
SG18
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