This is another in our series of blog posts dedicated to cleaning and caring for your bathroom and the materials typically involved. Today we’ll learn how to clean washbasins without damaging their surfaces, so they’re always like new.

As we mentioned in the post regarding bathtub maintenance, maintaining a daily cleaning routine will make periodic cleaning easier and quicker.

Cleaning the washbasin: how do washbasins differ in terms of cleaning? 

Firstly, let’s identify the broad categories of washbasins:

• Sit-on, built-in or semi built-in: the edge or joint between the top and washbasin requires special attention;
• Integrated washbasin: consists of one continuous slab (i.e. made of just one material).

In the former case, top and washbasin may be in two different materials, so our advice is to check that you can treat both in the same way. As mentioned before, joints require extra care: our tip is to use a soft toothbrush every now and again to remove limescale deposit and soiled or soapy residue from those parts awkward to reach with a sponge.

Integrated washbasins are very easy to clean because there is no gap between the top and basin. Obviously, also here you need to read the maintenance instructions for the type of material (given in the instructions booklet included in the packing) to make sure you choose the right detergent.  

Here are our instructions for cleaning resin tops.

Here how to care for tops in natural materials.

Last but not least, freestanding washbasins. These are very easy to clean, being a single block, but a good tip is to periodically rinse and dry the entire washbasin surface, including the out-of-sight rear. 

How to clean washbasins? It all depends on the material! 

And so we come to the question of materials. Because we have already dealt thoroughly with the subject on our blog, here we will give cleaning instructions for each product, summarising all the information relating to washbasins in one place.

Ceramic washbasins: care and maintenance

Ceramic is one of the most practical and easiest to clean materials. It can be cleaned with any common detergent, including harsh ones, and requires little care to look as good as new. 

• Daily cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water;
• Limescale deposits > use citric acid powder diluted in water (see the proportions on the product packaging), then dry;
• Deep cleaning and surface renovation(e.g. to remove cosmetics and soap residue) > use a sponge to wipe the surface with a creamy detergent (e.g. Jif Cream) and then rinse thoroughly

Mineralsolid washbasins: care and maintenance

Mineralsolid is made of recycled PET polyester resins, coated with matt gelcoat (epoxy or polyester resin finish that makes surfaces water repellent, adding attractive aesthetics or colour).

• Daily cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water
• Deep cleaning and surface renovation > apply a creamy detergent (for example Cif Cream) with a Scotch Brite abrasive sponge (provided), then rinse thoroughly

Mineralux washbasins: care and maintenance

Mineralux is made of recycled PET polyester resins, coated with glossy gelcoat (the only difference from Mineralsolid).

• Daily cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water
• Deep cleaning and surface brightening > using a solution of ¼ water and ¾ bleach, wipe the surface with a sponge, leave to stand for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly
• Superficial scratches and stains: use a polishing compound

Marble washbasins: care and maintenance

Marble is a natural material that is particularly elegant and always in vogue. It boasts numerous colours and patterns, and is ideal for the bathroom. Nevertheless, since it’s natural, it needs some extra care.

• Daily cleaning and care: marble is a naturally porous material that tends to absorb liquids, so it is fundamental that any spill is wiped off immediately to prevent permanent stains;
• Hard water stains: Being a calcareous stone, marble must never be cleaned with common descaling detergents, which – like all acid substances – would corrode the surface irreparably;
• Mild solutions: marble tops can be cleaned daily with Marseille soap or baking soda (or other mild, neutral soaps) diluted in water. Rub any stain with a microfibre or woollen cloth, rinse well and wipe dry immediately to prevent marks and stains;
• Professional detergents and tools for more thorough cleaning: cleaning products specifically designed for marble are on sale in shops and supermarkets. They are excellent for cleaning and protecting your marble top and preserving its natural shine;
• Superficial scratches and stains: you can restore your marble top to its original condition with the help of special polishing pads (on sale in shops). Alternatively, you can refer to a specialised stonemason.

Cristalplant washbasins: care and maintenance

Cristalplant® is a solid surface made of pure aluminium trihydrate minerals bound with Biobased® vegetal resins (corn/maize), which gives a soft touch surface with a matt stone effect. It is highly resistant, also to yellowing, and is recyclable, hygienic and repairable.  

• Daily cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water
• Deep cleaning and surface renovation > apply a creamy detergent (for example Cif Cream) with a Scotch Brite abrasive sponge (provided), then rinse thoroughly
• Superficial scratches and stains > use the Scotch Brite sponge provided
• Deep scratches and stubborn stains > request the renovation kit (as the colour is applied to the material as a paste, it can be repaired with the product supplied; no need to call an expert)

Corian and Aquatek washbasins: care and maintenance

Aquatek and Corian are both manufactured with the same raw materials, particularly extremely strong acrylic resins that are easy to clean and can be repaired when damaged. Below are instructions for keeping them in perfect condition:

• Daily cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water
• Deep cleaning and surface brightening > using a solution of ¼ water and ¾ bleach, wipe the surface with a sponge, leave to stand for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly
• Superficial scratches and stains > use the Scotch Brite sponge provided
• Deep scratches and stubborn stains > request the renovation kit (as the colour is applied to the material as a paste, it can be repaired with the product supplied; no need to call an expert)

How to clean washbasins: don’t forget the plughole and drain 

One of the most neglected parts of the washbasin is the joint between the bowl material and the metal on the plughole. Make sure you don’t forget to clean the under part of the drain plug regularly (now often click-clack or free drain, opened by simply clicking or twisting) to remove dirt, limescale, hair, cosmetics and soap residue.

There are special detergents available for occasional cleaning of drains to free them of any blockages and keep them smelling fresh and clean.

Did you already know all this? If you have any doubts, consult one of our retailers.

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The latest issue of the Dogma catalogue introduces plenty of new features that reflect the latest furnishing trends: let’s explore them together!

As we just said: more finishes, and a brand new modular system

The restyling of the Dogma collection starts with an extension of modularity options. With three heights to choose from – 16, 51 and 70 cm – the collection has become more functional and capacious, and indeed perfectly compatible with modern furnishing requirements. More modular options also mean greater flexibility in arranging the cabinets, which easily adapt to space requirements in the bathroom without having to be made to measure.

Dogma’s new modularity: start designing your bathroom now

Another new addition is the open side-end unit in fumé glass, which adds a distinctive touch of lightness and elegance to the bathroom. Two depths (36 and 50 cm) and heights (35 and 51 cm) are available, as well as an open wall unit and end module for tall and wall units: an element that completes and enhances bathroom furnishing suites and has both a functional and aesthetic role.

The Dogma catalogue is also brand new: browse it now

The range of finishes has been expanded to include five  new colours for the Rovere finish (sbiancato, visone, fumo, mattone, moro) , which have been added to the naturale colour.  Fronts and sides can be clad with 6 mm thick porcelain stoneware  (textured or flamed) to match tops  with the same thickness and finish.
In addition to marble, already in the Dogma collection, new materials have been introduced to expand design options as ditacted by the latest furnishing trends.

Wall system: a new way of furnishing the bathroom

The new Wall System is an innovative modular system that separates the washbasin from the cabinets: the Dogma washbasin metal support frame (or any freestanding washbasin) can be installed in front of the 18 cm deep modules, which serve as back panelling and storage cabinets at the same time.

Behind the taller fronts there is a storage shelf for cosmetics and personal toiletries.
On request, the cabinets can be fitted with sensor-operated internal LED lights that turn on automatically when the doors are opened.

A made-to-measure version of the Dogma washbasin is now available. A new handle has been added to the existing range. 

Dogma’s design flexibility is further enhanced by the introduction of the made-to-measure Dogma washbasin with an integrated shelf, which makes the most of existing space.

For those who are looking for an alternative to the push-pull system, the Dogma collection now features the new  Teorema handle. It is available in all matt, glossy and metal colours to create a colour-coordinated style in the bathroom. On deep drawers, Teorema handles are always fitted top right  to create an original, dynamic visual effect.

A further new feature? The same metal frame that characterises the Dogma washbasin unit, previously only available black, now also comes in titanio, oro and rame, expanding coordination possibilities.

Do you like our collection? Explore it here

New drawers, new storage units

The Dogma collection features new drawers with anthracite solid steel sides that are only 8 mm thick to create even more storage space and make the drawers look even lighter. On request, the drawer sides are available in Fumé glass to match the open cabinets.

A further novelty is the introduction of storage units with Fumé glass fronts with a Bronzo-finish frame with integrated handle, and the option of internal LED lights on request. These new storage units can be mixed and matched to create original furnishing suites where varying heights and depths create a lighter visual effect.

Designing a bathroom with the Dogma collection is easier than ever, with the many new finish and modularity options. Visit one of our dealers to find out how you can design your ideal bathroom, and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest in washbasins and coloured bathtubs.

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Remember: size doesn’t matter. It is possible to turn a small bathroom into a stylish mini space (see our blog post: Furnishing a small bathroom in style).

Compact yet capacious: small, in fact ultra-small bathroom furniture

When depth is the major constraint, it is necessary to find furnishing suites that have really compact dimensions but are designed in such a way as to offer some counter space and, if possible, also include a small closed storage space. Cloakroom washbasin is the term used for washbasins with a shallow depth (less than 36 cm): find below some examples from our collections.

If the bathroom can accommodate a slightly larger vanity unit (still within the 60/70 cm width range), options widen to include floor-standing solutions, for example, which usually feature an additional deep drawer. If possible, depths become more generous, providing for useful interior storage space for organising bathroom essentials.

Below you will find some bathroom décor solutions that can be customized to meet your individual needs.

With a variety of colours and finishes to choose from, each collection offers textured finishes, wood finishes, and colour nuances to fit any bathroom style.

Small in size but mighty grand: the free-standing washbasin

Lastly, mention should be made of the free-standing washbasin (a stylish new take on the traditional ceramic pedestal washbasin), which can also be compact in size, making it a good choice for small but boldly contemporary bathrooms.

Free-standing washbasins are almost always quite compact. They can be mounted against a wall or a corner , to utilise empty space in an original manner.

As they do not provide storage space, you can use the adjacent walls for hanging wall and tall units – either open or with doors – for storing your laundry and personal care products. The free-standing washbasin takes centre stage when the storage function is shifted elsewhere.

The following are some inspirations:

Designing and furnishing a very small bathroom can be challenging, and we have talked about it several times on our blog. Here are some posts that you may find useful:

• Small, narrow bathroom? Here are the space-saving shower enclosures;
• Renovating a small bathroom is no longer a problem;
• How to fit a dryer into a small bathroom.

Please rely on the support of a professional expert in this field, because solutions for making the most of every inch of space do exist, but they must be thoroughly considered in order to weigh up every possible alternative, always taking into account the requirements of those who will be using the bathroom on a daily basis.

Keep following our blog and subscribe to our newsletter to receive our design tips. Visit one of our dealers to discuss all décor options for your small bathroom.

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How has the general perception of the bathroom changed over the last few years? How often do people’s preferences and habits with regards to the most private room in the house change? And does bathroom furniture itself have to change to adapt to these changes?

It’s been a year since we posted Interior design trends for your bathroom: 2022 and it’s time to update you with the latest trends and confirm what’s hot, and what’s not. Here are the five main trends we predict for bathroom décor in 2023:

1. Colour

Vibrant, intense and dominant: colour is one of the main elements that characterises and defines the style of a contemporary bathroom. Regardless of the wide fan base neutral colours evoke, colour breathes life into a room giving it its own vibe and personality. But how can you use colour in the bathroom? Should it be on the floor? On the walls? In the furniture? Or a sum of the accessories and towels?

…What if the response is: all of them

Let’s have a look at the photos from the Ideagroup stand during the last Cersaie (2022). Here, an intense yellow colour (Giallo Bikini) steals the show. The same colour is used for the vanity unit (Dogma collection), tall units, etched glass top, shower tray (Dual, in Tecnogel), the exterior of the Soul bathtub, and the shelf.

Opportunities for colour matching the bathroom are unlimited thanks to the new colours of the Ideagroup range, which now includes six new lacquer colours (Blu Rana, Gelatina, Neve, Porpora, Verde Foglia, Verde Glauco). Contrasting or tone-on-tone colour combinations create environments with a strong chromatic personality: don’t be scared to experiment, any trendy bathroom needs colour!

What colours go best together in a bathroom? Read the post

Not sold on the idea of too much colour? Here’s how to furnish a white bathroom.

2. Porcelain stoneware and natural marble

Although this aesthetic has traditionally been reserved for classically styled rooms, today marble is considered to be a key in contemporary and minimalism design thanks to the possibility to recreate marble veins on porcelain stoneware, a practical and easy to care for material. Washbasins, tops, cabinet fronts: stoneare can be used to create an elegant and trendy bathroom.

3. Glossy, reflective materials

After years of matt and extra-matt surfaces, glossy is making a comeback. Gloss lacquers, materials with a shiny finish, and mirror-finish drawer fronts and shower enclosures: transparent and reflective materials and finishes introduce space and light into the room, tricking the senses and giving it a feeling of airiness.

It’s a great trick for rooms that may have less than generous dimensions, while at the same time being a trendy, refined and overall aesthetically pleasing solution.

4. Bring back the bathtub

Another recent inversion of trends: decades of preference for a shower enclosure (and desire to replace old tubs) have seen a recent about-turn with more requests for bathtubs.

On the one hand there’s a desire to see the bathroom as an ambiance dedicated to well-being, often as a small personal spa, on the other there’s the fact that the dimensions of both solutions have changed.
Until a few years ago, it was a given that a shower enclosure would occupy less space than a bathtub, but today we can’t say the same. Showers as a whole have changed: larger, more spacious enclosures are often requested, even as walk-in solutions, and nowadays they often take up as much space as a bathtub.

Bathtubs, for their part have become smaller whilst still managing to guarantee both comfort and practicality. But how much space do you need to have to install a small freestanding tub?
It’s good to remember that, given you submerge yourself in a seated position, the length of a tub doesn’t necessarily impact its level of comfort. Even people of up to 1.90m can sit comfortably in a tub of 140cm length.

Bathtub or shower? How to choose

5. Colour-coordinated furniture and accessories: the total-look bathroom

A contemporary bathroom should be designed with even the smallest details in mind from the very start, which means also planning out the accessories. This means that the accessories naturally become an integral part of the bathroom itself, being coordinated with the rest of the décor in terms of colours and finishes.

To keep up with the latest trends, towel racks and shower trays can match the colour of the bathroom furnishings and shower fixings. This offers numerous options during the design process.

To recap on everything, current bathroom trends show a room full of colour and personality, in which all of the parts – thoughtfully designed to the last detail – are coordinated in a way that brings everything together in terms of finishes, colours and materials. The room can become a haven of well-being, even in the least well-endowed homes by using made-to-measure components that meet the requirements of the project.

Visit one of our retailers to see our latest products and start planning your bathroom. Sign up to our newsletter to make sure you don’t lose out on the latest news and future trends.

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Although recent trends propose lots of colours for interiors (including the bathroom), with bright shades and strong contrasts, neutral shades and white are still a very popular choice.
Be it for the sense of light and elegance, or the perception of timeless elegance, or an association with the concept of cleanliness necessarily connected with the bathroom, a white bathroom often comes up trumps for its versatility and elegance.
A colour that’s discreet but also stunning and that will adapt to every style without overpowering other elements in the room is always top of the class. However, we need to know how to use it so that we don’t end up with a dull, boring bathroom.

Using white to furnish a classical, contemporary bathroom

If you choose white as the main colour for your bathroom, you need to define a mood board to give character to its style, choose the finishes and textures to coordinate and decide which elements you want to emphasise (cabinets, tiles, bathtub or shower?). Not doing so risks creating a dull, characterless room.

Does it have to be all white? Certainly not, on the contrary.
There is no rule against choosing warmly coloured or even wood flooring, or using another colour, as long as it’s in a paler shade, to coordinate with white.

Let’s see some ideas for a classical bathroom with a not too traditional look, concentrating on individual elements of elegant bathroom décor that features white:

4. Bathtub: white is the classical colour for bathtubs, which now come in different materials and can be glossy or matt. In the vast range proposed by Disenia there’s a predominance of white, which blends in perfectly with a refined total white bathroom.

Total-look white bathroom

Last but not least: there are other coordination possibilities. The white frames of shower enclosures can be matched with the metal finishes of the bathroom fittings (handles, for example), as can be a total white radiator. Helios, the electric radiator by Disenia, is available in different finishes so that it will blend perfectly with the style of the bathroom.

The shower tray, which is often white, can have a textured surface if it is made from a material other than ceramic, such as Tecnogel: take a look at our full range of shower trays.

Having read this post, is all-white bathroom décor not entirely your cup of tea? Read one of our posts dedicated to colour in the bathroom:

• How to choose the colour for bathroom walls;
• Colour trends in contemporary bathrooms;
• Sage green is the trendy colour for 2018.

Keep on seeking inspiration from our blog and register for our newsletter so you don’t lose any updates on our news about trends in bathroom décor.

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The first step in choosing the right Nordic bathroom is to understand … what a Nordic bathroom is!  The advent of Scandinavian style is hard to pinpoint.  Actually, it was influenced by Northern European design, which after the two world wars became popular due to its emphasis on shapes, functionality and natural materials. A desire for modernity and innovation resulting from years of conflict contributed to the spread of this type of design, which is still one of the most popular in Europe.

What are the typical characteristics of modern Scandinavian interior design, and how can we replicate them in the bathroom with furniture and claddings, accessories and complementary items?
A quick online search will give us a first answer: a Scandinavian-style room usually has a neutral colour scheme – white dominates – and wood (particularly distressed or light coloured) radiates warmth and a love for nature. 
Nordic upholstery fabrics are especially soft and warm to the touch. A Scandi bathroom is cosy and sophisticated at the same time, down to the tiniest detail.

Taking all that into consideration, here are some ideas for furnishing your bathroom in Scandinavian style.

Colours and coverings: simple and bright

Nordic design tends to use décor to recreate what is naturally missing in Northern Europe, i.e. light and warmth. That’s why white and materials that radiate warmth are favourites.

Starting with wall and floor coverings: Scandi bathrooms featurelight coloured wood floors (or wood effect stoneware, according to taste and budget) or tiles in neutral shades (texture according to personal preference). And the walls? Whether you prefer tiles, wallpaper or alternative paint finishes, creating a light, airy atmosphere is crucial: coverings with textured or three-dimensional finishes are ideal, as are glossy finishes that reflect light.

Lighting plays an extremely important role: to enhance the bathroom’s style, artificial light must be carefully planned (and natural light must be considered as well).

Scandinavian bathroom furniture: choosing Nordic style décor

Nordic bathrooms are elegant and minimalist, with clean-cut lines and no strong contrasts. It’s all about functionality: less is more, meaning less colour and fewer elements (furnishings, accessories). So the trick is to choose minimal but capacious cabinets, with compartments and storage space for organising personal objects and keeping clutter out of sight.
There are many variations of Scandinavian style, and the choice of furniture will depend on the style of the bathroom, which can have a vintage feel or be more contemporary.
Finishes? Although wood (preferably light or neutral colours) appears to be first choice, lacquered or textured (marble or stone) alternatives should not be disregarded.

Other ideas for a Scandinavian bathroom

As we have seen, Nordic bathroom décor is minimal: to complete the atmosphere don’t overdo the accessories. Also, choosing natural or coarse fabrics is important for conveying a sense of comfort, wellbeing and softness. Use plants by all means, if the room has natural light, and small objects that make the bathroom cosier (candles, pictures, even books).
Choosing a bathtub or shower enclosure is entirely up to you: you can go for whatever works best for you (if you’re undecided, take a look at this post).

Other tips? The key to Nordic style lies in its unique atmosphere, which is often recreated more with accessories and colour schemes than with actual furnishings.  Planning the bathroom right from the start by defining all the elements is the key to achieving the result you want: an elegant, simple room that’s harmonious and tidy.

Do you prefer another style for your bathroom?  Take a look at a shabby chic bathroom or Feng Shui bathroom and don’t miss other ideas for inspiration in our blog, to find the style that’s just right for you!

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The bathtub has been a standard feature in houses from the moment the bathroom became a separate room: it makes up a part of the fabric of architectural history and often it’s chosen almost out of habit. In the past few decades, however, shower cubicles have experienced an exponential rise in popularity, and have spread into the market rapidly on the wings of shrinking spaces and lifestyle changes.

If you have two bathrooms, it’s possible to have both options by choosing one for each room. Things get complicated when the house only has one bathroom, or when you’re not sure about having a bathtub at all and plan to install two shower cubicles. To be sure you choose the right option without depriving yourself of some simple joys in life, you need to evaluate the situation well, as well as how much each option will be used. We’re going to try to look at the advantages and disadvantages of both (but keep in mind, in the end it’s a completely personal choice).

Choosing a bathtub over a shower: pros and cons

Let’s start with the advantages of the bathtub:

• It allows you to enjoy the benefits of hydrotherapy thanks to the possibility of having a hot bath, maybe even with massage jets;
• It can have ornamental value within your bathroom, especially if we consider some of the freestanding bathtub designs;
• It’s useful for those who have small children (bathtime is an important feature of every child’s first years);
• It can be used as a space for washing large or bulky objects or garments when there’s no access to outdoor spaces (such as terraces and gardens) or laundry areas;
• It’s easy to clean, not generally having awkward points of access and doesn’t require any special kind of maintenance.

And the disadvantages?

• Because of its length the bathtub takes up more space than a medium-sized shower cubicle;
• Filling a tub, taking a bath and emptying it (not to mention cleaning up after) takes more time in general;
• If it doesn’t get used it’s a waste of space that could be used for more practical furniture;
• It can be difficult to access for people with physical disabilities and the elderly.

Find your favourite bathtub among the Disenia designs

A bathroom with a tub is a dream for many of us because it offers the possibility of having a private mini spa in which you can allow yourself – even if rarely – a few minutes of relaxation. Modern bathtubs enrich a bathroom with a choice of sinuous lines or defined shapes, adapting to the interior design plans and even the colour choices for the room. The Disenia range is a line of bathtubs that you can paint in exactly the same shade as the rest of the room (like shower trays, bathroom furniture and surfaces; even radiators and shower cubicles), keeping up with the latest trends.

Don’t know which bathtub to choose? Check out our guide

Want to replace an old tub with a new designer one? Here’s how to do it

Choosing a shower cubicle: pros and cons

Ok, so now let’s have a look at the benefits of having a shower cubicle (and, moreover, taking a shower):

• The shower can be extremely relaxing (or reinvigorating depending on your preference for the temperature of the water);
• Given the styles available for modern shower cubicles, the shower can be an important addition to any plans for the decoration of the bathroom;
• Taking a shower usually takes much less time than taking a bath;
• Accessibility is not an issue if the shower is well thought-out (for instance when the shower tray is level with the paving and the shower can accommodate wheelchairs and/or a second person) ;
• It can be more easily made to measure, resolving any structural issues and adapting to irregular angles or nooks and crannies.

The disadvantages?

• If it’s too small it will be uncomfortable to use;
• It can be difficult to manage small children or newborns, which would require having a small tub inside the cubicle until they’re big enough to wash themselves;
• Some types of shower cubicles can be difficult to clean (here’s a list of the top 5 easiest-to-clean cubicles).

With or without a frame? Sliding or hinged doors? Discover more about Disenia showers here

Today bathrooms with a shower are much more common due to space constraints and also because bathtubs no longer fit in with our fast-paced lifestyle. A quick shower also uses much less hot water than a bath.

Modern shower cubicles can also be adapted to any décor, offering an ample variety of styles that can be coordinated perfectly with the colour scheme or metallic finishes of the bathroom.

Do you prefer a frameless shower or one with a profile? Are you a fan of the sleek design of walk-in shower cubicles? Disenia offers a huge range of cubicle solutions, with or without a frame, and all of the designs are fully customisable and made to measure ensuring that you’ll find the perfect shower cubicle for your bathroom.

Create your ideal shower now!

Small bathrooms: tub or shower cubicle?

If space is a constraint, the focus is on finding a solution which is suited to the size of the bathroom.

Here the shower cubicle generally occupies less space: the smallest cubicles can be 80 x 80 cm in size, even if we wouldn’t recommend falling below a 70 x 90 cm ratio which is the minimum for moving comfortably within the cubicle.

When it’s centimetres that are calling the shots it’s important to pay attention to the typology of the doors of the cubicle: in this post we’ve looked at the best space-saving options available.

The latest trends however have seen showers increasing in size, allowing the shower cubicle to transform into a super-shower zone, preferably in the walk-in version, often with scenic coverings on the glass.

At this point the tub and the shower cubicle start coming neck-to-neck: in fact we could even say that there are some tubs that would occupy less space, perfect for mini bathrooms.

Yep, here we’re really talking about space-saving tubs. Compact but comfortable in a contemporary style. It’s not always necessary to have a huge tub to have a relaxing soak!

Discover all the Disenia bathtubs

And if you want both?

The dilemma can resolve itself without even having to choose.

Tubs and shower cubicles can be installed together in two different ways:

• Separately: if you have the space, they can be put side by side, or even in two different areas of your bathroom (here it’s just a question of how much room you have!);
• Combined: by installing a shower panel, which allows the tub to essentially become an open shower cubicle.

In short: bath and shower cubicle together? Why not? The only important thing is to have a clear idea of your preferences, habits and requirements.

And so our mini-guide on choosing a bath or a shower has come to a close: what do you think? Do you still have doubts? If you’ve already had a look through the vast Disenia catalogue and want to see our solutions directly you just have to go to one of our authorised resellers. And don’t lose out on important updates: sign up to our newsletter to always be in the loop with our new designs.

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There’s no way you’ve never heard the name: the ancient art of Feng Shui is rooted in Taoist, Buddhist and Tantric-Tibetan cultures and literally means ‘wind and water’. According to Feng Shui, the ability to furnish a place so as to achieve perfect harmony between these two natural elements, identified in the Yin and Yang forces, is what determines the well-being and healthiness of that place. This is the only way, according to these ancient teachings, that positive energy can flow throughout the space, reaching the people in it. From this, it is important to understand where certain furniture elements may go – positioning correctly those that facilitate the flow and removing any that could block the course of this vital energy.

Let’s explore how Feng Shui works in the bathroom, our personal feel-good retreat.

1. Choosing the right colours for a Feng Shui-style bathroom

Choosing the right colour for the bathroom is one of the most challenging tasks we’ll face because it involves finding the right balance between personal taste and design requirements: a small room or a room with no natural light may actually need lighter tones and bright surfaces (whereas maybe you’d prefer to use dark blue, as an example). Similarly, a bathroom may require touches of colour to disguise structural or design flaws (pillars, uneven walls, etc.). Similarly to chromotherapy, Feng Shui chooses colours according to the different emotions they spark in the human mind. Known to be one of the most powerful flowing elements in Feng Shui, water is associated with every shade of blue, light blue and green, which tend to have a soothing effect and make you feel comfortable in the bathroom. For the same reason, all nuances that are associated with fire (red, orange and similar warm colours) are generally avoided in a Feng Shui-style bathroom.

2. The Feng Shui approach to bathroom décor

A Feng Shui-style bathroom should preferably have décor elements with rounded shapes and sinuous volumes, avoiding sharp or pointed elements which would prevent the flow of positive energy. In terms of materials, it goes without saying that timber and natural stone are preferable to innovative synthetic materials, but that said, the choice of material must take into account our lifestyle, which means that materials should still be practical and easy to clean.

Neatness is another important element of Feng Shui-style bathroom décor. A disorganised, messy bathroom would be considered a mistake in Feng Shui which would compromise relaxation, so the bathroom should be planned in such a way that means there is enough storage space and shelves for cosmetics, bathroom essentials and personal items.

Rediscovering well-being in the home bathroom: read the post

3. Using Feng Shui to arrange bathroom furniture

It is not always possible to follow Feng Shui principles to the letter when it comes to deciding on the floor plan of a house. For example, the bathroom should always face north and should not be located near the front door, so that your home’s Feng Shui energy doesn’t literally go down the drain. Likewise, it shouldn’t be near the kitchen, which traditionally brings a strong fire element, and shouldn’t even share a wall with the bedroom. The toilet should be kept separated from the rest of the bathroom, as is common across Asian countries (the bidet doesn’t even get a mention here since it isn’t used at all in Asia).

Although modern western flats are unlikely to have a room layout fully in line with the principles described above, there are some basic Feng Shui guidelines that can be applied when arranging bathroom furniture.

First of all, objects and accessories should not get in the way of the energy flow (such as free-standing towel racks in the middle of the room). Since everything in the bathroom tends to be positioned along the walls for practical reasons, following this simple rule shouldn’t be particularly difficult: even the bathtub itself, if free-standing, can be placed next to any of the four walls of the room, or in a corner.

Browse Disenia’s range of bathtubs and find your ideal designer bathtub

Even if it’s not possible to change the position or direction of the bathroom, there are ways to counterbalance the flow of energy: for example metals (i.e. metallic finishes) can be used to counterbalance the presence of fire elements (which, in a south-facing bathroom would counteract the strength of the water element in the room), alternatively, the natural energy of marble can be used in a bathroom facing the centre, north-east or south-west (typically associated with the element of earth, which is theoretically in contrast with water).

An interesting fact: these connections have to do with the essential properties of the five elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water), which work together in a precise cycle: wood is nourished by earth, earth muddies water, water extinguishes fire, fire melts metal and metal cuts wood. In the end, Feng Shui is all about balance and harmony. 

4. The Feng Shui approach to bathroom lighting

Natural light is very important for Feng Shui: large windows provide proper lighting and adequate air circulation, turning the bathroom into a healthy, relaxing place. An environment that is either too light, or too dark is always a no-no for Feng Shui (yep, that means windowless bathrooms are bad Feng Shui, but we do know that sometimes there’s no choice: here’s how to remedy the problem!).

5. Feng Shui-style bathroom: choosing the right accessories

To ensure the bathroom is neatly organised and your mind and spirit are perfectly balanced, Feng Shui requires that the bathroom is clutter-free. Any unnecessary items, such as unused toiletries and old cosmetics, should be tossed so that only the bare essentials are kept on display, keeping clutter to a bare minimum (the trick, as we said earlier, is to plan your bathroom storage carefully).

There is one thing that Feng Shui does allow: houseplants. In addition to making you feel connected to nature, they also purify indoor spaces.

A Feng Shui-style home should also include wall art and paintings, provided they depict nature and natural landscapes (mountains and rivers, above all), which enhance well-being and spiritual regeneration.

Mirrors are particularly important too, as they add a lot of energy, not to mention they’re a necessity for anyone who wants to take care of their appearance. They’re also great for making small, poorly lit bathrooms look bigger and brighter. There’s only one rule to follow: never place two mirrors facing one another, as it is believed that they will bounce between them any positive energy they reflect.

Which bathroom furniture to choose? Explore Ideagroup’s collections

+1! Feng Shui in the bathroom: shower or bathtub?

Finally, there is one last consideration to take into account: water is the dominant natural element in the bathroom, so ideally it should be allowed to flow freely. This is easier said than done however, so a baseline would be to simply make sure the taps function correctly, and choose quality products that complement the bathroom’s décor (and not to forget to make sure they go perfectly with your colour scheme).

Last but not least, how can the bathroom become an oasis of peace and relaxation? By treating yourself to the perfect shower or bathtub! Or by going all out and having both of them in the same bathroom, space permitting.

Was Feng Shui already familiar to you? Is it something you would like for your bathroom? Whether Feng Shui is your priority or not, turn to our dealers to find out how your bathroom can be transformed into a luxurious personal haven for your wellbeing.

And dont’ miss our newsletter: it’s packed with updates and inspirational ideas!

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A long, narrow bathroom is a rectangular bathroom where the short side cannot even accommodate the two sanitary fixtures side by side, therefore all fixtures are typically arranged along the long side.

The problems with this type of bathroom can often be:

• the position of doors and windows, usually on the two shorter sides;
• the difficulty of working on drains to better position sanitaryware (in case of renovation);
• the need to find the best way to insert elements of greater depth (such as a bathtub, shower or washing machine).

How to arrange a bathroom that is long and narrow

Let’s tackle some of the most common situations in further detail:

1 – Long, narrow bathroom with a shower

One of the most common solutions for placing a shower cubicle in a long, narrow bathroom is to use the entire back wall in order to create a small shower area that can be closed off by a door, or left open with a walk-in glass panel.

If you do not want to cover (even partially) the windowed wall, the alternative is to also line up the shower enclosure against the long side of the bathroom. A three-sided shower enclosure centrally positioned on the long side is sometimes recommended, or a walk-through shower that splits up the length of the room: a less common idea, but one that solves some design difficulties by allowing a large shower area despite the size of the room.

In any case, thanks to the possibility of having made-to-measure shower trays, the dimensions of shower area nowadays are no longer a design limitation.

Pay close attention to the shower door opening especially in narrow bathrooms: which one to choose?

Shower and bathtub in the same bathroom? Here’s how to do it

Small, narrow bathroom? Here are the space-saving shower enclosures

2 – Long, narrow bathroom with a bathtub

In a long, narrow bathroom the bathtub can be placed on the short back wall (perhaps emphasized by a scenic wall covering), or on the long wall just where the bathroom begins.

An average bathtub measures 70 x 170 cm: the most common and widely used size… but luckily, today there are many different and versatile solutions to cater to your relaxation needs even in a smaller bathroom. In the freestanding version, the bathtub can even be placed diagonally in one of the two bottom corners of a long bathroom to create movement.

Is the bathroom being remodelled? How to replace the old bathtub with a designer one?

And now how to choose the new bathtub?

What if the shower is a better idea?

3 – Long and narrow bathroom: where to place the sanitary fixtures?

According to the latest building regulations, when the toilet and bidet are placed side by side they take up 127 cm of space. Given that a sanitary fixture is generally 36 cm wide, the minimum distance between them must be 20 cm, and the distance between each of them and wall must be 20 cm for the bidet and 15 cm for the toilet. This means that if the​ short side of a long, narrow bathroom is less than 127 cm, the sanitary fixtures will have to be aligned on the long side.

If the short side measures at least 165 cm, the sanitary fixtures could be placed opposite each other, in an arrangement that is perhaps less popular but still functional, especially where the drains are difficult to relocate. This frees up space on the long side for cabinets and a shower (or tub).

4 – Long, narrow bathroom with a washing machine

If the bathroom contains a laundry area you have to take into account not only the depth of the washing machine but also the fact that the cabinet that will possibly hold it is usually even deeper. If the bathroom is wide enough, a launderette may be created right at the entrance of the bathroom, separated by a dividing wall or storage closet. Alternatively, the washing machine can be integrated into the bathroom cabinet with the appropriate module, either on the long or the short side. The rear wall can be ideal for placing very deep furniture (in this case, a bathtub or shower can be placed in the bathroom entrance).

On the laundry area in the bathroom we have published several insights

• Planning and furnishing a hidden laundry
• Coordinated bathroom and laudry?
• Organising a mini laundry in the bathroom

Furnishing a small, narrow bathroom

After determining the location of sanitaryware, shower and/or bathtub, the remaining space can be used for the bathroom cabinet (or even just the washbasin), which can come in different sizes. Today’s furniture collections are mostly modular and adaptable to any space, both in width and depth.

A narrow but spacious bathroom cabinet can have a minimum depth of 36 cm, less than the standard (50 cm). This leaves enough space for a person to move around with ease, even considering the depth of the drawers (or width of the cabinet doors). Unlimited modular choices in modern bathroom furniture allow for the addition of wall units and columns not necessarily adjacent to the sink but also positioned on the other walls, provided there is sufficient space and depth.

Contrary to popular belief, furnishing a long, narrow bathroom can be an interesting challenge, and the result can be very creative. Always rely on a professional interior designer to evaluate all your options. Visit one of the Ideagroup stores to browse our catalogues and see the collections on display, and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter so you don’t miss out on the latest news!

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Originating in Great Britain, shabby chic style recreates classical interiors where time-worn materials take on vintage flair. The most romantic version is reminiscent of the Provence style, which features pastel colours and (often) lots of white and beige. Lines are soft, fabrics natural, and cute floral patterns abound.

Shabby chic is a retro, country chic style that can be re-interpreted in a contemporary key, blending relaxed, romantic textures and colour schemes with uncluttered, less traditional lines to make it more modern and in keeping with current interior design trends.

Modern shabby chic bathrooms: classical inspiration, contemporary influences

How do you mix two apparently opposite décor trends like minimal and retro? Can we find some common ground to design a contemporary bathroom with the warmth and elegance of a more traditional environment? Let’s try together: we will identify the essential elements of a shabby chic bathroom and define those relating to choices of textures and décor features. We can then add touches of modern styling to create a shabby chic environment with a more modern mood.

The perfect materials and colours for a shabby chic bathroom

When fitting out shabby chic bathrooms, go for the natural, light colours typical of more traditional ambiences. Wood will have a rustic finish, preferably with visible grain, and an aged effect (natural or recreated). Taps and fittings with a brass or bronze finish, not necessarily of classical design, contribute to softening the bathroom’s style: nowadays there are several metallic finishes on the market that can be used in different contexts.

Tiles can also make a big difference: from neutral shades to floral decorations, from vintage effects to the more classical patterns. This trend was displayed by many tile manufacturers at the recent edition of the Cersaie exhibition (2021).

Furniture for a shabby chic bathroom

Once you have chosen the style, go for something really trendy, such as mix & match: here is some inspiration taken from Ideagroup’s bathroom décor collections.

DRESSY | The Dressy collection features classical lines, suitable for country-style ambiences but at the same time adaptable to more modern bathrooms with a slightly retro influence. This versatile collection features a wide range of finishes and is extremely functional. One of the photos shows the practical washing machine housing unit.

DOGMA | Marble is a symbol of classical style, revisited with the precise, uncluttered lines of a furnishing collection that combines industrial and contemporary styling. The mix & match approach lends itself to clever use also for shabby chic bathroom furniture.

NYÙ | Shabby chic bathroom décor features furniture in aged wood with a vintage finish or time-worn timber. The Nyù collection features wooden tops designed to re-interpret the style in a more modern key so as to cater to the most diverse requirements.

Soft lines and relaxing atmospheres are the key features of shabby chic bathrooms

Compared to a clearly contemporary, minimal bathroom, one with a shabby chic inspired interior looks to soft lines and sinuous details to recreate cosy, relaxing atmospheres.

A bathtub rather than a shower is preferable as such a choice underlines the style characteristics you are looking for. You can opt for rounded, free-standing models like the ones in the photo.

The bathroom as a private haven of wellbeing

Shabby chic bathrooms: style tips

The overall style of a project not only comes from your choice of décor, but also from the use of complementary items and accessories. Once we have a mood board in mind for a shabby chic bathroom, we can underline the inspiration by adding items such as wooden baskets, candles, retro light fittings, hand-made soap and accessories such as brushes and sponges in natural materials.

To complete the atmosphere, opt for soft linen or cotton towels with floral or vintage patterns.

Bathroom décor trends for 2022: read our post

So, shabby chic style in the bathroom may be textures, a touch of style or a colour scheme, without becoming excessively traditional or romantic. Have you ever thought of it?

If you’re looking for inspiration for other bathroom décors, keep following our blog and register for our newsletter, or follow our Pinterest profile. If you prefer hands-on experience of our collections, no problem: call on one of our dealers and start planning your future bathroom.

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