Whether you’re planning a complete renovation or updating key pieces, selecting the right bathroom fixtures can transform your space from basic to beautiful. While the endless options can feel overwhelming, choosing fixtures is more than getting the aesthetics right. You want to find the perfect balance of style, functionality and durability for your needs.
Start with your shower
A statement shower can be the focal point of your bathroom and enhance your daily routine. Quality shower fixtures need to balance both aesthetics and performance, from thermostatic controls that maintain consistent water temperature to spray patterns that create your perfect shower experience.
When choosing a showerhead, consider both the water pressure in your home and the size of your space. Larger rainfall showerheads work beautifully in spacious bathrooms, while adjustable handheld options offer versatility in compact spaces. For smaller bathrooms, concealed valves can help maximise space while providing a sleek look.
Choose taps that last
Modern bathroom taps come in styles to suit every décor, from traditional cross-head designs to sleek waterfall spouts. Chrome remains a popular choice for its durability and timeless appeal, while matt black and brushed brass offer contemporary alternatives that can tie your colour scheme together.
Beyond aesthetics, consider the practicality of your tap choice. Wall-mounted taps create a minimalist look but require specific plumbing configurations. Deck-mounted options, on the other hand, work with most standard basins. Water pressure compatibility is important here too. Some taps need higher pressure systems to function effectively.
Select your sink consideration
Your choice of basin can have a big impact on both the functionality and style of your bathroom. From compact cloakroom options to generous double vanities, the size and style should reflect how you use the space daily.
- Wall-mounted basins maximise floor space and create a contemporary look
- Pedestal basins offer a classic profile that conceals unsightly pipework
- Semi-recessed designs work perfectly with fitted furniture
- Counter-top vessels add architectural interest and a luxury hotel feel
- Under-mounted basins provide practical cleaning solutions and sleek lines
Consider the depth and width. For example, a shallow basin might splash more during use, while an extra-deep model could be impractical for children or shorter adults. Pay attention to tap placement too, as this will affect your choice of brassware and how comfortable the basin is to use.
Look at the bathtub options
Selecting the right bath requires thought about your space, budget and lifestyle. A bath often becomes the centrepiece of a bathroom, so getting the choice right matters for both practical use and visual appeal.
Freestanding baths
A freestanding bath creates instant impact and works beautifully in larger bathrooms. Modern versions come in compact sizes from 1500mm, making them suitable for smaller spaces as well. Look for double-ended designs if you want the flexibility to relax at either end.
Built-in baths
Built-in baths enhance space efficiently and often cost less than freestanding options. They’re ideal for family bathrooms and can include practical features like anti-slip surfaces and wider edges for toiletries.
Corner baths
Perfect for awkward spaces, corner baths can make excellent use of usually unused areas. While they take up more width than standard baths, they can create a luxurious bathing experience in the right setting.
Don’t overlook smaller fixtures
The smaller fixtures in your bathroom play a surprisingly important role in your daily routine. Towel rails, robe hooks and toilet roll holders might appear purely functional, but their finish and positioning can make or break your bathroom experience.
Thoughtfully placed holders and hooks improve morning routines, while well-chosen matching finishes pull the whole room together without drawing attention to themselves. Most designers suggest planning these practical elements early. After all, there’s nothing worse than stepping out of a shower to find your towel out of reach or discovering your new toilet roll holder interferes with the door.
Plan your lighting around fixtures
Good lighting makes all the difference to how your bathroom looks and feels, and your choice of fixtures affects this more than you might think. Chrome taps and mirrors bounce light around the room, while matt black absorbs it.
The right mix of ceiling lights and wall-mounted options helps you see properly when you’re rushing to get ready in the morning. Plus, adding a dimmer switch means you can turn everything down low when you fancy a peaceful soak in the bath.
Think about water pressure
Your home’s water pressure affects which taps and showers will work best in the bathroom. Checking your pressure before falling in love with any particular style could save you from disappointment later, as there’s nothing worse than installing a beautiful rainfall shower only to get a disappointing dribble.
- High-pressure systems (above 1 bar) work with most modern fixtures
- Gravity-fed systems might need a pump to boost performance
- Combi boilers typically provide good pressure but can struggle with multiple outlets
- Some taps and showers now come with built-in pressure regulators
- Low-pressure systems need specially designed fixtures to work properly
Start by asking a plumber to test your water pressure, then look for fixtures marked as compatible with your system. Many manufacturers now clearly label their products with minimum pressure requirements, making it easier to choose fixtures that’ll perform well in your home.
Factor in running costs
Most people focus on the price tag when choosing bathroom fixtures, but it’s worth thinking about how much they’ll cost to run. Modern water-saving designs can reduce your bills while still giving you a great shower or bath experience.
Water efficiency
Look out for fixtures with good WRAS ratings, as these use less water without compromising on performance. Many new taps have clever aerators that mix air with water, so you get the same flow but use much less. Some showers now come with eco settings that you can switch on and off as needed.
Maintenance and repairs
Cheap taps often need replacing within a few years, while quality ones can last decades. Better-made fixtures tend to have replaceable parts too, so you can fix rather than replace them when something goes wrong. The finish matters as well. Chrome and stainless steel generally last longer than painted or plated surfaces.
Make your style last
Bathroom trends come and go, but replacing fixtures isn’t like changing a paint colour. You’ll want them to look good for years to come. Classic designs in chrome or brushed nickel tend to age well, while very modern or unusual finishes might date quickly. If you love the look of copper or matt black, consider using them for smaller items like towel rails that are easier to update.
Remember that clean lines and simple shapes usually stand the test of time better than elaborate designs. Many bathrooms installed decades ago still look fresh because their owners chose timeless styles over passing fads. That’s not to say you can’t have fun with design. Just save the bold choices for things that are easier to change.
Ready to choose your fixtures?
Picking the right bathroom fixtures might feel like a big task, but taking time to consider each element will pay off in the long run. Focus on quality, think about how you’ll use the space daily and choose classic styles that will look good for years.
Shop our range or book a consultation to find your ideal bathroom.
