Second Nature
Pair tiles in soft, herby green with warm timber for a calm, grounded vibe that embraces the textures of the natural world.
As more and more Kiwis seek to bring elements of nature into their homes, this trend has naturally progressed to the bathroom, prompting a host of beautiful new design options for anyone thinking of renovating (or building from scratch) this all-important part of the home.
Far more than just functional spaces, bathrooms are increasingly viewed as sanctuaries where people can de-stress and soothe away the cares of the day.
“You are in your bathroom every day, so, like a kitchen, it is important to ensure this space is perfect for you and your family,” says Louise Cook, Mico’s resident style guru and national category manager for bathrooms.
LIFT AND REFRESH
An effective way to make your bathroom feel inviting and tranquil is to take a leaf out of nature – literally. An earthy green tile with an uneven, hand-fired look works beautifully with natural materials such as wood and stone. Aim to include some softer, curvier lines, too, such as rounded or oval basins and mirrors, and keep the styling minimal yet impactful – a few flower stems or foliage from the garden and a pop of colour through soft, plain towels.
You don’t need a big bathroom to create an evergreen sanctuary. Plenty of light, a large mirror and fuss-free storage all help to give the illusion of space. Alternatively, new taps or some wooden cabinetry could be the only update you need. For a sanctuary feel, choose soft, organic shapes and natural materials such as wood and stone.
“You can also play with colours and textures, perhaps adding a feature wall to give the space a refresh,” says Louise. “Because bathrooms are relatively small, it doesn’t take much to create an amazing new look and feel.” Browse the options and glean ideas and inspiration from the Mico Bathroom Book, and shop online.
ECO-FRIENDLY INNOVATIONS
We’re all increasingly aware of the need to conserve energy and water, but it can be tough when it comes at the expense of a gushing shower or a properly flushing toilet. Fortunately, innovations that solve these conundrums are already available, says Louise.
“Our trusted suppliers have products that cater for this. We have products with water-flow limitations on basin mixers and showering, and our water flowing products have a WELS star rating so people can see what their water efficiency is.”
SECOND NATURE FEATURED PRODUCTS