International design is becoming domestic style with the clean simple lines, the classic features and the new to us innovations that have been around in other countries for quite some time. Let’s take some bathroom ideas from three well-proven styles and adapt them to our modern sensibility for beautiful, functional and innovative bathrooms.
Middle Eastern Flair
A bathroom that adapts the flair of the middle east is full of interesting texture and design, from exotic tile patterns that echo the ancient past to bright and vibrant oranges, blues and reds that spice up a space. A focus on seating areas in the bathroom can add to the sense of the exotic. Often, textiles that you might not normally find in a bathroom are included, making this room feel more like the extension of a home, or an exotic spa, depending on how far you take the vibrancy.
European Classicism
A bathroom with a european feel is all about classic luxury and function. Many standard features of a bathroom in Europe are new to those of us in the west, or at least seen as expensive and unnecessary extras. But, there are plenty of ideas here that we can adapt. Towel warmers, heated toilet seats and design that brings out a warm, cozy feel signifies European luxury.
Asian Influence
A bathroom with an Asian influence offers something different that can reflect good taste and exceptional design. It is a growing trend, but not yet widespread enough to be common. An Asian-influenced bathroom features dark wood, such as walnut and teak, woven-grass wall or window coverings and some isolated and practical luxury that is easy for westerners to understand, such as the deep soaking tub that is popular in Japan. Carrara marble and Italian ceramic tile are also incorporated in this design. Japan is also known for its innovative bathroom gadgets, such as water conserving toilets.
Bathrooms improvements are one of the key things you can do to increase the value of your home.
Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, technology in the Computing Blog, and creating a home in the Home Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here.
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