Luxury is key in the bathroom

The bathroom is often thought of as a functional room, however, more and more people are looking to create a luxurious space where they can unwind after a hard day at work, or beautify themselves in preparation for an evening out.

According to Lesley Taylor, interior designer and design director at Taylor's Etc, there is a growing trend for luxurious materials within the bathroom.

"With the bathroom being viewed as a special retreat or sanctuary to relax and unwind in, it’s the more luxurious of materials that are taking precedence," she commented.

Ms Taylor added that metallics, stones and even wood are proving increasing popular in the bathroom, perhaps as people try to recreate the feeling of a spa in their own home.

"Tiles used to be considered a practical element of the design process but over the past few years that view has changed dramatically. Now, tiles can be used in a creative fashion to add aesthetic appeal to almost any room in the home."

When looking to create a luxurious ambience, good lighting is key. Harsh lighting will have people feeling like they are in the office rather than relaxing at home, while dim mood lighting may be romantic but it is hardly practical for putting on your make up or trimming your beard.

Bathroom ceiling spotlights could be one solution as they allow light to be directed to key parts of the room, such as over the sink, leaving areas designated for relaxing, such as the bath, bathed in a dimmer glow.

Another option is to try lighted bathroom mirrors. Not only will thee make you feel like you are in a Hollywood movie star's dressing room, but they are also highly practical.

If you want to keep the lighting in the rest of the bathroom low but you want to see your face clearly in the mirror  you can do so with the simple flick of a switch.

Such mirrors are also stylish meaning they add a real touch of luxury to the room.