INTERIORS
sector, as manufacturers work to reduce their environmental footprint without compromising quality. Some producers are now manufacturing sanitaryware using recycled ceramics, a breakthrough that was technically impossible just a few years ago. Meanwhile furniture, now the second largest category in bathroom products, should be made from responsibly sourced timber. Look for FSC certifi cation to ensure wood comes from sustainably managed forests. These innovations are helping to reduce the environmental impact of homebuilding, and forward thinking self-builders are leading the way in adopting them.
DESIGNING FOR SPACE & STYLE Effi cient use of space is vital to good design in homes of all sizes. Traditional pedestal basins are being phased out in favour of basins on furniture, which offer valuable under-sink storage. The move isn’t just practical, it’s aesthetic too, creating cleaner lines and greater fl exibility. Wall-hung toilet pans with concealed
cisterns are another trend that brings both form and function. They save space, enhance visual appeal and make cleaning easier. However, don’t forget that access
to the cistern is essential in case of maintenance issues, such as a leaky loo – a common problem that’s easy to fi x if caught early.
Compact baths are increasingly popular with space conscious self- builders. While they may not deliver a full stretch out soak, they preserve valuable fl oor area for everyday use. In particularly tight spaces, innovative options like fold away toilet pans can transform micro bathrooms without sacrifi cing usability.
GET IN THE PROS Bathroom installation is one of the most complex elements of a build, especially where water is concerned. What seems like a straightforward DIY job can quickly turn into an expensive fi x if something goes wrong. We strongly advise hiring a Watersafe
registered plumber, and ideally someone who’s a member of a professional body such as CIPHE, APHC, or BIKBBI. These credentials ensure that the tradesperson is trained, insured and committed to best practice. It’s an investment in your bathroom’s performance and your peace of mind.
WATER EFFICIENCY In the UK, we often take water
abundance for granted, but this is changing. Climate pressures, population growth and infrastructure strain are making water an increasingly precious resource.
For self-builders, this means designing with water effi ciency in mind. The Unifi ed Water Label is a helpful tool that shows how much water different products use. It covers taps, toilets, showers and more, enabling you to make informed choices without compromising on performance.
Looking ahead, expect recirculating showers and greywater reuse systems, which collect and repurpose water for fl ushing toilets or watering gardens, to become standard in progressive homes. Building with these innovations now means your home will remain cost effi cient and environmentally responsible for years to come.
FINAL THOUGHTS Bathrooms may be behind closed doors, but they play a central role in daily life. For self-builders, they offer the perfect opportunity to blend personal comfort, smart planning and environmental responsibility.
Tom Reynolds is chief executive of the Bathroom Association
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