Jorge Hernandez of Bathroom Brands Group explores how applying texture can make it transformative in modern bathroom design. From fluted accents to intricate tiles, discover how tactile and visual approaches can elevate your space

Whether you want your bathroom to be a spa-like, relaxing sanctuary or a joyful space with vibrant hues and high-impact features, texture is big at the moment. As we explore what texture means and how it invites you into a space and adds a layer of depth and dimension, we are considering new ways to add texture to an overall bathroom design. 

As we continue to move away from bathrooms being purely functional spaces, we are looking for more ways in which to personalise bathrooms and make them a place we enjoy. While many people focus on colour schemes and material finishes, they are now also experimenting more with texture that can both elevate a design and create an emotional reaction. From fluted drawer fronts to knurled tap handles and natural stone finishes, there’s something to suit every space.

Fluting in particular has been making waves in the interior design world of late, and the trend is here to stay. Mostly seen through the use of vertical shallow grooves, which not only add dimension when layered across a surface but also create an interesting look when light and shadows bounce off the material’s edges, it adds a modern yet timeless touch to any bathroom design. The delicate, curved edges add warmth and softness to contemporary schemes, adding interest to a space. 

Texture extends beyond the realm of touch, to include visual textures. Unlike physical texture and tactile characteristics of objects, visual texture refers to the illusion of texture within an image or material, and how shadow and light interact with the different elements within the design. An intricately detailed marble tile with decorative patterns and layered colours serves as a perfect example of visual texture – it captures your attention and introduces dimension to an otherwise flat surface. 

USER INTERACTION

One of our main priorities when developing new products this year has been user interaction, especially when it comes to texture. We’ve been looking at ways in which we can add this element into bathroom designs – from tap handles to drawer fronts – as there is huge value in having texture on these ‘touchpoints.’ As designers we want to know that people aren’t just enjoying products because of the functional value that they add, but also because of the design techniques and striking features that cause an emotional response.
When we see a heavily textured surface, we often have an instinctive urge to touch it and explore it, making texture an extremely versatile tool for designers looking to optimise and enhance the user experience.

VISUAL LAYERING

When it comes to designing a bathroom, I would start by considering the composition of the space and the style you want to achieve. For a cohesive look, you want to choose materials and colours that blend well and work together in harmony to create an overall aesthetic. 

The best way to incorporate texture into any space is by subtly framing certain areas that you want to stand out. Anything that has strong texture makes a statement and immediately draws in your focus, so it is important to layer both visual and physical textures to ensure that a space doesn’t feel too busy. 

One way to incorporate texture into a bathroom is by using it as a foundational element in the design, or the key element seen throughout the space in the form of a wall covering. For example, fluted tiles or a textured micro cement finish on the walls, floor and ceiling pairs well with clean lines and minimalist fixtures. An alternative to this is to choose a simple finish for the walls and flooring and make a statement with textured brassware and visually textured wall finishes. 

There is also a close connection between texture and shape. Soft silhouettes and fluid, curved features capture your attention and when paired with natural materials and muted, earthy tones, can help create a sense of calm and a soothing atmosphere. For a seamless design, these elements need to work together harmoniously to evoke the right emotion. We are seeing more and more Japanese influences in bathroom design like the wabi-sabi concept – a design aesthetic that finds beauty and serenity in objects and designs that don’t have a conventional symmetry – perfectly embodies this philosophy with the use of asymmetric shapes and layers of three-dimensional texture in design.

The bathroom is a functional space that is being used every day, so it’s important to choose a style that is calming and makes you happy. As we move away from the utilitarian, uninspiring aesthetic and celebrate the beauty of texture, we start to add personality and character. However you choose to add texture to the bathroom, be bold with your choices to create a bespoke space that’s unique to you.

Jorge Hernandez is product and design manager at Bathroom Brands Group