Bathroom Sins – Or Wins? Experts Weigh In On The Biggest Bathroom Design ‘Icks’

In desperate need for bathroom design advice? Three interior designers on whether you should put books in your bathroom, hang curtains, and whether the nautical bathroom is finally over.

Bathroom Design Advice – The Experts Think These Choices Are An ‘Ick’

The Experts

We’ve gathered a panel of three interior designers to provide the best design advice – so you can make an informed decision:

• Anouska Tamony (AT): creative director at anouskatamony.com
• Tolu Adeko (TA): creative director at adeko.co
• Henriette Von Stockhausen: creative director at vspinteriors.com

Henriette suggests an antique rug is a good middle ground for those seeking a carpet in their bathroom. Santa Barbara bathroom designed by Henriette.

Is A Fitted Bathroom Carpet A Bad Call?

AT: Since Lily Allen installed carpet in her Wes-Anderson-esque NYC bathroom, there has been a resurgence of interest – or at least debate – on carpeted bathrooms. I for one am firmly against them. The idea of all the trapped dirt and damp odours induces the ick.

HVS: I generally avoid fitted carpets in bathrooms, favouring wooden floors with underfloor heating for warmth and practicality. Antique rugs can be an alternative, adding character without the concerns that come with fully fitted carpets. Some clients do prefer wall-to-wall carpeting, in which case we select materials specifically suited for the space.

TA: That’s a crime against interior design, isn’t it? There’s simply no excuse. Carpet and water don’t mix – it’s that simple.

Coloured Baths And Sinks – Just A Fad?

TA: It depends on the colour. Bathrooms are one place where cleanliness should never be in question, and there’s something about a classic white tub that just reassures you that it’s spotless. White never goes out of style. But if you love colour, you should absolutely bring it in through tiles, walls, and accessories.

AT: I think they’ll have enduring fringe appeal but will never be timeless in the same way white and ivory baths are.

HVS: I do quite like a bateau bath that you can paint on the outside, as you can always refresh it with a new colour whenever you fancy. But I think coloured baths and sinks are more of a trend, and, as you know, trends tend to pass quickly. I still prefer classic white baths, whether undermounted or in traditional shapes.

Books may pose a risk in terms of moisture, says Tolu, but Henriette and Anouska are pro incorporating a bookish space to a bathroom. Undermounted bath by Waterworks, from The Ultimate Bath by Barbara Sallick

Can I Have Books In My Bathroom?

HVS: Absolutely! A well-designed bathroom should feel like a personal retreat, and reading is a key part of that. We sometimes incorporate bookcases near the bath to enhance that sense of escapism and relaxation.

TA: I think it’s a great idea – within reason. I once had a friend who kept stacks of design magazines in their bathroom, and it was a brilliant way to find inspiration while relaxing in the bath. My only concern? Moisture. If it’s a book you love, be prepared for the risk of water damage.

AT: I’m pro books in bathrooms but not in WCs or placed near the toilet. Reading a book in the bath is quiet pleasure but I’ve never quite understood reading on the loo. One might instead consider a high fibre diet.

Techy Bathrooms: A Win Or A Sin?

AT: As much as I’m a candle loving luddite, I love certain techy bathroom additions like underfloor heating, great lighting and a good sound system. When I’m staying in a hotel I also quite enjoy adjustable privacy glass and a waterproof TV – but I’m not sure I’d want or need either in my home.

HVS: No tech in bathrooms. Bathrooms should be a place to retreat from the daily grind, rather than a space filled with gadgets. Instead, I focus on creating a sense of sanctuary with rugs, wooden floors, fireplaces, antique furniture, artwork, and ambient lighting.

TA: I think the best bathrooms are quite simple. We’re already surrounded by technology all day – our phones, laptops, smart devices –  why bring it into a space designed for relaxation?

Is The Nautical Bathroom Over In 2025?

TA: Nautical? No, no, no. Here’s my bathroom design advice: unless your bathroom actually belongs on a yacht or sits by the sea, there’s no need for a nautical theme. Let’s focus on creating bathrooms that feel rich, warm, and grounding. Earthy tones, deep colours, beautiful natural materials, and even greenery – these elements create a truly relaxing retreat, especially in a city like London.

AT: Tough one. I feel anything highly themed can easily look overdone, and trends riding the coattails of the zeitgeist can be doomed to date quickly. That said, many bathrooms throughout the ages have taken inspiration from the sea and the maritime world because of the room’s innate connection to water, so if done subtly and thoughtfully I feel it could have a timeless appeal.

Curtains: Good Or Bad Idea?

HVS: Good idea! Where possible, I love incorporating curtains to soften the space and add a sense of comfort. Bathrooms often have a lot of hard surfaces, so fabric elements can cut through and create softness, absorb sound and also cultivate a cosier, more inviting atmosphere – much like a living room or bedroom.

TA: I get why people do it – curtains can add a dramatic, theatrical effect. But practically speaking, they’re not always the best choice. If you have kids splashing around, or even just regular humidity (which you can expect from a bathroom), those curtains are going to get damp and messy. Instead, I prefer beautifully designed blinds or sleek window treatments that offer both style and function.

AT: Soft and classic. I’m a fan.

Should I Choose A Bath Or A Shower?

AT: In almost every instance a shower over a tub is chosen because of utility and the need to incorporate both a shower and bath into a tight space – so while a freestanding tub and separate shower may be the ideal, sometimes the reality is compromise and there is no shame it that.

HVS: If there’s room, I always prefer to keep the shower and bathtub separate (or that’s my general bathroom design advice). However, in more compact layouts – especially guest en-suites – a hybrid can be a practical and elegant, flexible solution.

TA: In London, space is a luxury – just having a bathtub can feel like an indulgence. A hybrid shower-tub is a practical solution – the best of both. But a dedicated bathtub, separate from the shower, is always the dream. It allows for a true, uninterrupted bathing experience.