After twenty years in their home, a bathroom revamp was high on the list of priorities for Michael and Geraldine, and there were some key changes they wanted to make,
“The bathroom had two entrances, one from the landing and a second, which we didn’t need, from our bedroom,” says Geraldine, “We wanted to block that up, and have a complete re-think, as the bathroom itself felt quite basic, and there was just a handheld shower over the bath. I wanted a fabulous, standalone, wet-room style shower, and Michael liked the idea of a big, beautiful, feature bath.”
Enquiries with a local bathroom company were unfortunately not followed up satisfactorily, and as Geraldine had heard positive reports of Gardiner Haskins from two different sources, she and Michael visited our Bristol showroom. Geraldine was impressed by the attractive layout, comprehensive displays, and friendly, approachable staff. On a follow-up visit, she and Michael brought in rough sketches and ideas, and sat down with designer David Rodgers. They explained their plan to close off access from the bedroom, and their vision for a sleek, modern bathroom, with a walk-in shower, a large bath, smart, simple fittings and a wall-hung WC to maximise the feeling of space,
“David listened carefully to what we wanted, but also came up with points we hadn’t considered,” says Geraldine, “For example, we’d just assumed the basin and WC would have to stay in the same positions. He suggested swapping them over. Now the first thing you see as you come in, is our lovely vanity unit and hand-basin, not the WC. It’s a lot more appealing, so that was really good advice.”
The two main elements are the egg-shaped, freestanding bath, and the walk-in shower. The large bath was chosen for its elegance, comfort and solid feel,
“When we saw it in the Gardiner Haskins showroom, we knew straightaway it was the one for us,” says Geraldine.
Looking around the showroom, the couple also picked out simple, understated taps and shower fittings in a stylish, brushed brass finish. The shower is a favourite feature for both Michael and Geraldine. Even with the bedroom door blocked up, Geraldine was unsure that there would be room for both the bath and the spacious shower enclosure they had in mind. She need not have worried, as David’s design makes excellent use of the space and more than meets expectations. They were keen to achieve a seamless, wet-room effect, so they were delighted when, rather than a conventional central shower drain, David showed them a neat, linear ‘infinity’ drain that sits close to the wall and blends discreetly into the tiled floor. There is a minimal glass screen, generous overhead drencher, and as an added bonus, the wall-mounted hand-spray can be used both under the shower, and for rinsing the bath,
“Initially we thought we’d need a separate set by the bath, but it comfortably reaches both zones,” says Geraldine, “That helped with the budget and keeps the room more clutter-free as well.”
Within a short time after their meeting, Geraldine and Michael had received revised plans and a list of specific products, complete with costings. When they were ready to go ahead, there was a site visit from Mike, our approved contractor. He brought extra technical know-how and suggested minor changes such as adjusting the exact position of the shower controls and tiled storage alcoves to improve functionality. Mike’s colleague, Steve headed up the installation team, and the installation was completed in around two weeks,
“We were very happy with the whole team,” says Geraldine, “Everyone was considerate, meticulous, and took real pride in their work. There were a couple of snagging issues afterwards, but they were back here promptly to sort them out. Things can always go wrong, but it’s how quickly they get resolved that counts.”
The new bathroom is now in daily use and Geraldine and Michael are enjoying their low-maintenance, luxurious space, especially the deep bath and powerful shower,
“Working with Gardiner Haskins was great,” says Geraldine, “Everyone was so friendly, patient and knowledgeable and we felt the products offered were high-quality, and the customer service was excellent,”
Michael agrees, adding, “The last time we went on holiday we had a beautiful hotel bathroom, but I was very happy to come home – ours is better!”
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Designer: David Rodgers
Bathroom type: Modern
Bath: Waters Elements Breeze freestanding bath
WC: Geberit wall-hung
Basin and vanity unit: Roper Rhodes Fairmont
Bath filler, basin tap, shower set: Aqualla Kyloe, brushed brass finish
Wet-room tray/drain kit: Abacus
Shower screen: Flair Ayo
Towel warmer: Aqualla Luca, brushed brass finish
Tiles: Ca Pietra Portare Muscat
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