Freestanding Bathtub

Door mounts. Don't neglect any square inch in your quest to maximize comfort and functionality in your bathroom. Especially in a small bathroom thinking beyond wall space to take advantage of doors and even windowsills can improve flow and open up design possibilities.

Ever considered going all black in the bathroom? It's certainly one way to make a glamorous statement. You can offset the look of all black and prevent it from being overwhelming with the use of high-shine tiles expansive mirrors and good lighting. In this bathroom a smaller-format tile on the floor prevents the shower recess from feeling so closed in. A black bathroom can be just as calming as one in lighter tones. Mosaic wall tiles with a hint of sparkle breathe life into this award-winning bathroom and wood adds a natural element that ties in with the lush garden outside. Dimmable lighting in a black bathroom delivers instant ambience. Metallic hardware pairs well with a mostly black bathroom bringing an elegant edge to a space that can otherwise feel austere. Even the ceiling is black in this bathroom but the hexagonal marble tiles on the floor and up one wall bring in just enough texture to make the room beautiful rather than boxy.

Mind the door direction. Which way does the shower door swing? Locating your towels so they can be grabbed quickly minimizes the distance one must lean out of the shower stall and therefore minimizes the risk of slipping and falling or experiencing an uncomfortable chill from spending more than a couple of seconds outside the shower stall's steamy cocoon. If you only have one wall to hang your towels make sure to have your shower door mounted to open in the most convenient direction.

Build your tub right into your bathroom floor by sinking it in below floor level. This tub is formed from concrete then tiled for aesthetics and comfort. This can save you the hassle of installing a tub while giving you the benefits of a built-in feature — like the corner seat and step here.

A monochrome bathroom can make a dramatic statement that's modern glamorous and edgy or it can create a serene and soothing space. Opt for just one little feature that breaks slightly from the theme or cover everything with your chosen color — if you dare. It certainly won't be boring. Here's how to get it right.

The fashionista. You may not be able to justify a wardrobe full of Chanel and Louis Vuitton but if deep down that's what you'd really love to have start by channeling more Chanel in your life one room at a time.