Once simply a functional space, bathrooms are now somewhere that many homeowners consider incredibly closely when it comes to both the quantity and style of them. “We’ve seen a noticeable shift in many people taking a ‘more the merrier’ approach when building or renovating their home and increasing the average ratio of bathrooms to bedrooms,” says Oliver Custance Baker, head of the National Country House Department. “While there’s certainly an element of practicality to having more bathrooms, a lot of it is simply luxury. There’re practical perks too of course - particularly if one of you is an early riser - but it’s also about creating a sanctuary that is personalised to you. One person might like long baths with softer lighting, for example, while the other prefers quick showers and bright spotlights. Whatever the style though, these spaces are increasingly spa-like, with fixtures that could have been plucked from a five-star hotel.”
When renovating or adding a bathroom, quality is incredibly important and integrating smart design can be worth the investment. This year’s Strutt & Parker Housing Futures survey saw underfloor heating top the list of what buyers want in their next home’s bathrooms, with built-in speakers and televisions also making the top 10 features. Jacuzzi baths, wet rooms and rain showers were also high on home mover’s lists.
We’ve selected some of our favourite homes currently for sale which have these most-desired bathroom features already in place for you.
Underfloor heating might not be a new invention, but it’s something that has certainly stood the test of time; it’s the most sought-after bathroom feature for home movers, according to our Housing Futures survey. This five-bedroom family home in Fulham has been refurbished to a high specification and now has underfloor heating throughout – including in the four bathrooms.
Another wonderful example of a home that has been fully refurbished to create a functional but beautiful family home is 28 High Street, situated in the heart of the popular village of Balsham. The five-bedroom house has been designed to create stunning entertaining and living spaces featuring A-frame beams, and there’s underfloor heating throughout.
Our Housing Futures survey also saw rain showers come in joint third in the list of sought-after bathroom features. This impressive Georgian-style home sits right on the coast and has spectacular sea views – including from the principal bedroom’s bathroom. The bathroom has an incredibly impressive walk-in rain shower, complete with twin marble basins and a freestanding bath.
Although bathrooms should be a space that evokes calmness and relaxation, they also have to be practical and durable. Wet rooms certainly tick this box, as they’re space efficient and have easy upkeep. This no doubt contributes to their continued popularity. Included in Bickleigh House, a recently renovated six-bedroom home, there’s a ground floor wet room that sits alongside a utility room (with a dog shower) and boot room – ideal when you’re coming straight in from a muddy dog walk in the countryside!
Jacuzzi baths are a popular choice for those who really see their bathroom as a space to relax. Located to the north of the ancient market town of Petersfield, you’ll find this impressive six-bedroom Arts & Crafts style country manor house set within 10.5 acres of grounds. As well as many other features, the guest bedroom has an en-suite with both a jacuzzi bath and large walk-in shower.
If you’re looking to dive further into the world of bathroom design, read our recent In Conversation With: Fired Earth which offers expert insight on how to create a bathroom that elevates your home, balancing durability and design.
