To help make your decision easier we have picked out five of the best vertical designer radiators that will enhance the appearance of any bathroom.

Traditional column vertical radiator

The Traditional Vertical Column Radiator provides a great way to create a timeless and classic look in any style of bathroom that will certainly stand the test of time as well as ensuring the room is heated efficiently too.

Silver vertical designer radiator with mirror

This 1600x420mm vertical designer silver radiator features a full length mirror making it ideal for use in your bathroom. The sleek design will create a stylish feature in your modern or contemporary bathroom.

Black gloss vertical designer radiator

For a bold, contemporary look why not opt for the Bora high gloss black vertical designer radiator? This will create a striking feature in your bathroom and with an impressive BTU output your bathroom will feel warm and welcoming in no time.

Wave designer radiator

The 1600x460mm wave designer radiator features a white finish to create a sleek, minimal look to your bathroom and the wave design provides a more unusual alternative than a standard straight style.

Anthracite vertical designer radiator

Ideal for small spaces the 1600x236mm Aruba anthracite vertical designer radiator will perfectly complete the look of your modern bathroom or en-suite. The anthracite finish will also complement a variety of bathroom decor too.

When choosing a new vertical designer radiator take into the consideration the size of your bathroom and check the BTU output of the radiator, as the higher this is the faster and more efficiently your bathroom will be heated.

Statement bath

A contemporary bathroom is all about the bath, which will become the main focal point of the room. Ideally the bath should be freestanding and feature a striking design, if possible locate it in the middle of the bathroom so it catches your eye straight away. Freestanding baths are available in a wide variety of designs and sizes and will provide you with a luxurious way to bathe.

Contemporary taps

Your choice of taps should be just as stylish as your freestanding bath. Taps with a sleek, minimal design are always a good option, if you have a countertop basin or if your freestanding bath is positioned against the wall opt for wall-mounted taps for a neat finish and some designer style. Also, taps with an open spout design are perfect for your contemporary bathroom too.

Shower in style

The Cheap Suites 1350mm walk in shower enclosure provides an affordable way to create a contemporary bathroom, it features a minimalistic, curved design to enhance a feeling of space. A walk in shower will also add that wow factor to your bathroom too and you can be sure to shower in style every day.

Colour changing shower head

Your choice of shower can make a huge difference to the overall look and feel of your contemporary bathroom. Why not create a designer statement with an LED colour changing shower head, which changes colour from blue to red as the temperature of the water increases. Fixed shower heads that protrude straight from the wall or ceiling are a great way to achieve a contemporary look.

Clutter free

Ensure your contemporary bathroom is kept clutter free with some stylish bathroom furniture such as a wall-mounted vanity unit. Why not create a bold look with a gloss black vanity unit? Also, a vanity shelf with a countertop basin is a great way to add contemporary style too.

Before starting any work on a new bathroom make sure that you have a good think about what potential buyers would like to see in the room. Avoid creating a look that is personal to you and instead try to achieve a neutral, modern look that is both functional and stylish.

To ensure that you achieve a uniform look in the bathroom think about choosing a plain, white bathroom suite that includes the bath, toilet, sink and taps; this will also help you to save money too.

Include a bath

If you only have a limited amount of space in the bathroom installing a bath is a definite must, as this will meet most requirements, especially families with young children. But, if you have a larger bathroom always include a separate shower enclosure to make the new bathroom more appealing. Quadrant shower enclosures are ideal as they feature a clever space-saving design and provide the bathroom with a neutral look.

Bathroom storage

Including bathroom furniture such as a vanity unit will always provide a great selling feature and will make your bathroom more attractive if potential buyers can see that there is handy storage included.

Fixtures & fittings

Never fit carpet in the bathroom, as this will only put potential buyers off. Instead choose some stone or ceramic floor tiles to create a clean, modern look. If you have the budget why not opt for underfloor heating to create a real selling feature.

Ensuring that the new bathroom feels warm and inviting with a heated towel rail is a great idea and it will provide a feature too. Heated towel rails are available in a wide variety of sizes to suit every type of bathroom.

Make sure that the bathroom is well lit, by letting in as much natural light as possible as well as including ceiling lights too.

When choosing bathroom accessories such as a towel rail, soap dish, toilet roll holder etc, ensure that they are from the same range to create a fully matching look. Also, accessorise with towels, candles and a large mirror to make the new bathroom feel more welcoming; the small details can really make all the difference to the overall look and feel of the bathroom.

Also, a bathroom with everything in its place will help to create a sense of space too, which is ideal for a small bathroom. Here are some handy ideas for creating organisation in your bathroom.

1. Have a good clear out and get rid of any toiletries that haven’t been used in ages, this way you can choose the most appropriate type of bathroom storage to suit your requirements.

2. A vanity unit is ideal for keeping all your toiletries stored away out of sight. Vanity units are available in a wide range of sizes and designs to complement any bathroom design. If you have a small bathroom choose a wall-mounted design to create the illusion of more space.

3. Mirrored bathroom cabinets are fantastic for providing you with extra storage too. Install above your vanity unit or sink so your daily essentials are within easy reach. Most vanity units have matching cabinets available so you can create a uniform look.

4. If you have a large family bathroom and require additional storage as well as your vanity unit, opting for a tall wall mounted cupboard is a perfect solution for storing spare towels or extra toiletries.

5. Keep surfaces around your bath or in the shower free from shower gel, soap and shampoo by installing a shower tidy or wire basket, which will instantly make your bathroom look more organised.

6. Instead of leaving your towel on the floor or draped over the bath make sure that you install a heated towel rail to keep your towels warm and dry; this will not only look much neater but will enhance the overall look of your bathroom too.

7. Glass shelving is great for creating a neat, minimal look in your bathroom and is useful for displaying perfume for example.

8. A washing basket such as the Cheap Suites Gloss White Laundry Unit will make a very useful addition and will perfectly complement your white gloss vanity unit.

9. Even choosing a new matching set of bathroom accessories can help to create an organised appearance; why not install separate robe hooks for each member of your family?

10. Even a small cloakroom suite can look neat and organised too; opt for a compact vanity unit which features a slim-line design so you can store away any toiletries for a tidier appearance.

1. Ensure all your toiletries are neatly stored away in a stylish wall-mounted vanity unit to create an organised bathroom. The wall-mounted design will make a small bathroom look more spacious.

2. Let in as much natural light as possible to create a bright and airy feel, if you don’t have a window install plenty of bright lighting instead.

3. Use natural colours and textures such as marble and stone to create a more welcoming space and to help add a feeling of luxury too. Reflective surfaces such are ideal too, as they help to reflect the light.

4. Install a wall mounted toilet and basin to create as much floor space as possible, this will provide the illusion of a larger room, as well as making your floor much easier to clean! Short projection toilets are ideal too if you can’t install a wall-hung toilet.

5. Choose a large mirror to reflect and bounce the light around which will help to create a greater sense of space.

6. If you want to include a shower in your small bathroom opt for a quadrant shower enclosure which features a space saving design with its curved front.

7. Alternatively if you would prefer to install a bath instead of a shower enclosure Cheap Suites have a compact 1600mm steel bath which is ideal for a small bathroom.

8. If installing a shower over a bath don’t fit a shower curtain to protect the floor from splashes instead opt for a bath screen which will provide a much cleaner and minimal look as well as creating a more effective waterproof seal.

9. When choosing new taps and accessories such as a toilet roll holder, towel ring, soap dish, robe hook etc opt for ones that feature a sleek, minimal design for a fuss-free look.

10. Create more wall space by installing a chrome or white heated towel rail instead of a standard radiator, this will also ensure your towels are kept warm and dry.

Author: Liz Robinson

Freestanding bath

Whether contemporary or traditional a freestanding bath is a great way to add a feeling of luxury and indulgence. A freestanding bath will also provide you with a great way to relax and unwind. If possible install the bath in the middle of the bathroom to add some wow factor.

Walk in shower

Install a walk in shower enclosure so you can shower in style every morning. The Cheap Suites recess walk in showers will not only add a luxurious feel but feature a spacious showering area too, plus they are available at great prices and come complete with the shower tray and waste.

Bathroom furniture

Bathroom furniture is a must for creating a neat, tidy space and will help enhance the luxurious feel. Opting for a wall-mounted vanity unit will help maximise floor space. If you want to create a feeling of warmth choose furniture with a wood finish such as walnut.

Install two basins

If you have enough space installing two wall mounted basins side by side will create a luxurious look to your bathroom as well as making a very practical addition too.

Stylish taps

The right style of taps can make a big difference to your bathroom and you don’t have to spend a fortune to create a luxurious look. The Oval tap collection from Cheap Suites features a modern design and the oval shape provides something a bit more unusual, plus they are offer great value for money too.

Modern heating solutions

Nothing will feel more luxurious than walking onto a warm floor, especially when it’s freezing outside. Installing underfloor heating provides a great way to warm up your bathroom and will feel welcoming when fitted underneath stone or ceramic floor tiles. Also, a designer radiator will add some contemporary style to your luxury bathroom too.

Accessorise

To complete your luxury bathroom accessorise with an illuminated mirror and fluffy towels. Also make use of natural colours and materials such as stone to bring your bathroom to life.

Author: Liz Robinson

Why choose a shower enclosure?

• A shower enclosure provides a quick and easy way to shower every morning and is ideal for those who lead a busy lifestyle.

• Having a shower uses far less water compared to a bath, which not only helps protect the environment but will help to reduce your water bills too.

• Shower enclosures are available in a wide range of sizes and styles ranging from a compact quadrant enclosure to a more spacious walk in shower, so you can be sure to create a look that suits your tastes.

• Shower enclosures now feature more minimal styling than ever before and can help to create a sense of space in a small bathroom as well as providing a more streamlined look.

• A shower enclosure doesn’t take up as much space as a bath does; this allows you to perhaps install a larger basin or even two smaller basins, you could also include some bathroom furniture too.

• A shower can help to awaken your senses in the morning and help get your day off to a great start.

Why choose a bath?

• A bath provides an easy way to wash to young children, which would be more difficult in a shower enclosure.

• Baths are available in a variety of styles and sizes so you can easily create a traditional look with a slipper or roll top freestanding bath or a modern look with a double-ended design.

• If you have a small bathroom you can still fit in a bath by opting for a compact size. Small baths measure just 1500mm or 1600mm in length, which will help you to make the most of the available space.

• Having a long soak in a bath can help you to relax and unwind after a long day as well as helping to ease away any aches and pains. Think about choosing a whirlpool bath for the ultimate in relaxation.

• If you ever wish to move home in the future installing a bath will be more attractive to any potential buyers, especially families with young children.

• By choosing a shower bath you can combine the best of both bathing and showering, without having to make any compromises.

Author: Liz Robinson

Don’t remove your old bathroom suite yet

Don’t rip out any of your old bathroom suite until your new one has arrived and has been checked over for any signs of damage and that you have received all the correct fixtures and fittings that you ordered. Anything that has been damaged will be much easier to rectify at this point before carrying out any installation work.

Are you going to include a shower?

Think about whether you want to include a shower in your new bathroom, if you do then make sure you check what sort of plumbing system you have so you can choose the most suitable type of shower. If you can only get a cold water supply to the shower then an electric shower will be the best option, make sure to check that you can get an electricity supply as well. If you can get both hot and cold water feeds to the shower then opt for a mixer shower, ensure that it is thermostatically controlled to give you peace of mind when showering. Check the pressure too as this will determine if you require a pump or not.

Shower enclosure or shower over the bath?

Is your shower going to be over the bath or in a shower enclosure? If opting for a shower enclosure check that the waste pipes can be run to the outlet. Make sure that the edges around the bath or shower enclosure are waterproofed properly; fit a waterproofing strip before any tiles are fitted to create a more effective seal.

Know how your water system works

Having a basic understanding of how your water system works is always a good idea and you never know when you may need to turn off the water in an emergency. The cold water feed is normally supplied from the mains and is controlled with a stopcock, which is sometimes found in the kitchen. The cold water feed can also come from the cold water tank in the loft, if this is the case then there will be a valve where the pipes come out that controls the flow of the water.

Ventiliation

Ensure that your new bathroom is well ventilated to prevent the growth of mold. If your bathroom has a window make sure that you open it during and after using the bath or shower. Alternatively, if there is no window install an extractor fan.

Bathroom heating

If you are having a new floor in your bathroom consider installing underfloor heating, which will feel warm and luxurious under stone or ceramic tiles, especially in the cold winter months. Designer radiators and heated towel rails are perfect for providing warmth to your bathroom too as well as ensuring that your towels are kept warm and dry. Heated towel rails and designer radiators are available in a wide range of sizes to suit every size of bathroom.

Author: Liz Robinson

Accurately measure the bathroom

Before buying any new products for your new bathroom make sure that you accurately measure the space and always check your measurements as every bit counts. By budgeting appropriately and making sure you get expert knowledge you can really achieve your perfect bathroom. It’s also a good idea to make a list of everything that you don’t like about your existing bathroom and how you would like to change it.

Always include a bath

If you ever wish to sell your home in the future it’s always a good idea to include a bath in your new bathroom as this will always be more attractive to potential buyers. If you have enough space make sure you include a separate shower enclosure, but if your bathroom is on the small side install a shower over the bath and opt for a bath screen instead of a shower curtain for a neater finish.

Make the most of the space

Make the most of the space you have by installing double sinks, this will not only create a more luxurious look but will add some wow factor for future buyers. If you have a small bathroom you can still create a stylish and practical space, make sure you choose space saving products such as a short projection or wall hung toilet and a compact basin, which will really make a big difference. You can also make a small bathroom feel more spacious with clever use of lighting and a large mirror as well as light colours and reflective surfaces.

Include storage

Always include some bathroom furniture in your new bathroom, this is so you can store any toiletries away out of sight for a neat and tidy look. Vanity units are ideal as they combine a sink with integrated storage underneath; opt for a wall-mounted version to enhance a feeling of space.

Hire a professional

To ensure that you new bathroom looks its best as well as providing trouble-free use and that it lasts well into the future it is always worth hiring a professional bathroom fitter, plumber and electrician to carry out all the installation work. By compromising on the installation anything that goes wrong by attempting it yourself can prove to be costly to put right.

Author: Liz Robinson

Underfloor heating – pros

• Underfloor heating provides a more environmentally friendly way to heat your home and can be up to 40% more efficient compared to a standard radiator system, plus as heat rises your bathroom or kitchen will feel warmer more quickly.

• Installing underfloor heating in place of radiators is a great way to create more wall space for extra storage if required, and it’s ideal for achieving a minimalistic look too.

• Underfloor heating systems require very little maintenance.

• With an underfloor heating system the heat is distributed evenly preventing different parts of the room from feeling colder than others.

Underfloor heating – cons

• If a pipe was to burst with water-based underfloor heating the whole floor would have to be ripped up, which could lead to a major expense and inconvenience.

• Underfloor heating can be expensive to install.

What types of underfloor heating systems are available?

There are two types of underfloor heating systems which include water-based and electric. If you want to install underfloor heating beneath an existing floor then opt for an electric system as they feature a low profile design meaning your floor shouldn’t need to be raised up, unlike a water-based system.

Water-based underfloor heating systems have pipes that are installed under the floor surface and are filled with warm water from your central heating system, they are also suitable for use with any type of boiler. Each room where you have underfloor heating installed has its own valve so you can easily control the temperature.

Electric underfloor heating systems connect to your power supply and feature cables which are attached to mesh mats. This type of underfloor heating provides easy installation, but can be more expensive to run compared to water-based systems.

Can underfloor heating be used with any type of flooring material?

Underfloor heating is suitable for use with any floor construction, but is much easier to install if you are laying a completely new floor. It can be used with carpets but will feel more inviting if fitted underneath ceramic or stone flooring in your bathroom or kitchen. Seek professional advice before installing under wood, laminate or vinyl flooring.

Is underfloor heating easy to install?

Electric underfloor heating systems can be installed by yourself but water-based systems are probably best left to a professional to ensure of trouble-free use. It is also recommended that the floor under the heating system is well insulated to prevent any heat loss.

Author: Liz Robinson