Case study: How This Self-Build Bathroom Became a Dream Space
Building your own home is an exciting journey, and designing the bathrooms is one of the most rewarding parts. For this self-build project, every element was carefully chosen to create spaces that are both practical and beautiful. From bold feature walls to spa-like retreats, this home showcases how the right design choices and quality products can transform bathrooms into stylish sanctuaries. We caught up with couple Erin and Martin on designing their three bathrooms for their self build project.
Downstairs Bathroom: A Bold & Functional Statement
A downstairs bathroom needs to be both practical and visually appealing, and this space delivers on both fronts. The shower area steals the show with a feature wall of Iron Tropical Brown pattern tiles, bringing a unique, tropical-inspired touch. To tie the look together, the same tiles were used in the inset shelf, adding a sense of continuity throughout the room.
To keep the space bright and inviting, the Iron White 60 x 120 was paired with Iron Blue wall tiles, creating a bold contrast. The Stream Bluetooth LED mirror was added to enhance brightness, reflecting light and making the room feel more spacious.
Finishing touches matter, and in this case, brushed bronze accents on the taps, radiators, and rainfall shower introduced subtle warmth, elevating the overall aesthetic.
Erin said, “we built a modern style house so in keeping with that style we wanted to maintain a more modern look for all the bathrooms, yet each bathroom does have its own unique style. We wanted downstairs to stand out a bit more from the rest, so decided to go with floral tiles with the Brushed Copper Fixings.”
The Josef Martin vanity in Goblin Green is a real showstopper, chosen to complement the feature wall and act as a focal point. The wall-hung vanity and toilet were selected to maximise floor space, making the bathroom feel more open and uncluttered. A walk-in shower was the final touch.
“We just love how the bathroom has come together it’s exactly how we envisioned it would be”, Martin said.
Main Bathroom: Sophisticated & Spa-Like
For the main bathroom, the vision was clear—modern elegance with a dramatic edge. The dark, marbled accent wall behind the shower adds depth and a luxurious feel, while the lighter grey tiles throughout the rest of the space ensure balance and brightness.
Martin said, “ For the Main Bathroom we wanted to go for a Moody overall look, but with our custom vanity unit we were able to add in a splash of colour to bring the room back up again.”
Using the bespoke Josef Martin vanity unit they were able to add a pop of colour and personality into the room. They went for a Josef Martin unit in Middle Buff. This rich, warm shade ties the room together beautifully with carefully chosen accessories.
Martin and Erin opted for gunmetal fixtures instead of traditional chrome, bringing an industrial yet refined touch. The taps, shower, and towel rail all follow the gunmetal choice. And we have to say we are here for it. Gunmetal is becoming an increasingly popular trend in bathrooms.
The Viktor Benson Elemi freestanding bath was a must-have for this self-build project, creating the spa-like feel the couple was after. The shower area, featuring striking dark tiles, also oozes spa vibes.
This bathroom is more than just a functional space—it’s a personal retreat, designed for unwinding in style.
Ensuite: A Tranquil Escape
Every self-build deserves a special ensuite. Erin and Martin went for something completely different to the other two bathrooms in the ensuite. This one is all about calm, comfort, and style. The textured wood-look panels behind the vanity set a warm, natural tone, bringing an organic feel to the space.
Erin said “For our Ensuite we were looking to go for a spa feel so decided to keep it warm and neutral throughout”
A neutral colour palette of soft greys and whites was chosen to enhance the serene atmosphere. The floating Josef Martin vanity in Sand blends perfectly with the natural textures while maintaining a sleek, contemporary look. The wall-hung toilet and floating vanity keep the floor clear, adding to the open, airy feel.
Storage was a priority, and the soft-close drawers in the vanity provide practical, seamless organisation. The countertop was chosen for its smooth, high-quality finish, bringing an element of luxury and ease of maintenance.
The highlight of this ensuite? The steam room—a dream addition that transforms the space into a true wellness retreat. This is more than just an ensuite—it’s a personal spa at home.
Imagining relaxing in the steam room after a long day at work, or in those dark winter evenings. Pure bliss.
Beyond Bathrooms: Stunning Kitchen Products
When designing their dream home, Erin and Martin didn’t just focus on stunning bathrooms—they also carefully selected high-quality kitchen products to complete their self-build. They chose a Brushed Brass Hot Water Boiling Tap, along with the Ellsi Comite Granite 1.5 Bowl Undermount Kitchen Sink & Waste in Matt Black —a stylish and durable choice perfect for a contemporary kitchen.
They also enhanced their kitchen flooring with elegant Austral Pearl Matt 120x120 Porcelain Tiles from Bathshack. How spacious do these tiles make the room look! Tiles have a big impact on a room and we always recommend starting the design process with tiles at the forefront. 
A Self-Build Bathroom Journey with Bathshack
From the bold feature tiles to the carefully selected fixtures, this self-build home proves that bathrooms can be both stylish and functional. Whether it’s the Josef Martin vanities, gunmetal and bronze finishes, or clever space-saving solutions, each choice contributes to a thoughtfully designed, cohesive home.
At Bathshack, we’re here to help bring your dream bathrooms to life. Whether you’re building from scratch or renovating, we offer a huge range of stylish, high-quality bathroom products to suit every space.
Need help with your own bathroom renovation? Contact our team at info@bathshack.com, call us at (028) 9077 0188 / 01 2597531, or visit Bathshack.com for more inspiration!
