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Not the most glamorous of topics – but every household has one so it is probably the most necessary of topics. This blog is about toilets and choosing the right toilet for your bathroom.

The toilet you choose will be determined by a number of factors like your budget, your bathroom’s style and the amount of space you have. So to help you make your choice, we’ve put together an expert guide to choosing the right toilet.

Most toilets available fall into three categories: close coupled, back to wall, and wall-hung. Not sure which one is which? Don’t worry we’re here to explain.

Close coupled toilets tend to be the most common ones, in which the cistern is directly attached to the toilet pan and sits on top of the bowl. These are typically taller toilets than either wall-hung or back to wall ones. Pipework is hidden, so cleaning is simple and the toilet is a fundamental fit for any bathroom. If you’re working towards a budget then a close coupled toilet is the most cost-effective option. They are available in a large number of styles and shapes, so let your personal style shine through when choosing yours.

Due to their size and their compact nature, a close coupled toilet is the perfect fit for small or awkward space. So if you have any minor recesses in your bathroom wall, this choice of loo may make the most of the space. Each close coupled toilet comes with its own measurements so check the dimensions before deciding which one is the perfect fit for your space.

Back to wall toilets have both the cistern and the bowl itself fixed to the wall at the back and their base stands on the floor, but the water tank is separate to the bowl. This design makes it the toilet for those looking for a contemporary style that is also ideal for space-saving.

You’ll find that the cistern for back to wall toilets are sold separately and concealed by the wall, with a flush panel fitted into the wall. Due to the cistern being sold separately, you must factor in the cost of this when you’re budgeting.

When you’re aiming for a streamlined modern look these particular designs are spot on for choosing the right toilet. The finish is fuss-free and makes cleaning very easy with the lack of a visible cistern helping to create a clutter free space.

These don’t differ too far from wall-hung toilets, another style of toilet available. As the name suggests, wall-hung toilets hang from the wall and leave extra space underneath to make your bathroom appear more spacious. They’re also known as floating toilets due to the space underneath them, making cleaning the toilet bowl and the floor so simple.

Wall-hung toilets offer a contemporary look that can make your bathroom look and feel so much bigger. They’re supported by a strong wall frame that conceals the cistern and holds the toilet, with cisterns concealed within the wall and activated by a flush panel.

One of the key benefits of a wall-hung toilet is that you can have the height adjusted to suit your needs. This means that wall-hung toilets are a great idea if you are looking to furnish a bathroom for someone who is taller or may have limited mobility

A wall-hung toilet creates a real feature point within your bathroom, it is as eye-catching as it is functional.

Is it time to renovate your bathroom and start choosing the right toilet? Here at Paul Barry KBB, we have over 30 years experience of turning your bathroom ideas into a reality. Our expert bathroom designers are on hand to offer advice and assist you in your needs and requirements to utilise the full potential of your available space.

Many of us dream of having a traditional farmhouse kitchen in our homes, but that dream isn’t too far out of reach when it comes to simple styling methods. By adopting these timeless and flexible kitchen elements, your space will be everything you’ve desired.

A traditional farmhouse kitchen is considered a luxury and following these simple design points will help you achieve your dream kitchen.

• Simple architecture

The essence of a traditional farmhouse kitchen does not rest solely on solid oak kitchen doors or dark colours as is popularly believed. Simple architecture elements such as whites and light shades can also help you achieve the look that you want. In fact, almost any colour scheme appeals to this particular design style as its lack of uniformity lends itself to its charm.

For those with a large, open kitchen, an island is a must-have. This space can be used to cook, socialise and eat, making it the perfect addition to a traditional farmhouse kitchen.

The detail of a traditional farmhouse kitchen lies in the islands, crown moulding, panelled cooker hoods and furniture-style toe kicks. These small flecks in the overall design are what give traditional farmhouse kitchens their homely and comforting characteristics.

• Cabinetry & unit choices

Even though they are timeless, traditional farmhouse kitchens are fresh. Most of the time you will see a simple shaker door, perhaps with small bead moulding. There are no raised panels like in contemporary kitchens or flat-panel doors that make the modern kitchen look.

This kind of style is what everyone feels most comfortable in, even the most modern interior devotees. If there is a colour that defines a classic style and pleases everyone, it has to be white. Choosing the right handles for your cabinets is important and needs careful consideration. They should be in keeping with the style and proportion of the cabinetry.

The cabinetry style is essential for maintaining the traditional farmhouse kitchen look. Opting for the likes of shaker, inset and bedboard are the best choices. It is also common to insert some glass-fronted doors on some cabinets as they fit well with the theme and can make the room look larger.

• Sinks & taps

Ceramic sinks are the only way forward for a traditional farmhouse kitchen. They’re hardwearing and when paired with a similar styled draining board, they fit the farmhouse theme perfectly. Ceramic sinks are also incredibly luxurious and will bring years of grace and elegance to your kitchen environment. The most popular is the Belfast sink, a must for any traditional farmhouse kitchen, however plenty of other ceramic designs are available and look gorgeous.

When it comes to taps, Victorian styled taps never go out of style. These classic designs look stunning when paired with ceramic kitchen sinks and wood counter tops. Even though they look old-fashioned and in keeping with the traditional farmhouse kitchen style, these taps have the same technology as their modern counterparts.

• Appliances

Traditionally, country kitchens feature a wood-burning oven but we understand these aren’t the most suitable for your family home. In a farmhouse kitchen it is the cooker that should be the main focal point so the likes a of range cooker or aga is the perfect addition. If they aren’t viable then look for modern alternatives hidden within your kitchen design.

Many newer models of dishwashers and overs conceal various setting buttons on top rather than displaying them in a front panel. Consider this when deciding on what features are important to you within your traditional farmhouse kitchen.

An old-fashioned refrigerator is so compatible with the country kitchen aesthetic and other touches that it fits the decor perfectly. Don’t give up on the idea of a large double refrigerator because you are afraid of having to sacrifice storage space, there’s no need to worry about mixing modern conveniences with traditional style if the appliances are in keeping with the decor.

Having a small bedroom doesn’t mean you’re limited when it comes to design. There are many ways to turn your small bedroom ideas that are big on style into a reality. It is all about storage, layout and that added dash of panache.

Your small bedroom should always be functional but that doesn’t mean you should sacrifice style. Here’s how to maximise your bedroom’s square footage and set the right atmosphere.

Keep the Room Light and Bright

The use of white walls, flooring and furniture keeps the room looking open and clean. You can add elements of dark using burlap and accents. Having dark walls will close in the space even more so its important to keep your small bedroom breathable and welcoming.

Lighting is an important element of your small bedroom. Apart from a central light, in the bedrooms mainly occur wall, table or bedside lamps. On each side of the bed can be placed bedside tables, shelves or nightstands.

Eclectic Patterns and Wall Hangings

Create texture and pops of colour by adding unique patterns and indoor hanging wall decor and indoor plants. Whether it’s a fun mirror, some flowers or eclectic print pillows, your room is sure to look polished.

Stay eclectic but keep the colour palette consistent. It is best to stick to just three or four major colours, as too many colours can turn the bedroom into a restless space. But if you want to incorporate a wider range of colours, then do so in moderation.

Decor with matching silhouettes or groups of accessories that are placed together give greater visual order to the room.

Layout is Important

No matter how organised you are, it cannot make up for your small bedroom’s bad layout. Function is extremely important.

Place your bed where you’ll get light and consider whether you need both sides to be accessible. Think about your traffic patterns and arrange your space to suit them— clear the way to the bathroom or closet so you don’t bump your shins.

Sliding Robes Are a Must

To truly maximise on space, sliding robes are the best way to get the best out of your storage and room square footage simultaneously.
Sliding robes don’t open outwards like conventional bedroom doors which means you have more space around your small bedroom.

The shelving and storage options in bespoke sliding robes are designed with you in mind to provide a clutter-free space. Made-to-measure sliding wardrobes are the perfect solution to bedrooms where space is an issue.

Want to discuss a bedroom renovation with our team of experts? We can provide advice for bedrooms of any size. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote.