Ceramic and cast mineral: the dominant materials in modern sanitaryware
Whether ceramic or cast mineral, both materials are robust, hard-wearing and resistant to breakage. Even so, there are small but significant differences that can tip the balance when you choose bathroom furniture, and the washbasin in particular:
- Ceramic surfaces are more scratch-resistant than cast mineral surfaces.
- Discolouration, for example from hair dye, is also easier to remove from ceramic surfaces than from cast mineral surfaces.
- The lighter ceramic basins also score well in terms of their own weight.
When cracks or chips need repairing, as can happen when heavy objects are dropped, cast basins prove easier to maintain: the repair can be done with standard products from a DIY store and does not require a specialist. Finally, the cast basin can be sanded and sealed to restore it to its original condition.
If you are looking for washbasins or bowls made of particularly unusual materials, you will find designer models in natural stone, steel, glass or wood. Natural stone has similar properties to cast mineral, but needs more intensive care so that the natural material does not become brittle over time. As a material for sanitaryware, steel stands out for its very good hygiene and cleaning properties, which is why steel has long been used for hand basins in busy public facilities such as airports and swimming pools. Washbasins or bowls made of glass or wood have an exotic visual appeal, but because the materials are very delicate, they are less suitable for washing areas that are used a lot.
Fresh shapes and colours for a new sense of wellbeing
A classic washbasin or, following the current trend, a vanity unit with a countertop basin? The latter comes in many variations, and the choice depends on the interior style you want for your ideal bathroom.
For a bathroom in feng shui style, for example, a vanity unit with a wood look and a delicate round or oval countertop bowl made of natural stone is an excellent choice. The wood look can be continued in other bathroom furniture. A minimalist style calls for clear, angular shapes. Whether brilliant white or jet black: a simple mirror cabinet above a straight-lined vanity unit with an inset basin reinforces the cool geometric feel. Bathroom accessories are used sparingly.
An oriental ambience is created in quite a different way: round, flowing shapes are the basis. The basin taps can be ornate and shine in gold. The gold theme can be continued in colourful towels with gold appliqués. If you prefer a retro style, make a statement with a washbasin on a pedestal. A two-handle mixer tap completes the authentic look.
Many other themes can be achieved with modern bathroom furniture: maritime, Mediterranean, colonial or simply colourful. There are no limits to personal taste and creativity.
The small bathroom: no longer a problem area
The floor space of a guest toilet or bathroom often only just meets the minimum requirements for a sanitary room. In the past, it was hardly possible to realise high aesthetic standards when furnishing a cramped bathroom. There was only a small choice of compact washbasins made of ceramic or porcelain, all very similar in colour and shape. Manufacturers of bathroom interiors have long since recognised this niche and created exclusive designer solutions for washbasins and storage space suited to bathrooms.
A stylish and exclusive touch for a very small bathroom does not have to mean custom-made furniture. Many unusual designs in all the common styles are available. Small square vanity units with a straight-lined countertop basin, a single-lever mixer and a spacious base cabinet are popular solutions for a very small bathroom. A mirror cabinet above the vanity unit creates additional storage space. A welcome side effect of this solution: the mirror makes a small room look larger.
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