Roman baths were invented more than 2000 years ago. For centuries, their presence was considered a distinctive feature of the civilization of a city. The embodiment of some of the design ideas for bath complexes of Ancient Rome today is an Italian-style bathroom. This article will tell you about the most general design features and some original ideas for arranging such a room.
Style Basics
Italians manage to combine simplicity with sophistication. This trait was transferred to the style. It is only expressed in the use of soft and sunny shades.
It should be noted that this style originated in Ancient Rome. France had a strong influence on the formation of this design direction, which brought some sophistication and sophistication. Everything was harmoniously combined with the country style, which is not alien to the Italians. As a result, a bohemian but simple direction in the design of the room was born.
Here it is important to use natural materials, which are characterized by a certain carelessness, but are “compatible” with the surrounding world. As a result, a special complacent atmosphere is created.
Modern trends in interior design have not had a significant impact on the fundamental aspects of the Italian style, although they have provided new opportunities to improve its virtues.
What to pay attention to when creating a little Italy?
Italian bathrooms can be divided into three types by design: Venetian, Tuscan and modern Italian style. The Venetian style is characterized by luxury and wealth: here you can find gilded handles, exclusive sanitary ware, canopies, large windows, marble and antiques. The walls can be decorated with special plaster with various textures for painting. Often the walls in such bathrooms are decorated with mosaics - the pattern can be made to order, it will be unique.
The Tonscan style is more natural, embodying nature and provincial architecture. This design is dominated by natural shades: blue, green, brown, yellow, beige. This Italian bathroom design will bring you a feeling of special comfort, as the natural colors will help you relax and unwind from the bustle of the city. In order to add a mysterious effect, you can cover the walls with plaster and then artificially age it. Finishes made of granite, marble, limestone and similar materials are suitable for the floor.
Contemporary Italian style combines the traditional finishes of the culture with modern fixtures. Warm shades are in fashion - pink, olive, cream and so on. For walls you can use Venetian plaster, which allows you to create a very pleasant design. Mosaic tiles are also trendy, and this finish would be appropriate in all three design options. Small squares will help make your interior unique and create unusual color schemes.
What to do in the bathroom
The bathroom should be designed taking into account space saving. The large elements used should not clutter the room, so it is better to place them on the walls. A minimum of small parts can be used. In this case, the use of elements from living rooms is allowed. You can even use upholstered furniture if space allows, as well as the material from which this furniture is made. Do not forget that in the bathroom there is often a high level of humidity, which negatively affects the performance characteristics of many materials, especially natural ones.
You can hang a large mirror on the wall, or use a small chest of drawers on the floor. A circular curtain can be placed in the center of the room. Its color can be gray or white, less often – beige. The remaining elements should also be selected taking into account the special warm harmony that is created. That is, it is better to choose non-white plumbing fixtures, appliances, and ceramic tiles (if they are used in decoration).
Floor and ceiling
The floor in the bathroom is a mandatory color contrast with the walls. If the walls are decorated in all shades of light and warm tones, then the floor is laid out with tiles of the richest and darkest colors: chocolate, burgundy, beige and brown. The tiled floor looks especially luxurious in the form of a huge carpet with complex patterns.
Such a colorful and well-designed pattern can visually expand the small space of a small room. The use of ornament when decorating a bathroom is a mandatory attribute of the Mediterranean trend and the true spirit of the age-old traditions of the Italians.
The floor made of multi-colored pebbles in combination with walls made of natural stone . Milky yellow or pale cream stone, like a reflection of antique architecture, paired with the multicolored pebbles, as if just washed up on the Cote d'Azur by the clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, create a unique atmosphere of the nature of sunny Italy.
The ceiling, like the walls in the bathroom, must be made of light tiles with elegant stucco around the edges and an antique bronze chandelier or a modern stretch one, with a glossy shine of an ideal surface, in the center of which a crystal chandelier plays with light reflections. The rich ornament does not ignore the decor of the ceiling in the bathroom and runs not only along the edges of the room, but also forms a whole picture in the center of a luxurious chandelier, generously illuminated by numerous bright light bulbs.
The iridescent glare of light in the bathroom is provided by various lamps, sconces and candlesticks built into the niches of the marble walls. The light walls literally glow even more from within, thanks to the reflective surface of the shiny stone. A forged chandelier in the spirit of antiquity harmonizes with an antique bronze bathtub and sink decorated with carved ornaments , and an airy chandelier made of clear or frosted glass is perfect for modern plumbing, embodying a strict minimalist style.
Colors
The colors in the bathroom should be light and cool tones. The classic solution is to use an ivory shade, largely due to the fact that it combines well with active color additives.
It is allowed to use olive or blue tones. In any case, it is important to focus on the fact that the background should be light, visually expand the space, and fill the room with air. Since the Italian style was influenced by the French spirit, the design is often complemented by textured elements of pink or, say, peach. For example, small patterns with smooth lines.
And here you need to achieve harmony in the combination of colors: the lighter and cooler the base, the warmer and darker the active colors should be. Soft color should be combined with texture. If the interior is based on warm shades, then it is worth diluting them with brighter colors. However, such elements must be used carefully and in doses to achieve true harmony.
What floor do Italians walk on in modern houses ↑
The ideal choice for flooring is wood or stone. However, in conditions of high humidity, these natural beauties will quickly lose their original luster. Ceramic granite can be an excellent imitation of wood or stone flooring - a strong and durable tile that can withstand difficult operating conditions.
The floor of the Italian bathroom is tiled with porcelain stoneware
It would not be a mistake if, when choosing a material for finishing the floor, you give preference to ceramic tiles. To fill such a floor with the Venetian spirit, you can use the technique beloved by the Italians - ornament. By the way, a skillfully composed pattern will help to visually increase the floor area and make the room wider.
The ornament looks gorgeous on the floor and is a classic attribute of the Mediterranean design trend.
Mosaic tiles recommended for walls will look equally good underfoot. Depending on your taste preferences, you can give preference to a monochromatic mosaic or use a combination of different colors, creating something like a carpet. The main thing is to take light and warm shades as a basis. Fresh trends in floor design in Italian houses - one floor covering for the whole house, so the bathroom looks like an extension of the whole house. Tiles are a cold material, and since the features of the Italian style do not include carpets, you should take care of comfort in advance by installing a “warm floor”.
Marble floor in Italian bathroom
More about finishing
Walls
In this case, the use of Venetian plaster is considered an excellent approach. This material allows you to achieve a certain carelessness, as well as texture, which is characteristic of the antique direction.
Sometimes it is necessary to use ceramic tiles due to their characteristics. In this case, it is recommended to use large samples with a blurred pattern applied. You can use mosaics to highlight certain areas. At the same time, you need to remember about the color scheme so as not to go beyond the stylistic boundaries. Do not use square or large shapes. Therefore, the mosaic should be small.
If painting is used, then acrylic-based paints can be used.
You can also use stone and plaster elements in the interior. With their help you can emphasize the doorway.
Ceiling
Materials can be used in a wide variety of shapes - the restrictions are minimal. Tension or hanging solutions are suitable. They allow for proper lighting, which is important. The surface can be matte or glossy.
You can also simply paint the surface using several layers. “Liquid wallpaper” is also suitable.
The most affordable option is ceiling tiles. It hides coating imperfections well, can be painted on, and does not require special care. However, such tiles do not fit well with stucco.
You can also decorate the ceiling using wooden beams. The main thing is not to use plastic elements, typical solutions for office use.
Floor
The composition is completed by the floor covering. You can use tiles with a rough texture. In this case, it is advisable to take care of installing a heated floor. This will allow you to use the room more comfortably.
Other materials are either not suitable for use in the bathroom or do not fit with the stylistic solutions characteristic of the Italian style.
Manufacturers
14 ora italiana
The name of this company stands for “14:00 Italian time”.
The company is conveniently located on the site of agricultural estates in Italy. The region of Emilia-Romagna. The population is about 10,000 people, most of whom work in the factory. The oldest traditions are used in production.
The company is rapidly gaining popularity, and has been a direct supplier to large construction hypermarkets for many years.
Atlas concorde
An Italian brand that is no less popular and in demand. Atlas Concorde has an agreement with many leading chains in the world, thanks to which the company makes direct deliveries of its products.
This brand was one of the very first to receive fundamental rights to call its products an environmental brand. In the manufacturer's catalogs you will find a huge number of collections.
The pearl is a collection that imitates wood, natural stone, and a combination of these materials.
Fap ceramiche
These companies combine inherited traditions from ancient Italian masters. This business is a family business, and the heirs of the house from generation to generation try to maintain the given trends.
The brand offers high quality products in a classic style. If you like the collections of this manufacturer, then you can note that you have impeccable taste, as well as a craving for luxury.
The manufacturer offers rich and noble colors, as well as pleasant tactile sensations from contact.
A huge number of different decorative coatings are produced.
Cerdomus
This brand is also popular in Italy and the United States of America. The brand has recently entered the Russian market, but has also managed to gain popularity.
The tiles are created in accordance with environmental requirements. Collections allow you to maintain the warmth of the atmosphere in the room. We offer classic collections that imitate a marble surface.
There are also collections that are designed for high-tech style homes. These are smooth glossy tiles, as well as with minimalist prints.
Kerama marazzi
This is probably the most popular brand not only in Italy, but also in other large countries where deliveries are made. Kerama Marazzi first appeared on the construction market about 100 years ago.
To begin with, the company produced finishing materials for buildings and firmly took its position in the construction business. However, soon the brand began to offer ceramic mosaic tiles for bathrooms. The company's products are varied and high quality.
The main direction of the collection is ethnic patterns with plant and animal prints.
This tile will become a real decoration for your room.
Imola
Tiles from the Imola brand are considered elite. It allows you to create a sophisticated interior that has a slight touch of luxury. Three enterprises work for the needs of this company.
They produce porcelain stoneware, monocottura, bicottura. These are different ways of firing tiles. The assortment includes about three hundred different collections.
Specializes in the production of bright tiles in modern and fusion styles. Hollywood chic is also reflected in these collections. The tiles are bright, glossy, asymmetrical. Designers offer several color combination options.
The company experiments not only with color options, but also with textures. Adds glaze, offers the perfect gloss or sparkle.
Iris ceramica
The Iris ceramica company has been operating on the Russian market for more than 20 years. This is the production of classic ceramic tiles, based on ancient traditions. The products are in great demand in the West and very popular in Russia.
Popular are collections that are designed to look like marble, wood or concrete. The tiles are perfectly glossy, creating an expensive, cold atmosphere. Some collections can be used in a loft interior.
The main advantage is constant marketing research, thanks to which each new collection creates a real sensation.
La fabbrica
The company has been on the Russian market for more than 10 years. Mainly engaged in wholesale sales and production of high-quality floor tiles for bathrooms and other premises.
It is a direct supplier to leading companies in the world. There are Moroccan-style collections that perfectly convey the warmth and diversity of the East. Such collections allow you to create a unique bathroom design, one visit to which will delight you. Very often, such tiles are ordered for tiling hammams, saunas and Turkish baths.
Actively produces collections at least three to four times a year.
Ragno marazzi
The Rango company existed until 1989 as a separate company, after which it merged with the Marazzi company.
A recognizable brand that produces bathroom tiles on a huge scale. Introduces the latest technologies into its production. Offers various collections, from classic to modern.
Large suppliers purchase all collections, as they are released in limited editions. Certain collections do not end up in Russia at all. Regardless of what style the tiles are made in, they will definitely be a hit with buyers.
It features a loyal pricing policy.
Sant'agostino
Initially, the Sant Agostino factory was a small workshop near the monastery of St. Augustine. Thanks to the economic boom, the small factory was converted into a technological enterprise, the main goal of which was the production of Italian ceramic tiles.
This company does not have many collections, but they all correspond to the understanding of modern luxury. There are not only tiles that repeat colors or popular textures. There are designs that look like randomly scattered images, which add personality to your bathroom.
Also, the collections of this company are often replenished, and designers offer new solutions in order to combine several options at once.
Settecento
The company was founded in 1969. The tile quickly gained popularity and entered the world market. The brand is one of the most dynamic and fastest growing. The factory's products are widely distributed throughout the world. Basically, it offers solutions for the comfort of large classic houses.
The company is located in Tuscany. The design of these tiles is influenced by Provence. In the images you can often see bouquets of lavender, olives and branches, wine or grapes, as well as other symbols of this fertile region. The tiles are mainly in terracotta and beige shades. There are collections in sea green and meadow green.
There are also so-called capsule collections that are produced in limited editions and are not even always supplied to Russia.
You can purchase this collection only on the official website.
Unica
For the most part, it produces cladding in the traditional Italian style. But there are ambitions to conquer the neoclassical and even fusion styles. Designers are already working on this area. The range has expanded significantly and by 2020 there are more than 200 collections that can be purchased. Deliveries are made to Russia.
Traditional Italian style features mostly terracotta tiles, as well as a few mosaic tiles. The combination of large tiles and mosaics allows you to achieve a unique effect. Despite all the severity, the bath acquires warm and at the same time interesting colors. Mosaic accents perfectly highlight the structure of the room.
In recent years, the company has been actively teaming up with other manufacturers in order to create special unusual collections.
Vallelunga ceramica
The history of this factory began back in the forties of the last century. Several partners pooled their capital and built a plant that allows a full cycle line to be produced and produce tiles. The process was launched and the tiles quickly began to gain popularity among Italians. Later she became known throughout the world and received corresponding recognition.
After a couple of decades, the company turned into a popular European brand. There are currently 5 collections available for purchase.
The design of the tiles is made in a classic manner. This means that the models are suitable for homes in vintage, classic and neoclassical styles.
Mostly in the collections there are pearl, olive, ash, and nude shades.
Furniture
And here the French had a certain influence. At one time, France and Italy developed at a similar pace in the art of carpentry. The French came up with the idea of introducing metal elements and forging, while the Italians paid more attention to textures and patterns. An excellent solution is dark woods, complemented by curls. A massive tabletop is used, which is complemented by thin legs.
When choosing furniture, it is important to combine shapes and colors to achieve overall harmony in the bathroom design.
Furniture and accessories for the Italian bathroom
Little Italy in the bathroom is most noticeable in the little things, so even small elements can be emphasized. This style involves the use of bronze faucets, metal candelabra, gilded frames, that is, things with a hint of luxury. It is very rare to find chrome-plated plumbing fixtures, since preference is given to pink, gold, and beige shades.
Don’t forget about decorations: antique figurines, paintings, vases and other little things. All these elements should match the overall style of your interior, but try not to overdo it, even if it is a few things, but each of them will have its own place. If your bathroom has a window, then it can be draped with Roman blinds or beautiful curtains that match the style.
Wall-hung toilets with laconic forms and beautiful washbasins can also serve as decoration. Often, preference is given to high quality and materials, and the functionality of plumbing fixtures fades into the background. The central place in the bathroom is occupied by the bathtub itself; it is very rare to see a shower stall in such an interior, since it is more of a tribute to fashion. Designers recommend selecting all plumbing fixtures and furniture in the same style with the same shapes. Today, entire collections of such products are being created, so you can choose everything in one style without much difficulty.
Lighting
This aspect is not always given due attention when decorating interiors, but lighting in the Italian style plays an important role. In this case, it is worth using diffused soft light. For example, darkness may be created in the center of the room. Of course, in the mirror area it is worth using more concentrated lighting. Therefore, it is necessary to combine solutions to obtain the desired stylistic effect, but without compromising comfort.
You can use pendant lamps that will fit perfectly into the design. As additional lighting, it is permissible to use a light source in the form of a kerosene lamp or sconce.
Stylish bathrooms with gold and silver elements
To furnish the spacious Italian bathroom in the following photo, Scavolini designers used modern wall, floor and ceiling designs, as well as luxurious sanitary ware and accessories in a retro style. The interior of an Italian bathroom is dominated by classic white, as well as neutral dark gray and light gray colors, complemented by glossy golden elements.
The designers laid out the floor of the room with dark gray natural wood panels, the walls with white tiles and dark gray wallpaper, and the ceiling with white paint. The bathroom itself, with golden claws, is located on a small platform lined with white tiles, which visually highlights this area of the room.
As a source of natural light, the designers used a spacious window with a white frame, overlooking the courtyard of a private house and filling the room with sufficient sunlight during the daytime. A white ceiling and window frame, white frames for mirrors and the mirrors themselves, as well as white Italian furniture visually make the room more spacious, since white color has the useful property of lengthening and expanding the area of rooms.
Italian bathroom with retro style furniture.
The main colors of bathrooms from the Scavolini company are classic white, black, as well as various shades of gray, which the designers complemented with gold and silver elements - the competent and balanced use of these colors, which, moreover, are the hit of this season, can make the interior Any room in a house or apartment is more festive, elegant and solemn.
However, you should not overdo it with gold and silver, otherwise there is a risk of making the interior too pompous, lush and tasteless. The stylish interior of the bathroom in the following photo is dominated by classic black and white colors: black in the design of furniture, sanitary ware, accessories and floors, and white in the design of walls and ceilings.
In this Italian bathroom, the designers placed stylish modern built-in cabinets, as well as a retro-style bathtub with silver claws, which is located in a separate isolated room of the spa area. Stylish designer pendant lamps from Scavolini and bright fresh flowers in vases were used to decorate the room.
Black and white bathroom in Italian style.
The small Italian bathroom in the next photo also combines features of modern and retro interior styles. To decorate the walls of the room, Scavolini designers used stylish waterproof wallpaper with gray and white stripes, and black wooden panels for the floor.
Do you want to make a shower stall in the bathroom of your home or apartment? Then read about how to do it yourself here.
Replacing a bathtub with a shower stall: tips on choosing and placing a shower stall, recommendations for remodeling a bathroom in a small apartment.
Are you renovating a two-room apartment? In our detailed article you can find out everything about choosing the style, as well as the type of floor and ceiling coverings for bathrooms in two-room Khrushchev-era apartment buildings.
This bathroom is dominated by silver elements and accessories, and the real highlight of the room is the luxurious Italian bathtub and ottoman with silver claws.
Luxurious bathroom with silver claws in retro style.
[adsleft] In the interior of the sophisticated bathroom in the next photo, on the contrary, golden matte elements predominate. The combination of black and gold is a classic combination that is very popular when decorating living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, home offices and other rooms, and this bathroom was no exception - Scavolini designers used gold and black furniture and sanitary ware.
Stylish bathroom with gold and black furniture.
