There are lots of ways to bring colour into the bathroom – with paint, wallpaper and tiles, even coloured suites have made a comeback recently. And with all the inspiration on Instagram and Pinterest we are all being a bit braver in our choices and pushing the boundaries to achieve something truly individual rather than something ‘safe’. Especially when it comes to small bathroom ideas, colour is an easy way to add impact.

The great thing about doing up a small bathroom is that you don’t need as much paint, tiles or flooring, so you can afford to be a bit more generous with your budget.

Small bathroom colour ideas

‘Colour is an important factor to consider in small bathrooms as it can make the difference between the room feeling larger than it really is or feeling tight and enclosed’ explains Jo Sangster, Senior Designer at Ripples Bathrooms.

‘Choosing a pale, pastel tone across walls, tiles and furniture can help create the illusion of space and works well for a bathroom where the focus is on relaxation and retreat. This effect can be maximised by choosing a floor and wall colour of a similar colour, tricking the eye and creating the sense of a seamless space.’

1. Choose colourful tiles

Image credit: Porcelain Superstore

Tiles are the obvious choice for a bathroom as they are practical, but that doesn’t mean they have to be white, or plain. There are so many colourful tiles on the market now you are spoilt for choice and there are lots of amazing patterns and shapes to choose from too. Hexagon tiles have been really popular recently and will give a different dimension to your bathroom, adding pattern and colour. Teaming with a coral wall unit and mirror really makes them pop.

Buy now: Corsica hex tiles, £82.50 m2, Porcelain Superstore

2. Introduce a splash of colour with paint

Image credit: Benjamin Moore; Paint: Wild Flower, £24.50 for 0.94l,

Never underestimate the power of paint! It’s one of the quickest and easiest ways to add colour to a bathroom. As this small bathroom shower idea proves it can completely change the mood of the room, and it’s easy to re-paint if you get tired of it. This lovely coral colour livens up an otherwise plain white bathroom, and the large mirror will bounce light around to make it look bigger than it really is.

3. Consider waterproof panels

Image credit: Shower Wall

Instead of tiles, have you considered waterproof panels? This stylish alternative to tiles is a great way to welcome a splash of bold pattern and colour to a small bathroom. Once a bit municipal, they now come in an amazing array of designs and colours in a strong composite material. If you want them to look like tiles you can, but why not have a jungle scene, a big floral design or these amazing pineapples?

And the great thing is, there is no grout to worry about, and they are super easy to clean. Prices from £552.10 for a piece 2400 x 896 at showerwall.co.uk.

4. Make a statement with a coloured basin

Image credit: Kast

If the thought of a coloured suite fills you with horror, think again, there are some beauties out there now. But if you can’t face the whole matchy-matchy thing, why not choose a funky coloured basin?

There are loads to choose from now in fantastic colours and shapes like this square one in peppermint green find similar at Kast. Then team it with striking terrazzo-effect, hexagon tiles in monochrome, then pick up the ochre colour in the painted wall. If this doesn’t cheer you up in the morning, nothing will….

5. Embrace the wonder of wallpaper

Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles

Who says you can’t use wallpaper in the bathroom? Bathroom wallpaper ideas are a welcome way to add colour to small cloakrooms, as long as there is plenty of ventilation it will be fine. This small bathroom idea is stunning, not only a fabulous design wallpaper but it doesn’t overpower the small space because it’s balanced by the wall of white tiles. Continue the accent colours throughout the rest of the room by way of the towels and a bath mat.

6. Think about window treatments

Image credit: Future PLC/ Simon Whitmore

A nice way to introduce colour into your bathroom is to add colour at the windows, with a colourful fabric blind, either plain or patterned, venetian blinds or coloured shutters. There are some amazing styles around with something for every budget. If you are a dab hand with the sewing machine you could probably make your own roman blind.

This pop of sunshine yellow in an otherwise all-white and black bathroom is a striking way to add an accent colour. In a small bathroom using colour at the windows can help to draw the outside in, creating a sense of extra space.

7. Utilise the ceiling

Image credit: Future PLC

It’s often called the ‘4th wall’ – the ceiling would be a great way to bring colour in, either light or dark, to complement the rest of the colour scheme or as a contrast. You could use a mural wallpaper or paint one yourself to give it a different dimension.

8 Upcycle vanity unit

Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole

If you are using a pre-loved piece of furniture as a vanity unit, why not paint it in a bright colour so that it really stands out, you could change the handles as well and give it a whole new look.

9. Paint the bath

Image credit: Future PLC

Make a statement in a small bathroom by painting the bath in a standout shade from the rest of the room. In this snug-sized  bathroom the contrast of pale pink Ensure you prep yourself on how to paint a bath  with a step by step guide to make sure the DIY job is done properly, otherwise the.colour won’t last.

10. Add colour with accessories

Future PLC

For a really quick and simple revamp, just buy a selection of on-trend accessories in the latest colour, especially if your bathroom is white. A new bathmat would really add a pop of colour and won’t cost a lot.

11. Treat yourself to new towels

Image credit: Future PLC

If you really are on a budget, give the bathroom an update with new towels in a fashionable colour, maybe with a bold pattern. Or you could always dye any white towels that have seen better days for an instant refresh.

What colour is best for a small bathroom?

‘Greys are extremely versatile and will work perfectly in a small bathroom.’ Says Justyna Korczynska, Senior Designer at Crown. ‘Crown’s Soft Steel is a light grey hue and will give the room more texture than white. Coral is a vibrant and ‘up’ colour and works especially well in a bathroom to add style and drama – maybe try a coral on one key wall to create a dramatic effect.’

Are dark colours good for small bathrooms?

Are on-trend darker shades suitable for small bathroom colour ideas? Turns out the answer is yes! ”When it comes to small rooms go high on the drama’ advises Grazziella Wilson, Creative Manager of Ca Pietra. ‘The proportions of the room aren’t there to create impact so you need to do it with colour and great design. Dark colours can work well in smaller bathrooms as they can add depth to the space and draw the eye in. We are finding that navy blue and deep forest greens are trending at the moment.’

What colour makes a small bathroom look bigger?

We ask the experts to advise on the best colour to make a small bathroom look bigger, because it’s a commonly asked question. ‘Generally speaking, light and bright shades will work best in smaller bathrooms to open up the space’ says Rikki Fothergill, of the Big Bathroom Shop. ‘Any pastel colour scheme can be beautifully accentuated by the presence of bathroom plants.’

The post Small bathroom colour ideas – 10 colourful ways to add personality to small spaces appeared first on Ideal Home.

Solar panel disadvantages don’t get spoken about much as the positives, which are usually front and centre. It’s understandable given we should be encouraging green energy use, the free power you can create and the future-proofing that panels offer your home. But it’s not all good news – there are still downsides to solar panels.

Sure, the price has dropped dramatically from an average of £15,000 in 2010 to just under £6,000 in 2022. But that up-front cost isn’t everything you’re going to be paying. There are ongoing costs and work for you to keep in mind, too.

This guide aims to clarify everything you need to know about the dark side of solar panels. That way you can truly weigh up the actual costs and benefits to you. So when you make the decision to either go solar or not, you’ll know it’s the right choice.

Image credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto

Solar panel disadvantages

1. They need a sunny spot

The clue is in the name – solar panels require the sun’s solar rays to work. No sun means no power. So being based in the UK, where sun isn’t the most common expectation, you’re starting out at a disadvantage. If it were rain or wind power, then you’d be in a pretty good position. Weather grumbling aside, solar panels can still get a lot of light. The key is to be in a position to get that.

This doesn’t mean you need a south facing garden or anything like that. But the pitch and angle of your roof can play a big part here. You may find that just one part of your roof gets sun, or one half gets a little while the other half gets some too. In these cases it may be required to spread the panels across both sides of your roof which can incur charges.

Where you live is another issue. If you’re on a hilltop and clouds fly by leaving you lots of clear sky then you’re in a good position for solar energy. But if you live on the coast where cloud cover, fog and mist are common, you may find yourself struggling to harness solar.

Another factor is smog and dirt. If you live in a city you’ll also need to factor in regular cleaning of your panels. Otherwise, they won’t run as efficiently as they should and could develop problems.

2. They involve a big initial investment

The cost of solar panels may have dropped dramatically over the past decade but they’re still expensive and mean you need to pay out. The government previously offered assistance with buying but this has now ended so all the cost of buying and installing the panels now falls to you.

3. If you spend too little you can lose out

The amount you spend gets you more panels, which can generate more power to be sold back to the grid. So if you can afford to spend more up front it can save you in the long run. If you can’t, then you may find them tougher to pay off, taking you longer to do so.

4. The power battery is an extra outlay

A power battery, that lets you store excess energy to sell to the grid or use later, is a great investment. In fact it’s needed if you want to make the most of your solar panels. But it will cost you extra so factor that in when getting a quote.

Image credit: Future PLC

5. Solar panels won’t heat your water

Solar panels are generally for producing electric power. You can get an additional kit to heat water but don’t expect these to bring the costs of that down if you have a gas boiler.

To go totally electric, using solar for all your home needs, you’ll need to ditch gas. That can mean a new oven and a new air pump boiler which costs thousands more.

6. Cleaning costs can be high

You’ll need to factor in the costs of cleaning solar panels. While you can do this yourself it’s advisable to pay a professional to give them a proper clean and inspection annually. As The Eco Experts say ‘when you see the aesthetic and financial benefits cleaning and maintaining your panels produces, you’ll see why it’s worth doing.’

Image credit: Getty Images/Claire Plumridge

Solar panel problems

1. They produce low or no electricity

This can be a common problem. Generally it is likely to be down to unclean panels. The Eco Experts say: “Even if you clear your panels of major dirt and debris, dust and particulate matter can still reduce your solar array’s production levels by as much as 25%.”

So, getting your optical cleaning pole with sponge out to give them a clean is a good first step in improving efficiency. If this doesn’t work then you may need to pay for a professional clean and inspection.

There is a chance faulty wiring or bird mess has damaged a panel, so finding that is important to begin the process of getting it fixed or replaced.

2. Solar panels can crack

A crack in a solar panel can be a major problem. This can mean that the waterproof seal that would otherwise protect the electronics from rain may be compromised. In which case the panel could break from water damage, if it’s not already done so. Replacing a panel cover is far less costly than a whole unit due to electrical damage. So working fast is important.

Contact your solar panel provider to see if you can claim your warranty still, allowing you to have it repaired with no or minimal cost to you. Most solar panels come with a 25 year warranty so you should be covered timing wise.

The issue comes with the type of damage. If something’s fallen on the panel, then the warranty may not cover it. If it’s cracked due to weather damage – moving from hot to cold quickly perhaps – then you’re more likely to be covered.

Image credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto

3. Birds and animals can nest in solar panels

Birds nesting under your panels is a big problem. They use their faeces to bind the nests which can be corrosive and since there is wiring under the panels, this is a very vulnerable spot. The best course of action is to get a professional to get up there, clear out the nesting birds and install some caging to stop them gaining access in the future.

Using spikes can help keep them away. Modern bird spikes are far more rounded than those of the past, making them non-damaging to the birds. But they’re still uncomfortable enough to keep them away. Install these around the panels to ensure they’re kept animal-free.

Our guide on how to pigeon-proof solar panels offers more advice.

Once one nest appears, other animals can start making their way up there so it’s important to get rid of them as soon as you discover their presence. Be sure to remove all traces and ideally block access too.

Food is what can attract animals, so if you have trees nearby that are dropping then either cut them back or try to tie them off so seeds and fruits don’t land on your roof. It also pays to keep any ground-level food, like bins, inaccessible so animals of all kinds are kept away from potentially stumbling across your solar panels as a potential new home.

The post Solar panels disadvantages and problems appeared first on Ideal Home.

Now this is what you call a transformation! This once rather dull and dreary caravan is now a vision of colour and pattern to inspire anyone thinking of being bolder with decor choices in their own small space at home. The incredible static caravan makeover sees a classic beige interior totally transformed with daring paint ideas and bold furniture and fittings.

The impressive transformation, dubbed ‘Dixie Daydream’ is the work of style duo The Style Producers, Diana Civil and Cassandra Doyle who teamed up with Wayfair to overhaul the interior.

‘People often believe smaller spaces call for more pared back designs and pale colours, but we disagree’ say the duo. ‘Adding colour and pattern to even the smallest of spaces can add personality and character. By using bold colour and punchy patterns we have created maximum effect in a minimum space.’

Colourful static caravan makeover

Image credit: Wayfair

Speaking of the transformation Wayfair’s Resident Style Advisor, Nadia McCowan Hill says: ‘Dixie Daydream turns a traditionally lack-lustre caravan design on its head and proves that even the smallest space can be a haven of personal style if you renovate it thoughtfully’.

‘Even with a maximalist “more is more” scheme we would suggest having a cohesive colour palette as your starting point’ say the stylists. ‘Then layer contrasting pattern and texture. We chose lilac, pink and mustard as our key colours. We have complimented them with our stand out navy carpet which pulls the scheme together perfectly. Being confident and generous with colour is the secret to success’.

Transformative pink painted ceiling

Image credit: Wayfair

We think you’ll agree the living space is almost unrecognisable from the drab space it was before. The project provided an opportunity for the duo to flex their creativity – pouring personality into the new maximalist interior. And they certainly went to town on expressing themselves.

‘As stylists we are always excited by new finds and treasures and a spot of DIY, so what better way to channel our creativity than to transform a static caravan into a boutique stay like no other’ say the styling duo.

The renovation project included changes to hardware, including a copper sink upgrade and contemporary built-in fireplace, both from Wayfair. With a savvy outlook to improve over move, we feel this project is an inspiration for those looking to revamp their own homes.

Out of all the DIY decor ideas the stand-out one has to be that painted pink ceiling. The shade wraps around the whole caravan and demonstrates how you can make a wow statement in a small space at little cost.

Pink painted kitchen

Image credit: Wayfair

The pair show how painting kitchen cabinets can improve a kitchen instantly without replacing units. The brass handles are another cost-effective update.

‘Working as The Style Producers we are generally working to a client brief, which means you are somewhat limited in personal expression,’ say Cassandra & Diana of the makeover. ‘Being completely let loose on to source furnishings and decor that we love was a complete delight – who wouldn’t enjoy finding lovely interiors treasures to revamp a caravan?’

It makes us want to recreate a little Dixie Daydream decor in our own homes. But if you want to enjoy it as a holiday home you can, as the Dixie Daydream static caravan launches for seaside stays. With nightly rates from £180 per night (low season) to £300 per night (high season). Visit Airbnb.com for more information.

The post This affordable design choice has transformed a small static caravan into a pink boutique retreat appeared first on Ideal Home.

Whether you need a more family-friendly garden or you want to create different zones, there are plenty of garden landscaping ideas to choose from. So it’s important to weigh up all your options when you’re thinking about garden layout ideas and what will suit you best.

‘Garden zoning is becoming increasingly popular as it allows you to maximise the space available in your garden,’ advises Leigh Barnes of Jacksons Fencing. ‘This works by segmenting the area using screens, trellis or flowerbeds. This creates various zones such as a child friendly-zone, entertainment zone for welcoming guests and dining, and a private or snug zone. This could work well as a peaceful WFH spot during the summer months.’

Garden layout ideas

Be inspired to transform your garden with these top ideas that will help you nail the perfect garden layout for your space.

1. Build a firepit

Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole

Let the fun and games continue into the evening with a bespoke firepit idea and seating area where you can keep warm on chilly evenings. Build your own with bricks, or choose a portable design you can move around the garden.

Surround your firepit with built-in seating and top with cosy throws and cushions to keep the family warm during evenings where you can toast marshmallows over the open fire.

2. Create different zones

Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole

Consider different patio ideas to break up a rectangular garden into zones. A patio near the house is great for an area to eat and drink, while planted borders around the edge help to disguise fencing.

When marking out your different zones, spend time establishing which areas are sunny and which are shaded so you can make the most of the space.

You could even create two separate patio areas. One which gets sun in the morning and one which gets the last of the sun in the afternoon. That means you will always have a nice sunny spot to enjoy a cuppa or a G&T!

3. Make a cosy courtyard

Image credit: Future PLC

For small garden ideas, position a table in the middle surrounded by seating for a cocooning sociable space.

Disguise brickwork or fencing using climbing plants such as clematis or climbing roses,. These will add colour, texture and fragrance to the garden fence ideas in a small space.

4. Lay winding paths

Image credit: Future PLC

For long garden layout ideas, create winding paths leading to different focal points such as patios or garden decking ideas. The curve of the path softens the shape and draws your attention to different parts of the garden.

Experiment with planting alongside the path to break up any large expanses of grass. Then choose plants of different heights and colours for depth and visual interest.

Fragrant plants such as lavender work well as you can enjoy the scent wafting through the air as you pass by.

5. Make a secret hideaway

Image credit: Future PLC/Lizzie Orme

Turn a corner of your garden into a little nook, with built-in seating and a pergola above to add shade. This creates a quiet spot to unwind.

Camouflage the area with planting, such as easy climbing plant ideas. Allow these to grow up and over the pergola to an intimate feel. Tuck the seating behind borders full of lush plants so the space feels hidden away. For overlooked gardens, this is a great trick for adding more privacy.

6. Design a multifunctional space

Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole

Plan a layout that utilises every area to tick off all your garden needs. Built-in outdoor seating provides a sociable space to relax. While a summerhouse gives you a quiet retreat to enjoy if the weather isn’t great.

Tall structured planting softens the hard landscaping and adds texture and colour to the scheme. Choose grasses and evergreen plants for easy maintenance.

7. Soften hard landscaping with plants

Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole

Break up an outdoor space that’s one large expanse of patio with small beds of plants. Use circular beds and then create a winding walkway through the space.

Make sure to pick the sunniest spot for a seating area you can enjoy for most of the day. Small trees such as acers are great for adding height and colour to a courtyard outdoor space.

8. Install a bespoke bar area

Image credit: Future PLC/Joanna Henderson

Gardens are made for socialising, so if you like to spend a lot of time entertaining friends and family why not build your own bar or even an outdoor kitchen idea?

Make sure you’re able to close up the front come winter. This will prevent the bar interior from getting covered in leaves and garden debris.

A bar area makes a great addition to a patio near your outdoor dining table and barbecue. It means you can keep food and drinks within easy reach.

9. Add a shady spot

Image credit: Future PLC

Create a shaded dining area by building a pergola for a patio cover idea. It’s important to have a shaded dining spot in your garden especially when it comes to the summer months. It always pays to have somewhere cool to relax.

Look out for canvas sails as an alternative to a pergola. These can be used to cover the area if you want more shade or to protect you from light rain.

Pergolas also look great when festoon lighting is hung across. It will set a relaxing atmosphere for an evening outside.

10. Make it family friendly

Image credit: Future PLC/Tim Young

Make a dedicated area of the garden just for little ones to enjoy.

Incorporate a small sandpit and a mud kitchen to keep them entertained. An outdoor chalkboard wall gives them space to get creative outside. When it comes to bigger gardens, a playhouse or climbing frame will give them hours of fun.

Position kid-friendly areas near a patio area or the house. That means you can keep an eye on them while they play.

How do you get the most space in a small garden?

The first thing to consider is what the main use of the space will be. If it needs to be multifunctional, choose garden furniture which can easily be folded away when not in use.

Bistro sets are ideal as they are compact and can easily be hung up on a garden wall with hooks when you’re not using them.

‘When you have a small garden, you must ensure you know exactly what you want to use your garden for, similar to how you would design rooms in your house for specific uses,’ explains Jonny Brierley, CEO of Moda Furnishings. ‘Storage and multifunctionality are the two key elements that all outdoor furniture for small gardens should have.’

A few potted plants dotted around will give colour if you don’t have space for a border, while a small shed or storage box will help you keep the garden clutter-free by hiding away tools, toys and garden chairs.

What’s the most low maintenance garden layout?

Breaking up a large expanse of grass with a patio or decking area will mean spending less time mowing during the summer months.

A paved space is one of the most low maintenance options, along with using artificial grass. ‘Several things can make a garden low maintenance,’ explains Fiona Jenkins, gardening expert at MyJobQuote. ‘One of the best ways to achieve this is by creating a patio garden. A patio requires very little maintenance when compared to a lawn.’

Fiona continues: ‘If you’re adamant that you want a lawn in your garden, artificial grass is the most low maintenance option, and this doesn’t require mowing or watering. Decking is also another option for a low maintenance garden.’ Bear in mind that large expanses of either are not very sustainable. Some grass and plants are needed to help pollinators thrive in the garden.

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