Multicookers have become a popular, must-have appliance in the kitchen nowadays. Not only do they provide convenience and capabilities to rustle up delicious meals, but they can also save us precious cooking time. And while the market is full of competing big brands, the Tefal All-in-One pressure cooker is certainly one not to underestimate.
A brand known for reliability, the Tefal All-in-One is a versatile, electric pressure cooker that offers more programs and functions that you’ll ever need (it’s in the name!). For those who enjoy cooking up a feast, it comes with a large 6-litre capacity which can easily hold large quantities at a time, making it ideal for larger households.
Best of all, it comes with a very affordable price tag, making it a worthwhile consideration. I put the Tefal All-in-One cooker to the test to find out if it can perform just as well as its more expensive counterparts, and if it’s one of the best slow cookers you can buy.
Ideal Home rated: 4 out of 5 stars
Reasons to buy:
25 one-touch programmes
Large 6-litre capacity
Automatic 24-hr keep warm function
Convenient hinged lid
Handy recipe book
Attractive design and control panel
Reasons to avoid:
Confusing for beginners to use without manual
Spatula has small handle so can easily touch the hot pot
Unboxing the Tefal CY505E40 All-in-One Pressure Cooker
The Tefal All-In-One Pressure Cooker was easy to lift out of the box, with minimal fuss (and packaging). Design-wise, it looks attractive and sleek in a black and stainless steel design and has a neat LED display screen and panel.
Due to its extra large, 6-litre capacity, it does seem a little bulky on the worktop compared to other brands. So if you have limited space or a cluttered worktop, you’d need to bear this in mind. What’s more, it has a hinged lid, making it easier to open and dish out, without leaving wet circles on the worktop. However, if you have low hanging cabinetry like myself, you will have to locate the cooker towards the edge when you need to open.
The Tefal cooker comes with several accessories including a steaming trivet, measuring cup, white spatula and drip pan for collecting steam. Another bonus is the handy recipe booklet packed with 30 dishes to help get you inspired at mealtimes.
Cooking in the Tefal CY505E40 All-in-One
If you’re a beginner to multicookers, the Tefal All-in-One cooker seems a tad tricky to use at first without thoroughly reading the manual. I had to carefully read to understand what the basic functions are.
In addition, the front control pad looks a little overwhelming and can be difficult to figure out at first glance. For instance, there isn’t a clearly labelled Start/Stop button like on other models. Instead, the start button is an icon (which you’ll find out in the manual), and you’d need to stop each program at the end by pressing Cancel.
In any case, beginners will certainly appreciate its 25 preset programs to choose from, making it suitable for just about every cooking need. Not only can it pressure cook, steam cook and bake, but it can also make baby food and oatmeal, amongst many others. There is also a DIY option if you want to customise your own recipe timings.
All the programs are listed in the instruction manual, and you’re bound to find a new dish to try out in the recipe booklet. This will tell you what programs you need to use, temperature and the correct time to set it for. You can choose between temperatures of low, medium or high, depending on preference.
Once I got confident with the settings and process, I found it easier to use and cook dishes in. When you select the program of your choice and time, the LED display turns to a circular rotation to signal the cooker is getting ready. This is followed by a timer display to start counting down the suggested time. It has a one-button pressure release at the end of each program, and the hinged lid proved to be convenient. Especially since I have very little worktop to place a separate lid down.
Overall, I enjoyed the flexibility of the Tefal All-in-One cooker, and the countless options available. The Keep Warm function also came in handy when I had to step away for an hour for a meeting and came back to piping hot food.
Pressure cooking goulash in the Tefal All-in-One Electric Pressure Cooker
There were so many tempting dishes to choose from in the recipe book, but I decided to first try out the popular goulash, using cubed cuts of stewing beef. This recipe utilises the Brown program, which I used to sauté my onions for about 5 minutes whilst stirring them around. After adding my meat and other ingredients to the pot, the timer beeps, at which point you press the Cancel button. I was surprised at how quickly the meat browned in the oil within a short time.
Next, I pressed the Pressure Cook program followed by the timer button, to decrease the time as instructed in the book. I then closed the lid and pressed the Start icon to start the cooking process. As suggested, the goulash took just 20 minutes to cook, with an extra 5 minute browning time. Once the timer beeps to indicate the end of the process, you’ll need to open the pressure valve to release the steam before pressing Cancel again.
Considering the minimal time it had taken to prepare and cook, the goulash results were impressive. The meat was soft, tender and had retained much of its delicious flavour. The tomato-based sauce was able to thicken slightly, without needing further reducing. Bear in mind though, the pot is quite deep so it can be awkward to serve the contents onto a plate without making a mess. However, this is a minor complaint in the grand scheme of things.
Pressure cooking basmati rice in the Tefal CY505E40 All-in-One
I decided on cooking basmati rice to compliment the goulash. Rice can be one of those tricky dishes that can either be too soggy or undercooked if not done properly. I measured a cup of rice to a water, using the measurement lines inside the pot as a guide. Closing the lid, I selected the Rice program, set the timer to 9 minutes before pressing the Start. Once again, after it beeps, open the valve to release the steam, which seemed to be quite a lot.
I was a little sceptical that the 9 minutes would be sufficient to cook my rice to perfection. I tend to use a rice cooker to achieve my ideal fluffy rice, so I was keen to find out what the outcome would be. Surprisingly, the results were fluffy rice with a soft, consistent texture. In fact, it made a rather tasty addition to the goulash recipe.
Cooking chicken cacciatore in the Tefal All-in-One Electric Pressure Cooker
I do enjoy a good chicken side dish and so opted for the chicken cacciatore recipe in the booklet. Again, this uses the Brown function, which I used to heat up the oil and cook the chicken for about 10 minutes. This was able to cook relatively quickly compared to my conventional saucepan. I removed the chicken from the cooking pan, to stir in the onion to cook. Once it beeped, I pressed Cancel. I then added the remaining ingredients before selecting the Pressure Cook program.
As instructed, I increased the timer to 15 minutes, closed the lid, and pressed the Start icon. I must say that the results were not as impressive as the goulash dish, as I found the chicken to be slightly dry in places. However, this could have been resolved if I added more water into the pot. In any case, the dish was still tasty and flavoursome.
Cleaning the Tefal All-in-One Electric Pressure Cooker
Only the accessories are dishwasher safe, but cleaning the inner pot is easy and doesn’t take long to handwash. The inner pot has a non-stick coat, which means there were no food residue to scrub off. In addition, you can quickly clean the cooker exterior and give the inside of the lid a good wipe. One thing to note is, the chrome is prone to picking up fingerprints and smudges, but this can be resolved with a lint-free, micro cloth.
Should you buy the Tefal All-in-One Electric Pressure Cooker?
If you’re looking for a top multicooker that won’t break the bank, the Tefal All-in-One cooker is a great option. With its 25 one-touch programs, it’s incredibly versatile, and you’re guaranteed to find a setting for just about anything. Plus, if you’re new to the world of multicookers, it takes the guesswork out of cooking and will make mealtimes a breeze. The cooking performance is impressive, producing tender and flavoursome meat dishes and fluffy basmati rice.
Another feature is the large 6L capacity bowl, which was more than enough to cook a family meal, and still have leftovers! Having said that, the bowl is rather deep when serving, which doesn’t bode well with the small spatula that comes with the cooker. Also, it doesn’t have an auto shut-off feature for safety, so you’ll have to remember to switch off after long periods. However, it’s a great performing multicooker and at such an affordable price, certainly worth the money.
About the reviewer
Cynthia Lawrence is a freelance lifestyle and homes/interiors journalist and writes for various national publications. With an unhealthy obsession for all things homes and gardens, she also has an interior design blog. When she’s not spending time surfing online for decor inspiration to revamp her 1930s home, she is busy reviewing some pretty awesome home appliances.
A regular contributor to Real Homes, she has written for Livingetc., Gardeningetc., Ideal Home, T3.com, Top Ten Reviews and House Beautiful amongst others.
No kitchen is complete without the best saucepan set. Perfect for speedy soups and cooking elaborate curries, a saucepan set will be used each and every day in your home. Many of the best saucepan sets in our guide are non-stick, which makes them very easy to clean and will prevent food from burning onto the base, but we have also included stainless steel saucepan sets from Le Creuset and Stellar that will let you get that great sear on beef or fish when cooking flavour-packed meals.
Because they’re used every single day, the best saucepan sets are definitely worth investing in. However, not everyone can stretch to a premium set, so we’ve reviewed every set in our guide to make sure they’re worth whatever the price may be. Typically, every saucepan set will include a 16cm, 18cm, and 20cm pan, and some will also come with 26cm and even 28cm pots for cooking seriously large servings; perfect for bulk-cooking.
When reviewing these saucepan sets, we made sure they were easy to use and to clean. You should be able to place every saucepan in the dishwasher, but if you do clean by hand, we took into account ease of cleaning and also the design when trying them out in our own kitchen. From secure handles that won’t loosen over time, to pouring spouts that will help you when draining the water from your veggies, every little feature was taken into account. For more kitchen essentials, take a look at our reviews of the best chef’s knives.
How much does a saucepan set cost?
Budget at least £100 for most good-quality saucepans, but if you’re on a tight budget, we’ve got you covered too. Beyond that, it’s a question of how many pans and what size. More money buys quality and quantity, but if you get the sizes right then you only really need three or four saucepans and a frying pan – you’ll save money and storage space.
Best saucepans set 2021
1. Ninja Foodi ZEROSTICK 3-Piece Pan Set
Best saucepan set overall
Type: Non-stick Sizes: 16cm, 18cm, 20cm Reasons to buy: Super durable, reasonably priced, lightweight
Reasons to avoid: None!
We’re big fans of Ninja. Not only does the brand come out with some of the best air fryers, food processors and other kitchen innovations, but they’ve also dipped into cookware with their ZEROSTICK range. The verdict? A smashing success. This three-piece pan set has a 16, 18 and 20cm pan, each with a tightly fitted glass lid.
One standout feature is that you are free to use metal utensils when cooking with this range. It felt weird to use a metal whisk and slatted spoon when cooking in the set, but it was one less thing to worry about in the kitchen, and also cuts back on the less-durable and often-plastic alternatives you’re forced to buy with non-stick saucepan sets.
The handle is angled upwards, which makes for an ergonomic experience and also lightens the load when it comes to pouring. All of the pans and lids can go in the dishwasher, and even in the oven, up to 260°C (the highest of any set in this guide). We like this three-piece set for the price, which is very reasonable for such a durable range.
Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars
2. BergHOFF Leo 3 Piece Non Stick Saucepan Set
Best saucepan set for modern design
Type: Non-stick Sizes: 16cm, 18cm, 20cm Reasons to buy: Tactile and easy to use, we love the non-stick and tightly fitted lids
Reasons to avoid: The look isn’t for everyone
Visually, the BergHOFF Leo 3 Piece Non Stick Saucepan Set isn’t for everyone, but you’ll know instantly if it’s up your street. Taking the pans out of the box instantly divided the kitchen. The pans are lightweight and the phenolic handles clearly designed for balance and safe grip.
These pans feel high quality, too. They’re induction-friendly and the lids are tempered glass, with silicone rims that rattle the least of any of the pans we tested. The lids are also fitted with modern-feeling handles and a vent for steam. This vent also comes in handy when draining liquid from veggies and pasta. That’s one less sieve for hand-washing.
The set is non-stick and includes PFOA free non stick coating which cuts down on the amount of oil you’ll need. The three saucepans are 6cm, 18cm, and 20cm in width, so not the most versatile set out there when it comes to hearty portions, but it would be a good set for students or small households who want their pans to slot together neatly. Everything is dishwasher-safe too. A great value set.
Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars
3. Stellar Induction Draining Saucepan Set
Best induction saucepan set
Type: Induction Sizes: 16cm, 18cm, 20cm Reasons to buy: Very high quality, oven-safe silicone handles, draining design is easy to use
Reasons to avoid: Expensive and not non-stick
We’ve tried to be fair to the non-stick sets out there, but in our view the best saucepans are typically those high-quality fuss-free aluminium types. The Stellar Induction saucepan set is no exception.
It’s (as the name suggests) safe for use with induction hobs, and the pans are oven-safe up to 180 degrees. That’s despite the stay-cool handles, which really do just that when cooking on the hob.
A standout feature with this set is the draining vents on either side of the pan. This makes draining anything from pasta to peas a relatively pain-free process, and the lids are fitted with holes to make sure you won’t lose anything. One caveat is that you may lose the odd grain of rice, because it’s fitted with small holes. The draining sides are also great for pouring drinks into cups and bowls (think hot chocolate or soup) without spilling. A great touch.
Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars
4. Tefal Ingenio Pan Set, Stainless Steel, 13 Piece
Best space-saving saucepan set
Type: Stainless steel, removable handles Sizes: 16cm, 18cm, 20cm Reasons to buy: Easy to store and stack
Reasons to avoid: Prone to scuffing
We tested the Ingenio ’13-piece’ Tefal saucepan set but don’t expect 13 pans. It is in fact just five pans, plus glass lids, airtight plastic covers for storing leftovers in the fridge and two removable handles. With the handles off, the pans stack ingeniously (hence the name) inside each other, so you can store five in the space usually taken up by just a couple of pans We’ve tested both the stainless steel and non-stick induction versions of the Ingenio. Both are induction-friendly.
The three saucepans (16, 18, 20cm) in the stainless steel set are built with titanium to make them even tougher and have graduations inside to indicate capacity. The two frying pans (22,26cm) in the set are non-stick inside and have a Tefal Thermo-Spot that changes colour at the optimum frying temperature. The non-stick induction set has a titanium pro-non-stick coating on all pans, inside and out. We found it to be hardwearing but over the long term it does get scuffed around the rim, where the handle clips on and off.
Both saucepan sets come with superbly built handles that clip on and off very securely. Remove them and the pans are oven-safe to 260°C. Ingenio is also available in smaller saucepan sets and in other finishes, including enamel and “essential” (a more affordable non-stick set that isn’t induction-compatible). Ingenio saucepans are pricey but beautifully made and a great space-saver.
Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars
5. Salter Megastone Collection 3 Piece Saucepan Set
Best non-stick saucepan set
Type: Non-stick Sizes: 16cm, 18cm, 20cm Reasons to buy: High quality and durable non-stick
Reasons to avoid: Handles aren’t the most tactile
This set of three is a great price when you consider how sturdy they feel. This non-stick isn’t peeling off any time soon. The set is made of forged aluminium and coated in a PFOA free non-stick. The coating is rough to touch which was a surprise at first, but it actually helps with the cooking process because you’re able to use metal utensils when cooking.
We enjoyed how the three pans, 16, 18, and 20 cm, taper out towards the top slightly. It makes stacking easy and increases capacity. Other winning features include the handles, which were easy enough to hold and not too light as to upset the balance of the pan, and the lids, which fit easily and securely.
While we don’t love the speckled look of these pans, that’s a pretty subjective complaint, and the quality is top notch.
Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars
6. Samuel Groves 3-Piece Classic Set
Best saucepan and frying pan set
Type: Saucepan, frying pan, stock pot Size: 20cm saucepan, 26cm casserole, 28cm frying pan Reasons to buy: Pure quality and designed to last
Reasons to avoid: An expensive option with no stay-cool handles
Buying the best saucepan set will often mean spending a lot of money, but if it’s within your budget, the Samuel Groves 3-Piece Classic Set is a worthy investment. While it’s not a traditional saucepan set, its three components are all necessary for any kitchen and will allow you to cook just about anything you may wish. The 20cm saucepan is ideal for boiling veggies and heating up smaller portions, whereas the 26cm casserole has a quality design and sturdy handles to cook up large servings of bolognese or rice.
We also love the frying pan, which has the same sleek and quality handle as the saucepan which, while not heatproof, does stay cool throughout use thanks to the elevated design. Do note that it can’t go in the dishwasher, but because the non-stick is so quality it’s very easy to wipe down by hand.
Enjoyable features include the fact that it comes in a burlap bag that can be used for groceries and other storage needs, and that it’s handcrafted in the UK. The brushed exterior meant that heat spread evenly in testing, and the tri-ply stainless steel feels high quality and long-lasting. The company also offers a ‘Pan for Life’ refurbishment service, so they will re-polish and restore any damage it may incur over the years.
Ideal Home’s rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
7. Prestige Eco 3 Piece Non-Stick Saucepan Set
Best eco saucepan set
Type: Eco Sizes: 16cm, 18cm, 20cm Reasons to buy: Genuinely eco-conscious
Reasons to avoid: A more basic handle construction
If you like to keep things green (both literally and figuratively) then the Prestige Eco 3 Piece Non-Stick Saucepan Set will be a welcome addition to your kitchen. The pans taper out towards the top and have steel induction bases.
Made of recycled aluminium and coated in scratch-proof PFOA-free non-stick, this set is designed to last. Prestige has partnered with TreeAid to donate one tree for each pan sold and there was absolutely no plastic in the packaging when it arrived. A win for the environment, and a good option for those who want a long-lasting pan set.
Our one complaint is the handle, which was one of the least ergonomic in testing. We did like the one on top of the lid, though, and after months and months of testing, this one was still going strong on the non-stick front.
Ideal Home’s rating: 4 out of 5 stars
8. Zwilling 5 Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set
Best saucepan and pot set
Type: Pots and saucepans Sizes: 16cm stock pot and saucepan, 18cm stock pot, 20cm stew and stock pot, 24cm pot Reasons to buy: Great for the whole kitchen
Reasons to avoid: Not all of the pans stack together
The quality is immediately apparent with the Zwilling 5 Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set. For those who want a mixture of pots and pans (ok, more pots than pans) it’s our top pick.
Everything feels well-made and the handle of the saucepan as well as the handles of the pots are all very ergonomic and clearly designed to be conscious of the modern kitchen. Saucepans can be irritating when it comes to storage, but we enjoy how well this set stacks together. Do keep in mind that, as there’s some duplicates in terms of size, you won’t be able to stack in one pile.
Included in this set is the largest pot we tested, the 24cm stock pot, as well as a 20cm stew pot, 20cm stock pot, and a 16cm stock pot and saucepan, which doesn’t include a lid. The entire set is made of 18/10 stainless steel and has a circular pouring rim, as well as markings in quarts and litres which come in very helpful when cooking and portioning.
Ideal Home’s rating: 4 out of 5 stars
9. Le Creuset 3-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set
Best premium saucepan set
Type: Premium stainless steel Sizes: 16cm, 18cm, 20cm, 24cm Reasons to buy: Designed to last, with a complete kitchen kit
Reasons to avoid: Very expensive
This one’s designed to last. The Le Creuset 3-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set comprises a deep non-stick saute pan, a deep casserole pot measuring 20cm, as well as two saucepans measuring 16cm and 18cm. The set slots together very well and has everything you need for a starter kitchen.
The handles are riveted and incredibly sturdy. Construction is 3-ply stainless steel with an aluminium core, meaning the set heated very evenly. We enjoyed how easy the stainless steel was to clean, too, and everything can go in the dishwasher after use.
Some would prefer a lidded saucepan with tempered glass over stainless steel, but the Le Creuset 3-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set will last for decades if you invest now.
Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars
10. Judge Vista Draining Saucepan Set
Best value saucepan set
Type: Stainless steel Sizes: 16cm, 18cm, 20cm Reasons to buy: 25 year guarantee and draining spout
Reasons to avoid: The lid can rattle and the plastic doesn’t feel the best to touch
If you’re on a budget it’s best to spend your cash on a saucepan set that’s made of stainless steel. This lasts much longer than some of the cheaper non-stick on the market. This set from Judge ticks the box for a reliable budget option, with plastic lid and handle fixtures that are oven safe to up to 150°C and covered by an impressive Judge 25 year guarantee.
The range has your classic 16, 18 and 20cm saucepans and is suitable for induction ovens as well as most other hob types. You can also place this option in the dishwasher. We didn’t find the handles or lid fixture particularly tactile in testing, and the lid can rattle a bit, but these are non-essential features that are offset by the low cost.
What we did like was the pouring lip at either side of the pan, which makes pouring sauce away very easy and also allow you to drain out peas and pasta with ease.
Ideal Home’s rating: 4 out of 5 stars
11. Progress BW09025EU Scandi Smartstone Non Stick Saucepan Set
Best looking saucepan set
Type: Scandi non-stick Sizes: 16cm, 18cm, 20cm, 24cm Reasons to buy: Lovely to look at and hold
Reasons to avoid: Less durable than other options in our guide
The Scandi look isn’t going anywhere, and we thought this non-stick set with its nod to scandi wood kitchenware would fit in well to a selection of kitchen designs. While lovely to look at we were also impressed with the lightweight feel and induction-friendly construction.
This set was less sturdy-feeling than other non-stick options but did hold up well under testing. If you like the idea of non-stick but could skip the wooden accents, scroll back up to the Prestige set. The lids have an in-built vent to allow steam to escape and the handles are coated in a soft-touch wooden effect. This is lovely to hold, and the lid accent also resisted heat well when cooking.
The lids on the Progress BW09025EU Scandi Smartstone Non Stick Saucepan Set were some of the best fitting, with minimal rattling. The three pans come in 16cm, 18cm and 20cm. Progress also has a new Plant A Tree Mission, so every Amazon sale of these pans will mean good things for the planet, and your kitchen!
Ideal Home’s rating: 4 out of 5 stars
How did we review the best saucepan sets?
How did we review the best saucepan sets? Every set in this guide has been used hands-on by a member of the Ideal Home team for at least a few weeks. We looked out for how evenly the pan heated, the quality of the design, how enjoyable the handles and lids are to use and store, and the versatility of each set. Where a saucepan set was non-stick, we made sure that this would last and tested how well it cooked our fried eggs and bacon. Other features to look out for is oven-safe designs and heat-resistant handles. We tested for both, where appropriate, as well as evenly heated bases and the convenience of cleanup and day-to-day use.
What size saucepans do I need?
Image credit: Dominic Blackmore
Saucepans measuring 16, 18 and 20cm are good standard sizes to aim for. Then optionally a larger stockpot for big dishes. The other size worth considering is a 14cm milk pan; these tend to have pouring spouts but no lids, perfect for sauces, gravy, custard, hot chocolate and more.
What are the other main features of a good saucepan?
What are the pans made from? Materials-wise, most modern pans use a combination of aluminium and stainless steel. The stainless steel is durable and low maintenance while the aluminium (usually a disc of it, encapsulated in the pan base) is light and spreads heat quickly and evenly. Meanwhile, cast iron is tough and induction friendly but takes a long time to heat up (and cool down).
Should I go for non-stick coatings?Non-stick coatings are easy to clean and tougher than they used to be, but they do wear over time. Ceramic pans are an alternative that avoids the chemicals in traditional non-stick coatings made using Teflon and PFOA.
What style of pan handle is best? Phenolic (black, plasticky) handles are cooler to the touch, so you can handle pans and lids without resorting to oven gloves. Metal handles and knobs get hotter but they’re oven-safe to higher temperatures. Basically, if you like to finish dishes in the oven or grill, go for metal. If not, weigh up the practicality and looks of both options. The trend is currently more for metal handles.
What other extra features are handy? Nice extra features include graduations for measuring quantities and lid materials – metal is tough and easy to clean; glass lets you keep an eye on cooking without lifting the lid. And if you’re short of storage space, look out for pans that stack well or fit inside each other neatly.
Will my saucepans work with induction hobs?
Image credit: Fiona Walker-Arnott
All the pans featured here are induction-friendly. Cast iron pans and some stainless steel pans work with induction. But if you have an induction hob, do check first because some types of stainless steel don’t. If you’re buying a pan made of a different material – such as aluminium or copper – definitely check. The base needs to contain a magnetic material so the pan works with induction. If you have a saucepan in front of you and want to check, simply hold a fridge magnet to the base of the pan: if it sticks then the pan will work with induction.
Are they dishwasher safe?
Most pans (and all the ones featured here) call themselves ‘dishwasher safe’ but the care instructions usually suggest hand-washing is better for them in the long term. It’s your call, but you won’t do them major harm by using the dishwasher.
Hallways may be one of the smallest rooms, but they are also often the busiest and can be prone to wear and tear. If your hallway is in need of a makeover, then take inspiration from this impressive transformation, where one homeowner turned her stripped-back stairs into a colour-blocked dream for less than £200.
Hayley (aka @wallbirchmansion on Instagram) from Kingston upon Hull in East Yorkshire often documents her DIY projects, and when it came to her hallway idea she was keen to do the work herself to keep costs down.
‘Everything we do around the house is done on a budget,’ she told heating experts UK Radiators. ‘We like to try and reuse and upcycle things around the house that we already have. It means a lot of time and graft but it’s totally worth it when we see the end transformation.’
Image credit: @walbirchmansion / UK Radiators
‘This has got to be my most favourite transformation in our house. We didn’t keep track of what we spent on transforming the hallway, but we managed to keep it under £200.’
Before: Stripped-back hallway
Image credit: @walbirchmansion / UK Radiators
Stripping the wallpaper from the stairs and upstairs landing was the first step, followed by pulling up the stair carpet. ‘Luckily, the stairs were in good nick, but there were a lot of staples and nails in them so we had to remove those, fill the holes and sand them all down,’ says Hayley.
‘Spending time on preparing beforehand means you’ll get the best finish. We’ve found stripping stuff back to its original state works really well and getting rid of any imperfections before you start adding your finishing colours and details helps to get an almost professional finish – without paying a professional price.’
Image credit: @walbirchmansion / UK Radiators
Next up was removing all of the gloss on the bannisters, door frames, skirting boards and dado rails using a heat gun. ‘It was a really time-consuming job, but it was totally worth it to get the finish we wanted,’ recalls Hayley.
‘The walls weren’t in the best condition, so we considered getting them re-plastered, but decided to have a go ourselves and just filled the holes and sanded them down.’
After: Colour-block hallway
Image credit: @walbirchmansion / UK Radiators
The new-look hall is a super-stylish monochrome scheme with bold punches of Copper Blush paint from Dulux. Patterned cut-and-stick tiles look great and cost a fraction of the price of real tiles.
‘We painted the lower half of the walls dark grey and I didn’t want different coloured skirting boards and dado rails so we painted these too’ says Hayley. ‘Along with the banisters and radiator to help it blend in. The upper half of the walls are in a copper blush colour, as are the door frames.’ This paint trick can be a great way to make a narrow hallway look wider.
Instead of spending out on a stair runner, Hayley painted one using the same paint as on the walls for a more budget-friendly, practical option.
Image credit: @walbirchmansion / UK Radiators
The same scheme continues upstairs. ‘We had a boiler on the upstairs landing, which we wanted to hide, so my husband built it into a cupboard – it’s given us lots of storage space,’ says Hayley.
Adding fake plants and hanging prints and pendant lights were all part of the finishing touches. ‘I even upcycled an old mirror using patterned sticky vinyl for the downstairs hall,’ Hayley explains.
‘My advice is to just give it a go when it comes to DIY. There are tons of videos on the internet with tips on how to get the job done. We’ve always done this – all our work in the house has been self taught, we’ve just had a go at it and figured that if we couldn’t do it we’d get a professional in then… and we haven’t had to do this yet!’
Image credit: @walbirchmansion / UK Radiators
Having transformed her hallway just in time for halloween, Hayley’s scheme is bright, bold and punchy. ‘I’m still very much exploring colours, patterns and textures that I like,’ she says. ‘I definitely like to use a lot of bright colours and bold patterns, and I tend to mix and match these together and hope it works!’
Having a beautifully designed, stylish bathroom can make all the difference in your life – after all, it’s one of the first and last places you go to each day. Discovering bathroom trends can make choosing which style of room is right for your and your home.
Bathroom ideas – from materials and finishes to colours and patterns, are ever-evolving, and 2022 is no exception with its wonderful array of of the moment trends.
‘Last year became a year of reflection – a year of understanding what means most to us and our lives,’ says Hege Lundh, Marketing Director, Lundhs Real Stone. ‘This notion extended into homes, making homeowners rethink everything from material choices to style decisions. As we look ahead to 2022, we will start to see the outcome of the re-evaluations of the years.’
Bathroom trends
‘Following a year of unrest and uncertainty, people have started to gain back confidence and positivity, in everyday life and in our homes,’ Oliver Webb, Director at Cullifords. ‘This shift towards a more optimistic mindset has started to be echoed in our design choices. Brave, individual style statements are being made and a desire for warm tones and comforting shapes is prevailing.’
Read on to discover which trends will be taking over your bathroom…
1. Rounded shapes
Image credit: Lundhs
‘Harsh, sharp lines will start to be replaced by smoother curves and silhouettes as we seek a more organic and less stark appeal in interiors,’ says Hege Lundh, Marketing Director, Lundhs Real Stone. ‘We embrace nature in the form of raw, organic surfaces and products.’
‘This will be demonstrated through the increased use of 100% natural materials, from natural stone worktops to sustainable flooring and even cabinetry,’ continues Hege. ‘As our attention is progressively turned towards our planet and the environment, our buying
habits are continuing to become more eco-conscious, and this shows no sign of waning.’
Cullifords’ Oliver Webb, agrees. ‘Overall, everything is becoming less angular,’ he says. ‘Linked, I think, to the desire to create more welcoming interiors, we are noticing softer flowing lines.’
Even your bathroom storage ideas can integrate into this trend, by choosing cabinetry with smooth, rounded edges and softly curved baskets.
2. Marble surfaces
Image credit: Heritage Brass
‘Achieve a subtle statement in 2022 with the trend for marble in the bathroom with white and grey shades used to create more luxurious schemes,’ says Narendra Karnani, Managing Director, Heritage Brass by M.Marcus.
‘Create a feeling of opulence with door hardware and electrical accessories that contrast against the marble tones, or opt for a coordinated look with cabinet hardware that matches with the marble veining.’
3. Natural colours
Image credit: Villeroy & Boch
‘A trend on the increase is introducing soft shades of green into the bathroom area, whether this being in the form of plants, feature tiles, botanical wallpaper or even artificial moss walls,’ says David Garner, Retail and E-Commerce Manager for the UK Bathroom & Wellness Division at Villeroy and Boch. ‘Green evokes a natural sense of harmony and peace so no wonder it is beginning to grow within designs as the bathroom is that one room of escape for many family members.’
It’s not only earthy greens taking over – any of the main colourways inspired by nature will be seen in bathrooms this year. ‘Calming and optimistic colours are set to take the interior industry by storm,’ says Emma Joyce, Brand Manager at House of Rohl. ‘With off whites, gentle sages and warm blues, 2022 seems to be continuing the theme of making our homes cosy and comforting.’
‘Furthermore, we anticipate that natural hues with brown tones and warm greens will also take the spotlight as the desire to maintain our newfound love affair with the outdoors remains.’
4. Aged brass
Image credit: Matki
When working out how to plan a bathroom, finishes can often get left until the, well, finish. In fact, they have such an impact on the overall look and feel of the space that they should be a major consideration from the beginning.
In terms of bathroom trends, there is one major stand out. ‘Aged Brass is one of the biggest home design material trends to emerge in recent years,’ says Nicholas Cunild, Managing Director at Matki and Swadling Brassware. ‘Aged Brass adds instant warmth to a minimal scheme. Offering the perfect contrast for tiled bathrooms and an elegant edge to classic marble bathrooms, aged brass works in almost any bathroom scheme.’
‘The finish is achieved by chemically advancing the ageing process of brass to give a bronze look. It is unlacquered and will develop over time, wearing and lightening in some areas, darkening in others, dependent on the environment it’s in and it’s cleaning and maintenance.’
5. Sustainability
Image credit: Industville
As with so many areas of our lives and homes, sustainability is a natural trend leaning into the year ahead.
‘These days, people think more about how much we waste, bringing thoughts for the environment to the forefront of our minds,’ says Marketa Rypacek, Managing Director, Industville Ltd. ‘Customers are keen to use sustainable and eco-friendly materials wherever possible including bathroom flooring, sanitaryware and lighting.’
‘We are seeing big increases in customers opting for custom-made lighting pieces made from sustainable materials and I believe this is something we are likely to see more of. These pieces have a quality, handmade feel which will stand the test of time, further adding to feelings of longevity and sustainability.’
6. Industrial elements
Image credit: Kinedo
As popular as natural colours, materials and textures will be in bathroom trends for 2022, industrial detailing is predicted to go strong.
Crittal shower doors and exposed pipework are two of the ways this is most commonly used in the home. ‘A black frame can coordinate with a matt black shower valve, overhead rain shower head and elegant handset,’ says Ann Boardman, Head of Marketing and Product Management at Saniflo and Kinedo.
‘Internal glass panels and a low threshold tray make this a stunning combination. Alternatively, a Smart Design bi-fold door or single pivot door can give the industrial look but also create the perfect illusion of space in a compact bathroom.’
‘There’s a good reason why this trend comes around year after year,’ says Phil Etherden, MD, The Albion Bath Co Ltd. ‘A classic black or white freestanding bath will never go out of style, while a simple monochrome colour palette is sleek and sophisticated. It also doesn’t date as quickly than many of the latest colour trends. Black and white one of the easiest looks to pull off effectively, as well as being easy to live with and to adapt to your taste.’
‘Striking, strong, sleek, matt black is a modern classic and is fast becoming a real alternative to chrome within interior design,’ adds Katie Fitzpatrick at Merlyn Showers. ‘If you want a more striking finish with a bold focal point, then matt black shower frames and fixtures can achieve this with warmer tones of grey against the crisp white of the ceramics.’
8. Wet rooms and walk-in showers
Image credit: Mermaid Panels
‘Wet rooms and large walk in showers were once reserved for plush hotels and ultra-modern homes, however, they’re growing in demand as we become more confident with our design choices,’ says Helen Dennett, UK Marketing Communications Manager at Mermaid Panels. ‘Homeowners are reclaiming the bathroom as another living space in the home as opposed to being a purely practical room, and instead dedicating more space to a luxury shower area that puts the focus on wellness and relaxation.’
‘Led by the trend for minimalism and clean lines, walk-in showers and wet rooms lend themselves to this trend through creating more of an open feel to a room. Removing the bathtub opens up the room and can add a real wow factor.’
‘As more people want to maximise their bathroom space, it looks like many will prioritise the practicality of wet rooms and showers over baths,’ agrees Paul at Sanctuary Bathrooms. ‘More people are choosing to go for walk-in showers and wetrooms over baths, while also moving away from smaller cubicles to much bigger and larger enclosures.’
Bathroom trends from 2021 still going strong
1. The stand-alone tub
Image credit: Clearwater
After the stresses of last year, creating spa-like serenity at home has never been more important. Statement baths are key with the focus on clean lines, sculptural shapes and aesthetically-pleasing design.
‘A freestanding bath creates an opulent atmosphere, reminiscent of boutique hotels, and makes bathing a luxury,’ says interior designer Carla Chases.
‘But when choosing a freestanding bath, you really need to consider both the size of your bathroom and the look you’re aiming to achieve. Back-to-wall baths can still give that luxe look, but in a compact space.’
2. Clean lines
Image credit: Britton
‘Thanks to recent advances in manufacturing, we’re seeing a rise in longer, straight edges and harder corners which work really well in a contemporary bathroom,’ says Lauren Foulds, project manager at Heritage Bathrooms. ‘Although in a more traditional space, curved edges on statement pieces offer a softer look.’
3. Subtle pops of colour
Image credit: Lusso Stone
Coloured sanitary-ware has made a firm comeback and is great for injecting personality into what can be a clinical space, but bathroom designers recommend caution if considering a colour.
‘I wouldn’t advise a complete colour overload, as bold colours tend to date quite quickly,’ says Carla Chases, ‘but a coloured feature sink in a soft shade can look lovely. My advice would be to opt for white sanitary-ware, then have fun with tiling and painting.’
4. Supersized marble
Image credit: Cosentino
Marble is enjoy a moment in the spotlight with it being used in abundance in bathrooms and in bolder slab-style applications. For a timeless look, go for large-format tiles, so there will be fewer grout lines and you’ll achieve a cleaner, more luxurious look.
5. Colour-happy tiles
Image credit: Real Stone & Tile
While basins and baths have steered away from bold colour this season, this certainly isn’t the case when it comes to bathroom tiles.
‘Following a year where people were forced to spend so much time at home, more and more of us are going for bold, says Lauren Foulds. ‘Forgetting the neutral “show home” look and making our homes our own. Colourful bathroom tiles can really help achieve this.’
‘Don’t worry about trends, just have fun with bold colour and playful patterns,’ says Carla Chases. ‘Hexagon or metro tiles laid in a herringbone pattern are a great way of adding personality with plainer tiles.’
6. Streamlined storage
Image credit: Scavolini
With clean lines and sleek shapes a big trend for bathrooms, storage follows the same lead with built-in vanity units, floating shelving and bespoke cabinetry a key look this season.
Avoid placing lots of small pieces of freestanding storage around a bathroom. It always ends up looking messy and cluttered. If you’re looking to update sanitary-ware, swap a pedestal basin for a vanity unit. floor-hung fittings looks neater and with the extra storage, surfaces stay clutter-free.
7. Low-level lighting
Image credit: Ripples
‘Dimmers are a hugely popular bathroom trend right now,’ says Carla Chases, ‘as are some form of PIR sensor lights. These are generally low-level lighting that turn on automatically when you enter the bathroom – fantastic for night-time visits as you don’tfumble for the switch.’
‘Bathroom lighting ideas are all about creating an experience,’ says Lauren Foulds, ‘but something as simple as an illuminated mirror can have a big impact. It casts a subtler glow than a harsh overhead light and can help to create a tranquil atmosphere.’
8. A shower AND a bath
Image credit: Mermaid
Walk-in showers are ever-popular and remain a great solution for compact bathrooms and en-suites, maximising the floor space available while adding a touch of luxury.
However, always consider how much value does a bathroom add before ditching your bath completely. Most future buyers, particularly those with young families, will want (and need) a property with at least one bath.
‘Following the pandemic, customers are looking at self-care and wellness in a new light, and with the variety of fitted and freestanding bath sizes available, a small tub shouldn’t be ruled out if you are partial to a relaxing soak,’ adds Lauren Foulds.
9. Biophilic design
Image credit: Dekton
Biophilic design – the notion of creating a connection between the natural world and our interiors – remains a popular concept and particularly in the bathroom as a space for wellness.
Give some thought to making best use of natural light in a bathroom. For those taking on an extension or loft conversion project, consider adding a rooflight directly above a shower or bath for a glimpse of the sky, without (hopefully) compromising privacy.
10. Sumptuous dark colours
Image credit: Drummonds
Rich dark walls have long been the norm in bedrooms and living rooms, but now it’s the bathroom’s turn to take a walk on the dark side. Dip your toe into the trend with a shower outfitted in sumptuous navy tiles, or be bold and fill the entire bathroom with rich greens and blues.
‘Bathrooms are one of the few places in the house where you can get away with strong, vivid tones which might be over-the-top in other rooms,’ explains James Lentaigne, Creative Director for Drummonds. ‘Maximalism is very much on-trend with more and more people experimenting with bold patterns and bright colours.’
The rich colours go perfectly with this seasons other trend for brass and metallic finishings creating a luxurious look.
11. Supersized tiles
Image credit: Topps Tiles
We’re going big on the bathroom tiles this year. ‘Large format tiles offer a striking appearance that’s guarantee to turn your head you enter the room,’ says Harriet Goodacre, brand communications manager and tile consultant at Topps Tiles. ‘Their considerable size proves a spacious feel to the space thanks to minimal grout lines.’
Embracing large tiles doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on style or colour, however marble is particularly striking when creating a minimalist look.
‘There’s plenty of variety in large format porcelain tiles as they are available in multiple effects, such as iconic types of marble,’ says Harriet. ‘Coloured marble can provide greater variety such s emerald trees or an indulgent black.’
12. Wooden finishes
Image credit: Ashton and Bentley
If you aren’t a fan of dark moody rooms, the trend for natural textures is continuing to grow. ‘The establishment of stripped-back, sawn and treated grains is set to expand from the wider home into bathrooms in a big ways,’ explains Edward Carey, managing director at Ashton & Bentley.
‘Bringing the outdoors in, hand-crafted woods create a peaceful, tranquil surrounding, which perfectly suits the proposed of a bathroom space.’
Complete the look by pairing the natural wood with a freestanding bath for a spa-like feel.
13. Calm sanctuary
Image credit: Dunelm
Our bathrooms are not just for washing your hair anymore. It’s time to embrace spa bathroom trends and everything that goes with it. Building on the mindfulness trend, kit your bathroom out with all the accessories to create a soothing environment that you will want to linger in.
Embrace a neutral colour scheme with pops of green house plants. Accessorise with candles, crystals and a wooden stool for lounging around on. But no spa-throom would be complete without the must-have bathroom accessory trend the bath tray, perfect for balancing a cup of tea and all your bath time essentials.
14. Black ceramics
Image credit: Burlington
It isn’t just our bathroom walls that are turning to the dark side this year, so are our sinks and bathtubs. If you are a fan of a period bathroom, this is the perfect update.
‘Period-style bathrooms remain as popular as ever with consumers as a timeless, classic choice for some many different homes,’ explains Faye Froy, marketing manager at Burlington.
‘The new trend for black bathroom ceramics allows customers to add a contemporary twist on a traditional bathroom aesthetic. Bold and dramatic, this daring shade is guaranteed to add opulence to any bathroom interior.’
15. Blue sanitaryware
Image credit: CP Hart
Don’t be bland – be bold! Give your bathroom a bit of character by adding a splash of bright colour. Coloured baths and basins are coming back for bathroom trends, but in bolder shades than 1970s avocado, adding a sense of drama and luxury.
‘What’s set to turn our heads is the emergence of blue sanitaryware as a cool alternative to white,’ says CP Hart‘s Rachel Martin. ‘Look out for powdery blue baths, basins and WCs teamed with polished chrome or gold taps.’
‘Clean white furniture anchors the trend and is particularly striking when finished with marble door fronts or textured stone surfaces.’
16. Bathroom wallpaper
Image credit: David Giles
Cheaper than tiling, our bathroom wallpaper ideas can add stunning colour and take plain white tiles to a whole new level. To make sure you’re on the bathroom trends mark, avoid papering directly behind a bath or basin and try sealing the paper with a matt decorator’s varnish.
17. Metallic glamour
Chrome has been the king of the bathroom for some time but, as with kitchens, this is changing. Though we’re not advocating the return of gaudy swan-shaped brassware or wall-to-wall copper tiles, there is definitely a new bathroom trend emerging for modern metallic finished, and it’s worth tapping into for your new bathroom design.
As the name suggests, brassware has the metal at its heart, as it’s a durable material. Usually the brass core is treated with chrome or nickel to produce the shiny steel look we’ve been in love with for so long.
Now, inspired by the return of copper and brass elsewhere in the home, taps are shrugging off their silver coating for a new, more luxurious look.
For traditional schemes, go for taps and pipework in brushed copper or antique gold, as these will give a softer finish. Buy the best you can afford, too, as poorly plated taps will tarnish easily. Go for high-density, high carat gold plate on a nickel base for optimum longevity and durability.
What are the 2022 bathroom trends?
There are a number of new and exciting bathroom trends hitting the scene for 2022. One of the biggest has to be a return to nature, which can be seen in a natural materials, finishes and colours.
“Perhaps as a consequence of spending more time in the home and wanting to create more inviting aesthetics, colour trends have become warmer – inspired by nature and natural textures,’ says Oliver Webb of Cullifords. ‘Surface materials are smoother, more matte in texture and less sleek, working with design schemes to deliver spaces that feel warm and comforting where they may have previously felt more stark.’
‘Our interest in organic materials and shapes has led to an uplift in smoother textures,’ adds Hege Lundh of Lundhs Real Stone. ‘More structured, matte finishes are becoming the preferred choice for designers and homeowners. We are noticing a shift towards more tactile and smoother textures, from hard surfaces like worktops and splashbacks to homeware and accessories.
The other notable trend has to be the gentle move away from baths in the realm of showers. ‘We’re expecting to see an increase in level access and wet room sales in 2022,’ says Nick Graville, Sales & Marketing Director at Kudos Showers. ‘Wet floors or wet rooms are a great way of maximising the space that you have available and enable you to completely change the look and feel of your bathroom.’
What are the bathroom colours for 2022?
Bathroom trends for 2022 definitely impact colour choices, and the natural touch is seen here, too. ‘I think that we will see neutral palettes coupled with natural finishes and bold accessories continue well into 2022 – marble, slate and wood are going to continue to feature heavily,’ says Nick at Kudos Showers.
Hege Lundh agrees. ‘Emerging from our ongoing desire to bring the outdoors inside, natural colourways and earthy shades will continue to dominate in kitchens next year. From deep olive and sage green painted walls paired with dark cabinetry to warmer surfaces like natural stone, earthy colours show no sign of wavering in popularity. Teamed with wooden accents and warm metallic touches, homeowners and designers are increasingly favouring natural palettes and finishes for the heart of the home.’
In fact, colour in general is itself a bathroom trend for the year ahead. ‘There’s been a definite rise in homeowners wishing to bring colour into their bathroom,’ says Emma Joyce from House of Rohl. There has been a shift away from utilitarian white bathrooms into those with a little more colour and personality to them, and we anticipate that this trend will continue well into 2022.’
