Evergreen and walnut

Designed by Frances Fraser and Portia Beacham, Honour Creative

The brief: 

The objective of this project was to extensively upgrade the family bathroom and adjoining laundry to improve both functionality and aesthetics. 

While a modern look was desired it was important that the space still reflected the classical character of the home’s bungalow style architecture. 

Structurally separating the bathroom and laundry was an essential requirement to create more open space and improve movement and flow in each area. 

Better storage that allowed for items to be uncluttered and put away was also a key deliverable. 

Specific challenges & how these were overcome: 

A notable challenge in the design process was figuring out the intricate tile layout for the green feature tiles. 

This involved working with whole tiles wherever possible and making sure any half tiles were always on a corner. 

Laying the tiles comfortably below the existing window ledge and around the bath cradle required extra consideration — it was important that the tile elevation on this wall looked seamless and continuous with the adjacent vanity wall. 

Among these parameters was also ensuring the distinct grout lines of the 100x100mm square tiles were well aligned with the 600x600mm floor tiles. 

Particular features of interest: 

A bold approach to colour was the driver of this design. 

Using a deep evergreen was decided early on in the colour palette as a hue that would complement the midnight blue seen throughout the rest of the house.

 Furthermore, the idea of matching evergreen against the rich American walnut timber, references our innate connection with nature. 

This was important in creating a space that provides a sense of invigoration, similar to how we might respond to serene exterior settings. 

Ensuring that the green feature tile was used in small proportions for balance and visual focus, contributed to the overall success of the project.

Designed by: Frances Fraser and Portia Beacham, Honour Creative

Story by: Trendsideas

Photography by: Bonnie Beattie