It feels like everywhere I look at the moment, I spot concrete basins – but I’m not complaining. In fact, a bold and colourful double design is on my own dream bathroom wishlist – guilty! So, if you’re also considering adding one in your space, here’s what you need to know…
Concrete basins are available in a myriad of shades – think saccharine pastels, rich hues, creamy neutrals and moodier colourways. Plus, they come in a range of sizes, widths, and styles, from chunky floorstanding pedestals to slim wall-mounted designs, so they suit both large family spaces and more compact cloakrooms. If you go bespoke, you can also customise your basin to feature intricate shapes and detailing, such as popular fluting and sculptural scallop edges.
There is so much you can do with this one solution. And the best bit? It will instantly become the centrepiece of your bathroom. “Concrete seems like an unlikely material for a bathroom basin, but it has a surprisingly tactile quality and it’s available in a wide range of colours and shapes so it makes a real impact,” Jamie Bebbington, managing director at Aston Matthews, tells me.
What you need to know about concrete basins
So, why should you go for a concrete basin? Well, apart from boasting charm and looking like eye candy, this solution also comes equipped with plenty of benefits. “Concrete basins offer a strong form and good durability against scratches and chips,” says Sarah McGregor, bathroom expert at Victorian Plumbing. “They are truly unique in style and a sure fit for those opting for a minimalist style. Concrete sinks come in many styles as they can be cast into a variety of shapes.”
In terms of design ideas, you can opt for a colourful basin to add mood-boosting value to your bathroom. From here, you can choose tiles and storage solutions in complementing shades, fully embrace the colour-drenching technique, or simply let it shine by keeping sanitaryware, brassware and decorations minimal. Alternatively, a neutral, tactile basin is ideal for achieving a sanctuary-style bathing space – just pair it with wood and other natural materials to complete the look.
What’s more, Boyana Peeva, bathroom designer and founder of Bathica, says they’re a great alternative to luxurious materials, thus, depending on the size of your basin, they can often be kinder to the budget, too. “One of the great benefits is their affordability when compared to marble, quartz, or granite, allowing you to achieve a high-end look without breaking the bank,” she says.
But there are also a few practicalities to keep in mind, in terms of installation and care. “Concrete basins are heavy, but with proper support, there is no reason why most bathrooms can’t accommodate them,” advises Jamie. So, make sure to reach out to a professional for a safe and successful result.
Sarah explains that basins crafted from this material are actually higher maintenance than you would think. But fear not – with proper care and clever solutions from manufacturers, you can enjoy your design for years to come. “Many are delivered with polishing wax, made to help maintain the basin and protect against the effects of hard water,” Sarah says.
Boyana shares more tips for keeping your concrete basin in pristine condition:
- Always try to keep the basin dry. Gently wipe it after usage with a soft cloth to avoid lime coating from the hard water.
- Avoid hard scrubbing and abrasive cleaning pads, as they can remove the protective sealer.
- From time to time, use pH-neutral cleaners or mild dishwasher soap for cleaning.
- Do not use water with too high a temperature, as it can damage the sealer.
- Concrete is vulnerable to different chemicals, so avoid contact with hair or face masks, hair dye, and other substances like acetone, bleach, and nail polish remover.
“It is also recommended that you get your concrete sink re-sealed every few years to ensure its longevity. If done, your concrete sink could last for decades,” adds Sarah.
However, they certainly are worth the upkeep! So, could a concrete basin be the missing piece to your bathroom design?
Featured image: Kast
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