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Freestanding vs Built-In Bathtubs

Tag: bathroom design

Freestanding vs Built-In Bathtubs

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk

Both freestanding and built in bathtubs can turn your bathroom into a luxurious sanctuary but choosing which type to go with can be confusing. Taking into consideration space, style and purpose, we look at which tub suits what bathroom.

It is often thought that a freestanding tub is best for a larger bathroom and a built in, better suited to smaller space, however this is a common misconception. In fact a freestanding bath is often perfect for a smaller space as you are not restricted by where you position the bath, allowing it to fit in small alcoves where a built in bath could not. Due to their shape and occasionally their legs resulting in the tub being raised off the floor, this also creates the illusion of space.

built-in-bath
Image via Hawk K&B

With a built in bathtub, the real advantage is the space that the surround provides. It can act as storage, seating and mounting space for taps, spouts and hand showers so the more room you have the better. You can also tile in your bath tying it in with the rest of the room to create a seamless appearance or panel it to match the bathroom furniture as we have done here.

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Image via Hawk K&B

However that’s not to say with a freestanding bathtub you will have less storage. If space allows, placing the bath in the centre of the room, as we have done here, frees up valuable wall space for bathroom furniture and storage.

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Image via Hawk K&B

Alternatively, built in niche’s into the wall can add that storage space needed for bathing essentials where space is limited.

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Image via Hawk K&B

Also worth considering is that any built-in tub under 1700mm runs the risk of compromising the bathing experience. It is crucial to measure and plan your space to truly understand whether you can work with a built-in bath. In this instance a freestanding bath, in particular a slipper bath, is a great choice for a smaller space, allowing you to sit up and relax comfortably in a 1500mm bath for example.

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Image via Burlington

A built-in bath is also much better suited for adding a shower to, whereas a freestanding tub is usually for bathing only. You can of course place a shower over a freestanding tub but only with the use of a shower curtain. In recent years however, the emergence of the ‘freestanding shower bath’ by companies such as April and Burlington mean the bath is fixed to the wall along two edges with the addition of a shower screen, resulting in a successful combination of both a fixed and freestanding bathtub.

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Image via Hawk K&B

A similar alternative is a back to wall bath which offers the luxury of a freestanding bath whilst sitting flush against your bathroom wall. Designed to be installed in the middle of a wall it allows extra space either side for a basin, toilet and furniture whereas most built-in baths are designed to sit in corners and freestanding sitting in the middle of the room.

There are endless possibilities when choosing a bathtub so don’t feel restricted by your space and style choices. Both freestanding and built-in bathtubs can be adapted to suit your space and we will work with you to design a bathroom that is carefully space planned and is ultimately what you want.

Creating a Classy Cloakroom

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk

More often than not, the cloakroom is the smallest room in the house, tucked away under the stairs or in a far corner of the home. However, it’s one of the most used and not only by family members, but guests too, making it an important room to get right.

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Images via Hawk K&B

Due to its size, it’s a great room to experiment with your creativity and be a bit bolder with your design choices. Pattern is often more effective in a smaller space whereas in a larger space it may be overpowering. Here two of our clients opted for patterned wallpaper, one bold and statement Orla Kiely print paired with a glass orange splash back, whilst the other decided on a more subtle print that highlighted the grey tones in the tiles.

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Image via Hawk K&B

However, pattern doesn’t always need to be on the walls. In this cloakroom above, tones are muted and furniture is minimal, yet the patterned tiles on the floor offer a beautiful design element to this simple and stylish room.

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Image via Hawk K&B

Limited space means storage is key and in particular retaining the feeling of space at the same time. Wall hung units are perfect for cloakrooms, leaving floor space free and by adding a floating shelf as we have done here there is hidden storage space. Niche’s in the boxing are also a great additional place for more decorative items.

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Image via Hawk K&B

Bring interest to your cloakroom by adding texture. Here we used shiplap panels at either end of this cloakroom to create a unique and inviting space and combined this with other types and colours of wood in the vanity unit and mirror. The blue on the walls also adds a slightly nautical element.

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Image via Hawk K&B

Alternatively, for more of a classic look try tongue-and-groove panelling. It visually frames this stylish cloakroom and the bold colour choice works beautifully with this traditional look in this compact space.

Lighting Your Bathroom

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk

Light is often limited in bathrooms as windows tend to be small or even non-existent. For this reason lighting needs to be well planned and each fixture have a purpose.

Layered lighting is important in any room however in a bathroom it is often an afterthought, with people assuming ceiling lighting will be enough. In fact, the bathroom benefits greatly from various lighting. With limited textures in a bathroom, lighting can enhance the look and feel of a room and can add a spa-like ambience.

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Image via Hawk KB

When thinking about your general, ambient lighting, think about where light is most needed and why. Also consider areas that should be highlighted such as a wall of textured or interesting tiles and do so by directing downlights towards them to create a wash of light over the area.

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Image via Hawk KB

However, a downlight above a mirrored vanity unit will not be enough if you want to use this space effectively, as too much light overhead will create unflattering shadows on the face. Therefore add wall lights for that extra layer of light.

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Image via Hawk KB

Alternatively backlighting a mirror with an LED strip or using a mirror with integrated light such as this circular one from Bagno will not only create the perfect soft light with an added wow factor.

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Image via Hawk KB

Another area where lighting is important is in the shower enclosure. Having one light overhead is unflattering, so provide an even light either side or instead consider washing lights down the back wall of the shower to draw attention to the colour or texture of the tiles.

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Image via Hawk KB

Finally ensure accent lighting key areas of the bathroom such has adding downlights in wall niches or low level lighting under units. These small lights are what will help create a spa-like feel in your bathroom.

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Image via Hawk KB

Accent lighting can also be used to create a feature of your bath as we have done here. Adding uplighters in the floor or placing it on a raised platform with added lighting will highlight your bath as the centerpiece of the room and create a focus.

One important thing to note when lighting your bathroom however, is IP rating. A bathroom is split into various zones, based on the distance between the water and the light fitting, with certain lights being rated between IP0 (in the bath or floor of the shower) and Zone 2 (600mm either side of a water source/shower/bath). However a bathroom designer and fitter such as ourselves will be able to advise on this.

Join Us, We’re Hiring

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk

We are currently seeking an experienced Bathroom Designer to join are friendly team in our Gaddesden Row showroom near Hemel Hempstead on a full time basis.

Working with high net worth clients, you will be designing on a CAD based software programme and presenting the client with visuals, elevations and floor plans. You will have an intricate eye for detail and have experience of ordering products and ensuring schedules are kept up to date. You will be incentivised with commission, on top of your basic salary, on all sales. Excellent communication skills along with administration skills are an absolute. This role is hands on and will involve taking deliveries, ensuring that the showroom is in perfect order and invoicing. A great team player is key in this busy organisation. We would consider a more junior candidate who has worked in a bathroom showroom and is bright, switched on and has a good understanding of bathroom products – training provided. Salary will be dependant on experience. Start date for January 2018. You must live within a maximum of 15 miles from our showroom.

Qualifications and Skills

Educated to A level standard or equivalent.

1 years experience in a design based role.

Knowledge and Experience of CAD

Benefits

28 days annual leave including bank holidays.

Please email katy@hawk.grin-test.co.uk for more information.

Creating Hygge in Your Bathroom

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk

Hygge: A quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being

Hygge (pronounced hue-guh), the defining characteristic of Danish culture, is the latest living trend to enter our homes. For bathrooms specifically, the market is already seeing designs leaning toward this trend, with home-spa bathrooms and a focus on nature and wellness growing in popularity.

With much of our everyday spent in our homes, Hygge is centered on the warmth of the home so is particularly prominent as the evenings draw in towards the winter months. Although loosely translated as cosiness, hygge encompasses much more than that. It is about slowing down and appreciating the everyday moments.

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Image via Victoria & Albert

One of the rare moments when we are alone is usually in the bathroom. Although a quick shower is usually favoured in today’s busy lifestyle, taking the time to run a warm bath and relax with a book or a glass of wine will give you a greater sense of wellbeing. Choosing a bath that is both deep and comfortable, such as the Victoria & Albert Vetrella, along with the Tombolo bath rack, will give you all the more reason to take that time for yourself.

However if bathing isn’t for you, ensure you go for a walk-in shower with a large rainshower head for the most natural  water flow, as if you were simply standing in a warm downpour. There are now many shower options available for you to create your own personal tailor-made spa experience. We recommend GROHE’s F-digital Deluxe, complete with lighting, sound and steam, to stimulate all your senses and transform your bathroom into a space of hygge for physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.

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Images via Hawk K&B

Texture is vital for achieving hygge. Opt for a beautifully soft bath mat and thick fluffy towels with a focus on comfort. Enveloping yourself in a super soft robe or towel after a hot bath or shower is what hygge is all about. Or for the ultimate in comfort, install underfloor heating.

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Image via Hawk K&B

One of the key principles of hygge is lighting. Low, warm lighting is best, creating a calming ambience so light plenty of flickering candles and keep harsh lighting to a minimum. If you are lucky enough to have a fireplace in your bathroom, light a fire for the perfect natural warm light.

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Images via Hawk K&B

You can also bring added hygge into your bathroom through natural colours and materials such as wood and marble. Above, the natural wood cladding and wooden vanity unit, paired with low level lighting create the perfect cosy cloakroom. However where using natural materials is awkward such as in a shower room, opt for wood-effect or stone-effect tiles which will produce the same look and feel but with much better practicality.

Similarly, hygge is about simplicity so using the same tile across walls and floors, as we have done above, will create a simple yet elegant bathroom interior. A frameless shower screen or door will also add to the seamless appearance of the space.

Overall, the bathroom is the perfect space to introduce hygge to your home. With natural lighting, materials, colours and warmth, it is easy to achieve that cosiness and contentment that hygge is about. Just take the time to relax and immerse yourself in it.

Black & White Bathrooms

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk

Black and white is a classic colour combination that can produce a stunning effect in interiors, particularly bathrooms. The bathroom has never been the place to really show off interior trends, styles and colours however black and white in the bathroom can produce both beautiful classic and contemporary schemes that will remain timeless.

The reason black and white is so effective in bathrooms is due to the impact the colour combination can make, particularly in a small space such as a bathroom. Black absorbs light, whilst white reflects it. The fact that bathrooms are often full of clean lines and bold angles lends itself further to these contrasting tones.

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Image Via Decoist

When we think of a monochrome bathroom we usually imagine a classic, traditional style bathroom with a black toilet seat, white metro tiles with black borders and a roll top bath resting on black ornate feet. However recently, black and white has come to the forefront of contemporary bathroom design too.

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Image via Hawk K&B

Luxury bathroom suppliers are now introducing black sanitaryware, with the Bette Loft Bath having launched in black at Ish earlier this year and Villeroy & Boch offering another contemporary bath in a combination of black on the outside and white on the inside.

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Image via Hawk K&B

However if you want to achieve the ultimate in contemporary monochrome bathrooms, choose black furniture such as the Villeroy & Boch Finion range with its matt black finish.

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Image via Hawk K&B

The bathroom set at this year’s Ideal Home Show also demonstrated how a black and white bathroom can produce a beautiful classic contemporary look. Classic chequerboard tiles combined with a contemporary freestanding bath and black countertop sinks create a bathroom that oozes design. The addition of natural materials and textures throughout from the wooden stool, wicker basket and foliage, bring in a softer element and warmer tones to reduce the harsh contrast of the black and white.

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Images via Hawk K&B

Another element to consider when going monochrome is pattern. With such high contrast, a black and white pattern can really complete your bathroom, particularly a patterned tile. However if you’re looking for something more subtle, choose a dark stone with a natural pattern or inject it through soft furnishings such as curtains or towels like this bathroom above.

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Image via Hawk K&B

A black and white bathroom is easy to achieve with the majority of sanitaryware being white, the success of the design comes down to where you will inject the black. From going all out and painting a wall black or choosing a contemporary black cabinet to simply adding in black details through your choice of towels and accessories, such as this bold black mirror above, a monochrome bathroom will always make a statement that will stand the test of time.

Bathroom Trends & Themes – ISH 2017

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk

Last week Frankfurt welcomed around 200,000 visitors, including ourselves, to ISH, The World’s Leading Trade Fair for The Bathroom Experience.  The trade show invited design experts to experience and view some of the most impressive collections from around the world alongside the latest products, technologies and solutions launching onto the market.

This year’s themes for the bathroom were ‘health’, ‘comfort’, ‘individual’, ‘digital’ and ‘responsible’ and these themes certainly ticked all the boxes for us.

However, the theme that really resonated with us was ‘The Individual Bathroom’. Designing a personalised bathroom, individual to the client is essential to what we do. This doesn’t mean extravagant furnishings or particularly original ideas, but a bathroom that is tailored around the needs and wants of the client.

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Image via Grohe

The Grohe Rainshower SmartControl 360 shower system offers the most personalised shower experience yet. Remembering your personalised shower patterns and water temperatures, whether it’s a blood pumping cold blast after a hot gym session or a comfortably warm, massaging spray after a long day at work; with one push of a button your personalised shower is ready and waiting for you.

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Image via Bette

On the bathing front, the BetteLoft built-in bath is perfectly designed with precise contours to fit into the tapered surfaces of a loft space. This means it can offer a more comfortable soak for those with smaller loft bathrooms, making use of the limited space.

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Image via Hawk K&B

Brass was, once again, a key look with copper and gold also making appearances, particularly in brassware. These warm metallics naturally then paired with darker bathroom settings, creating a moody look. A bold step away from the traditional light, white bathrooms we are used to seeing.

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Image via Hawk K&B

Villeroy & Boch’s new collection ‘Finion’ highlighted exactly this, with its black furniture with gold niches and brassware and a holistic lighting concept to create a harmonious light stage. This indirect lighting of the shelves as well as backlighting of the cabinets and mirrors creates a different, softer light not often seen in bathrooms, right down to the elegant mirror light with surrounding LED lighting. All controlled by remote control.

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Image via Villeroy & Boch

For a more personalised experience, a mobile phone charging station for smartphones can be integrated into the side cabinet and shelves or an optional Bluetooth sound system can be built into the mirror.

The variety of individualisation options in Finion are designed to meet the growing demands of a modern lifestyle in every single detail.

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Image via Hawk K&B

It wasn’t just colour either, textured surfaces made a striking appearance across brassware and sanitaryware. These Gessi taps offer a variety of tactile finishes from dimples to quilting, offering the ultimate in bathroom personalisation.

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Image via Hawk K&B

This BetteLoft Ornament bath in enamelled steel not only looks stunning but also demonstrates the tremendous adaptability of glazed titanium steel.

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Image via Hawk K&B

Bette definitely excelled with the textures on their sanitaryware with their Lux Oval Couture range. Upholstered in a comfortable, durable fabric in three colour options, comfort and personalisation define this collection.

It’s clear to see that the bathroom has become a room that is now treasured within the home, a place that is to be designed and personalised around the client. Consistent with our approach to designing bathrooms, we are looking forward to having some of these new collections in our new St Albans showroom opening later this year.

Go Bold with Brassware

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk

Bathrooms are no longer a room that is simply ‘updated’ every few years, bathrooms are now something to be thoughtfully designed and delivered to perfection, right down to the brassware. Because of this, there are now so many more luxurious, colourful and interesting options to bring your bathroom to life.

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Image via Grohe

Finishes are key. Colour but also a mix of textures; polished, matt, brushed or tarnished, and a mix of materials and detailing too are what people are looking to achieve in luxury bathroom design. Grohe have recently extended their range of colours in their brassware to include ‘Warm Sunset, Cool Sunrise, Hard Graphite and Soft Graphite’. The addition of not only colour, but also texture, allows much further individualisation in bathroom design than ever before.

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Image via Grohe

Warm brass, coppers and rose gold tones have been reigning across bathroom brassware recently. The beautiful thing about opting for these warmer colours is the instant luxury they will add to the space and they are a perfect fit for any style of bathroom from light to dark and traditional to contemporary.

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Images via Ann Sacks & Heritage

In a darker room, they add warmth and opulence to create a moody, relaxing room whereas in an all-white bathroom, a copper or rose gold brassware introduces a pop of colour.

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Images via Heritage & Grohe

However if you’re looking for something a little more subtle, mixing metals can also create an added design element to elevate your bathroom design. These Heritage Lymington basin taps in chrome are finished with an inlaid lace detail in gold or for a more contemporary look, Grohe have introduced a flash of gold into their Grandera Mixer taps.

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Image via Perrin & Rowe

For an extra special finish, Perrin & Rowe also offer a 24k gold finish alongside, English bronze, aged, polished and satin brass. Epitomising true luxury, Gold by Perrin & Rowe is pure yellow in colour all thanks to the 24 carat gold plating process and hand polished high shine finish. Each high-quality finish brings a touch of class, sophistication and character to any bathroom: whether that’s traditional or contemporary in style.

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Image via Heritage

Beyond brassware, think about incorporating different metal tones into basins and sanitaryware too. This beautiful Abingdon wash stand from Heritage Bathrooms comes in a rose gold finish and they have also extended their rose gold collection to WC hinges, cistern levers, taps and showers so you can complete your bathroom with this luxurious look.

This is a trend that can be easily added and adapted to any bathroom. With either a selection of warm metallic accents, complete bathroom sets or metallic accessories, you can make your bathroom more luxurious, colourful and interesting.

Preparing the Perfect Guest Bathroom

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk

At this time of year there’s always a constant flow of friends and family coming and going from our homes and it’s important that visitors feel welcome. If you are opening up your house to overnight guests this festive season, it’s important not to forget about the guest bathroom and ensure it is just as warm and welcoming as the rest of your home.

Creating a spa like feel through simple, subtle details will automatically create a relaxing atmosphere in the bathroom and therefore promote a good night’s sleep. Stock up on little amenities that your guests may need such cotton balls or buds and small bars of soap. Alongside little luxuries such as sea sponges, bath salts and loofahs you can treat your guests to a spa-like experience in your own home.

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Image via Hawk K&B

Fresh flowers or plants are also a great addition to a bathroom, adding a natural element to the room. However it’s important to pick a plant that is happy in an often hot and humid atmosphere. Orchid’s make great bathroom plants as they naturally flourish in this environment and don’t require much maintenance.

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Image via Hawk K&B

Scent is extremely important in a bathroom. A beautifully scented candle will not only create a wonderful scent and ambience in the room, but nothing is more relaxing than a bath by flickering candlelight. A diffuser is also perfect for a bathroom as the small space will always be filled with a subtle scent.

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Images via Hawk K&B

A luxury guest bathroom cannot go without some luxe linens. Ensure you have plenty of fluffy warm towels, stacked or rolled and for the ultimate finishing touch, add in a bath robe and some slippers to really make your guests feel at home.

Creating a Couple’s Bathroom

Posted on by katy@hawkkb.co.uk
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Image via Hawk K&B

A couple’s bathroom is the epitome of luxury. Having a bathroom that you can not only share with your loved one, but also have your own designated space is the perfect bathroom solution.

The centrepiece of any bathroom, be it for the family or a couple, is the bath. For a couple, a double ended bath is a must, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing and romantic bath together without any hassle of taps in the way. Picking a bath that is deep with high sides is also a good idea to allow you to both be fully submerged under the bubbles.

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Image via Victoria & Albert

Why not add the Victoria & Albert Tombolo bath rack too, the ultimate luxury bathroom accessory for a super relaxing soak.

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Image via Hawk K&B

However for when you’re in more of a rush, a double shower is perfect for a couple’s bathroom. Walk in showers work best to create an uncluttered streamlined look, with two shower heads so everyone has their own space.

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Image via Hawk K&B

A double sink is also a must have.  There are various types to choose from, you can opt for one single double length sink which looks great in contemporary bathrooms, or two basins situated on one unit.

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Image via Hawk K&B

However for those who really want their own space, having two separate vanity units, complete with their own mirror means there will be no crossover between his and hers! Don’t forget the accessories too; a dual toothbrush holder and double hooks for your bathrobes will add those finishing touches to your couple’s bathroom.