Wood has always been a sought-after material in interior design, and its presence in bathroom suites is no exception. From rustic charm to sleek modernity, wood furniture and finishes add warmth, texture, and sophistication to one of the most functional spaces in the home. This article explores the enduring popularity of wood in bathroom design, examining the types of wood used, the choice between solid wood and wood-effect furniture, and the differences between traditional and modern styles.
Why Wood is Popular in Bathrooms
The use of wood in bathrooms taps into a universal desire to create relaxing, spa-like environments. Wood adds an organic, natural element to a room that often features cold materials like porcelain and metal. Its versatility allows it to complement a wide variety of bathroom aesthetics, from cozy rustic retreats to clean, minimalist spaces.
Moreover, advances in wood treatments and finishes have made it more practical for bathrooms than ever before. Properly sealed and treated wood can withstand high humidity and resist warping, ensuring durability in these moisture-prone spaces.
To arrange a visit to one of our showrooms in Norfolk, where you can view our beautiful displays and speak to one of our designers, please give the team a call today on 01603 219957 (Norwich) or 01379 640812 (Diss).
Types of Wood Used in Bathroom Furniture
Oak: Known for its strength and durability, oak is a popular choice for both traditional and modern bathroom furniture. Its distinctive grain patterns add character, and it takes well to various stains and finishes.
Teak: Favored for its natural water resistance, teak is often used in bathroom furniture and accessories. Its rich golden-brown hue makes it a luxurious choice, particularly for high-end designs.
Walnut: With its deep, dark tones and smooth texture, walnut is a preferred choice for those seeking a bold, sophisticated look.
Bamboo: Technically a grass, bamboo is celebrated for its sustainability and modern aesthetic. Its light color and linear grain patterns make it ideal for contemporary bathroom designs.
Pine: A softer, more affordable wood, pine is often used in rustic or farmhouse-style bathrooms. Its light, knotty appearance adds charm but may require additional sealing to withstand moisture.
Wood Finishes: Enhancing Beauty and Functionality
Natural Oil Finishes: These enhance the wood’s natural beauty and grain while providing some protection against moisture. However, they require periodic reapplication.
Varnish and Lacquer: These finishes form a hard, protective layer over the wood, making it more resistant to water and scratches. They come in gloss, satin, or matte options.
Painted Finishes: Painted wood furniture is popular in both traditional and modern bathrooms. White or pastel colors are often used in traditional styles, while bold, monochromatic tones dominate modern designs.
Distressed Finishes: For rustic or farmhouse-style bathrooms, distressed finishes create a weathered, lived-in look that complements natural wood textures.
Tips for Incorporating Wood into Your Bathroom
Balance with Other Materials: Wood pairs beautifully with materials like marble, ceramic tiles, and metal fixtures. Combining these elements can create a balanced and visually appealing bathroom.
Consider Ventilation: Proper ventilation is key to maintaining wood furniture in bathrooms. Use an exhaust fan to reduce humidity and prevent moisture damage.
Choose Water-Resistant Options: Whether opting for solid wood or wood-effect furniture, ensure the pieces are treated or sealed to withstand bathroom conditions.
Mix and Match Styles: Don’t be afraid to mix traditional wood furniture with modern finishes or vice versa. For example, a vintage wooden vanity can be paired with a sleek, frameless mirror for a transitional look.
Take a look at our portfolio for an insight into the high standard of finish we aim to deliver for all our customers.
Very pleased with NBK's suggestions and thoughtful design ideas for the creation of an upstairs shower room in our loft conversion. It wasn't the simplest or most straightforward of jobs but was tackled with a "can do/will do" attitude from the very start to completion of the finishing touches. Everyone we dealt with was fantastic and the onsite team a delight to have here. We are very, very happy with the finished room.
Julie Giles
We are delighted with our new kitchen from NBK. All the team were helpful, professional and friendly, and the standard of workmanship was very high. A special mention for James, our fitter, who consulted us throughout the installation to make sure we were happy with everything, and came up with lots of useful suggestions. Nothing was too much trouble and it was a pleasure to have him in our home. We would have no hesitation in recommending NBK to others - many thanks for a job well done.
Sue Mellor
I had my kitchen installed over the last two weeks and the whole team especially Mark (the kitchen fitter) where absolutely faultless. They all cleared up after themselves and left me with the most perfect kitchen you could have. The whole team Gareth, in the showroom, Matt the project manager, Jamie, Dan and especially Mark where a pleasure to have in my home. I would highly recommend this company.
Tracey Wilson
I am delighted by the work of the whole NBK team in creating and installing my new kitchen. From start to finish every member of the team has been outstanding and my kitchen looks superb. It has been finished to an exceptionally high standard. Special thanks must go to Mark for his attention to detail in fitting the kitchen and Matt for his customer care and diligence. The team are also very proud to work for NBK which they totally should be. Thanks to all!
Carol Hitchman
We recently had work done on our bathroom it was a very big job on a small room, it was our family bathroom. From start to finish from sales to completion, it was excellent. Gareth made us at ease from the design to the project managing throughout all the fitters and tradesmen where superb. And also were lovely people which made it better, the work they did was attention to detail and brilliant throughout, we are very happy with our beautiful bathroom and would recommend to anyone as they are very professional company, if I had 6 stars I would give it. :)
Kim Eastell
The planning, detail and consideration that NBK showed over a very large project, has been second to none. We were kept up to date every step of the way, by skilled, thoughtful and helpful craftsmen. At no time did we have any worries that our project was not on track. A special shout out to Gareth, Daniel, Steve, James, Jamie, Sally, Melanie, Geoff & Pete who made this happen for us. We could not recommend them highly enough.
Lisa Roche
First-class; highly recommended! We carefully considered many firms in the area before asking NBK to install both a new bathroom and new downstairs cloakroom. Each had their complexities but NBK were extremely professional, very hard-working and always eager to please. We particularly liked the fact that they were able to provide a complete end-to-end comprehensive service and we're delighted with the results. We have no hesitation recommending them to others.
AJ Lee
From the initial survey and design meetings through to completion NBK have been excellent. The knowledge and ability of personnel to combine the best items from the huge choice of individual manufacturer ranges has proved to be outstanding. We had three bathrooms completely facelifted in different and yet complimentary styles. It was then a simple and logical step to have NBK to carry on and remodel two of our kitchens. First class materials, workmanship and value for money - perfect.
Graham Smith
We were very pleased indeed with the service provided by NBK who installed a new kitchen for us along with new double glazed windows and doors. An excellent design by Tony & impeccable work from Ed the installer. The new kitchen is fabulous and has changed our lives. We were so pleased with Adi's windows & doors that we asked them to install new double glazed windows in the front room and a new front door which again were done to perfection. We would strongly recommend NBK.
Tessa Shepperson
We have recently replaced two bathrooms and the kitchen completely with the help of NBK. From the first contact to survey the work to the completed product the company have been extremely professional, friendly and produced an excellent standard of work. We would have no hesitation in using them again and would highly recommend them for this type of installation.
Peter Delbridge
We are pleased to offer our glowing testimonial for the work by NBK on the complete renovation of our upstairs bathroom into a shower room. The work undertaken principally by Josh (our fitter) and the design and survey teams were exemplary. Most notable was the quality of the finishes, the supplied materials and the equipment fitted - all top notch. Above all we were very impressed by the care taken to ensure everything was completed on time and to a very high standard. It was a real pleasure to work with Josh and the NBK team.
Chris and Jan Banks
Our kitchen has recently been replaced by NBK and from start to finish it was handled with professionalism, positivity and expertise. From the planning and preparation to the end, the detail was paramount in order for us to have the kitchen we wanted. It was not a straightforward job but our fitter, Ashley, handled it superbly, ironing out any difficulties with ease. Each member of Staff we dealt with through the Diss branch was able to deal with any queries and always in a friendly and pleasant way. We would not hesitate to recommend this Company.
Norfolk Trusted Trader Customer
NBK specialise in the design and installation of bathrooms and kitchens and for over 25 years we have grown to become the largest independent retailer and installer across Norfolk & North Suffolk.
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