The bathroom is increasingly regarded as a place of sanctuary and even intimacy within the home. It is a place to relax, refresh and recharge.

The Victorians were the first to implement wide scale standards of sanitation in this country, using newly acquired engineering skills. Many people attempt to recreate the charm of this age, though in truth only the very rich could afford the luxury of an interior bathroom. Black and white checkerboard floor tiles and painted wood panelling were popular settings. Into this were placed such period features as a WC with high level cistern and the much admired cast iron free standing bath, sometimes known as a roll top or slipper bath.

Today, replica models tend to employ enamelled steel or even heavy-duty acrylic as a lighter substitute. (A fully filled cast iron bath is extremely heavy, so care must be taken when installing these upstairs.) The bath filler with its crosshead taps was mounted on the floor with brass pillar unions. It sometimes sported a telephone receiver style hand shower set or else a large shower rose protruded from the wall or ceiling. Re capturing the Victorian or Edwardian aesthetic does not mean recourse to an outdated technology.

Today twentieth century solutions substitute cleverly concealed quarter turn disc mechanisms. These replace the old fashioned metal washers, so prone to leaking, with a more resilient non-corroding type making the ubiquitous dripping tap a thing of the past. The modern style has been shaped by the ethics of functionalism. Simple hygienic forms that are easily cleaned are favoured. In the hands of designers like Philippe Starck they rake on the austere quality of modern sculpture.

The days of fuscia or avocado suites are thankfully behind us and gleaming white sanitary ware predominates. Minimalist simplicity draws attention to the quality inherent in the materials themselves, rather than in any distracting surface decoration. In addition to this, large wall mirrors or mirrored cabinets can help open up the space in what is usually a small room. Another recent trend within the bathroom has been the explosion of dedicated hair and skin care products on the market place. Shower gels, moisturisers, conditioners, P.H. balanced facial scrubs toners and cleansers all conspire to create clutter within the bathroom.

The market has responded with integrated furniture, which can also conceal unsightly plumbing work and cisterns can be completely enclosed. Once thought to be beyond the reach of most pockets, the spa bath is becoming increasingly affordable. Back pain, caused by our sedentary life styles, is amongst the most common ailments in the western world. Experts agree that gentle massage with air and water jets can increase poor circulation, relieving tired and aching muscles. For those who rarely allocate time for a long soak, a power shower is the next best thing. Most models incorporate variable wide, narrow or even pulsating spray settings.

These are supported by fully thermostatic controls ensuring you are not scolded when someone fills the kettle down stairs! Body jets can be purchased separately or as part of a console that can save you money on plumbing bills. Luxury enclosures can include steam rooms, saunas and even built in music centres! Don't be afraid to ask our staff for a demonstration. However elaborate your requirements, Pastella are sure to provide a solution for your bathroom.

We represent some of the top brand names in sanitary and furniture.

Duravit

From a small factory in Hornberg in the heart of the Black Forest to an internationally renowned designer bathroom brand: Founded in 1817, Duravit AG today manufactures ceramic sanitaryware, bathroom furniture and accessories. Not only in Hornberg (still the company's headquarters), but also in nearby Schenkenzell, in Bischwiller (France), in Cairo (Egypt), and in Meissen, home town of the world-famous porcelain. And yet, what all production sites have in common is the high degree of artisan accuracy and technological know-how leading to the almost proverbial quality of all Duravit products. Pastella currently feature a range of suites designed by internationally renowned designer Philippe Starck.

Keramag - Experience the quality of Keramag down to the smallest details. Intelligent technology and a host of clever features provide maximum comfort and hygiene. The Kerafix invisible fixing system, for example, not only ensures a firm attachment and easy-to-clean surfaces for floor standing WCs, bidets and half-pedestals, but also speedy installation and maintenance. Pastella have recently installed the latest designer range 'Formula One' designed by 'Porsche'. The high demands on shaping and design make F1 into a total experience of sophistication. A distinctive, confident design, as well as a clear but also emotional language of shape provide the bathroom habitat with its characteristics and its exclusiveness. The combination of natural ceramic material with high-quality real wood provides a suspenseful and unusual authenticity. This is well-being and enjoyment at the highest level.

System Pool - A system pool hydro massage bath takes care of your body. Using information gathered by medical experts, system pool have perfected the optimum placement of water and air jets in the bath. The idea is to create a strong flow of current around the body that improves blood flow to the tissues. Other manufacturers struggle to achieve this, and the result can be a painful rather than a pleasurable experince. Ideal for those short of space in the bathroom, an investment in a system pool multi-function shower cabin provides both all over body jets, steam room and radio. Whatever you decide - System Pool provide a refreshing level of excellence.

Imperial - The Imperial range of bathroom products is a uniquely successful combination of the nostalgic styling with modern technology. Imperial sanitaryware is at home either in a town or country setting, modern or period interior so you can be sure there will be a style to suit your taste. Come in and see us at our Five Oaks Showroom! There are also exciting and exclusive ranges of beautifully designed taps, vanity furniture, accessories and baths to complement your choice of sanitaryware.

Porcelanosa - as well as tiles, Porcelanosa supply a superb range of bathrooms and bathroom furniture. Visit our showrooms for a closer look. at their choices of beautiful bathrooms., both classic and contemporary.

Mark Wilkinson also provide a stunning range of fitted bathroom furniture - as a haven from the rigours of the day the bathroom seems to be a natural place for the lighter woods and painted finishes. It lends itself to the abstract hues of marble and granite traditionally associated with warm generous towels and quiet contemplation.