The great Australian bathroom

When it comes to bathroom design, Australians like to bring the space of the great outdoors into their bathrooms - but these days the Australian bathroom has more splashback than redback.

Australians have long enjoyed a love affair with their bathrooms - but what sets our bathrooms apart from those of our overseas friends? Well, according to Simona Castagna, from luxury bathroom brand Minosa Bathrooms, Australian bathrooms are more spacious, and there are more of them.

"These days, it's common to see three to five bathrooms in the houses we work on," Simona says. "And I would say that the minimum in smaller homes would be two bathrooms. In my experience, overseas bathrooms tend to be more compact spaces."

So, what makes the Australian bathroom unique?

From Simona's perspective, Australians like to re-create a feeling of peace and serenity in their bathrooms - akin to the holiday experience of staying in a top hotel or spa resort.

And we're happy to spend good money on certain features, such as freestanding baths and wall-hung fittings, to achieve this. "Essentially we like to create a look and feel for our bathroom spaces that often follows European trends, but with our own twist or style added," says Simona.

The Australian love of the great outdoors is reflected in the choice of colour in our bathrooms, Simona reveals. When it comes to bathroom colour, "We love being outside," she says, "therefore, the natural palette is often re-created indoors and especially around water."

Another trend is the attention that people are paying to the humble powder room. "Powder rooms are popular focal points for many people," says Simona. "It's a great area to showcase that all-important 'wow' factor with a wonderfully designed washbasin or fantastically tiled bathroom wall."

How can I create my own Aussie bathroom?

For anyone wanting to create their own Australian bathroom, Simona recommends getting the basics right first. Plan well and ensure that the new bathroom design caters for all the members of your family. Don't go for fads, because they will quickly date; and make the best possible use of the abundant Australian natural light.

"And remember that we can't always have our entire wish list in the space we have, so don't try too hard to add in everything," says Simona. "It's more important to ensure that the space is well utilised."

To get the most from the space you have and create your own great Aussie bathroom, find a bathroom designer in your area: