Mineral Drenching

/

Mineral Drenching

Opulent surfaces are redefining bathroom design, with dramatic stone slabs and precious mineral tones bringing elegance, sophistication and a bespoke feel to spaces designed for both everyday rituals and indulgence

Words by Ali Howard

Breccia Medicea Splashback

Natural stone is having a moment in bathroom design, and it’s all about celebrating Mother Nature’s own take on maximalism – think of veined marble and richly textured natural stone not merely as surfaces, but as the main event: dramatic slabs, organic patterning, swirling minerals, flecks of quartz, bands of onyx, rippling agate – utilised with full drama. Here, walls flow into floors, showers are framed by dramatic seams, basins and tubs are carved to highlight the natural grain… The effect is richly sensory: polished surfaces glowing under light, honed textures that invite touch, and colours that range from soft ivory threaded with gold to deep green and black streaked with rich cream. Mineral drenching transforms the bathroom into an elemental, immersive space – more sanctuary than utility.

Top: Tile of Spain, Bottom: Roccia Top: Concept tiles by Baldocer, £18.48 per sq m. Bottom: Black onyx effect porcelain tile, £97.50 per sq m

In the serene bathroom (above right) Cullifords’ Breccia Medicea marble takes centre stage. The silver and gold veining forms a dramatic backdrop to the freestanding tub, with brushed brass fittings echoing the warm tones. The result is pared-back elegance, where natural stone brings timeless richness and quiet sophistication.

Tile of Spain’s Concept tiles in grey and black by Baldocer capture the beauty of natural stone while adding a stark modernity. The contrasting step effect brings chic definition to the contemporary bathroom at the bottom of this page, enhancing the sense of depth and architectural interest.

Dramatic and atmospheric, the Palace Infibre Black onyx effect porcelain tile from ROCCIA transforms the bathroom at the top of the page into a brooding sanctuary. With its deep, inky tones and subtle veining, the tile exudes modern luxury, perfectly complemented by the sculptural tub and warm metallic accents.

Top Left: Artisans’ Belvedere granite, POA (capietra.com) Bottom Right: Bert & May’s green herringbone honed marble tiles, £100.32 per sq m (hyperiontiles.co.uk)

Ca’Pietra Artisans’ Belvedere granite brings dark drama and undeniable glamour to the bathroom opposite, its bold veining creating a richly textured backdrop. The effect is beautifully lifted with gold-toned accents, from the Art Deco mirror to the brassware, while the granite’s durability makes it as practical as it is luxurious.

With their pistachio and teal tones, deep veining and organic swirls, Bert & May’s green herringbone honed marble tiles set a richly textured backdrop in the bathroom at the top of the opening page. Balanced with brass fixtures, patterned flooring and trailing greenery, the bathroom feels both opulent and fresh, with a hint of enchanted-forest magic.

For more information, visit:

Geraldculliford.co.uk, Tileofspain.com, Roccia.com, Baldocer.com, Ca’Pietra, Hyperion Tiles (Bert & May)