Frequently Asked Questions
&
Tips & Advice
From Our Industry Experts
Knowledge Center
Q. Do I need an appointment?
No, you don't need an appointment to visit us. Our large showroom is designed for customers to browse at their own pace, so you're welcome to walk in, explore our displays, and gather inspiration whenever it suits you.
However, if you're planning a bathroom project, we highly recommend booking an appointment. You'll enjoy a dedicated one-to-one consultation with one of our experienced designers in The Design Loft, our purpose-built design room. During your hour-long appointment, we'll discuss your space, your style, your budget, and the products available, helping you get the most from your visit.
While browsing the showroom is a great way to gather ideas, an appointment allows us to focus entirely on your project and provide tailored design advice, making it a far more productive and inspiring experience.
Q. Is there parking?
Yes, there is plenty of free customer parking available directly in front of our showroom.
We're also incredibly easy to reach, located just off the A34 and conveniently close to both the M60 motorway and the Manchester Airport Relief Road, making us easily accessible from across Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Stockport, Wilmslow, Altrincham and the surrounding areas.
Whether you're calling in for a quick browse or visiting for a design appointment, you'll find ample parking right outside our entrance. There's no need to worry about parking charges or searching for a space, simply park up and enjoy exploring our extensive showroom displays and design ideas.
Q. How long should I allow for a showroom visit?
We typically recommend booking an hour-long appointment with one of our designers, which gives you plenty of time to discuss your project, explore ideas and make the most of our dedicated design facilities.
That said, we'd encourage you to allow a little extra time to fully explore everything we have on display. Our showroom features a wide range of bathroom settings, tiles, furniture, brassware and design inspiration, and many customers find themselves discovering ideas they hadn't previously considered.
If you're planning more than one room, such as a bathroom, en-suite and cloakroom, it's worth allowing additional time so we can explore all the options available and ensure each space receives the attention it deserves. The more we understand about your project, the more value you'll get from your visit.
Q. Can I take tile samples home?
Absolutely. We have a huge range of tile samples available for you to take home, allowing you to see how different colours, textures and finishes look in your own space.
Taking samples home is one of the best ways to make confident design decisions, as lighting can vary significantly between a showroom and your bathroom. Comparing samples against your existing décor, paint colours and furnishings can help you choose the perfect combination.
Our team is always on hand to help narrow down the options and recommend samples that suit your project, ensuring you leave with ideas and inspiration that work for your home.
Q. Do you offer bathroom design?
Yes, we do. Our bathroom design service is tailored to help you create a space that perfectly suits your home, lifestyle and budget. From initial ideas and product selection through to detailed design, we'll guide you through every stage of the process.
For a full explanation of how our design service works, what's included, and what you can expect from your appointment, please follow the link below.
👉 Find Out More About Our Design Service
Whether you're updating a cloakroom or planning multiple bathrooms, our experienced designers are here to help turn your ideas into a beautifully considered design.
Q. Can you recommend installers?
If you have your own installer that's great, if not we can recommend a fitter should you wish. Any installer we refer you to is an independent contractor, and all installation agreements are between you and the installer.
How Much Does a Bathroom Renovation Cost?
The cost of a full bathroom renovation can vary significantly depending on the size of the room, the specification you choose, and the amount of work involved. As a general guide, labour and materials for a complete renovation average around £6,500, but costs can increase or decrease depending on factors such as whether existing plumbing services are being moved, whether you choose full-height tiling or a combination of tiling and painted walls, and whether you opt for features such as a walk-in wet-room style shower or a fitted bath. Every project is different, and these details all have a direct impact on labour requirements and overall cost.
We supply bathroom products to suit a wide range of budgets, from approximately £4,000 for quality bathroom suites through to £15,000+ for luxury fittings, premium brands, and bespoke furniture, with plenty of options in between. The best way to explore what's possible within your budget is to visit our Cheadle Hulme showroom in Stockport, where our team can talk through your requirements, show you the available products, and help you create a bathroom that works for both your home and your budget.
Bathroom Trends 2026
In 2026, bathroom design is moving towards warm, welcoming spaces that combine practicality with luxury. Homeowners are choosing spa-inspired bathrooms with calming neutral tones, walk-in showers, steam showers, textured furniture, natural finishes and clever storage solutions. Wall-hung furniture, soft curves and large-format tiles continue to be popular choices, while wet-room style showers remain one of the most requested features for modern family homes.
Whether you're looking for an affordable family bathroom or a fully bespoke luxury design, our showroom showcases a wide range of products to suit every style and budget. Our experienced team can guide you through the options, explain the costs involved, and help you create a bathroom that is both beautiful and practical.
Visit our Cheadle Hulme showroom in Stockport to explore the latest trends, see the quality for yourself, and discuss your project with our friendly bathroom specialists. You may be surprised by just how much can be achieved within your budget.
Small Bathroom Ideas
A small bathroom doesn't have to compromise on style or practicality. With the right design choices, even the most compact space can feel spacious, bright and luxurious.
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Choose a walk-in shower to create a more open feel and maximise floor space.
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Use wall-hung furniture and toilets to expose more floor area and make the room appear larger.
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Install large-format tiles with minimal grout lines to create a seamless look and enhance the sense of space.
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Incorporate recessed storage niches within shower areas to reduce clutter and eliminate the need for bulky shelves.
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Use light, neutral colours to reflect natural light and make the room feel airy and inviting.
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Add a large mirror or illuminated mirror cabinet to increase light and create the illusion of a larger room.
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Consider sliding or pocket doors where possible to free up valuable floor space.
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Opt for furniture designed specifically for compact bathrooms, providing practical storage without overwhelming the room.
At our Cheadle Hulme showroom in Stockport, we display a range of clever space-saving solutions and bathroom layouts designed specifically for smaller rooms. Whether you're renovating a compact family bathroom, en-suite or cloakroom, our team can help you find ideas and products that make the most of every inch. Visit us to explore the possibilities and discover how a small bathroom can deliver a big impact.
How to Choose Bathroom Brassware
Bathroom brassware is one of the most important design decisions you'll make when planning a new bathroom. Taps, showers, flush plates, towel rails and accessories all play a key role in the overall look and feel of the space, so it's worth thinking beyond just the colour and considering quality, durability and how the finishes work together.
If you're choosing a coloured finish such as brushed brass, bronze, black or gunmetal, it's important to look for products with a PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) finish wherever possible. PVD coatings are significantly more durable than traditional plated finishes, offering greater resistance to scratches, tarnishing, corrosion and everyday wear. While PVD products may cost more initially, they tend to retain their appearance for much longer, making them a worthwhile investment for busy family bathrooms.
Many homeowners assume that every metal finish in the room needs to match perfectly, but this isn't always the best approach. In fact, some of the most successful bathroom designs blend complementary finishes to create a more sophisticated and balanced look. Rather than making every element a feature, consider where you want to draw the eye.
For example, you might choose a statement brushed brass shower and basin tap, while opting for more subtle finished towel rail or enclosure that is colour-matched to your tiling. By allowing certain features to take centre stage and letting others blend into the background, you can create a bathroom that feels more considered and harmonious.
When selecting brassware, it's also worth considering the practical aspects. Think about how easy the finish will be to maintain, whether the style complements the furniture and tiles you've chosen, and how the products will look in natural and artificial light. Small samples and online images can only tell part of the story, which is why seeing products in person can be invaluable.
Visit our Cheadle Hulme showroom in Stockport to explore a wide range of brassware finishes, from classic chrome and brushed nickel to contemporary brass, bronze and black. Our team can help you compare options, explain the differences in quality and durability, and guide you towards the right choices for your bathroom design and budget.
What Finish Should Your Furniture Be?
Choosing your bathroom furniture isn't just about colour – the finish and material you select will have a huge impact on the appearance, durability and maintenance of your bathroom. From sleek gloss units to natural wood textures, each option offers its own advantages and considerations.
Matt or Gloss?
Matt finishes have become increasingly popular in modern bathroom design. They create a softer, more contemporary look and work particularly well with natural textures, large-format tiles and spa-inspired interiors. Matt surfaces are also less reflective, helping to create a calmer and more sophisticated feel. However, lighter matt finishes can sometimes be harder to wipe completely clean, particularly in high-use family bathrooms.
Gloss finishes remain a popular choice for smaller bathrooms because they reflect light around the room, helping to create the illusion of more space. They are generally easy to wipe down and maintain, although fingerprints and water marks can be more visible on darker gloss colours.
Painted Furniture
Painted bathroom furniture offers the widest choice of colours and can create a truly bespoke feel. Whether you prefer soft neutrals, deep blues or contemporary greens, painted finishes allow far greater design flexibility than many other materials.
Pros:
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Huge range of colours.
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Premium, furniture-like appearance.
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Easy to coordinate with other finishes.
Cons:
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Can be more susceptible to chips and scratches.
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Often more expensive than laminate alternatives.
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May require greater care over time.
Laminate Furniture
Laminate remains one of the most practical and affordable choices for bathroom furniture. Modern laminates can replicate wood, stone and painted finishes remarkably well while offering excellent durability.
Pros:
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Cost-effective.
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Highly resistant to moisture.
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Easy to clean and maintain.
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Available in a wide variety of colours and textures.
Cons:
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May not feel as premium as painted or real wood furniture.
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Damaged edges can be difficult to repair.
Real Wood Furniture
Nothing quite matches the warmth and character of genuine timber. Real wood introduces natural texture and individuality, helping create a luxurious and timeless bathroom.
Pros:
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Unique natural grain patterns.
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Warm, premium appearance.
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Ages beautifully when well maintained.
Cons:
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Typically one of the more expensive options.
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Requires careful sealing and maintenance.
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Not ideal for poorly ventilated bathrooms.
Glass Furniture Finishes
Glass-fronted furniture and glass-clad drawer fronts can create a striking contemporary appearance. The reflective surface adds depth and light, particularly in smaller spaces.
Pros:
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Sleek, modern aesthetic.
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Easy to wipe clean.
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Reflects light effectively.
Cons:
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Fingerprints can be visible.
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More prone to showing dust and water marks.
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Limited style suitability in traditional bathrooms.
Porcelain-Clad Furniture
Porcelain-clad furniture is becoming increasingly popular in premium bathroom design. These surfaces offer the appearance of natural stone, marble or concrete while delivering exceptional durability.
Pros:
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Extremely hard-wearing.
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Resistant to scratches, staining and moisture.
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Luxurious appearance.
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Minimal maintenance.
Cons:
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Higher initial investment.
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Usually found in more premium furniture ranges.
The Best Choice?
There is no single "best" finish—only the best finish for your home, lifestyle and budget. A busy family bathroom may benefit from the practicality of a high-quality laminate, while a luxury en-suite may justify the investment in painted furniture, real wood or porcelain finishes.
The best way to compare these options is to see them in person. At our Cheadle Hulme showroom in Stockport, you can explore matt and gloss finishes, compare different materials side-by-side, and discover which furniture styles best suit your bathroom design. Our team can help you balance appearance, durability and budget to create a bathroom you'll love for years to come.
Large Format Tiles - Pros and Cons
Large format tiles have become one of the biggest trends in modern bathroom design. Whether you're choosing 1200 x 600mm tiles, larger 1200 x 1200mm formats, or making a real statement with porcelain slab tiles measuring up to 1200 x 2500mm, these oversized surfaces can completely transform the look and feel of a bathroom.
The Advantages of Large Format Tiles
Create a More Spacious Feel
One of the biggest benefits of large format tiles is their ability to make a room feel bigger. With fewer grout lines interrupting the surface, walls and floors appear cleaner, calmer and more expansive. This can be particularly effective in smaller bathrooms where every design choice matters.
A More Luxurious Appearance
Large format porcelain tiles and slabs bring a premium, architectural feel that is often associated with luxury hotels and spa bathrooms. Continuous veining across large surfaces allows marble, stone and concrete-effect designs to look far more realistic and impactful than smaller tiles.
Fewer Grout Lines
Less grout means fewer areas to clean and maintain. Large format tiles can create a sleek, seamless finish that helps reduce visual clutter and makes day-to-day cleaning easier.
Perfect for Modern Bathrooms
If you're aiming for a contemporary bathroom design, large format tiles complement many current trends, including wall-hung furniture, walk-in showers, concealed storage and minimalist styling.
Porcelain Slabs Create Near-Seamless Surfaces
At the upper end of the market, porcelain slab tiles measuring up to 1200 x 2500mm can be used to create stunning feature walls with as little as one or two joints across an entire shower area. They offer the appearance of natural stone slabs without many of the maintenance concerns associated with marble or other natural materials.
The Disadvantages of Large Format Tiles
Installation Is More Specialist
The larger the tile, the more skill and preparation required to achieve a perfect finish. Walls and floors need to be exceptionally flat, and installation often requires specialist tools and handling equipment, particularly for large porcelain slabs.
Higher Labour Costs
While the number of tiles being installed is lower, labour costs can often be higher due to the additional preparation, careful handling and more technical installation process involved.
Not Every Bathroom Suits Huge Tiles
Whilst large format tiles can work beautifully in small rooms, extremely large slab tiles are not always the best choice for every space. The most successful designs consider the proportions of the room, furniture layout and shower design rather than simply choosing the largest tile available.
Which Size Should You Choose?
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1200 x 600mm tiles are often the most versatile option, working well on both walls and floors while delivering a modern appearance.
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1200 x 1200mm tiles create a bold, contemporary look with even fewer grout joints and are particularly effective in larger bathrooms and open-plan spaces.
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1200 x 2500mm porcelain slabs offer the ultimate luxury finish, creating dramatic feature walls and near-seamless shower enclosures with minimal grout lines.
See Large Format Tiles in Person
Tile samples can only tell part of the story. The scale, texture and impact of large format porcelain really need to be seen in person. Visit our Cheadle Hulme showroom in Stockport to explore a wide range of large format tiles, porcelain slabs and bathroom displays. Our team can help you compare sizes, finishes and layouts to determine which option will work best for your bathroom and budget.
Best Tiles For a Family Bathroom
When choosing tiles for a family bathroom, it's important to strike the right balance between style, durability and safety. Porcelain tiles are often the best choice, as they are exceptionally hard-wearing, water-resistant and easy to maintain, perfect for busy households. For flooring, opt for a matt or textured finish to provide better slip resistance and added safety, particularly for children. On the walls, larger-format tiles can help minimise grout lines, making cleaning easier while creating a more spacious feel. Neutral tones and subtle patterns tend to stand the test of time, but feature tiles can be introduced to add personality without compromising practicality. By selecting tiles that are both robust and timeless, you can create a bathroom that looks beautiful for years to come while standing up to the demands of everyday family life.
Tips & Advice