Transforming Bathroom Spaces with Natural Materials and Thoughtful Use of Colour

Rachel Carmody Design is a small, growing architectural studio based in Dublin working on residential and hospitality projects across Ireland as well as in Portugal and France. We recently had the pleasure of talking to Rachel to gain deeper insights into her design philosophy, particularly her approach to crafting beautiful, cohesive bathroom spaces.

Designing Cohesive Bathroom Spaces

The design process at Rachel Carmody Design is deeply client-centric. They invest time in understanding their client’s visions and needs, crafting project principles that guide the entire design journey. “We spend time getting to know each of our clients and understanding and tailoring their project briefs. We establish project principles early, focusing on materiality, lighting, textures, and colour, and adhere to these principles to achieve a cohesive result.” By incorporating materials used elsewhere in the project and reinterpreting the palette across different bathrooms, Rachel aims to create a series of spaces that are both distinct and connected, reflecting the unique personality of the clients. “We aim for the bathrooms to feel like an extension of the rest of the home,”

Photography by Ste Murray

“I love the warmth that texture brings to a project - we generally use a mixture of brick, wood, stone, concrete and plaster - these are all sustainable materials and age beautifully. When we introduce colour it is important that it ties in with the overall palette of the project so that it still feels considered.”

Choosing the Right Kast Basin

For this particular project, the Pitch basin was selected for its practical features. “We had a shortlist, so it was difficult to choose, but proportionately we felt the Pitch would work best in the space—plus, it offers some ledge space for storage.” When we use Kast basins “It is important to us that they are the stand-out feature in the space,” Rachel notes. We design the surrounding elements as a subtle backdrop, allowing the Kast basin to take centre stage. “The neutral tones of microcement and floor tiles, as well as the timber vanity, really allow for the Kast sink to be the focal point.”

Involving Clients in the Design Journey

In the children’s bathroom of this home, Rachel took an inclusive approach by letting the young clients choose the Kast colour. “I always think it’s nice when possible to bring the children into the design journey,” Rachel explains. “I felt confident in allowing them to make this decision as I adore all of the beautiful Kast shades. The backdrop is restrained, and the basin was intended to be the design statement. I think they chose well!”

Do you have a favourite basin?

I’m always drawn towards the Kern - we have specified it in clay in an upcoming project, where the walls of the bathroom are in a similar shade of micro ember, and I’m really looking forward to seeing that come together!

What’s your favorite Kast colour?

I adore all of the beautiful Kast shades

What would you say to others considering incorporating a Kast basin into a project?

Kast basins will elevate any project so go for it!

Feeling inspired? If you’d like help choosing the perfect basin for your next bathroom project, please get in touch, our dedicated team will be more than happy to help.

Alternatively, you can email us at info@kastconcretebasins.com.