# Stacey Solomon’s Maximalist Bathroom Renovation Challenges Traditional Design Norms A bold shift from cottagecore to vibrant maximalism proves that salvaged vintage fixtures can redefine modern spaces. - **Source:** [Latest from Ideal Home in News](https://brifing.si/source/02eb50e1-30c6-4c23-9764-bbec266c1242) - **Published:** 2026-10-16 - **Topic:** [Design & UX](https://brifing.si/c/design) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/cab0e7c8-a86c-43e1-b10c-c64fe049fdf8 ## Transitioning from Neutral Aesthetics Stacey Solomon has pivoted from her signature neutral cottagecore style to a bold, maximalist bathroom design. By salvaging an original orange suite from her new property, she created a vibrant space that defies contemporary expectations. This project marks a significant departure from the muted tones previously associated with her home renovation collaborations. ## Strategic Use of Vertical Stripes The design utilizes vertical stripes to unify the room and draw the eye upward, creating an illusion of greater height. These stripes effectively bridge the gap between the vintage orange fixtures and the modern wall decor. This technique ensures that the basin, bath, and toilet appear as cohesive elements rather than isolated pieces. ## Balancing Boldness with Neutral Tiles To prevent the space from feeling overwhelming, stone-effect tiles provide a necessary visual resting point. While the current tiles work well, experts suggest that warmer, chalky cream or biscuit tones could further enhance the richness of the orange. This balance is crucial for maintaining a sophisticated finish within a highly saturated environment. ## The Revival of Colored Sanitaryware Colored sanitaryware is experiencing a resurgence, moving away from the dated perceptions of the 1970s. Unlike the wholesale matching suites of the past, modern trends favor using bold fixtures as the primary design anchor. Designers note that homeowners are increasingly treating bathrooms as personal extensions of their unique style and personality. ## Psychology of Orange in Design Orange offers a versatile spectrum, ranging from sophisticated terracotta to playful tangerine. In this specific project, the bright tangerine shade evokes a sense of nostalgia while remaining cheerful for a children's bathroom. The color choice successfully transforms a potentially dated suite into a lively, personality-driven space that feels both intentional and fun. ## Embracing Existing Architectural Features Rather than ripping out the original suite, the renovation focuses on embracing existing elements to dictate the room's personality. This approach highlights the value of working with what is already present rather than starting from scratch. It demonstrates how creative decoration can repurpose vintage components into a contemporary, high-impact design statement. ## Expert Perspectives on Retro Trends Interior design experts, including Lesley Taylor, praise the project for its freshness and clever execution. The combination of retro fixtures with modern tiling prevents the room from appearing stuck in a bygone era. This professional validation confirms that bold, unconventional choices can successfully challenge the dominance of neutral, minimalist bathroom design trends. ## Future Implications for Home Design This project signals a broader shift toward personality-led design where bathrooms serve as creative canvases. By prioritizing joy and individual taste over safe, neutral palettes, homeowners are redefining standard renovation practices. This trend suggests that future interiors will likely feature more saturated colors and eclectic, vintage-inspired elements that prioritize personal expression. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.idealhome.co.uk/all-rooms/bathroom/stacey-solomon-orange-stripe-bathroom — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._