Lifestyle journalist Emily Murray completely gutted her previously shabby and uninspiring family bathroom to create her dream sanctuary from scratch. "Although the new bathroom had to fulfil its functional purpose, I also wanted it to feel like a bathroom at, say, Babington House."

She suggests investing in good-quality, natural materials such as brass, marble and ceramics. "When it comes to home renovation I reckon it's worth investing in the basics, as they lift the look of a room in a way no accessory ever could. Not even a Tom Dixon copper candle."

Top tip: Only display the stuff you want to look at. That means beautiful products, candles, flowers, books and artwork. Create storage for your toothpaste, toothbrush, razor and other unsightly toiletries.

Image: pinkhouse.co.uk via Pinterest.

Before and after: the best bathroom makeovers to inspire your own tranquil haven