Creating a Microcement Bathroom in a 17th Century Converted Barn

ImagesOur clients, based in Edenbridge, Kent, wanted to update their bathroom in their stunning 17th-century converted barn. The lucky owners of this beautiful property were a very talented duo: Leoni Hogan Duvall, who designed the interior of the property herself, and her husband, Nathan Duvall, a double Brit-nominated musician. Microcement was used floor to ceiling in this project, to create a microcement bathroom that completely elevated this family’s washroom.

How we used microcement to create this stylish bathroom

As microcement is so versatile, it can be used to create so many different styles in a home. From smooth, polished cement for a modern industrial look, to rough and textured for a natural appearance, the application of microcement to a surface can transform the ambience of a room. As our clients wanted us to create a sleek, organic look in their bathroom, we were able to alter the appearance of this microcement to suit their vision.

Close-up detail of the low stucco effect on the microcement

Why is microcement a good choice for a bathroom or wet room?

Microcement (also sometimes called ‘micro cement’ or ‘micro topping’) is an incredibly versatile material, and when applied correctly, it can completely elevate the design of an interior design project. Gone are the days when traditional tiling is the only option to create a waterproof bathroom! Incredibly durable, microcement has both decorative and practical advantages when it comes to using this material in a bathroom.

Microcement creates a wonderfully modern alternative to tiling, and can even be applied directly over existing tiles, making it a fantastic product when it comes to refurbishing. Free from grouting, microcement bathrooms are also wonderfully sleek in its design.

Another amazing quality of microcement is that it has an incredibly adaptable finish, so we can create a really high-end look to the surfaces we apply it to. It is no wonder that Leoni chose to create a stunning microcement bathroom.

The stone countertop basin complements the smooth features of the microcement

Choosing the right microcement colour

Using mineral pigments, micro cement can be altered to different colours and shades depending on the tone that best suits your project. For this microcement bathroom, we chose a natural organic colour to blend in with newly laid flagstone flooring throughout the ground floor. We chose a light tone to brighten up the compact bathroom and make the most of the natural light coming in from the window. This light shade accentuates the shading and shadows created by the edges and angles of the rooms, creating patterns on the walls.

The stone countertop basin complements the smooth features of the microcement

The neutral tone, combined with the seamless quality of the grout-free microcement, creates a perfect backdrop for the bathroom finishings. This light organic tone also highlights the beautiful bronze taps and shower hardware, as well as the statement stone sink, chosen for the bathroom. The overall effect creates a luxurious finish to this naturally elegant bathroom.

Microcement from floor to ceiling

Microcement can also be used for varying sizes of surfaces. From small finishes like countertops or splash-backs, to whole rooms coated in microcement from the ceiling to the floor. On this occasion, our clients wanted to use microcement to the full effect. 

This microcement bathroom has the cement layered over all of the walls and the floor. This not only creates a fully waterproof wet room but also creates an elegant, seamless effect overall.

Like the floor and the walls, the surface fixtures in this room are also covered in microcement. This includes the sink counter and shelves. Without grout lines, micro cement creates a perfect neutral backdrop. Leoni chose this beautiful stone basin that sits right on top of the microcement countertop. The sink’s rustic texture complements the smoothness of the microcement.

Creating a textured microcement bathroom

Microcement finishes can vary from a smooth industrial concrete style to a roughly textured surface. Our clients wanted a slightly softer overall look. Our clients had requested a ‘low stucco’ effect. For this, we create a smoother look as there is less movement in how we apply the finish. If you look closely, you can see sweeping trowel marks that give the microcement a soft texture.

Are you considering using microcement in your home interior project? Take a look at our page all about microcement or review some of our previous microcement projects. You could also read the reviews from our happy clients on Houzz.