Get To Know The Designer: Katie Agombar

What have you learned about the industry over the years?

New technology, products, designs and styles emerge all the time. The industry constantly changes. Therefore it is our job to be flexible and most importantly – up to speed. It is always important to remember it’s down to the individuals taste, needs and life style. My personal opinion absolutely cannot cloud the design – it is their house.

The bathroom is a constant battle of visually pleasing and practicality. It’s finding the balance that makes a good design. In fact, finding a balance is important in all aspects. Spend your money where it matter the most. I always ask my clients “What is your must have?” and “What key elements do you want to achieve?”

We are living in a throw away era – do it on the cheap and replace it every 5 years. However bathrooms are not like that. It cost more money to do and it is important to educate the clients about this.

Do you prefer making analog drawings or digital renders? Why?

I walked into the bathroom industry with no drawing skills, however I much prefer drawing now. We expect technology to do so much, yet in reality, it has its limitations.

When do you define your project as a success?

That is simple: when the client is happy. When all of their wants and desires finally come together. When they are completely happy with their space.

Please describe your ideal bathroom?

Low light and atmospheric featuring dark tiles, with a slate look. A cast iron freestanding bath with a plinth and stainless steel or gunmetal finish brassware. Simple yet sophisticated. Plus the addition of a multi-functional overhead shower with adjustable riser rail and a steam room with molded reclining seats suitable for 2. A washlet WC – heated is a must. A wallpaper feature to break up the dark tile yet well-lit like artwork. Finally, a large vanity unit with a his and hers basin to offer plenty of space. And to complete it all: a mirror cabinet that switches between warm and cool light.

What key advice would you give your customer before starting the project?

Research! When I first meet a client, I ask a lot of questions. This is to establish which products will suit their lifestyle, budget and taste. If clients don’t have any ideas, it is harder to narrow down the thousands of choices we offer at West One Bathrooms.

Look at Pinterest and Houzz. Look at our brochure on our website. Additionally, follow bathroom suppliers on Instagram and Facebook. Save what you like and save what you wish to avoid. Bring as much information to the first meeting as possible. This will quicken the process as a whole.

Get To Know The Designer series features our designer: Katie Agombar. Katie works out of our Clerkenwell showroom.

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