Crittall-Style Shower Screens: Industrial Look, Modern Build

The allure of industrial design has captured the hearts of homeowners and interior designers alike, bringing a raw yet refined aesthetic into modern living spaces. Nowhere is this more evident than in the bathroom, where the iconic Crittall-style shower screen has emerged as a definitive statement piece. Blending the timeless appeal of a steel-look with contemporary functionality, these screens offer a unique way to infuse your bathroom with character and sophistication.

At Glass Tailors, we understand the transformative power of architectural glass. Our bespoke Crittall-style shower screens are not just functional elements; they are meticulously crafted design features that elevate your bathroom's aesthetic, offering a perfect marriage of robust industrial charm and sleek, modern build.

Key Takeaways

• Crittall-style shower screens offer a distinctive industrial aesthetic with a modern, minimalist edge.
• They provide a practical and stylish alternative to traditional frameless shower enclosures, enhancing light and space.
• Customisation is key, allowing for bespoke designs that perfectly fit your bathroom’s layout and style.
• High-quality materials and expert installation ensure durability, safety, and a premium finish.
• Consider factors like space, ventilation, and maintenance when choosing your Crittall-style screen.

The Enduring Appeal of Industrial Design in Bathrooms

Industrial design, with its roots in factories and warehouses, celebrates exposed materials, utilitarian forms, and a sense of honest craftsmanship. In recent years, this aesthetic has transitioned seamlessly into residential interiors, offering a refreshing departure from traditional styles. The bathroom, often a sanctuary of calm, benefits immensely from the introduction of industrial elements, creating a space that is both functional and visually striking.

The steel look, characterised by slim black frame aluminium doors and windows, has become synonymous with this trend. It evokes a sense of history and permanence while remaining inherently modern. This juxtaposition of old and new is precisely what makes Crittall-style elements so captivating in a contemporary bathroom setting.

What is a Crittall-Style Shower Screen?

A Crittall-style shower screen draws its inspiration from the original Crittall windows, first established in the mid-19th century. These iconic windows are known for their slender steel frames, divided into smaller panes by horizontal and vertical glazing bars. While genuine Crittall products are made from steel, the "Crittall-style" refers to the aesthetic – a black frame grid design that creates a distinctive industrial look.

For shower screens, this style is typically achieved using durable aluminium frames, meticulously crafted and powder-coated in black, combined with robust safety glass. This modern construction provides the desired aesthetic without the weight or maintenance requirements associated with traditional steel, making it ideal for the humid environment of a bathroom.

Why Choose a Crittall-Style Shower Screen for Your Industrial Bathroom?

Beyond their undeniable aesthetic appeal, Crittall-style shower screens offer a host of practical benefits that make them an excellent choice for any modern bathroom renovation.

Aesthetic Versatility and Impact

The bold lines and graphic quality of a Crittall-style screen make it an instant focal point. It can complement a wide range of interior styles, from minimalist and Scandinavian to rustic and truly industrial. In an industrial bathroom, it ties together other elements like exposed brick, concrete, or reclaimed wood, creating a cohesive and sophisticated scheme. Even in a more traditional setting, it can introduce an unexpected contemporary edge.

Enhancing Light and Space

Despite their strong visual presence, Crittall-style screens are surprisingly effective at enhancing light and maintaining a sense of openness. The individual panes of glass allow natural light to filter through, preventing the boxed-in feeling that solid walls or opaque screens can create. This is particularly beneficial in smaller bathrooms or those lacking ample natural light, making the space feel larger and airier. For more on how light affects design, you might find resources on daylight in buildings insightful.

Durability and Modern Construction

Our Crittall-style screens are built with longevity in mind. Utilising high-grade aluminium for the frames ensures resistance to corrosion and rust, crucial for a bathroom environment. The glass used is always toughened safety glass, meeting stringent British Standards such as BS EN 12150-1, which specifies requirements for thermally toughened soda lime silicate safety glass for use in building. This combination guarantees a robust and safe enclosure that will withstand daily use and maintain its aesthetic appeal for years to come.

Pro Tip: When planning your industrial bathroom, consider how the black frame of your Crittall-style screen can be echoed in other fixtures, such as taps, showerheads, or cabinet hardware, to create a truly harmonious and high-end finish.

Designing Your Bespoke Crittall-Style Shower Enclosure

One of the greatest advantages of choosing a specialist like Glass Tailors is the ability to create a truly bespoke glass solution. We don't offer off-the-shelf products; instead, we design and manufacture each screen to your exact specifications, ensuring a perfect fit and a unique aesthetic.

Customisation Options

• Configuration: From single fixed panels to multi-panel enclosures, sliding doors, or hinged doors, the configuration can be tailored to your bathroom layout and showering preferences.
• Panel Divisions: The number and size of the individual glass panes within the frame can be customised to achieve your desired aesthetic, whether you prefer a classic grid or a more minimalist division.
• Glass Type: While clear toughened glass is standard, options like low-iron glass for enhanced clarity or obscure glass for privacy can be incorporated.
• Frame Finish: While black is the quintessential Crittall-style colour, other powder-coated finishes are available to complement your specific design scheme.

The Installation Process

Our process begins with a detailed consultation and site survey to understand your vision and take precise measurements. Our expert team then designs your bespoke screen, ensuring it complies with all relevant building regulations, including those related to Approved Document K: Protection from falling, collision and impact. Once manufactured to the highest standards, our skilled installers meticulously fit your Crittall-style shower screen, ensuring a flawless finish and seamless integration into your bathroom.

Integrating Your Crittall-Style Screen into Your Bathroom Design

A Crittall-style shower screen is more than just a functional enclosure; it's a design statement. Consider how it interacts with other elements in your bathroom.

Complementary Materials and Colours

• Tiles: Metro tiles, hexagonal tiles, or large format concrete-effect tiles work wonderfully with the industrial aesthetic.
• Fixtures: Black brassware, exposed copper pipes, or brushed steel taps will enhance the industrial feel.
• Vanity: Opt for a reclaimed wood vanity, a concrete countertop, or a minimalist design with exposed metal legs.
• Lighting: Industrial-style pendant lights or wall sconces with exposed bulbs can further amplify the theme.

Maintenance and Care

Maintaining your Crittall-style shower screen is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and a non-abrasive glass cleaner will keep the glass sparkling. The aluminium frame can be wiped down with a damp cloth. Avoiding harsh chemicals will preserve the powder-coated finish and ensure the longevity of your investment. For advice on general bathroom maintenance, you can check resources from organisations like Which?.

Beyond the Shower: Other Glass Tailors Solutions

While Crittall-style shower screens are a speciality, our expertise extends to a wide range of architectural glass solutions that can enhance your home's industrial aesthetic or any other design vision.

• Structural Glass Balustrades: Perfect for staircases or balconies, offering safety without obstructing light or views.
• Kitchen Splashbacks: Sleek and hygienic, available in a vast array of colours and finishes to complement your kitchen design.
• Bespoke Mirrors: Custom-cut and framed mirrors to create focal points or enhance the perception of space in any room.
• Aluminium Doors and Windows: Modern, energy-efficient solutions that can be designed in a Crittall-style to maintain a consistent aesthetic throughout your property.

We invite you to explore our recent projects to see examples of our craftsmanship and the diverse range of bespoke glass solutions we deliver.

A Crittall-style shower screen is an investment in both style and quality, offering a sophisticated and durable solution for your bathroom. Its ability to marry industrial aesthetics with modern functionality makes it a standout choice for those looking to create a truly unique and inspiring space. With bespoke design and expert installation from Glass Tailors, you can transform your bathroom into a contemporary haven that reflects your personal style.