One bathroom, four seasons

Watch the story
This 1930s semi in Leeds hadn’t been updated since the 80s or 90s, but when the Cockshott family walked in, they loved it immediately because it felt just like home.

This determined Emma and husband Sean to bring as much life and light back into this untouched property as possible. Starting with the bedrooms and finishing with the kitchen and bathrooms - as they’d take the most work - the Cockshotts’ collective hard work alongside a team of tradespeople completely transformed this house.

Early design decisions

Emma explains, “I decided quite early on that I wanted to inject a lot of colour into the house and as much light as possible.”

“When I first started designing, I’d take into account the light and how that makes you feel, I would then go online and look for ideas on colours and send off for samples.”

A decision for daylight transformed the space

Finding their sense of nature indoors was important to the family, and the positioning of the roof window has offered great views and a healthy experience. From two low-light bathrooms to one that’s open and naturally lit, their choice helped them to fulfil their desires.

“When we renovated the bathroom, we decided to knock through into what was a toilet. We blocked up a window in there, so it was quite dark in here. We did consider putting a window in the back wall but decided to go with the VELUX, just because of the top light. As soon as we put it in, we realised it was the right decision because the light just streams in and just makes all the difference in here.”

“That movement of the light throughout the day, it just really transforms the space.”

“You always feel like you’re sort of almost outside and when the skies are blue and the sun is shining, and the light is streaming in, it just really gives you a lift on a morning.”

A finish fit for the environment

With the whole family using this one bathroom, limiting condensation from the hustle and bustle of the day, and having surplus space for a tranquil moment was a must.

“When all the family uses the bathroom, it can be so busy and get quite humid in here. We decided to go for the PU finish which is really easy to wipe down.”

Smart homes, full control

“We also, have an app, which makes it really easy to control from a mobile phone.”

“When choosing VELUX, we decided to add a rain sensor which gives us peace of mind, that if it starts to rain and the window’s open, it just closes itself.”

A window to all seasons

“I feel like we’ve really achieved what we set out to do – it’s such a lovely space, in summer, spring, autumn, winter - you just get a different vibe.”

“If it’s snowed and there’s snow on there, you just feel so cosy in here. When it’s raining, you can just look up and, again, you just feel like you’ve got a big hug.”

“You always feel like you’re almost outside and when the skies are blue and the sun is shining, and the light is streaming in, it just really gives you a lift on a morning.”

Related articles

Reimagine your bathroom with these bathroom renovation ideas
A bathroom renovation can be a daunting process. There are many decisions to be made along the way and completing the project will require detailed planning. But giving your bathroom the elegant upgrade you've always wanted will be worth it! Here's a list of ideas for your bathroom renovation that will help you plan the process and make the right decisions.
Read the full article
Are you considering new bathroom windows? Here’s why roof windows are a bright idea
The bathroom is a neglected room in many homes. You may already know that we spend up to half of our lives in our bedrooms, so have you considered how much of your life is spent in the bathroom? A general estimate is that you spend 1 hour and 42 minutes per week in your bathroom. This alone is a great reason to transform your bathroom into an inviting and cosy environment where you enjoy spending time.  When creating a gorgeous bathroom, roof windows are a great addition.
Read the full article
Renovating your bathroom? Get the bathroom of your dreams with natural daylight from above
Bathrooms have long served as primarily functional rooms. Modern-day bathrooms are as much a ‘living space’ as any other room in the house. Bathroom decor ideas today have more emphasis on the at-home wellness experience. The bathroom has become a place for relaxation, mindfulness, and escape.  Are you planning to upgrade your bathroom and transform it into a space to unwind and rejuvenate? Consider adding natural light and turn your bathroom into your own private spa.
Read the full article
Foster creativity with an inventive home interior
If you've also spent a lot of time working from home lately, you'll agree that our living spaces greatly influence our performance. Our environment can drive our creativity... but it can also stifle it. So, how do you make sure that your home interior nurtures your thoughts and ideas? Here's how you can let your living space inspire you to do your best work.
Read the full article
Want to make home improvements? Here are some of the best ways to do it
Remote working, education, and indoor activities; many of us now live very different lives than we did before the pandemic. We spend more time at home than ever before, which places high demands on how our homes function. Make the most of your time at home with these ideas that benefit both your health and the environment.
Read the full article

Make sustainable choices for you, your family and our planet