Update -- my plumber finally returned. Not sure what he did while here, but he told me again it wasn't working -- then he did some work on a radiator which had a small leak. We were having a long discussion about options on pumps, new showers, taps etc and I read out the installation guide and he tried it again, and suddenly it worked. It is bizarre as I don't know how many times i tried it previously. My friend who works in construction ALSO called earlier today and tried it several times to no avail. It must have been extremely stiff or perhaps the plumber realised some airlock whilst fixing the radiator since I think water pressure is much stronger since he went. Thanks for everyones help -- i learned lots on plumbing and a valuable lesson to take out the installation manuals myself and not trust that trades men know everything!!! I feel like celebrating!!

Hello...great units...I've just ordered similar in cream (again!). In my last house we used bespoke acrylic sheets as splash back (and behind gas range) and I never had any problems with heat. However, for your own peace of mind you might want to get bespoke strengthened glass cut to size. I painted the inside of the acrylic sheet coral (to match the facing wall and it worked very well. This time I think I will use paper (gift wrap or similar...wallpaper might be too thick) with a small repeat pattern, perhaps a retro design, and paste this to the inside of the acrylic/glass. Affix with mirror screws and seal with clear sealant to prevent steam/condensation, etc... Acrylic is cheap to replace if your design preference changes after a few years.

Hi. I'm a bit confused, have you bought the vanity and are looking to paint it? Is the rest of the bathroom fitted as you could add brass or copper taps for instance with a matching mirror? Accessories will also warm it. I like a little wooden stool in a bathroom which you can add accessories to i.e. A candle, natural sponge, flannel etc which has some texture. A plant on the window sill if you have one and then nice accessories for the sink and either some coloured towels or I like hammam ones. I've found a couple of pics but they may not post as houzz has issues :( These are using deep rich colours which may bring the cabinet towards you a little. A darker top for the vanity would also work

Thanks pjbell! My first thought was 'no way, we use bedroom 2 and can't lose it - far too radical'. But then I stopped and looked and actually, that may well be worth considering! All bedrooms are in use - bedroom 2 is our studio/craft room/office. Kids are in the back bedroom and top floor. I've got my heart set on an en-suite and keeping our large bedroom but have been mindful of making the studio too small so was opting for a small shower room. I've been pondering if there is anything we could do to have a larger family bathroom but couldn't see how. This could give a large family bathroom and more luxurious en-suite. The back room is south facing so would be much better for a studio - its worth seeing the size if we split into two bedrooms. I do like the fact that all bedrooms are decent doubles and wouldn't want them much smaller. We are going to be here for the next 10-15 years and will then look to downsize when the kids have flown the nest. This will be the only major work we'll do so although it needs to be right for us, I also want it to be as appealing as possible to the next family. Definitely food for thought - thanks!