Safe and sensible doesn’t have to be boring, certainly not in this case anyway! At the top end of the market, quality really does surpass itself and you can choose from a number of basins that are virtually indestructible yet pleasing to the eye.

Alape basins – of which there are dozens to choose from – are made using sturdy enamelled steel with a durable glass coating. They’re aimed at contemporary design lovers so I’m sure you’ll find one that looks great, and you can rest assured it won’t crack or chip over time. You can then add a choice of coloured glass countertops below.

Laufen’s Living City basins are also a great choice for anyone who wants to put their own stamp on the bathroom. The wall-hung basins come with a ceramic side shelf that can be adorned with various decorative coloured patterns, including dragonfly, fossil, bamboo, lotus, pool, roses, crocodile and solid-colour designs.

Laufen Living City basins are available in 50, 60, 80 or 100cm widths, with 40cm shelves to the left or right, which are ideal for keeping lotions and potions close at hand. Prices on request. www.laufen.co.uk