7 dos and don’ts of renovating a bathroom

Times have changed and many homeowners are living a fast paced life where real downtime is rare. As such, it’s important to make the most of the time you do have to yourself. 

This is according to Debra Retief, marketing manager from Tile Africa, who says this doesn’t necessarily entail taking a holiday or visiting a spa. She says homeowners can make the most of their surroundings by creating relaxing spaces within their own homes. She says the bathroom is just one such space where you can make an impact. 

According to Debra, the bathroom is so much more than just a place to cleanse and prepare for the day. With a little effort and forethought, she says it can become a veritable haven within which to recharge, wind down and create some much needed balance away from the demands of contemporary living. What’s more, akin to a kitchen, an appealing and up-to-date bathroom can add value to your home. 

With this in mind, it will probably become apparent that your bathroom could do with an overhaul of sorts. The extent to which you choose to renovate your bathroom is of course entirely up to you, and depends on your budget. Whatever the case, there are a few basic principles to keep in mind when renovating a bathroom. 

Debra shares some renovation do’s and don’ts… 

1. Plan well in advance and use professionals 

This is arguably the most important principle behind a successful bathroom renovation. A qualified advisor can provide tips and advice on the layout and renovation of your bathroom. Using professionals should also prevent you from making costly mistakes and impulse purchases. 

2. Storage is important

This is especially important in homes with large families where laundry and clutter can quickly pile up. Nowadays, storage can be incorporated in a variety of clever, practical and appealing ways. Think large vanities, elegant cabinets and Tall Boy cupboards, all of which should be planned for accordingly. 

3. Protect your house

Renovations by nature tend to be messy and can take their toll on your house and belongings. Cover your furniture, close off other rooms and designate a set entrance and path construction workers can use during the process. It also helps to try and remain patient while renovation work is being carried out. Just, remember you are investing in your well-being and your home. 

4. Incorporate luxury elements

It’s difficult to retrofit a bathroom with elements such as heated towel rails and underfloor heating at a later stage. Although initially more expensive, these additions can add a luxurious touch to your bathroom and make a real difference to your downtime, especially during winter. 

5. Add a 10% buffer to your budget

Inevitably, there are cost overruns which aren’t planned for that can prevent you from realising your dream bathroom. So, add a 10% cushion to your budget so you can achieve your goal. 

6. Incorporate a small chandelier into the space

If your bathroom is spacious and you can afford it, add a small chandelier or other beautiful lights to your bathroom. Trade your existing bath for an elegant freestanding bath. If price and space are an issue, there are various corner units available which can easily be incorporated into bathrooms with style. 

7. Simple is usually better

It is also better from a re-sale perspective too. Although important to create a bathroom that reflects your personal taste and promotes a sense of well-being, keep in mind that you’ll probably want to sell your house one day. As such, try to keep things fairly neutral and use materials that won’t date quickly. You can always incorporate more of your own personality in the form of removable mirrors, vases, towels, mats and candles.