Bathroom ideas

Press, 8 October 1987, Page 33

Bathroom ideas

Modern homes can incorporate the latest in bathroom ware and fashion but for most homeowners renovation is the means of upgrading the bathroom.

Whether building new, renovating, or extending there are certain common design factors to be considered.

According to ' the Plumbing Information Bureau these are usage, special needs, taste, what is ideal, and budget

Each of these will indicate certain elements you should incorporate in your "new” bathroom. Make a list under each heading. This way you will not miss anything and be assured of having done your homework before you set out to spend money.

Under usage, list how many people use the bathroom and for what purposes. That is, list everything that is done in the room.

Special needs take account of young children, disabled people, and elderly tolk. All require special consideration when designing a bathroom so that it can be used comfortably and safely by everyone. Identify the" things you

do not like about the bathroom as it is and think about the improvements you would like in each room. Consider, colour and decorative style. Do you envisage a room that is warm and inviting, for long-soak souls; or cool and clinical, for quick shower fans. A period piece, or tropical mood, something sophisticated or chic could add an original touch to the room.

Use colour to your advantage. Clever use of colour can transform a room by making a small one look bigger, a cold one warmer, a large one cosier.

Finally, your budget will have over-all bearing on what can be achieved. No matter how small it is, some form of improvement can be made.

There are three approaches to take.

The cosmetic touch for those with a tight budget will work wonders. It is surprising the differences that can be made by changing accessories such as toothbrush holder, towel rpil, soa P trays, mirror, toilet seat, and paper holder and brush caddy.

A repaint and new cur-

tains will make an immediate change too.

Those with a more-gen-erous budget can replace their "furniture” — baths, showers, toilets, vanities.

New Zealand manufacturers and importers have opened up the market dramatically. Like the styles, the price range is also varied giving you the opportunity to revamp with new bathroom furniture and of course, those matching fittings and accessories. Finally, for the healthy budget, structural alterations can be considered.

Create a completely new bathroom by adding extra space and altering the layout , Gain space by taking from an adjacent room or hallway, including a separate toilet room, or extending out to a courtyard plahted for privacy. Do not rush your planning. Spend time looking at books and magazines and browsing in showrooms such as Plumbing World’s decor centre. Your local member of the Master Plumbers Association can check your existing plumbing and tell you how your plans fit in with what is there now.