Need a bathroom refresh but want to spend your money wisely? Read on for our tips on how to choose between bespoke design, or getting those hands dirty and doing it yourself – as well as some basic rules of thumb for a great bathroom!
Bespoke design & professional installation
First things first, let’s start with the option of bespoke design and professional installation. This will, of course, cost you more. But, consider the advantages:
- You get a fully personalised, bespoke space, tailored to your needs
- You will be able to consult with an expert in the field
- You will save your own time – perfect if you have a busy schedule
- You will save money in the long run – botched DIY jobs can prove to be expensive mistakes to correct.
A good architect or designer will be able to advise and suggest solutions that you probably wouldn’t have thought of, as well as coming up with clever money saving options if you need it. In short, they have the insight and experience and it shows in both their work, and the overall finish of the bathroom. Moreover, you can use a designer even for the design phase only and further outsource the entire construction to individual craftsmen or, if you’re feeling handy and have the time, build on your own.
When selecting a contractor or an architect, take into account the experience and recommendations of friends, online reviews, and, above all, your first impressions of both their business and the professionalism of the person you’re dealing with. Projects like total renovations can be really stressful, so you need to get on with the person who’s organising it. Always book a consultation face to face – a reputable company should offer a free initial consultation. Hash out all expenses and expectations (such as deadlines and assurance of finishes) before signing anything. Make sure you ask about affordable financing options if it’s a concern for you, and ask to see examples of completed projects within your budget range.
Do it yourself!
On a budget? Got some spare time, and love to learn? Well – give it a go, and get those hands dirty! Look around, learn from others (YouTube has amazingly detailed videos, and there are loads of DIY guides you can follow online, and books too). Gather enough inspiration and information to feel confident before even thinking about getting that hammer out. Bathroom renovation is not as easy as it might seem at first glance.
If you want to save money and have enough time, you can design the remodel using a handy online bathroom planner, and hire individual craftsmen for the heavy lifting. In addition, you can do some of the work yourself. Make sure you do not need a building permit beforehand. You do not need a building permit or notification if you are not interfering with the supporting structures. You should also take into account that such a solution will be much more time-consuming.
If you are a skilled DIYer, you can certainly handle demolition work, bricking up new partitions, and even perhaps the plastering or tiling. You should definitely leave the water, sewage distribution and the electricals to the experts. The same applies to the heating system or any smart home features. When building yourself, don’t forget waterproofing. Today, waterproofing slates and coatings are most commonly used – and waterproof paint, too.
Top tips for money saving refurbishments you can do yourself:
- Install new hardware. We love brass, or gold is also having a renaissance right now – there are loads of options out there to suit any price point.
- Add a small table next to your bath, in a nice wooden finish, and put a moisture-loving plant, some scented candles, and your poshest bath salts. It will make the space feel expensive, and is not costly at all!
- Paint everything one colour – this will make the space feel cohesive and fresh, and you don’t have to invest in loads of extra tiles or finishes
- Upgrade your textiles – nothing looks posher than a load of new bath linens!
- Wallpaper the upper half of a half-tiled wall in a funky, eye catching print.
- Add a fun shower curtain for a pop of colour
- Repaint or refinish old furniture
- Paint graphic designs (planned properly and using specialised waterproof paint) over tiling using stencils, or if you’re brave enough, free-hand
- Bring greenery in with houseplants – and if you’re short on light, or don’t have time for maintenance, get some good fake ones in fancy pots!
Leave a Reply