2 bedroom detached house for sale, Beresford Road, Newport, NP19 0AU

Read article : 2 bedroom detached house for sale, Beresford Road, Newport, NP19 0AU

Summary

THE PROPERTY IS A UNIQUE TWO BEDROOM DETACHED FAMILY HOME SITUATED AT THE FAR END OF BERESFORD ROAD. WALKING DISTANCE TO THE CITY CENTRE, LOCAL AMENITIES AND SCHOOLS. IDEAL FIRST TIME PURCHASE OR INVESTMENT, VIEWING HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Description

A UNIQUE TWO BEDROOM DETACHED FAMILY HOME \r\r\nSITUATED AT THE FAR END OF BERESFORD ROAD. \r\r\nWALKING DISTANCE TO THE CITY CENTRE, \r\r\nLOCAL AMENITIES AND SCHOOLS.\r\r\n \r\r\nIDEAL FIRST TIME PURCHASE OR INVESTMENT\r\r\nVIEWING HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. \r\r\n\r\r\nIntroduction \r\r\nDAVIS AND SONS ARE PLEASED TO OFFER FOR SALE THIS FAMILY HOME LOCATED IN THE HEART OF THE CITY CENTRE WITH IMMEDIATE AND DIRECT ACCESS INTO THE CITY CENTRE, ROAD LINKS, LOCAL AMENITIES, SCHOOL CATCHMENT ETC. THE PROPERTY IS A UNIQUE TWO BEDROOM DETACHED FAMILY HOME SITUATED ON BERESFORD ROAD WITH OPEN PLAN LIVING / KITCHEN / DINING AREA WITH FEATURE DUAL FUEL LOG BURNER. UPVC DOUBLE GLAZED THROUGHOUT, WALL MOUNTED COMBINATION BOILER, CLOAKROOM / WC / SHOWER ROOM, STAIRS TO THE FIRST FLOOR LANDING WITH TWO DOUBLE BEDROOMS AND THE FAMILY BATHROOM. SET ON A DETACHED PLOT WITH ENCLOSED PRIVATE GARDENS AND PATIO AREA. IDEALLY SITUATED FOR A PURCHASER WORKING IN THE CITY CENTRE OR INVESTMENT PROPERTY WITH A RENTAL POTENTIAL OF £650 PCM. \r\r\n\r\r\nEntrance\r\r\nVia upvc double glazed front door into:- \r\r\n\r\r\nKitchen\r\r\nFurther upvc double glazed windows to front. Kitchen is fitted with a full range of wall and base units, matching roll top food preparation work surfaces, sink, drainer and mixer tap. Wall mounted combination boiler, plumbing and space for washing machine, integrated oven with four ring electric hob with extractor hood over. Integrated fridge, ceramic tiled flooring throughout,full tiling to all splash backs, central heating radiator.\r\r\nOpen plan off to:- \r\r\n\r\r\nLiving/Dining Room (20\? 10\" x 15\? 11\" or 6.35m x 4.85m)\r\r\nFeature dual fuel log burner, further central heating radiator, upvc double glazed sliding patio doors giving access to front patio. Door to good size under stairs storage cupboard. \r\r\n\r\r\nShower Room\r\r\nWash hand basin with vanity unit for storage below. Low level wc, single walk in shower cubicle with electric shower over, full ceramic tiling to all walls and flooring. Obscured upvc double glazed window to rear, central heating radiator. \r\r\n\r\r\nFirst Floor Landing\r\r\nDoors leading off to all rooms. \r\r\n\r\r\nMaster Bedroom (11\? 07\" x 9\? 05\" or 3.53m x 2.87m)\r\r\nDouble glazed velux. Upvc double glazed window to side, central heating radiator. Ample space for bedroom furniture. \r\r\n\r\r\nBedroom 2 (11\? 0\" x 9\? 02\" or 3.35m x 2.79m)\r\r\nUpvc double glazed dual aspect window to side and rear over looking Newport Rugby Ground. Central heating radiator, fitted storage space to one wall. \r\r\n\r\r\nBathroom\r\r\nWhite suite comprising:- low level wc, pedestal wash hand basin, panelled bath with shower head attachment of mixer taps. Wall mounted towel radiator, full ceramic tiling to all walls and flooring. Obscured upvc double glazed window to side, wall mounted extractor fan. \r\r\n\r\r\nOutside\r\r\nLow maintenance garden with patio and raised flower beds and further walled boundaries. \r\r\n\r\r\nGeneral Information\r\r\nHidden away this property is located at the far end of Beresford Road with timber gated entrance to enclosed private garden. \r\r\n\r\r\nVIEWING IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. \r\r\n\r\r\n\r\r\nDirections\r\r\nThe property is located at the far end of Beresford Road within waking distance to the city centre, Friars Walk, Railway Station, local amenities and schools. The property also over looks Newport County football and Rugby ground.2 bedrooms

Cliff Road, Falmouth TR11, 3 bedroom flat for sale - 44055647

Read article : Cliff Road, Falmouth TR11, 3 bedroom flat for sale - 44055647

The location Built in 2001, Seascapes occupies an enviable position along Falmouth's seafront with the most breath-taking, unobstructed south and east facing views to bay and coast. The bay boasts a number of beaches, from the more secluded 'Castle' beach, to 'Tunnel' and Gyllyngavse - Falmouth's most popular beach and home to the perennially popular Gylly Beach Café.
The seafront is part of the South West coastal path, accessing wonderful seaside walks to Swanpool and Maenporth beaches and the Helford River and beyond in one direction, and in the other, around Pendennis Headland, passing Henry viii's castle, built to protect us from the territorial aspirations of the French and Spanish.
Situated on Falmouth's southern side, Seascapes is half a mile from the town and harbour, where there is an excellent and diverse selection of restaurants and an eclectic mixture of individual shops as well as national chains, including Marks & Spencer and Sainsbury's, together with quality galleries showcasing local talent. Nearby train stations (Falmouth Town and Penmere Halt) provide a convenient link to the mainline at Truro for Exeter and London, Paddington.
Falmouth boasts the third largest natural harbour in the world and is renowned for its maritime facilities which offer some of the best boating and sailing opportunities in the country. Falmouth is consistently ranked as one of the top five places to live in the UK.The property Number 13 enjoys a prime spot on the second floor of this exclusive development, with phenomenal 180° views stretching from Pendennis Castle and Point, along Falmouth seafront and coast, around to the infamous Manacles reef.What is so exceptional about this apartment is the 24' (7.32m) long, sea facing balcony which spans and is accessed by both the master bedroom en suite and the lounge/dining room. The arrangement, together with its three bedrooms, is almost unheard of on Falmouth's seafront and presents an ability to flow in and outside from these two important rooms, whilst soaking up the heavenly outlook - brilliant!
Seascapes is set within gloriously landscapes gardens with direct access at the front to Falmouth seafront and beaches.To the rear is a gated entrance and pitch roofed garage with electronic door opening.This apartment is an absolute gem, of a type so rarely available. It presents an outstanding opportunity to own a 'slice' of Falmouth's beautiful seafront!Accommodation in detail (all measurements are approximate) Lift or staircase accessing the second floor.Entrance to number 13 Panel effect door with spyhole into...Entrance hall Video entry phone and door release. Radiator. UPVC double glazed window to rear overlooking the garages and main vehicular entrance. Meter cupboard with tripping switches. Coat/utility cupboard with shelf and hanging rail. Power points. Doorway through to...Hallway Corniced spotlit ceiling. Central heating thermostatic control. White panelled doors to three bedrooms, shower room/WC, lounge/dining room, kitchen and...Deep storage/airing cupboard Radiator, shelves and hooks.Lounge/dining room 19' 3" x 14' 9" (5.87m x 4.5m) A superb room with sliding patio doors to the balcony and beyond, overlooking gardens and seafront to spectacular, direct and unobstructed Falmouth Bay and coastal views. Fitted cupboards. Spotlit ceiling. Radiator.Kitchen 8' x 6' 10" (2.44m x 2.08m) With port hole double glazed window to the rear. Fitted kitchen in grey with tile floor and ceramic wall tiling. Units at base and eye level with roll top work surface and inset stainless steel sink and drainer. Integrated fridge freezer, neff dishwasher and washing machine. Neff stainless steel oven, grill, microwave, induction hob and extraction hood.Bedroom one 16' 7" (5.05m) plus entrance, reducing to 9' 3" (2.82m) x 12' 3" (3.73m) to face of sliding mirror front wardrobes.
Sliding patio doors onto the balcony and with glorious direct outlook over Seascapes' garden to the seafront, Falmouth Bay and coast. Radiator, recess. Telephone, TV and power points. Spotlit ceiling.En suite bathroom With full ceramic wall tiling and white suite comprising WC, wash hand basin, tongue and groove panel bath, mixer shower and folding screen. Fitted cabinet and overlit mirror. Extractor fan. Chrome heated towel radiator.Bedroom two 9' 9" x 9' 2" (2.97m x 2.79m) plus doorway recess, second measurement to front of sliding mirror fronted wardrobes.
Two double glazed windows to rear. Radiator, TV and power points.Bedroom three 9' 6" (2.9m) plus doorway recess x 9' (2.74m) to front of mirrored sliding door wardrobe.
Two UPVC double glazed windows to rear. Radiator. TV, telephone and power points.Shower room/WC In white with fully tiled white walls, WC, wash hand basin and walk-in oversized, boiler fed, shower cubicle. Fitted cupboards and overlit mirror. Chrome heated towel radiator. Extractor fan.Balcony A superb 24' x 5' (7.32m x 1.52m) covered area with spectacularly good, uninterrupted views overlooking the development garden and seafront to sea and coast, encompassing the whole of Falmouth Bay from Pendennis Castle and Point, right around to the Manacles.Garage A healthy 18' 8" x 9' (5.69m x 2.74m), part boarded pitch roof space for storage. Electronic remotely controlled up and over door. Power and light.Outside In addition to No.13's private balcony, Seascapes lies within a gloriously landscaped garden which is for the enjoyment and use of all owners within the development.
Electronic remotely controlled gates to the rear allow vehicular access. To the front are several visitor parking spaces and pedestrian access to Cliff Road, the seafront and sea.Tenure Leasehold – A 999 year lease from March 2001. The managing agent is Belmont Property Management Telephone: The freehold is shared amongst all Seascape owners. The service and maintenance charge is paid quarterly and is currently £573.28 per quarter plus an annual charge of £271.08 for insurance.

4 bedroom detached house for sale in Foxley Drive, Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire, CM23

Read article : 4 bedroom detached house for sale in Foxley Drive, Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire, CM23

Full description

Tenure: Freehold

Folio: 13650 A 4/5 bedroom detached family home with a contemporary design, situated in one of Bishop’s Stortford’s most sought after roads. The property is conveniently located close to Hockerill Anglo European school and other JMI and senior schooling. Bishop’s Stortford’s train station is approximately an 8 minute walk which serves London Liverpool Street and Cambridge. The bustling market town of Bishop’s Stortford is ever popular with people wishing to gain an excellent education for their children and commute into London. Bishop’s Stortford benefits from restaurants, public houses, shopping centres, sporting facilities along with an M11 access point leading to the M25.

The property is designed for modern living with a contemporary high gloss kitchen/family room, space for living/dining, separate living room, bi-folding rear doors to rear garden, study/playroom with en-suite wet room (could ideally be used for a relative etc), underfloor heating throughout and the property is media ready. There is a good sized garden with an Indian sandstone patio, double garage, parking, landscaped gardens and the remainder of a 10 year NHBC guarantee. Internal viewing is recommended.

Property ref: 121_2630_4439879

General 
Covered entrance with outside recessed low voltage lighting, outside power point, Indian sandstone threshold leading to a contemporary modern front door with light panel to side, leading to:
Spacious Entrance Hall 
With oak effect flooring, carpeted oak and glass staircase to first floor, low voltage lighting, understairs storage cupboard.
Downstairs Cloakroom 
Comprising an enclosed flush w.c., granite work surface, built-in cabinetry, wash hand basin with monobloc mixer tap, tiled surrounds and shelving, mirror, heated towel rail, opaque double glazed window to side, ceramic flooring with underfloor heating.
Cloaks Storage Cupboard 
Housing plumbing for washer/dryer, double opening oak doors.
Study/Playroom 
12' 6" x 10' (3.81m x 3.05m) with a double glazed window to side, fitted carpet, door giving access to walk-in wet room.
Agents Note 
Could be used as bedroom 5 for a dependent relative/teenage child, if required.
Walk-In Wet Room 
A shower area with part glazed sides, wall mounted designer shower with detachable hand held shower, flush w.c., vanity wash hand basin with a drawer and monobloc tap, contemporary tiling, double glazed window to side, electric shaver socket, heated towel rail, ceramic tiled flooring with underfloor heating.
Living Room 
17' 6" x 14' 10" (5.33m x 4.52m) with bi-folding doors to rear Indian sandstone patio, low voltage lighting, media ready with a Samsung 50” Smart t.v., skirting, fitted carpet.
Enormous Kitchen/Family Room 
31' 4" x 17' 8" (9.55m x 5.38m) the kitchen area comprises a contemporary high gloss kitchen with base and eye level units, inset china bowl sink with monobloc mixer tap and granite work surfaces, integrated dishwasher, integrated recycling bins, five-ring Neff hob with designer stainless steel and glass extractor over, wine chiller, built-in Neff double oven, coffee machine and microwave, large integrated fridge and separate freezer, low voltage lighting, under cabinet lighting, ceramic tiled flooring, granite topped breakfast bar area, media ready. The family area has space for a large dining table and chairs and a sofa. With bi-folding doors leading to the rear patio, wall mounted media point, low voltage lighting, high gloss ceramic tiled flooring with under floor heating.
First Floor Part Galleried Landing 
With oak and glass staircase, full height window to front, access to loft space, fitted carpet, large walk-in airing cupboard with bespoke shelving and pressurised hot water cylinder.
Bedroom 1 
16' 8" x 14' 10" (5.08m x 4.52m) with a double glazed bay window to front, further ¾ height window to front, wall mounted media point, fitted carpet, underfloor heating.
Luxury En-Suite Bath/Shower Room 
With a Villeroy & Boch toilet with surface mounted flush, vanity Villeroy & Boch wash hand basin with cabinet beneath and monobloc mixer tap, panel enclosed bath with mixer tap, large walk-in shower cubicle with ceiling mounted shower head, low voltage lighting, heated towel rail, fitted mirror, fully tiled walls and flooring, 2 light tubes, low voltage lighting.
Bedroom 2 
13' 6" x 11' 6" (4.11m x 3.51m) with a double glazed window to rear, media point, fitted carpet.
Luxury En-Suite Shower Room 
A modern suite with a flush w.c, pedestal wash hand basin with monobloc tap, corner shower cubicle with a wall mounted shower, fitted mirror, heated towel rail, opaque double glazed window to rear, low voltage lighting, ceramic tiled flooring.
Bedroom 3 
14' 10" x 11' 6" (4.52m x 3.51m) with a double glazed window to rear overlooking the garden, wall mounted media point, fitted carpet, door giving access to Jack and Jill shower room with bedroom 4.
Jack and Jill Shower Room 
A fine suite with a double sized shower cubicle with wall mounted shower and hand held shower, flush w.c. with surface mounted flush, sink unit with drawers and monobloc mixer tap, heated towel rail, fitted mirror, low voltage lighting, light tube, fully tiled ceramic walls and flooring.
Bedroom 4 
10' 8" x 10' (3.25m x 3.05m) with a double glazed window to front, wall mounted media point, fitted carpet.
Outside 
The Rear 
The property enjoys a lawned rear garden with outside designer lighting and is fully enclosed by fencing with an enormous, full width Indian sandstone patio area which leads to the front.
The Front 
To the front of the property is a tarmacadam driveway with granite set edges and parking for 4 cars. There are landscaped areas and lead to:
Double Garage 
16' 10" x 16' 6" (5.13m x 5.03m) with an electronic roller shutter door, rafter space, power and light and a cold water tap. The garage houses the boiler and a water softener.
Local Authority 
East Herts District Council
Band ‘G’

The Bathroom as a Health and Beauty Spa

Read article : The Bathroom as a Health and Beauty Spa

Italians are very health conscious. They also attach great importance to their appearance and go to great efforts to improve on what nature has given them.

Italian bathroom. Ph. pixabay CC

In the early post-war period, neither financial nor technical resources were sufficient to allow home improvement to extend to the bathroom areas. The small amounts of "extra" wealth that were available were devoted to the areas of the home that were most in view to the outside world, in particular the living room and the dining room. Also a relatively high proportion of the family income was devoted to clothing as one's personal appearance outside of the home was of utmost importance to establish one's position in society.

Needless to say, the situation is now completely changed. The growth of Italian wealth, the society's pursuit of beauty and art, the availability of advanced technical solutions and infrastructure, and the individuality of Italians is nowhere better illustrated than in the extraordinary lengths to which home decorators go in designing and equipping bathrooms. Bathrooms that were long neglected are now seen as very important parts of the home devoted to the health and well-being of the occupants. And in achieving health and well-being, style is of utmost importance to Italians.

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Modern Bathroom Designs in 2010.

The quest for style covers all aspects of bathroom design, from the wall and floor tiles, to the doors and knobs, to the sanitary appliances and the lighting. The world of ceramic tiles is vast, and information about the use of this material for decorating bathrooms and kitchens will be discussed under a separate section. In the current section, information will be provided only regarding the latest trends in sanitary appliances designed to make Italian bathrooms similar to health and beauty spas.

Until a few years ago, the utmost in bathroom wellbeing was seen to be the installation of double washbasins and Jacuzzi-type bathtubs. Nowadays, homes normally have one bathroom with a tub, but the other bathrooms are generally equipped with showers. As regards tubs, the latest design has been devoted to developing solutions that are "anatomic", while the showers are designed to attain the ultimate in personal hygiene and wellbeing. Thus, for example, the company Titan promotes a full immersion tub designed to ensure maximum comfort.

"Titan, faithful to its promise of fitting out completely the bathroom entirely with the Genesi design project, presents at Cersaie 2002 the evolution of the Genesi line. A project initially started with the creation of a multi-wellbeing whirlpool bathtub designed by Takahide Sano, expands the line with a series of accessories and products devised to follow the philosophy of a refined layout and characterised by exclusive aesthetic harmony. The same care taken over the bath tub has been lavished on the attention to detail, accessories and complements of the line designed by Takahide Sano.

The bath tub is enhanced by a set of taps on the side of the tub complete with mechanical mixer, flow nozzle and extractable shower head with automatic flexible hose rewinding, made in steel and with accessories inspired by Japanese minimalism such as the head rest and the folding seat. These are both made in curved natural beech wood which, with their refined and functional design, allow anyone to take advantage of the benefits afforded by the whirlpool bathtub. The new Genesi shower tray, coordinated with the Ramses R-S5 shower enclosure thanks to its clean cut lines and the high quality finishes highlighted by the lightness of the design, maintains the same coating characteristics as those of the tub.

Bleached oak or natural mahogany are the natural materials for the front inspection panels and for the non-slip centre footboard, while white or "night" satinised methacrylate is used for the shower base. The presence of the new bidet and sink taps equipped with a single-control mechanical mixer and a flow nozzle with jet diffuser and waste pipe control lever, made entirely in steel, are further proof of the will of Titan to complete the Genesi project, creating a bathroom in which all the elements echo the stylistic elegance of the collection. New products for a collection in continual evolution, where the idea of beauty is combined with that of functionality to create a new contemporary bathroom concept dedicated to well being. Titan continues along its course eliciting increasingly new sensations, for high quality products, studied right down to the smallest details that guarantee multi- wellbeing in one's own home.

They also sell a shower box that can be operated as a Turkish bath.

Moreover, the company guarantees that bathroom design can be personalized with for example stones, marble, mosaic or wood to create a unique atmosphere. The company Cesana promotes its shower boxes as possibly the best, while PDP has created walk in showers with right-hand and left-hand entrances of the series Elite.

"A wellspring continuously gushing forth new ideas. For thirty years, Cesana has always dedicated itself to finding new, up to date solutions for a bathroom area that has become increasingly important. This dedication to research and development has generated over 10,000 variations on the 'shower enclosure' theme so far. This has made the ltalian Company an established point of reference in the sector both in ltaly and abroad, especially in Europe. Because, beyond its capacity for innovation, Cesana's reliability stems from its unswerving attention to quality and workmanship, combining advanced technology and traditional craftsmanship. First-class materials The glass used for Cesana's shower enclosures is tempered using the most advanced equipment.

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Contemporary bathroom design.

Ultra-resistant to shocks and pressure, it satisfies both Uni and international norms, providing the security that is indispensable in the bathroom area. The aluminum used for the support frames is also of the best quality, carefully finished in epoxy powders, corrosion tested for 3,000 hours in saline mist. Design elegance Cesana's heart and soul is, without a doubt, its Research & Development Division, based on Cesana values: elegance of shape, practical functioning and innovation. Talking about innovation, the revolutionary System Logic, protected by international patents, is a Cesana product.

System Logic sets conventional expectations on end, with the water jetting upwards from the pavement and the shower system column containing the temperature and intensity controls located outside the enclosure. An oasis of well-being and functionality Welcoming both because of its attractive design and its practical, comfortable organization: Cesana's shower enclosures are in complete agreement with today's tendency to view this area as an oasis of intimate well-being, a private island where one can recover one's equilibrium."

Personalized solutions are the hallmark even of the large popular manufacturer of sanitary appliances such as Ideal Standard (see image below ) (www.idealstandard.it).

Aqualia

Suffice it to say that the company's sales line is "A thousand bathrooms, and in addition yours", and here too attention is given to design and practicality as in the case of the Cantica line where the appliances are free of floor stands that only collect dust and are difficult to keep clean. Innovative design is also characteristic of the line of ceramic sanitary appliances called "Qube e Rond" of the company Axa (www.axaonline.it).

In recognition of the increasing age of the Italian population (the country has one of the lowest birth rates in the world), attention is being given to the health needs and wellbeing of the older generations also in the design of bathroom equipment. Thus, for example, the company Busco (www.busco.it) has created the Auxilia easy access tub, for therapeutic showers, hydro-massage and hydrotherapy of the possibly less agile generations.

An important feature of Italian decoration of bathrooms is the use of ceramic floor and wall tiling. Resistant to years of use, easy to care for and to clean, available in a wide range of colors and designs, ceramic tile is the preferred decorating material used for bathrooms in Italy. Marble is also used, but the costs are somewhat higher. There are enormous numbers of producers of ceramic tiles for bathrooms. These extend from the designer tiles by such well-known names as Laura Biagiotti, Valentino, and Versace to little known small manufacturers providing quality materials. The tiles are available in all possible colors and sizes. It is even possible to decorate a bathroom with tiles that look like mosaics.

Simple Tips for a Successful Bathroom Renovation

Read article : Simple Tips for a Successful Bathroom Renovation

From design inspiration to choosing the right materials and fixtures, we’ve got all the information you need to complete the perfect bathroom renovation project.

Regardless of whether you live in an apartment or a house, the bathroom is one of the most important rooms in the home.

A practical and modern bathroom dramatically enhances the appeal of any home, so if you’re planning a bathroom renovation it’s important that you get the details right. So if you’re looking for a host of handy tips and tricks to help you turn your tired and impractical bathroom into a relaxing and luxurious retreat, you’ve come to the right place.

Getting started

Before you start thinking about design ideas, colours, and choosing shower heads and tiles, you need to sit down and work out exactly what you want to achieve with your bathroom renovation.

If you’re renovating an ensuite to create a peaceful space where you can unwind, warm tones and a modern free-standing bathtub might be high on your wish list. If you need a bathroom for your growing family, then durable materials and plenty of storage will be essential inclusions.

So take the time to develop a clear idea of what the bathroom will be used for and any features on your must-have list. Once that’s done you can start planning the finer details.

Design ideas for different projects

There are several features and factors you’ll need to consider when planning your bathroom renovation, including:

Layout

The right layout is essential to create a functional and comfortable space, so consider ambience, flow and practicality when deciding on your bathroom layout. Speak to an architect or a builder about the functionality and layout of the space. There’s a seemingly endless array of floorplan options available, though you may be constrained by the location of existing plumbing connections. Consider the features you want in your bathroom, for example maximising natural light or ensuring an easy flow from the bedroom through to your ensuite shower, when deciding on the right layout.

Shower

The shower is one of the features of your bathroom that will get the most use. From choosing a screen for privacy to deciding on a shower head to sourcing the right water flow, there’s plenty to think about when selecting your shower. You can choose a fixed or hand-held shower head, massage showers, waterfall showers and high- and low-pressure jets. In terms of shower screens, do you want a framed, frameless or semi-frameless screen, or perhaps no screen at all? Chat to an interior designer and shop around at bathroom specialist stores to learn more about the different options available on the market and how they fit into your plans.

Bath

A contemporary bathtub is a must — and there’s a seemingly limitless range of beautiful designs to choose from. There are freestanding tubs that are statement pieces in their own right, recessed baths that use minimal space, easy-access baths for the elderly or those with a disability, as well as full jacuzzi setups for a touch of luxury. However, if you live in a second-storey house, be mindful of having a bath on the second floor as the weight of a full bathtub may put pressure on the upper floor. The amount of space available is also going to have a big influence on the bath you select.

Vanity and basin

Every bathroom needs a sink, but if you and your partner are usually getting ready at the same time, could the space benefit from his and hers sinks? Ample storage space is a must for any vanity unit, while looks should never be neglected in order to ensure that the vanity you select matches the rest of the bathroom. The right vanity will combine good looks and handy storage options with plenty of usable bench space. From wall-mounted vanities to cabinet vanities and even minimalist vanities with a simple shelf system, there’s a huge range of choices available.

Fixtures and fittings

From taps and towel rails to frameless shower screens, the right fixtures and fittings are practical inclusions that complement the design of the rest of the bathroom. Taps come in an extensive selection of materials, including chrome, brass, gold and stainless steel, and there’s no limit to the styles available depending on the space available and the look you want to achieve. The sink, shower, bathtub and toilet should all serve a practical purpose but should also seamlessly integrate with their surrounds and complement one another perfectly.

Tiles

Tiles play a hugely important role in determining the look and ambience of your bathroom. From floor tiles to wall tiles and even special feature borders, choosing the right tiles is crucial to the success of your bathroom renovation. It can also be a daunting process, You’ll need to consider the ambience you want to create in your bathroom, your colour scheme, the size of tiles you want and how they will be laid out. For example, do you want to use contrasting tiles to add a feeling of space to a small bathroom, or do you want tiles with a textured surface to create a unique and interesting feature? Tiles come in ceramic, glass, natural stone, porcelain and clay, so research the looks and benefits of each option before making your choice.

Storage space

A bathroom with insufficient storage space is impractical and cluttered, so make sure you’ve got ample room for all the toiletries, towels and other odds and ends you need to store in your bathroom. Vanity cabinets, shelves and drawers are the obvious places to keep your items so they don’t clutter up the rest of your bathroom, but there’s plenty more you can do to maximise storage space. There’s a huge range of clever internal hardware options available to cleverly use the available space, while a recessed niche built into the shower cavity is great for storing shampoos, soaps and the like. Even installing a simple ledge-style shelf can help keep the vanity top free of mess.

Lighting

Last but certainly not least, don’t overlook the importance of lighting in creating a welcoming and refreshing space. The bathroom is one area of the house where it’s important to be able to see clearly, but where you can also relax in comfort if that’s what you feel like doing. Whether you’re looking for soft LED down lighting, a feature pendant that stands out or simply the warmth of natural illumination, include lighting considerations in your initial renovation plan. Light fixtures will obviously need to be moisture-proof and capable of standing up to life in your bathroom, while you may also want to consider heat lamps if you live in a cold area. One other thing to remember when choosing lighting is energy usage - the right choices can make a noticeable difference to your power bill.

Bathroom design ideas

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Renovating a small bathroom

When you’re renovating a bathroom, space is the final frontier. In a larger space, having more room to work with often means that you have more flexibility to add privacy and create different zones for each bathroom task.

When you’re renovating a bathroom, space is the final frontier. In a larger space, having more room to work with often means that you have more flexibility to add privacy and create different zones for each bathroom task.

Unfortunately, most bathroom renovators only have a limited area to work with, so they need to take advantage of clever ideas and design solutions that help them make the most of the available space. For example, a normal hinged door can eat up much more space than you have to spare, so a sliding door can offer a better solution. Other great space-saving and space-creating ideas include wall-mounted toilets, neutral colour palettes with occasional bursts of colour, and including handy built-in storage nooks and crannies wherever possible.

Renovating a small bathroom means you’ll also have to be more ruthless when deciding what belongs on your bathroom wish list. For example, while soaking in a hot bath might sound appealing, are you really willing to sacrifice such a large amount of floor space to include a tub?

Do it yourself or get in the experts?

If you’re keen to save as much money as possible on your bathroom renovation, you may want to consider a DIY project. While this lets you take control of your bathroom renovation, it’s always wise to think about your options before going the DIY route as bathroom renovations can become complicated very quickly.

Some jobs are fairly simple for the DIY renovator, such as stripping out your old bathroom and prepping the space for your new bathroom. Other jobs, for example waterproofing and tiling, you might also be able to do yourself if you have the right experience under your belt.

Plumbing and electrical work will need to be done by the professionals, however. A good plumber can help you through your renovation from start to finish, so find a plumber you trust before you start knocking down walls or stripping out tiles.

What can you DIY and what's best left to experts?

Where to buy bathroom renovation supplies

From tiles to toilets, there are several options when you need to stock up on the right supplies for your bathroom renovation. A good place to start your search is a large hardware store like Bunnings, Masters Home Improvement or Home Timber and Hardware. This will give you a good idea of some of the fixtures and fittings available to include in your bathroom.

It’s also a good idea to browse specialist renovation and bathroom supply stores — research online to find one near you, and where you find one bathroom store you’ll often find a few more. There’s a huge range of products to choose from for every aspect of your renovation, from the smallest of tiles to the largest of freestanding baths, so take the time to consider all the options available before making your decisions.

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Top tips to help you save money on your bathroom renovation

• Do your research. Jump online and visit local bathroom renovation specialists to see what kind of materials and fixtures are on offer. Speak to architects, building experts and bathroom renovation specialists to ensure that your renovation plan and budget is feasible. Source several quotes from different suppliers before deciding which company to go with.
• Plan ahead. Don’t start your renovation unless you know exactly what you want to achieve. Getting halfway through your project and then deciding that you don’t like the layout, you want different tiles or you’d like to make room for a bigger bath can be an expensive and stressful mistake. Work out exactly what you want before you reach for a hammer.
• Make a budget and stick to it. Bathroom renovations have something of a reputation for unforeseen costs and budget blow-outs. Around $15,000 to $20,000 is a realistic estimate for many bathroom projects, see our guide on the costs of bathroom renovations, but sit down and work out the material and labour costs for your project. Once you’re fully aware of how much your project should cost and how much you can afford, it’s time to start work.
• Know what you can do — and what you can’t. While DIY renovations are great for saving money, it’s important that you don’t get ahead of yourself when choosing what jobs to take on and what to leave to the professionals. If you’re at all unsure about your ability to complete a particular task, you’re much better off getting the experts in to avoid problems occurring later down the track.
• Take your time. While it can be frustrating having your bathroom out of action for a couple of weeks or more, when you’re doing it yourself it’s important not to rush things. Measure everything twice and be certain you’re doing the right thing before you cut, lay or install anything.
• Plumbing costs. You might want to completely rearrange the features and layout of your bathroom, but take note that plumbing costs can sometimes make this prohibitively expensive. Moving plumbing pipes and outlets for sinks, toilets, showers and baths can cost thousands of dollars, so you may be better off leaving some fixtures where they are to lower your costs.

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7 stunning bathroom trends for 2017 revealed

Read article : 7 stunning bathroom trends for 2017 revealed

The bathroom is first and foremost a functional space, but it is also a space that can be beautifully designed to make it a standout feature visually as well.

Aside from the usual practical aspects of this space, Kyle Turner from Luximo, the local distributor for the luxurious ROCA sanitaryware brand, offers some insights into the main trends influencing bathroom design going forward:

1. Organic is back

Kyle says organic elements can add warmth, uniqueness, and a rich tactile sensation to the overall composition. As such, materials such as wood, stone, metal and ceramics remain popular.

It is understandable why designers and homeowners alike admire Mother Nature as the ultimate source of design inspiration - organic elements can add warmth, uniqueness, and a rich tactile sensation to the overall composition. As such, materials such as wood, stone, metal and ceramics remain popular.

“Natural materials are being used to great effect to bring nature back into our homes. To stay within budgets, and to ensure easy maintenance and longevity, lots of indistinguishable imitative products are gaining popularity,” says Kyle.

“These warm organically-inspired or natural materials are used to great effect when juxtaposed with modern materials and super clean, streamlined design lines that offer practical and simple arrangement of spaces.”

2. Leading colourways

Darker more moody tones are making a huge comeback throughout the home, as well as in the bathroom.

“Darker tones, especially the rich palette of grey hues, are proving to be enormously popular. In the bathroom, they can be used on the walls and floor, and juxtaposed against brilliant white sanitaryware for maximum visual impact,” says Kyle.

He says can also integrate other popular colours.

“Matte, nude and neutral colours offer the perfect combination when paired with darker greys and blacks, and offer a great way of introducing some contrast to the overall colour palette,” says Kyle.

“Combinations of pastel tonalities in blue, green, salmon and ash are also on the rise, but only when used as accent tones. And of course, the classic all-white monochromatic bathroom never seems to go out of fashion.”

3. Metal and marble mania

“These warm organically-inspired or natural materials are used to great effect when juxtaposed with modern materials and super clean, streamlined design lines that offer practical and simple arrangement of spaces,” says Kyle.

“Marble cladding on the walls and metal accessories in gold or copper are bang on trend,” says Kyle.

“There has been a stylish revival of this 70s aesthetic - brass has really become that most fashionable metal for the bathroom, and when paired with the nobility of marble, it makes a truly irresistible combination.”

4. Play with geometry

A variation of geometric shapes inspired by the strong lines of architectural and structural elements has really come to the fore with regards to tiling and ceramic cladding.

“Hints of the Orient and the Mediterranean are being introduced in a modern and dynamic way in new trendy bathroom tile ranges,” says Kyle.

“An example of this is the rising popularity of the hexagonal tiles used for wall and floor coverings - it is proving to be a very popular design combination with multiple variations that can interpreted in many ways.”

5. Water efficiency rules

Water has always been a very precious commodity, but it is becoming a very high priority, especially in light of the severe water shortages we have been living through of late.

Kyle says awareness of water shortages has made choosing sanitaryware that is water efficient a must.

“You use more water in the bathroom than every other room in your home combined. Choosing water-efficient options is the right thing to do, and it can save thousands of litres and lots of money in the long run,” he says.

“Matte, nude and neutral colours offer the perfect combination when paired with darker greys and blacks, and offer a great way of introducing some contrast to the overall colour palette,” says Kyle.

“Water-efficient taps, double-flush cisterns, and low-flow showerheads all make a big impact on reducing your water consumption in the bathroom. However, there are other really clever and innovative products - one of them being the exclusive ROCA W+W, which reuses the water from the basin to fill the cistern after filtering it, further reducing water consumption by up to 25%.”

6. Smart storage

Adequate storage is essential in any bathroom space, and today, it takes on the role of being both functional and visually pleasing.

“Bathroom storage needs to provide you with easy access to all your items - it prevents the items from getting lost inside the furniture unit. ROCA’s range of bathroom furniture, for example, boasts drawers with full extraction systems that display all their contents so that you may access even the farthest corner,” says Kyle.

“Some models also include a concealed drawer to facilitate the tidiness of?the smaller objects.”

However, he says that modern bathroom furniture has also become smart.

“ROCA’s Statum-N Base Unit, for example, allows you to connect your smartphone to the Bluetooth speakers of the furniture unit and enjoy your music while you shower or get ready to go out. It also offers a built-in socket in its drawer so that you can use to plug your hairdryer, electric shaver, or straightening iron in.”

“Combinations of pastel tonalities in blue, green, salmon and ash are also on the rise, but only when used as accent tones," says Kyle.

7. Deluxe showers

The bath has always taken centre stage in bathroom design, however, there is a trend to replace the bath with a super-luxurious and grand shower instead.

“Showering is water efficient, it is quick and easy, and it provides one of the few occasions in which we are relaxed, calm and away from the stress caused by our everyday lifestyle,” says Kyle.

“It is no wonder that it is really starting to take centre stage in modern bathroom design. From the shower walls, shower heads and faucets, you can customise your shower according to your budget and needs.”

He says another important element to consider is the shower floor or tray.

“Gone are the days when acrylic shower floors were your only option, as ROCA now also provides shower trays in STONEX, steel and vitreous china. Shower trays manufactured in STONEX, a resistant and long-lasting material, may be installed levelled to the floor, and thanks to their textured surface, offer a high anti-slip feature,” says Kyle.

“They are also available?in different natural finishes to meet the needs of all kinds of bathroom environments, providing a very modern look - Helios, wooden texture, Terran, stone texture.”

Adequate storage is essential in any bathroom space, and today, it takes on the role of being both functional and visually pleasing, says Kyle.

Kyle says steel shower trays are functional, long lasting and extra slim so that they are perfectly integrated in the shower space, and it is only necessary to clean them with a wet cloth and soap.

“For greater comfort, ROCA’s In-Floor or Blues XL collections include an anti-slip base,” says Kyle.

“If you are searching for an economic shower tray that is easy to clean and resistant to chemical agents, those manufactured in vitreous china - such as ROCA’s Malta shower tray for example - are a good option.”

All ROCA products are currently available at Bathroom Bizarre outlets countrywide.