Let’s face it the toilet is not the favourite household accessory so it’s often not given a second thought unless it’s just not performing and then it’s a major issue. In my line of work I think that a lot of people overlook the importance of a good toilet. When you really think about it, aside from your sofa, it’s probably been sat on by most of your friends, neighbours and other visitors.
Most people wouldn’t think twice about splashing out on a new sofa because after all it’s money well spent because it gets so much use. In contrast, when it comes to toilets you’d be surprised by how many people want to get away with spending as little as possible. I still stand by my professional opinion that buying quality products will save you in the longer term (and you’ll be the envy of your friends, neighbours and visitors).
For those of you who take your toilet for granted and just can’t take a hint then here are my top 10 signs that it’s time for a new toilet:
- No amount of cleaning products or scrubbing can get your toilet looking respectable
- The last time your toilet was replaced was about 20 years ago (give or take a few)
- Your toilet uses so much water in a single flush that it resembles Niagara Falls
- Your guests prefer to hover than sit and relax (and aren’t too embarrassed to tell you so)
- You have never experience the wonders of “Dual Flush” in your own home
- The plumbing for your toilet resembles a crazy maze
- You’re still using a chain flush system
- There’s always a queue for the only toilet in the house
- The toilet seat is cracked or the hinges are broken (or worse – missing)
- Your guests prefer to sit cross legged and cross eyed to avoid using your toilet
So if you can identify with any of the above then you need to take a not so subtle hint and look at investing in a new loo.
For more information on toilets visit Bourne Bathroom & Kitchen Centre.
In my line of work I deal with people who are renovating bathrooms on a daily basis and this is a job that I truly love. Renovating a bathroom is an emotional journey and to see the looks on our clients’ faces when all of the pieces come together and they get to appreciate and enjoy the finished product is, to say the least, very rewarding.
However, the journey for some is more of a nightmare and I’ve heard my fair share of bathroom renovation horror stories and let me tell you they are very scary. So today I want to share just a little bit of our experience here at Bourne. We want to help those of you about to embark on your very own bathroom renovation to avoid some of the more common and costly mistakes.
The Bourne Top 5 Bathroom Renovation Mistakes
Mistake #1 DIY Will Save Me Money
One of the biggest mistakes by far is a combination of enthusiasm and lack of skill. This is a surefire recipe for disaster. Tradespeople are exactly that “trades” people and they spend many years learning and perfecting their skills. They work in qualified and respected professions and are paid for their workmanship and skill level. So if you’re thinking about taking up tiling in order to save a few bucks then think again – you’ll save more money in the long run if you get the job done by a professional in the first place.
Mistake #2 Planning Is For Beginners
In those famous words of Winston Churchill “He who fails to plan is planning to fail”. This couldn’t be more relevant for anyone embarking on a bathroom renovation. Doing your homework and all of the necessary preparation is critical for success and a good bathroom plan is a must.
Mistake #3 I can Scrimp on Quality and Save
The bathroom is one area that you don’t want to scrimp on quality. The average life span of a bathroom is 10+ years so you really need to invest in quality fixtures that will stand the test of time. The bathroom is also one of the most used rooms in the house so it’s inevitable that you’re fixtures and fitting will be put to the test. If you scrimp on quality then chances are you won’t save in the long term.
Mistake #4 More is More
When it comes to selecting colours and decorating your new bathroom I’m a firm believer that less is definitely more. When you renovate your bathroom one of your goals is to increase the value of your home. Chances you won’t be there forever so it’s important to consider the style and colour scheme so that this works in your favour if and when it comes time to sell.
Mistake #5 I can Change Things as I go
If you’re thinking this way then be prepared for a major budget blow out. I cannot stress enough the importance of planning so that you don’t become tempted to change things on the fly.
So there you have it folks, I hope that by highlighting some of these common mistakes we can help you avoid them.
For more information on bathroom renovating contact Bourne Bathroom & Kitchen Centre.
Saving Space in the Bathroom
Saving space in the bathroom is a common problem that many of our clients face when embarking on their renovations. It’s one of the challenges we most frequently come across especially when it comes to bathroom planning.
So here are just a few ideas to help you make the most of your available space when planning your bathroom renovation.
Bathroom Space Saving Ideas
An over bath shower is a great option to save on space and maintain the functionality of being able to shower and have a nice relaxing bath in your new bathroom. While most people would agree this is not the ideal scenario, it’s sometimes the best option to save space and create a great overall first impression.
Wall faced or wall hung toilets with concealed cisterns are another great way to save on space and provide a more streamlined open looking bathroom. Not to mention the fact that they hide all of the ugly bits like the plumbing and cistern. Let’s face it, the toilet is not the most attractive bathroom feature so the less we see, the better I say.
A very cost effective way to create the illusion of space and make your bathroom look bigger is through the use of light colours particularly on the walls. Pale colours reflect light and will make your bathroom appear brighter and more spacious.
A floating vanity mounted on the wall will increase floor space and add to a more streamlined look.
Another good way to maximise space is to install a sliding entry door to the bathroom. The most effective way to use the internal bathroom wall space is to install a concealed sliding door which will add a much more pleasing aesthetic. It will also provide more functional wall space for fitting towel rails.
Multifunction fixtures such as mirrored cabinets are also a great idea to help you make the most of your available space.
Beautiful and functional storage solutions are a great way to add some style and personality to your new bathroom and help save on space. There are so many creative and different options available so you can have a bit of fun in the process.
One of the things I learnt over the years is that when it comes to bathrooms, less is definitely more. In my opinion there is nothing more tasteful than a well thought out and designed bathroom that has style and simplicity at the core.
For more information on how to save space in the bathroom contact Bourne Bathroom & Kitchen Centre.
Dolce Basins Are The Bomb
OK, OK, I know the term “The Bomb” is very nineties and a little uncool and really doesn’t do justice to the sleekness and style of the elegant Dolce vanity top basins I’m featuring in today’s post, but I simply couldn’t resist.
Most of our time spent in the bathroom is usually at the basin so it’s an important choice if you’re embarking on renovating. When looking at the range of basins to choose from there is a fairly dramatic price range to say the least, not to mention the extensive range of different shapes and sizes.
When it comes to selecting basins for your new bathroom, there are many different options to choose from and it’s easy to get overwhelmed and confused by what’s on offer. The various basin options include:
• Above Counter Basins
• Drop in Basins
• Semi Recessed Basins
• Under Counter Basins
• Vanity Tops
• Wall Hung
When choosing surfaces and basins for their new bathrooms, a lot of our customers stick with what they know and toy with the standard range of options on offer. A popular (and predictable) choice is always stone benches with either a drop-in or semi-recessed basin.
Dolce Basins Offer a New Alternative
What most of our customers aren’t aware of is the option of a vanity top basin. Our range of Dolce vanity top basins provides the same durability as a stone bench top with one additional benefit and that is a entirely faultless ceramic finish. Dolce products provide an all in one solution through cleverly integrating both the counter top and basin into a completely seamless and stylish option.
Dolce have the market covered when it comes to vanity top basins. They have a very modern and stylish range of ceramic vanity tops that provide an utterly flawless crown to your vanity cabinetry. They are the ultimate in quality and contemporary design and provide the look of clean crisp lines to compliment any modern bathroom.
From a style point of view, your choice of basin is integral to the overall look of your bathroom. It’s important to venture beyond predictable and become familiar with the range of options on offer. This way you can make an informed decision that also complements the overall style statement you’re trying to create.
Modern Bathroom Design with Dolce Basins
Design enthusiasts will be aware that low profile basins with clean lines are becoming increasing popular to help create a modern look and the Dolce range does just that. Also as a special mention for those clean freaks out there, yes you know who you are, the Dolce vanity top basins are the easiest to clean by far. There is no grout, no joins and nowhere for dirt to get trapped, they just need a quick wipe down and viola – just like new.
For more information on basins or the Dolce range, contact Bourne Bathroom and Kitchen Centre.
Vanities A Curse but Not in Your Bathroom
While we frown on those who like to spend way too much time in front of the mirror, there’s certainly no crime in wanting your new bathroom to look as good as possible, so today we’re talking about the all important bathroom vanity.
Things to Consider for Your Bathroom Vanity
A striking bathroom vanity unit can really make a new bathroom. It can be a powerful statement piece to showcase what some say is the most important room in the house. However, there are a few things that you need to consider when deciding on your new bathroom vanity.
Dimensions
One of the most important aspects when selecting your new vanity is the dimensions. You need to select a bathroom vanity that has the right proportions for the available space. You don’t want something that is too big and overcrowds the space. In contrast you don’t want something that is too small for the space and looks like you ran out of money. Borrowing a line from Goldilocks you really want something that’s “just right”, so be sure you understand your dimensions before you go shopping around.
Storage
Bathroom storage is another vitally important aspects when it comes to your bathroom vanity unit. Let’s face it, things just won’t work if your vanity is all looks and no substance. Take the time to think about the amount and type of storage that you need and if you’re getting something custom build then it should be easy to incorporate your storage wish list into your design.
Placement
Personally, I think one of the most stylish ways to add impact with your bathroom vanity is with symmetry. What can I say, symmetrical placement really works. Just about every bathroom that has stopped me in my tracks has the vanity unit dead centre with beautiful symmetrical detail on either side. While this is not always possible, it’s important to have your vanity unit dead centre of the wall it will be fixed against to create balance.
Style
Make your selection in keeping with the overall style of your new bathroom. You can sometimes get away with mixing old and new but unless you have a keen eye for design it’s best to pay homage to a single style and focus on making sure everything works well together.
If you take your time, and do your research you will get something that your heart truly desires. The end result will be breathtaking and you’ll get to enjoy it every day. You may even be forgiven for spending a little time in front of your vanity mirror as long as you’re just admiring your new bathroom from a different angle and not yourself.
For more information on bathroom vanities contact Bourne Bathroom and Kitchen Centre.
Frameless Shower Screens Taking the Bathroom World by Storm
There is no doubt that the bathroom has become a key focal point of the home. In turn we’ve seen an emerging common trend among renovators looking to create an impact with one single element, a frameless shower screen. The bathroom is a critical component in real estate when it comes to resale value and bathroom renovating is most certainly on the rise as we all strive for a little more luxury in our busy lives.
According to the Housing Industry Association, we used to renovate a domestic bathroom once every 30 years but this figure has now jumped up to once every 17.9 years. Is it any wonder that frameless show screens have taken the bathroom world by storm with this massive jump in the number of bathroom renovations?
Some property investors are saying that bathrooms are even surpassing kitchens as the main selling point of a home, but I think that might be going a bit far. A beautiful kitchen can definitely help sell a home and if you improve both areas then I think you without doubt, have a winning combination and simply can’t go wrong.
Frameless Shower Screens are the New Benchmark in Luxury
Some investors swear by always improving on the bathroom in order to maximise their profits. It’s fair to say one of the increasing tends we have seen in our showrooms over the last few years is the gravitation towards frameless shower screens. It’s almost like a frameless shower screen is the new benchmark for any modern bathroom makeover. Our customers seem willing to compromise on some areas of their bathroom when budget comes into play but we rarely see anyone compromise on a frameless shower screen. It seems they’d rather cut back in other areas that have less of an impact.
Frameless Shower Screens Add Wow Factor
There is no doubt that a beautiful frameless shower screen can add a reasonable amount of wow factor to your new bathroom. We’re seeing a strong emphasis on luxury and comfort and we’re finding that our customers are looking to create a sanctuary far removed from the frantic pace of everyday life. A place to escape, relax and unwind.
A few other notable trends that we’re seeing when it comes to showers is ‘size does matter’ and the average size of showers is increasing. For those who have a little more space to work with, a popular request is enough room for two with double shower heads. We’re also seeing a number of customers looking to replicate that day spa environment with the addition of rain showerheads, double bench seats and dedicated wet zones.
For more information on frameless shower screen and bathroom trends contact Bourne Bathroom & Kitchen Centre.
Top 5 Bathroom Renovation Trends for 2012
When it comes to renovating your bathroom, I think most people will agree that it’s not the easiest task, especially when it comes to making the tough decisions with regard to layout, fixtures and fittings not to mention colour scheme. The bathroom has become one of the main focal points of the home so it’s now more important than ever to get it right and create a sanctuary that’s both inviting and stylish. Renovating your bathroom is also a significant investment and can really help to sell a home when it comes to the real estate market.
Most Asked Bathroom Renovation Questions
Here at Bourne Bathroom and Kitchen Centre we help hundreds of people each week with their renovating dilemmas so we thought that it’s only fair that we share some of our experience. Every day our helpful staff are quizzed with a range of queries about bathroom renovation trends and here are just a few of the most asked questions:
• What are the latest trends?
• How do I achieve a stylish bathroom that will stand the test of time?
• What’s in at the moment?
• What’s the best way to add wow factor to my bathroom?
• What do you recommend?
The Bourne Team Top 5 Bathroom Renovation Trends
We’ve gathered our team together and come up with our very own top five bathroom trends to help you with your bathroom renovations.
Large “Day Spa” Inspired Showers
Large walk in showers and designated wet zones are proving very popular this year. A wet zone can help create the illusion of additional space through the separation of wet areas. Frameless glass is also very popular due to the seamless appearance which adds that designer touch to any bathroom.
The Spa has been replaced with Soaking Tubs
While spa baths with built in jets have many health benefits and can soothe tired muscles at the end of a hard day, we’re definitely seeing a trend away from the jet powered spa bath. Most clients are now looking for a more tranquil experience. They want to enjoy the quietness and serenity of a long deep soaking tub. Freestanding baths are by far the number one choice when creating a truly relaxing bathroom sanctuary.
Letting in the Light
A bright sun filled bathroom creates an inviting space and relaxing atmosphere. Window size and lighting choices have become even more critical when creating your new bathroom. This also emphasises the importance of good planning and getting expert advice.
Separating the Toilet
As bathrooms become larger a key focus is on creating additional privacy in the toilet area with either a separate room or privacy wall. This is especially popular in new home construction and with higher end renovations where space is more prevalent.
Double Vanities
This used to be a luxury request at the premium end of bathroom renovations, but designated his and hers vanities are now becoming a much more popular request across every budget.
In addition to our top 5 trends, we also have to cover a fundamental aspect that is influencing bathroom design trends and will continue to do so given the global importance and that is our environment. Water saving fixtures and energy saving devices are at the top of most home owners lists and WELS ratings should be influencing your decision when it comes to selecting your bathroom fixtures. The higher the WELS rating the better water saving your fixture will be saving you money and also saving our environment.
For more information on bathroom renovation trends contact Bourne Bathroom and Kitchen Centre.
What You Might Not Know About Caroma Toilets
OK I know toilets are not everyone’s favourite topic of conversation but let’s face it, we all need one and preferably one that works well. Most people probably don’t give a second thought about toilets and aren’t really phased about the brand or how much it costs. That is of course unless yours is not working properly or you’re renovating or building a new home and shopping for your bathroom fit out.
To be completely honest, I don’t think the average person can really tell the difference between a $500 and $1,500 loo but there is one brand name that most people are familiar with when it comes to toilet suites and that’s the Australian icon Caroma.
So here are a few facts about Caroma Toilets that you might not be aware of:
1. Caroma is the only manufacturer of toilet suites in Australia
Given that they are the only manufacturer of toilet suites in the country, it’s not surprising they are such a well known brand name. It’s also nice to know that they employ over 2000 Australians nationwide.
2. Smartflush
Caroma is the market leader in dual flush technology and after introducing dual flush to the world in 1981, Smartflush technology is now the benchmark in toilet suite innovation. This technology provides a winning combination of water saving, design and performance.
3. Caroma also redesigned the toilet bowl
Together with dual flush, Caroma also redesigned the toilet bowl so that each flush required a lesser volume of water to effectively remove waste.
4. Caroma toilets can save up to 72% of annual water usage compared to a traditional toilet
Caroma’s Smartflush technology only uses 4.5 litres of water for a full flush and 3 litres for a half flush which really is something to brag about to the water conscious consumers of today. With such dramatic water saving capability, most Australian states now have legislation in place to make the installation of dual flush toilets compulsory in all new buildings
5. Caroma is the first to get a WELS 5 star rating
Caroma have recently achieved a 5 star WELS rating for their new Profile toilet suite with integrated hand basin. It’s good to know that they are continuing their investment in research and development to improve performance even further.
Caroma Toilet Best Sellers
Being at the forefront of research and development in regard to water saving technology certainly doesn’t mean that they’ve forgotten all about style. Some of our best sellers in the Caroma range include the Caroma Metro Invisi Series II and the Caroma Cube Invisi Series II.
For more information about toilets in the Caroma range contact Bourne Bathroom & Kitchen Centre.
Phoenix Tapware, Is it worth it?
Just last week when showing a client a few options from the Phoenix tapware designer range, they asked me if Phoenix tapware is really worth the money. We had a long conversation so I thought I’d share my opinion about Phoenix tapware .
When it comes to bathroom renovations, there’s just one word that comes to mind and that’s ‘budget’. Such a small word, but that one small word means the world when it comes to renovating your bathroom. That one small word can seriously mean the difference between average and spectacular.
Don’t get me wrong, you can still achieve a spectacular looking bathroom and you don’t necessarily have to have a budget that would make Donald Trump go weak at the knees. The trick is to spend your precious dollars wisely and understand where you can get away with scrimping a few bucks and where you really need to lash out for maximum impact.
One of the main areas where you just can’t afford to scrimp is on tapware. When you think about it logically, it’s best to view tapware as an investment. I mean it’s not like you’re buying something for the short term. Tapware in your bathroom should not only make a statement, it should also be functional and made to last. It’s something that you and your family will use every day and unless you’re addicted to renovating, it will need to last about seven to ten years and potentially even longer.
Selecting Your Phoenix Tapware
When it comes to selecting tapware for your bathroom, you need to look for taps with smooth controlled movement. You want a good range of movement to help you to get the exact temperature and flow that you’re after. This is something that should be easy to do with a quality product. You also want quality moving parts that won’t wear out in a short period of time.
This brings me to the topic of warranties. If you’re investing in quality tapware then the manufacturer’s warranty will cover beyond the general life expectancy of the tap. For example phoenix tapware is that confident in the quality of their product, they provide a 15 year manufacturer’s warranty.
So to answer the question…Yes Phoenix designer tapware really is worth the money. By the way, my client creatively found a way to add the Phoenix Gloss ranger to her bathroom and hasn’t looked back.
Phoenix Tapware Range
The Phoenix designer tapware range includes the Gloss Basin Mixer, Argo Basin Mixer, Ivy Basin Mixer, Lexi Basin Mixer and many more.
For more information about the phoenix tapware range contact Bourne Bathroom & Kitchen Centre.
Kiri Shower and Tapware by Methven
There’s nothing I enjoy more than a long hot shower. I just love those massaging jets of hot water, the feeling of being engulfed in the warmth and emerging reinvigorated to start the day. Yes my bathroom is my sanctuary. It’s a place that is all mine free of interruptions and mostly a place for me to enjoy.
….until someone else destroys my ritual by turning on a hot tap somewhere else in the house AHHHHHHH. In an instant my shower is as cold as ice and I’m NOT HAPPY!!!
Thankfully Methven have come to my rescue with their Evenflo technology. Methven have come up with a pressure balancing shower system call Evenflo which is described as the perfect “pressure balanced” shower.
This type of pressure balancing shower system has been traditionally used in the hotel industry. Yes, that’s why you never have an ice cold NOT HAPPY experience in a luxury hotel. So now you can have a luxury hotel shower experience in your own home with no scream worthy interruptions.
Thank you Methven for coming to my rescue!
The range of handle movement with the Evenflo technology is amazing and gives me much more precise temperature control which is definitely an added bonus.
With my new Evenflo shower, I feel like a new person and no longer experience the apprehension of entering the shower feeling that at any moment my mostly enjoyable morning ritual could be shattered in an instant with an unwelcome ice cold wake up call. Methven, I am truly grateful.
While Methven have got the most advanced technology when it comes to bathroom tapware, I think they’re right up there too when it comes to design. My bathroom features the gorgeous earth friendly Kiri range which really makes a statement and provides both style and performance.
Speaking from first hand experience the Kiri shower range delivers a rejuvenating and stress free shower encounter. Is it wrong for me to want to spend such a long time in the shower? I always feel a little guilty given the focus on water conservation. At least I can enjoy my shower a little more knowing that Methven also have the technology to preserve our precious water resources and are WELS rated.
If you’re looking for a luxury hotel bathroom experience in your own home or for more information on the Methven range please contact www.bournebathrooms.com.au
