Housing in Southern Africa September 2015

Bathrooms, Kitchen and Plumbing

S he offers some trusted tricks of the trade to transform a bathroom into a attractive and luxurious spacewithout the expensive price tag. Tiles in classic colours such as white, grey, sand and charcoal are durable, easy to clean and attractive. Neutral tones offer longevity of style and mass appeal. Keep bathroom walls and floors simple using a plain tile, but add small details such as mosaic strips below the shower rose or above the basin to give it a professional finish. Although mosaics tend to be a bit pricey, she suggests that using a small quantity will not be too expensive. It is important to have a central pendant to flood the room with light. “Not only does a ceiling pendant pro- vide general light that’s so necessary in this functional space, but it also creates a focal point that anchors the room visually,” says Kraneveldt. All the toiletries and bits n’ bobs that come with good hygiene can make the space cluttered. “One of the easiest andmost afford- able ways to give a bathroom a fresh new look is to clear away the clutter – it makes a world of difference, visually and froma practical perspective,” says Kraneveldt. successfully working within a small budget can often result in the most creative design solutions. Beautiful budget bathroom Jasmin Kraneveldt, from leading sanitaryware and tiling retailer, Bathroom Bizarre, says that

comes right down to the tiniest of details such as displaying beautiful bottles.” She believes that white has a calm- ing effect on people and is a great colour to use in any bathroom. Add finishing touches such as a stack of fresh white hand towels or hang a plush bath robe, a fresh bunch of flowers, a pretty ceramic cup, a hand-woven basket to house toilet rolls, and it will instantly elevate the space and add an indulgent element that can be enjoyed every day.” ■

Create designated storage areas, a wall mirror unit is one of her favourite items, as it doubles as a mirror and a nifty storage unit, whilst still looking sleek and elegant. Old basin, bath and shower mixers can make the whole bathroom dated. A fresh new look can be achieved by replacing them. The latest bathroom mixers are a fast, inexpensive and easy way to give the space a facelift, sparkle and sophis- tication. Kraneveldt says: “Achieving a beautiful bathroom on a budget

September 2015