Bathroom & Laundry Renovation Blog - Renovating Mums

Why Grout Colour Matters More Than You Think

Marissa — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 03:21:12 +0000

Let’s talk grout. Yep, that thin line between your tiles that most people ignore until it’s stained, cracked, or just plain wrong. But here’s the thing—grout colour can make or break your tiling project. Whether you’re sprucing up a bathroom, adding flair to a kitchen splashback, or tiling around a pool, the colour of your grout isn’t just a finishing touch—it’s a design decision with real impact.

The Power of Contrast

One of the biggest choices you’ll face is whether to go with a contrasting grout or one that blends in. Dark grout with light tiles? That’s drama. It outlines each tile, making patterns pop and giving your space a bold, graphic look. Think subway tiles with black grout—it’s edgy, modern, and totally Instagram-worthy.

Why Grout Matters

But not everyone’s into that high-contrast vibe. Some people feel dark grout looks dirty, especially in bathrooms where cleanliness is king. It can also highlight imperfections in tile alignment or spacing. So if your tiling job isn’t laser-precise, dark grout might not be your best friend.

On the other hand, light grout blends in creating a softer, more seamless look. It’s great for making small spaces feel bigger and less busy. White grout with white tiles? Classic, clean, and timeless. But it’s not without its challenges…

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The Dirt Dilemma

Let’s be real—light grout is a magnet for stains. In high-traffic areas like kitchen splashbacks or behind a stovetop, it can go from crisp white to “what even is that colour?” in no time. Tomato sauce, oil splatter, curry—your grout sees it all. And unlike tiles, grout is porous, so it absorbs stains like a sponge.

So what do you do? You’ve got options:

Seal it: Always seal your grout, especially if it’s light. A good sealant creates a barrier that helps resist stains and makes cleaning easier.
Choose stain-resistant grout: Epoxy grout is pricier but way more durable and stain-resistant than traditional cement-based grout.
Go slightly darker: If you love the look of light grout but hate the maintenance, consider a soft grey or beige. It still blends nicely but hides stains better than stark white.

Example of Light to Dark Grout on Same Tiles

Behind the Stovetop: A Special Case

The area behind your stovetop is grout’s battleground. It’s where heat, grease, and food splatter all converge. If you’re tiling this zone, grout colour becomes even more important.

Light grout here can be risky unless you’re committed to regular cleaning. Even with sealant, it’ll need TLC. Dark grout, on the other hand, hides stains better and can give your kitchen a sleek, industrial look. Just be sure it complements your tile colour—black grout with cream tiles can look harsh if not balanced with other elements in the room.

A Selection of Mapei Grout Colours

Bathrooms, Pools & Splashbacks: Different Spaces, Different Rules

Bathrooms: Light grout gives that spa-like, airy feel. But in shower areas, it’s prone to mould and mildew. Dark grout can mask those issues but might make the space feel smaller. A mid-tone grey is often a happy medium.
Pools: Here, grout colour is mostly about aesthetics and UV resistance. Lighter grout can brighten the pool’s look, while darker grout adds depth. Just make sure it’s rated for outdoor and wet conditions.
Kitchen Splashbacks: This is where you can play. Want your tiles to be the star? Use matching grout. Want to highlight a cool pattern or layout? Go for contrast. Just remember: practicality matters. If you cook a lot, darker grout might save you some scrubbing.

Think Beyond The Tile

Grout colour isn’t just about the tiles—it’s about the whole room. It affects how light bounces, how clean things look, and how your design feels. Want a minimalist vibe? Match your grout to your tile. Want texture and movement? Contrast it. Want something in between? Go tonal—choose a grout that’s a few shades lighter or darker than your tile. Also, think about the long game. Trends come and go, but grout is hard to change once it’s in. If you’re unsure, go neutral. Greys, taupes, and soft whites are versatile and forgiving. Grout might seem like a tiny detail, but it’s got big design energy. So next time you’re choosing tiles, don’t treat grout like an afterthought. Give it the attention it deserves—and your space will thank you.

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6 Most Common Bathroom Renovation Questions Answered!

Marissa — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 00:44:48 +0000

The bathroom is where you start and finish your day, a space where you are calm and collected ready to take on the day, yet also settle down after big day, so it is extremely important that you make it the perfect space for YOU!

However, when it comes to renovating a bathroom, it can be a bit of an overwhelming experience. There are so many options to consider when it comes to design; functionality, practicality and the overall aesthetic of the space. With so many things to think about, we chatted to the experts at Novalé Bathrooms for the answers to the 6 most common questions that get asked when renovating a bathroom.

Most Common Bathroom Design Questions Answered

Do I have to have a bath?

The answer is simple.

If you enjoy unwinding and soaking away your stress in a nice warm bath, then a bathtub would be high on your “must have” list. If you have small children, bath time is a given. If you are in your forever home, make your bathroom practical and functional for your situation. Showers with a handheld shower head are also something to consider if you have smaller children when a bathtub is not an option.

However, if you are renovating for a resale purpose, a bathroom with a bathtub will open your sale to a larger group of potential buyers.

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Free Standing Bath vs Built-In Bath - What are the pros and cons?

Freestanding baths are currently on trend and offer a luxurious feel to a bathroom space and are often used as a bit of a show stopping feature. They don’t need wall support, so can be placed anywhere in the bathroom, however if away from the wall, you must make sure that a floor mounted spout is a viable option. Freestanding baths work well in bathrooms that are on the larger side but depending on your layout they can be used in smaller spaces too. One of the biggest things to consider when thinking about a freestanding bath is ensuring it is far enough from the wall to allow for easy cleaning. An allowance of a minimum 80mm from adjacent walls should be sufficient for cleaning accessibility. If you like the look of a freestanding bath but are limited on space, a back-to-wall freestanding bath might be another option to achieve a similar look in a smaller space. A built-in (or inset) bath is built into a hob that holds the tub and is then tiled around the outside. In smaller bathrooms, built-in baths are usually combined with showers to offer both options in a tight space. The surrounding ledge of a built-in bath works well, as it offers easy access to children and works as a handy ledge for parents bathing toddlers. The ledge can also work well for storage of soaps and accessories if a niche or caddy is not available. Built-in baths are very easy to clean as there is nowhere for dust and grime to hide. Placement of a built-in bath is not flexible though and will often need to be placed in the corners of the bathroom space.

Open Shower vs Framed Shower - What are the pros and cons?

Open showers look amazing and usually consist of a single frameless glass divider, visually enlarging the bathroom space. An open shower looks great in any sized bathroom and the ease of access in and out is very appealing. There are fewer corners for water and grime to accumulate so are very easy to keep clean. With an open shower being so open, the heat of a hot shower is impossible to keep contained and the steam tends to circulate the entire bathroom, so good ventilation is a must.

While framed showers may seem to be dated, they now are available in different colour options e.g matte black which makes the design a little more contemporary. They are also very budget friendly when compared to a frameless shower option. Framed showers will keep water spray contained within your shower space, so no need to worry about excessive water on your bathroom floor. However, this enclosed space does tend to get more dirt and mould build up and cleaning this can be a chore.

Wondering what type of shower screen is best for you? Read more here.

Single or Double Vanity?

When choosing your vanity, really think about how your bathroom space gets used currently. What space do you have available and how many people are using the bathroom?

If you already have a single vanity in your bathroom, replacing it with a single vanity makes sense if you are on a strict budget. Upgrading to a double vanity means additional basin fittings and plumbing, which equals additional cost. A single vanity also offers more bench space and one set of plumbing means extra clear cabinetry space to use. If you have a large bathroom though, a single vanity may not make sense and the empty space may leave your bathroom looking incomplete.

A double vanity while seen as a luxurious expense, has a practical and functional benefit for busy households. A double vanity means you can easily use the bathroom at the same time as someone else without the hassle of getting in each other’s way. Even though it offers less bench space, this means less bench top clutter, with most things having to be stored away in the cabinetry.

In-wall cistern for toilet - What are the pros and cons?

In-wall cisterns can transform the look of your bathroom. The compact design gives a more contemporary feel and the illusion of more space. Not only that, it is more of a hygienic option, as the cistern or tank which normally is a store hold for dust and bacteria is now hidden. This also makes it super quick and easy to clean. Plus, the push plates are available in a variety of finishes making them easy to match with your tapware.

When a problem arises with an in-wall cistern however, it can be quite difficult to fix the issue. With tiled walls, it is hard to access the cistern which can increase the repair costs. Also, in the case of any water issues, the cistern cannot be re-filled with water. If you purchase a wall mounted toilet with in-wall cistern, it will require a specific toilet pan that can manage the weight of the person using the toilet and installation of the bowl will encounter additional labour costs.

Ledge / Hob Wall vs Niche - What are the pros and cons?

We are starting to see ledge/hob walls pop up quite a bit in the bathroom space and feel this is one of the current trends for 2021. A ledge/hob wall is basically a tiled shower ledge, which is a half-height wall built into your shower. Like a niche, this is used as a streamlined and practical way to store your most used bathroom products. A ledge lends itself to lots of different bathroom styles and can be used as a seamless inclusion to your bathroom space or tiled with a feature tile to create some wow factor. As opposed to a niche, a ledge does not have a topside meaning you are not restricted by the size of your shampoo bottles. If your bathroom allows, a ledge can be continued behind your bath or even incorporated into your vanity for extra storage space. A shower ledge will encroach slightly on your overall shower space, so if you are limited on room, a niche may be the way to go. When you think of a niche, you picture an in-built rectangle with a contrasting feature tile. These days though, we are seeing more of a seamless look with only the one tile being used. This is a good way of keeping your look in date. Depending on your tile choice though, keeping things all lined up in your niche can be quite tricky when using the same tile throughout. A niche is a great practical shower storage solution as it does not require any additional shower space and aesthetically it is much better than a hanging shower caddy! A common niche size is 600mm x 300mm but given you have the space, can be any size really.

For more goodness and advice on bathroom renovations check out our articles here OR get social with our amazing FB community

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How To Design Your Ultimate Laundry – Top 14 Design Decisions!

Marissa — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 21:28:03 +0000

What to include when designing a family laundry...

I find the kitchen the hub of the home and the laundry the workroom; that hidden space rarely seen but well-designed makes family living a breeze. Today laundries are receiving more and more attention. No longer just for placing a washing machine, dryer and sink, the focus is how these appliances are integrated with clever functional storage, making the most of small spaces and beautiful fittings that make the room a joy to use.

Discussion on how to design the ultimate laundry factors high in our community group and I’ve popped together the top 14 design tips and decisions I see time and time again. It doesn’t matter if you have Ikea, Bunnings or custom-made laundry cabinetry, with careful planning you can create the laundry of your dreams (and who knew how important a great laundry would be before kids?!).

Renovating Mums top list of things you must include when designing your ultimate laundry:

1. Adequate bench space

Washer and dryers are typically deeper than your standard oven so if you have the option available then increase the depth of your benchtop to a minimum of 650mm so these appliances don’t stick out. Front loader washers give you the opportunity to have bench space above that give you room to sort and fold clean clothes.

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2. Sufficient powerpoints

Ensure you have enough power points allowed for in your design;

Above the benchtop allocated for additional phone charging stations, ironing etc
Under the bench located for washer and dryer
Inside the tall cupboard for stick vacuum charging.

If using a pull-out iron board or ironing station include a power point located for ease of use.

3. A practical sink

Ensure the sink is large enough to soak items as needed; bed sheets, cushion covers as well as clothing items. Locate close to the washer so you can quickly throw pre-rinsed items into the drum without splashing the floor.

The laundry sink can even function as backup for the kitchen sink if space is limited in the kitchen – offering you the ability to scrub and soak those large roasting / baking trays.

If you have a dog consider dual purpose with the sink large enough to wash the dog!

Photo: Three Birds Renovations; Inbuilt dog wash

4. Mixer tap with pull-out hose

A mixer tap with pull-out hose will make rinsing large items easier – you can even use this to wash the dog.

5. Deep drawers instead of cupboards

We love them! For ease of access and using all of the space available.

6. Pull-out laundry baskets

These can be integrated into your cabinetry and allow you to sort whites from darks.

Photo: Hafele Laundry Basket System

7. Storage for wash basket

You know that big basket you use to take your washing to the line? Make sure you allocate a cupboard or shelf large enough to store this out of sight when not in use.

8. Built-in ironing board or ironing station

There are many options out there now to integrate an ironing board into your cabinetry or even build into your walls in a flush cabinet. We love this amazing Ironing Center by Robinhood where the iron is in a built-in cupboard in the wall or you there are many options where you can have your iron mounted in a drawer like this one by Hafele.

Photo: Robinhood Ironing Centre

If you are using a standalone iron, and love doing the ironing in the living room watching the kids make sure you allocate space in a tall cupboard or wall hanging rack to store this.

9. Drawers or baskets for all those little items...

Shoe polish essentials for all those school and sport shoes!
Cleaning cloths, chamois, sponges and of course magic eraser
Spare keys, batteries (think height away for little fingers), home maintenance or indoor plant essentials

10. Laundry Chute

Double storey home? Consider a laundry chute that deposits clothes directly into the laundry. Make sure the size and access adheres to building standards and restricts children from climbing into it.

11. Hanging Rails + Clothes Airers

Hanging rails are becoming very popular for good reason; they offers you extra drying space when the weather is not ideal, and they are also fabulously useful for drying swimmers or a school shirt that was forgotten overnight. Make sure you locate them ideally over the laundry sink for drips, and ensure the rail is high enough above your bench top to hang work shirts (60cm minimum).

Photo: Norsu Interiors

There are even some fabulous accordion or pull-out internal clotheslines that offer more hanging space and would be highly useful in an apartment or semi with limited outdoor drying space. If you have a high ceiling consider a clothes drying rack on a pulley system.

12. Storage for brooms, mops + vacuums

Allocate space for tall bulky items in your tall cabinet. Measure the width of your mop head so you know it can easily fit along with your broom, vacuum and any other tall bulky items.

12. Storage for clothes airers

If you use a mobile clothes airer; on your balcony or deck to follow the sun, allocate space to store the airer when not in use.

12. Spot for the kitty litter tray

Yes you read this right! A low slide out draw with false cupboard door above with cutout can be a great spot to place your cat’s litter tray so it is out from under your feet.

Photo: Houzz

13. Direct external access

My favorite! Yes, its nothing fancy however it makes your laundry space function so much better if it has external access located close to the washing line.

I also love having a door from the garage into the laundry then through into the house. The laundry can then double as a mud room and become the dumping ground for bags, wet swimmers, sports gear, gumboots and all the other items that get dragged into the home. These items can then be sorted – swimmers hung on the drying rack, dirty clothes into baskets, bags hung on hanging hooks, shoes tucked under a bench, keys into the top drawer under bench….ohhhhh the list goes on!

14. An additional toilet

If you have the space then this is a great opportunity to increase the value of your home and add an additional WC. If you have an external door then this is great for trades or if you are working in the garden and don’t want to walk dirt through the house.

Now this list above is pretty extensive; not all will be relevant to your family and how you live, let alone the space you have available or your budget. I suggest measuring your room, determining your absolute must-haves to make your life easier and then designing your layout to make these flow on how you will use them. Then add in any extras.

For us, our laundry needed to be relocated and made bigger to serve a dual purpose. We currently enter our house through the front door direct into the living room. This means I am constantly battling bags and shoes all around the door in our living space and as we are on acreage dirt is always being tramped inside.

We cannot easily change this at this time and for us it made sense to design a combined laundry / mud room off our garage connecting to our new hallway and extension that we are currently building. This then gives my family a utility room where all jackets, bags. dog leads, swimmers, hats….essentials for us can be hung, along with boots + bench seat and a laundry facilities with long bench space. Whilst a ironing station sounds fabulous, for my family it is quite simply not needed as I only pull it out a couple of times a year

So there you go, 14 fabulous must-haves to include in your ultimate laundry design!

Join our amazing FB Community Group for advice and support from our experts and fellow renovating women.
OR if you are hunting for recommended Bathroom & Laundry Designers & Renovators in Sydney, check out our trades and services directory.

Happy renovating

Marissa x

For more goodness and advice on bathroom and laundry renovations check out our articles here

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Sydney’s Colourful Bathroom Trends: Bold Designs for Every Home

Marissa — Sat, 24 May 2025 06:16:39 +0000

Sydney homeowners are embracing colourful bathrooms to transform their spaces into unique, stylish sanctuaries. From playful kids’ designs to luxurious adult retreats, bold colours are reshaping bathroom aesthetics. Whether you’re designing a pink and green kids’ bathroom, a dramatic burgundy bathroom, or an elegant white and pink marble bathroom, there’s a colourful option to suit every style.

We chatted to Leah of Just In Place in Sydney’s Northern Beaches for inspiration on designing bathrooms with colour.

5 Popular Colour Trends in Bathrooms

1. Ocean-Inspired Blues and Bush-toned Greens – Ideal for coastal homes, these hues mirror Sydney’s beaches and surrounding native bushland.
2. Warm Terracotta & Earthy Tones – A modern touch that makes bathrooms feel inviting
3. Soft Pastels for Kid’s Bathrooms – Light pinks, mint greens and soft yellows bring a fun energetic vibe.
4. Rich Deep Tones for a Dramatic Statement – Deep hues paired with gold or brass fixtures create a luxurious feel.
5. Elegant Feature Floors – Soft, textured hues create a refined and sophisticated ambiance, perfect for a serene aesthetic.

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Designing a Colourful Kids Bathroom: Pink & Green Fun

Photo: Just In Place

A pink and green kids’ bathroom is both playful and stylish, creating a lively yet calming environment. This bathroom by Just In Place features:

Green mosaic finger tiled arch shower
Shades of pink wall tiles and finger mosaic feature tiles
Spotted gum timber custom floor standing vanity with make-up table
Custom timber mirror cabinet
Rose gold taps

Burgundy Bathroom: Rich & Dramatic Design

Photo: Just In Place

This burgundy bathroom makes a bold, luxurious statement and pairs beautifully with the richness of the timer vanity.

Featuring ‘Lilly’ double custom timber vanite, LED mirrors and stone look basins.

Sophisticated Pink Mable Bathroom

Photo: Just In Place

With shades of nude and pink, the delicate veining of this marble floor in this bathroom is the epitome of refined luxury, creating an elegant statement.

Featuring a ‘Banksia’ timber vanity and ‘Bondi’ timber mirror cabinet, the warmth of these fixtures creates a restful palette.

Whether you are designing a fun kids space, a dramatic sanctuary or soft calm retreat, adding colour enhances personality and style. Many Sydney homeowners are embracing colourful bathrooms to create striking yet functional spaces that reflect their unique tastes.

If you would like more information on any of the above or would like to discuss your bathroom renovation with Leah and her team, then please phone 0410 207 093 or check out their listing here.

For more goodness and advice on designing your bathroom check out our articles here

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How Much Does a Bathroom Renovation Cost in 2024?

Marissa — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 07:42:26 +0000

The cost of renovating your bathroom in today’s Sydney market has changed from 4 years ago. We spoke to the team from Novale Bathrooms for their insights, and what we can expect a bathroom renovation to cost in 2024.

Bathroom Renovation Budget and Cost Guide

The cost of your bathroom renovation will vary depending on your bathroom size and the scope of works required such as whether there will be plumbing and electrical changes, the finished tile heights, and the quality of fittings and fixtures you select. Before we dive into the detail, Novale Bathrooms has created a general budget guide for 3 different price points, that strives to be affordable without compromising on quality or service.

From $18,700-$25,300: A basic bathroom renovation
From $26,400 – $36,300: A standard bathroom renovation
From $30,800 onwards: A luxury bathroom renovation

Note: these figures are for complete renovations (not partial), and include GST, all fixtures and fittings, permits, warranties, insurances (inc. HBCF insurance that is compulsory for projects over $20K), labour and materials. These figures are calculated in consideration of a number of factors including previous project data, current prices and rates for qualified labour, fixtures and fittings, insurances etc.

For reference, the Housing Institute of Australia (HIA) suggests that the average spend of a bathroom renovation is $26,000 as of June 2023, and can cost anywhere between $8,000 to $35,000 and more depending on scope of works, fixture and fittings etc.

Want to know how much your bathroom will cost? Check out Novale Bathrooms free online estimate now!

The Basic Bathroom Renovation

Basic complete bathroom renovations generally include a reduced scope of building works with mid-range fixtures and fittings. This project type has a lower level of complexity than a standard complete renovation and includes all trades, materials, permits and insurances, fixtures and fittings required. Below is an example of a cost breakdown for a complete Basic Bathroom Renovation project.

Dwelling: House, Townhouse, Villa
Room size: approx. 4-5 square metres
Building works: Minor, low-level of layout changes (e.g. modifications of water and electrical points, drainage, windows, doors).
Fixtures and fittings: Essential set of items and does not include extras (e.g. non-standard tiling, underfloor heating, heated towel rail etc.). Mid-range in terms of pricing and number of PC items.

Trade and Labour Costs: $16,250 (GST inc.), this includes:

Demolition – $2,200
Waterproofing – $1,450
Tiling – $3,600
Plumbing – $2,500
Electrical – $800
Carpentry – $800
Rendering/Plastering/Lining – $1,900
Glazing (inc. shower screen cost & install) – $1,700
Rubbish Removal – $800
Painting – $500

Fixtures & Fittings: $6,345 (GST inc.) this includes:

Vanity (inc. Top) – $1,300
Basin – $260
Shaving Cabinet – $550
Bath – $725
Tiles – $1,300
Tapware (inc. shower) – $1,400
Toilet – $600
Hooks & Rails etc. – $300

Total Cost for complete Basic Bathroom Renovation: $22,685

Cost Saving Tips: Keeping the existing layout as is to significantly reduce trade costs. Reduce the amount of tiling by not tiling to the ceiling.

The Standard Bathroom Renovation

Standard bathroom renovations cover the popular ranges in terms of dwelling type, sizing and fixtures and fittings. It also includes all trades, materials, permits and insurances, fixtures and fittings required. Contrary to belief, units and apartments can bear extra cost due to permits, and strata requirements as well as logistics of using a lift or stairs for access. Below is an example of a cost breakdown for a complete Standard Bathroom Renovation project.

Dwelling: House, villa, unit/apartment.
Room size: approx. 5-6 square metres
Building works: Standard, normal level of layout changes (e.g. modifications of water and electrical points, drainage, recesses, windows, doors etc.)
Fixtures and fittings: Standard selection with some extras and upgrades included e.g. (fans, heat lamp, lights etc). Mid to high range in terms of pricing and number of PC items.

Trade and Labour Costs: $21,450 (GST inc.) this includes:

Demolition – $2,600
Waterproofing – $1,500
Tiling – $4,500
Plumbing – $3,750
Electrical – $1,500
Carpentry – $1,500
Rendering/Plastering/Lining – $2,250
Glazing (inc. shower screen cost & install) – $2,000
Rubbish Removal – $1,100
Painting – $750

Fixtures & Fittings: $12,370 (GST inc.) this includes:

Vanity (inc. Top) – $2,000
Basin – $400
Shaving Cabinet – $970
Bath – $1,550
Tiles – $3,075
Tapware (inc. shower) – $1,500
Toilet – $1,250
Hooks & Rails etc. – $500
Fan & Heatlamps – $350
Heated Towel Rail – $400
Lights – $375

Total Cost for complete Standard Bathroom Renovation: $33,820

Cost saving tips: In additional to the suggestions for a Basic Renovation, opting to use non-premium fixtures and fittings e.g. chrome tapware over brushed metals, and retaining existing fans and lights can assist the bottom line!

The Luxury Bathroom Renovation

Luxury bathroom renovations are the upper range and budgets generally start from $30,800 onwards. They also include all trades, materials, permits and insurances, fixtures and fittings required with extra upgrades including premium fixtures and fittings, custom design and layout changes, non-standard tiling, underfloor heating etc. Below is an example of a cost breakdown for a complete Luxury Bathroom Renovation project.

Dwelling: House, villa, unit/apartment.
Room size: 7 square metres or higher
Building works: High, premium level of design and layout changes (e.g. modifications of water and electrical points, drainage, recesses, windows, doors etc.)
Fixtures and fittings: Luxury selection with some extras and upgrades included e.g. (fans, heat lamp, heated towel rail, lights, underfloor heating, etc). Mid to high range in terms of pricing and number of PC items.

Trade and Labour Costs: $34,900 (GST inc.) this includes:

Demolition – $3,500
Waterproofing – $2,150
Tiling – $7,800
Plumbing – $5,650
Electrical – $2,500
Carpentry – $1,650
Rendering/Plastering/Lining – $5,500
Glazing (inc. shower screen cost & install) – $3,200
Rubbish Removal – $1,950
Painting – $1,000

Fixtures & Fittings: $24,014 (GST inc.) this includes:

Vanity (inc. Top) – $3,750
Basin – $760
Shaving Cabinet – $1,210
Bath – $2,150
Tiles – $5,100
Tapware (inc. shower) – $3,900
Toilet – $1,650
Hooks & Rails etc. – $764
Fan & Heatlamps – $400
Heated Towel Rail – $600
Lights – $550
Underfloor Heating – $2,000
Window – $800
Door – $380

Total Cost for complete Luxury Bathroom Renovation: $58,914

Are you ready to create your dream bathroom? Contact the team today from Novale Bathrooms on 1800 NOVALE or check out their website here.

For more goodness and advice on bathroom renovations check out our articles here

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Choosing the Perfect Bathroom Basin: Above-Counter vs Undermount

Marissa — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 23:34:15 +0000

When designing your bathroom, selecting the right basin for your vanity is an important decision. Not only does it impact the overall aesthetics and vanity choice, but it also affects functionality and daily convenience. Let’s explore two popular basin types: above-counter basins and under-mount basins, weighing their pros and cons. Whether you’re renovating your ensuite or updating the family bathroom, let’s dive into the details.

Above-Counter Basins (Vessel Sinks)

Pros

Stylish Design: Above-counter basins come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, allowing for endless design possibilities. Whether you prefer sleek ceramic or eye-catching glass, these basins can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any bathroom space.

Custom Vanity and Vessel Basin; Just In Place Sydney

Space-Saving: If you’re dealing with a compact or narrow bathroom, above-counter basins are your allies. By sitting atop the vanity or countertop, they create the illusion of more space. Perfect for cozy bathrooms!

Above Counter Vessel Basin; Just In Place Sydney

Customisation: Want a basin that matches your unique style? Above-counter sinks offer more customisation options compared to traditional undermount basins. Choose from materials like glass, ceramic, stone, or even metal to complement your bathroom decor.

Easy Installation: Installing above-counter basins is typically a breeze. Unlike undermount sinks that require cutting into the countertop, these sit directly on top. Save time and money during installation.

Double Basin Vanity; Just In Place Sydney

Accessibility: The raised height of above-counter basins makes them more accessible for individuals with mobility issues. Say goodbye to bending down uncomfortably to use a lower sink.

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Cons:

Splashing: Since the basin sits above the countertop, there’s a higher chance of water splashing onto surrounding surfaces. Proper faucet positioning is crucial to minimise this issue.

Cleaning Difficulty: Dirt and grime can accumulate around the edges of above-counter basins, making cleaning a tad more challenging compared to undermount sinks.

Limited Counter Space: Depending on the basin’s size and shape, it can occupy a significant portion of your countertop. Consider this when planning your bathroom essentials.

Potential for Damage: Exposed above-counter basins may be more susceptible to accidental impacts or heavy objects placed on top of them.

Tapware Compatibility: Not all taps work well with above-counter basins. Ensure your chosen tap is compatible in terms of height and design to prevent water splashing.

Undermount Basins

Pros

Easy Cleaning: No edges mean no dirt traps. Cleaning around undermount basins is straightforward, as there’s no countertop surface to worry about.

Integrated Basin; Novale Bathrooms Sydney

Maximised Counter Space: Since the basin is hidden, you have more usable countertop area for toiletries, cosmetics, and other essentials.

Undermount Basin; Novale Bathrooms Sydney

Durability: Undermount basins are less exposed, reducing the risk of accidental damage.

Cons

Installation Complexity: Undermount basins require precise installation, involving cutting into the countertop. Professional help is advisable.

Less Customisation: Compared to above-counter basins, your material and design choices are somewhat limited.

Cost: Undermount basins can be pricier due to installation requirements and the need for quality materials.

Accessibility: They may not be as accessible for everyone, especially those with mobility challenges.

Choose Wisely

When choosing your bathroom vanity basin make sure you consider your space, style preferences, and daily needs. Whether you opt for the chic flair of above-counter basins or the seamless elegance of undermount basins, make an informed choice. Your bathroom deserves nothing less than perfection!

If you would like more information on any of the above or would like to discuss your bathroom renovation, see our team of directory experts here: Bathroom Renovations

For more goodness and advice on bathroom renovations check out our articles here
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Summer Holidays Home Renovation: Easy DIY Projects to Improve Your Home

Marissa — Sat, 16 Dec 2023 01:36:02 +0000

Updated December 2023
I think we are all looking forward to a break this Christmas after the year that was 2023!
If you have a few weeks off work why not make the most of this time to fit in some easy DIY projects to improve your home? There are always little things that you can tackle yourself. We’ve spoken to our experts and put together a list of easy DIY home renovation projects for over the summer holidays.

Small improvements can really make a big impact, and you can spruce your house up beautifully to launch 2024 in the right way. Plus, we Renovating Mums love the added feel-good vibes that come from actually doing it yourself (and we need all the feel-good vibes we can get right now :-).

Some tips before you get started

Know your limitations

DIY and home renovation projects are all about knowing your limitations. Some jobs need to be left to the professionals.

For example, bathrooms can be an expensive but effective investment towards modernising your home. Every bathroom and laundry must have a waterproofing membrane designed to keep any water or leaks inside the room and directed to your floor waste. Removing items like baths, tiles etc and replacing them yourself could potentially end up penetrating the membrane and creating further damage throughout your home.

I recommend speaking to a professional before attempting to replace fixtures, to assess the potential risks. It may be worth investing in a new vanity, shaving cabinet, and a coat of paint, or it might be worth saving up the extra funds and completing a full bathroom renovation, eliminating any potential further issues.

See below for great ideas for projects from our expert trades; we have gone directly to the people in the know!

Summer Holidays Home Renovation: Easy DIY Projects to Improve Your Home

In the Bathroom

Do some easy silicone replacement to give your bathroom that refreshed clean feel. Make sure that you choose the right silicone for the job and check out YouTube for neat ‘how to videos‘.
Look at replacing and updating handles on your vanity and cupboards. This easy change will bring new life to an old bathroom
Consider replacing your vanity with a new one, Just In Place have some beautiful original options available

Photo: Custom Timber Vanity, Just In Place

Re-grout floor and wall tiles (again, youtube has some great videos – thank you Bunnings)
Add or change accessories like hooks, toilet roll holders, towel rails or mirrors.
Add alternative storage like baskets for toilet rolls, timber shelving, a bamboo ladder for towels, all of which will add more personality to your bathroom for less $$
A bit of greenery will add positive vibes; this can be placed on a stool, near the basin or try a hanging plant in one of the corners. Go with a full-sized tree or even something small like a vase of flowers or some succulents.

In the Kitchen

Rearrange your storage with labeled unified containers. We love IKEA for this purpose and suggest spices, dried food and even storage containers for your fridge.

Photo: Ikea spice jars ‘Rajtan’

If you are handy you can resurface your laminated bench top. Your nearest Bunnings has a number of suitable DIY products, ask for advice at the counter according to the specific finish you would like to achieve.
Like the bathroom you can update your cabinet handles for a quick, cost-effective change. Just remember to measure the screw hole distance of your current handles and ensure your new ones are the same to save holes in your cabinet doors
Give a new look to your kitchen splashback by painting the tiles & re-grouting – finish the job with a good grout sealer to protect against discoloration.
Find a place in the kitchen or near the kitchen to hang a piece of art, it can be even framed drawing from one of your kids. That ‘pop’ of personality can really lift a space, plus the kids will love seeing their hard work hanging on the wall.

In the Lounge and Bedrooms

Think of creating some big impact feature walls – refresh the colour, consider adding texture through wallpaper or even add a pattern with Easycraft wall VJ panelling or wall moldings and trim.
Indoor plants – bring the outside in! Also consider the pots, you can use woven baskets for that soft organic Hamptons feel or some quirky pieces of pottery, we’re loving these by Jones & Co in Surry Hills

Face Vase Pottery by Jones & Co

Review your lighting – give your light fittings a good clean and consider new fittings, or even pendant lights for a new look
Update cushions/throws and add a new rug to the floor to define a space, simple but very effective
New blinds, sheers and curtains – a continuing trend for 2023 are floor to ceiling sheers
Add a feature mirror. Consider your placement of mirrors carefully; put them in the best location to bounce light around and increase the sense of space i.e. on a back wall.
Think about a photo wall. This is also a great project to work on with the kids… select some fabulous photos that evoke meaning and memories for you all and place them as a collection on the wall. We love mis-matched frames for that added character and find these look fab in long hallways or stairwells.
Upcycle! Over that piece of furniture? wish it was white instead of blue? Chalk paint is fabulously user friendly and it is very quick to dramatically change an item of furniture. Normally no sanding is needed which is also a plus! After the repaint think about new handles and knobs…

For Window and Doors

Clean Your Windows. This sounds like an obvious one but it’s truly amazing what a good window clean can do.
Replacing Window Hardware. When windows are open, the window hardware, i.e., handles and locks are exposed to the elements. Unfortunately, this means that they can rust quite quickly, especially in homes close to the salt air. Replacing the hardware is easy to do if you have a drill and screwdriver.
Vacuum out of the bottom tracks of all doors and windows to remove any dirt, sand & debris that builds up over time
Do not hose down the windows or doors with a high-pressure hose – they are not designed for this and may cause leaking inside or glass breakage
Check all weep holes in the window or doors sills and if blocked clear any debris to allow water to drain out of the window system when it rains
Check timber finishes regularly and re-coat if required
Lubricate any moving parts such as rollers, locks and hinges with a silicone-based spray
Flyscreens can be cleaned by vacuuming or washing with a soft brush. Allow to dry thoroughly before re-installing.

Upgrade safety and install childproofing

Photo: Check your Safety Gates

Childproofing is often a job that gets put to one side – now is the time to get onto this:

Fix any furniture such as shelves or chests of drawers that could tip if a child tried to climb on it.
Fix any child-proofing fasteners that have come loose.
Fix any baby gates that have broken or come loose.
Look around outside and fix any fences or gates that have become a problem, especially anything around the pool area.
Install Child-Proof Locks on doors and windows. All strata buildings in NSW must be fitted with child-safe devices that lock the window opening at less than 12.5cm on windows that are first floor or above to prevent children falling out. It’s not an expensive job and the safety devices can be easy to fit. The peace of mind it will provide you with is priceless.
Also note that flyscreens do not stop children falling. Run your eye over each room of the house and ensure furniture is kept away from windows so children cannot use these to climb

For the Outdoors

Think MULCH MULCH MULCH especially over Christmas if you are going away. The best thing to use is sugar cane – easy to buy at Bunnings and easy to spread from the bag. Aim to cover the soil with a 50-100mm thickness of the new mulch and remember not mulch right up to the base of your trees and shrubs as this can cause the base to rot.
Tidy up and rake leaves, clean out the drains
Lightly top dress your lawn to help level out any depressions and alleviate ponding
Get on top of the weeds
Consider a small vege/herb garden. It’s a great summer project with the kids and they will love being involved and seeing their hard work bare ‘fruit’. Even a few pots and planters with cherry tomatoes and lettuces will bring smiles.

Photo: Little pots of seedlings & veges are great for little hands

Update outdoor furniture with a thorough clean and depending on finish you can give it a quick sand and fresh coat of oil or stain.
Don’t forget new outdoor cushions for that pop of colour or you can even have your old ones recovered!

Phew…what a list!

Good luck with all of your DIY projects and be sure to get some time off with loved ones as well!

Remember, if you’re looking for friendly advice & support, check in with our FB Community where you can share the highs (& occasional lows) of your projects.

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Navigating Shower Drainage: Linear Drains vs. Square Drains

Marissa — Sun, 29 Oct 2023 01:22:28 +0000

What type of drain is best for your shower?

When it comes to bathroom design, the devil is often in the details. What type of drain is best for your shower is not the most glamorous topic, but it’s a crucial consideration that can impact both aesthetics and functionality.

In bathrooms, the choice between linear/channel drains and standard square drains has gained prominence due to their distinct advantages and disadvantages. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of each, their compliance with Australian standards, and how to factor them into your bathroom design.

Linear/Channel Drains: Aesthetic Elegance and Accessibility

Pros:

Aesthetic Appeal: Channel drains, also known as linear drains, offer a sleek and modern appearance. They create a seamless look by integrating with the bathroom floor, making them an excellent choice for contemporary designs. The single slope towards the drain also opens up endless opportunities for tile choice whilst minimising grout lines.
Water Management: Strip drains efficiently manage water by collecting it across a wider surface area. This minimizes the risk of water pooling, which is especially important in open/wet room-style bathroom designs.
Accessibility: Strip drains can be placed at the entrance of the shower area, creating a barrier-free, wheelchair-friendly entry. This aligns with the principles of universal design.

DOWNLOAD RENOVATING MUMS BATHROOM CHECKLIST HERE

Cons:

Installation Complexity: Installing linear drains requires careful consideration during the design and construction phases. Proper slope and waterproofing are essential to prevent water from seeping into unintended areas.
Cost: Linear drains are often pricier than standard drains due to their design and installation requirements.
Cleaning: Because linear drains are installed flush with the ground they can be harder to access for cleaning and accumulate more hair than a standard square drain. Ensure you consider ease of access when considering your design and that you can lift them clearly out without bumping screens etc.

Standard Square Drains: Time tested and Versatile

Pros:

Simplicity: Square drains are straightforward to install and typically involve less complexity during construction.
Variety: A wide range of grate designs are available for square drains from tile insets to round decorative grates, allowing you to find one that complements your bathroom’s aesthetic.
Cost-Effective: Square drains are generally more budget-friendly compared to linear drains.

Cons:

Water Management: Standard drains have a smaller surface area for water collection, which might lead to water pooling if not designed and installed properly.
Aesthetics: Depending on tile choice the requirement for adequate falls to the central drain point may require numerous cuts in the tiles resulting in more grout lines.

Tile cuts required to form adequate fall for drainage.

BCA, Australian Standards and Design Considerations:

Both linear drains and square drains must meet BCA and Australian standards for installation, drainage efficiency and waterproofing to prevent water damage. When designing your bathroom, consider factors such as the bathroom’s layout, size, and overall aesthetic.

For linear drains, ensure proper floor slope, waterproofing, and appropriate positioning to guarantee efficient water drainage. For central square drains, choose a design that complements your bathroom tiles and overall theme.

Also ensure that all drains are installed by a licensed plumber!

Shower Design: Wet Room Style or Enclosed

The choice between a wet room-style shower and an enclosed shower impacts the drainage solution you opt for. Wet room designs often favor linear drains for their water management capabilities, while enclosed showers can work well with both strip and square drains based on aesthetic preferences, budget and accessibility needs.

In conclusion, bathroom drainage, particularly in shower areas, is a significant consideration when designing your bathroom. Linear drains offer a modern look and improved water management, while square drains provide versatility and cost-effectiveness. Both options must adhere to Australian standards for proper drainage and waterproofing. When designing your bathroom, factor in the shower type (wet room or enclosed) and your aesthetic preferences to make an informed choice that balances style and functionality.

For more goodness and advice on bathroom renovations check out our articles here

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Why 2D And 3D Designs Help You Build Your Dream Bathroom

Marissa — Sat, 17 Dec 2022 23:02:19 +0000

Your guide to a flawless renovation for family home!

Bathrooms are an important space within the family home. Bathrooms, when executed correctly, can be extremely functional, inviting, open and spacious as well as offering tranquility and luxury. They are also becoming more and more customised and personalised to suit your style.

So, why invest tens of thousands of dollars into a bathroom renovation, and almost walk into it blindfolded? Why not allocate a small portion of those funds to 2D & 3D bathroom designs?

We chatted to Belinda at Decoris Bathrooms who is a strong advocate of investing time into the planning and design stage to find out more about the benefits of 2D & 3D computerised bathroom designs to create your dream bathroom.

All about 2D Bathoom Designs

2D designs are computer-generated drawings that provide a high-detail floor-plan layout of your proposed bathroom including:

Specific configuration of your bathroom layout
Physical measurements of the overall space
Highly detailed measurements of spacing between fixtures and fittings for example, the distance between the toilet to the vanity
Birds’ eye viewpoint for visualising the functionality of the space

2D bathroom layout plan; Decoris Bathrooms

The 2D design drawings most importantly help you visualise in your own space how functional the proposed bathroom will be on a day-to-day basis. All of the high attention to detail considerations, like:

How much space will there be in the shower area? Is there enough space for storage of soap, shampoo bottles and to still functionally use the shower
Is there enough space in the toilet area to not be too compact? Is there appropriate space for the toilet roll holder, where you can put it on a perpendicular wall, so you don’t need to awkwardly reach behind for the toilet paper
Is there enough space to walk around for ease of cleaning and not creating hard-to-reach areas?

And many more considerations that 2D design drawings help reveal and facilitate you with creating your perfect bathroom.

DOWNLOAD RENOVATING MUMS BATHROOM CHECKLIST HERE

What about 3D Designs?

3D designs articulate in a highly specific manner and a great degree of detail, the types of products selected and how the colours and styles work together as well as providing that all-important ‘sense of space‘. This visual representation is facilitated by:

Different elevations and perspectives of the fittings, fixtures and finishes in-situ in the bathroom
360-degree vantage points from all sides of the bathroom so you can see how it looks

3D bathroom visualisation; Decoris Bathrooms

The benefit of these 3D drawings is that they empower you with complete confidence in a bathroom design and layout, so it not only meets your functional requirements but is of a design, colour, and style that matches your expectations and is personalised to your family home.

This then leads you to be able to confidently go into a showroom with the computerised drawings and incorporate the physical products and colours and bring your dream bathroom to life.

There are many contemporary styles like the recent bathroom design and renovation pictured below, where subtle tones from the golden fixtures are incorporated with stunning, grey stone floor and wall tiles, and the textured wall-hung vanity, which provides an elegant, modern feel, that beautifully complements the rest of the rooms of the family home.

Berowra Project: bathroom design and renovation; Decoris Bathrooms

Whilst the design and planning process can be time and labour-intensive, the results of the Berowra Project above unreservedly speak loudly for themselves, with the quality and highly detailed finish of the bathroom renovation.

The design and planning process is worthwhile investing in, but for those who aren’t DIY designers or have the means or access to these computer programs, you can engage with experts like Belinda at Decoris Bathrooms, where they specialise in the full renovation process from consultation, design to installation and provide experienced tradespeople, highly detailed designs, expert advice and consistent and open communication throughout the whole journey.

Decoris Bathrooms are a company, whose values are ensuring you have a beautiful family home, that you are proud of and love, and will create new, everlasting memories for many years to come.

Thanks for chatting Belinda!

For more goodness and advice on bathroom renovations check out our articles here
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The post Why 2D And 3D Designs Help You Build Your Dream Bathroom appeared first on Renovating Mums.

Choosing And Designing Your Bathroom Vanity

Marissa — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 08:08:35 +0000

Locally-made Custom Poly or Timber Vanities by the team at Just In Place.

A custom poly or solid hardwood vanity from ‘Just In Place’ shows quality and craftsmanship, lifting the wow factor in your bathroom or ensuite! A custom vanity also offers you the opportunity to design and configure the perfect vanity for your needs. Don’t be scared to use timber in the bathroom; not only does it look amazing with its warmth and texture but it is also very practical. Add a stone top to the top of the vanity and you have extra protection from little people!

Key considerations for the design of your vanity:

Dimensions of your vanity – remember to take into account how many basins there will be.
Choosing the colour and finish for a poly vanity or your timber type; timber type can include Spotted Gum, Wormy Chestnut, American Oak, Blackbutt, and Tasmanian Oak.
Locations of basins – if a single basin would you like it centered or offset? If offset left/right, consider which side of the vanity you would prefer.
Wall hung or with legs – if wall-hung make sure you discuss with your builder and plumber to ensure correct location of the waste pipe so it remains hidden in the wall, and that there is enough support placed in the wall to hang your vanity safely.
Just In Place Custom Poly Bathroom Vanity Green with Stone Top

DOWNLOAD RENOVATING MUMS BATHROOM CHECKLIST HERE

The next step is where the functionality of your vanity comes in, and where the options are endless with a custom vanity;

Vanity Configurations!

Here you need to think about how you would use your vanity. Do you like everything tucked away and hidden? You would consider drawers or cupboards with doors. Or if you would like some design features with easy accessibility you could consider integrating shelves and open spaces.

Internal configurations – these change from unit to unit depending on the overall design of the vanity:

Basin location and waste cut – define if you want one or two basins, and then the desired location. Once basin locations are determined, the waste space below will be configured depending on whether you select drawers or cupboards.
Internal Drawer Option – this is an additional internal drawer inside the drawer. A fantastic feature for extra space and storing make-up or jewelry.
Internal Divider Option – giving you built-in separate compartments. Perfect for keeping your drawers neat and tidy.

Beautifully customised timber vanity and mirror cabinet by ‘Just In Place’

We love the fact that the gorgeous vanities at ‘Just In Place’ offer you the ability to design your dream bathroom vanity! Thank you ladies!

If you would like more information on any of the above or would like to discuss you needs with the team at Just In Place, then please contact (02) 9446 9642 or check out their listing here.

For more goodness and advice on bathroom renovations check out our articles here

OR get social with our amazing FB community

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