+ If you’re looking for something
a little different, consider
installing a skylight over the
bath so you can soak, relax and
watch the clouds and stars.
+ Keep costs down by
eliminating tiles. Keep the walls
simple with paint and opt for
vinyl or laminate flooring.
+ A heat-pump hot water
cylinder collects energy from the
air at three times the efficiency
of a standard electric hot water
cylinder. As electricity for hot
water is one of the biggest
household costs, a heat-pump
hot water system is a smart way
to go (though not suitable for
very cold climates).+ Planning your bathroom
layout is everything. It’s a good
idea to get your builder in early
to discuss the options. Simple
things like a cavity slider door
can make a big difference.
+ Installing an acrylic shower?
Don’t skimp on cost. In most
cases, the cheap ones are cheap
for a reason.
+ Save money by limiting the
area you are tiling and shopping
around for the big-ticket items.
+ Unless you’re experienced,
avoid managing tradesmen
yourself. Having everyone turn
up on the same day to work in
one small room doesn’t work
and results in increased costs.Palmer Construction,
Palmerston North. Find Daniel on
builderscrack.co.nz.JEREMY WYNN-HARRIS
MANAGING DIRECTOR OF
BUILDERSCRACK.CO.NZDANIEL PALMER
BUILDERTIPS FROM THE EXPERTSFreestanding baths with a twist are the style of choice for 2019. Bicolour baths (featuring contrasting colours inside
and out) can add extra interest, while mounting your tub on a platform adds extra luxury in a spa-style space.Caroma Noir bath,
$2670, from
Plumbing World.Drop You drop-in
bath, from $610, from
Bath Co.Windsor bath, $1295,
from Bath Co.Baths
4“If you are wanting to shop for bathroom products yourself,
make sure you check with your tradesperson to see if they can
get a better price from their suppliers” — ADAM PEARCE, TRADIE+
MICO BATHROOMS TREND
“AS BOUNDARIES
WITHIN THE HOME
BLUR, AND BATHROOM
FIXTURES BECOME AKIN
TO FURNITURE, THESE
PIECES NO LONGER
NEED TO BE TUCKED
AWAY OUT OF SIGHT”92 | yhg