Guide On Small Bathroom Renovations: Layout, Costs and Designs

April 10, 20230

This article has been updated to include further content to reflect the current trends of 2023.

Do you have a small bathroom that you dream to renovation, or do you simply wish for a fresh new look? Small bathroom renovation can be seen as a challenge. However, with the right composition and layout, you will be able to the most out of your small bathroom. Small bathrooms have a charm of its own, throughout this blog we will cover few key elements that you help you enhance your small bathroom.

This article with cover…

Different types of layouts for your small bathroom.
How to maximise the space for your small bathroom – Top 10 Tips
Cost for small bathroom renovation.
Tips when renovating your small bathroom on a budget.
15 Mistakes to avoid for a small bathroom renovation.

Small Bathroom Layout

After a long day at work, everyone wants to come home to a relaxing bath to unwind or have a rainfall shower. To some, this may be a reality, however, to some these luxury fixtures maybe just a long-term dream. Even though small bathroom designs have a charm of their own, sometimes it may be a daily struggle and stress, due to the limitation of space.

Do not worry, we have good news! With a well-planned layout, all your struggles and inconveniences will be solved. However, there will be a few compromises that will need to be faced, including tearing out your tub.

Just by the simple act of rearranging the layout of your bathroom, you can make a tremendous difference. The figures below, highlight the ideal layouts we have picked out, that will work with the most common small bathrooms. These layouts do not need any demolishing and will allow you to keep the same footprint.

To achieve a functional bathroom layout for a small space, it’s important to consider every aspect of the design, from fixture placement to materials and finishes. Your designer can help you create a cohesive design that maximizes space and functionality while still reflecting your personal style and preferences.

One of the key considerations when designing a small bathroom layout is fixture placement. You will need to prioritise the placement of key fixtures such as the toilet, sink, and shower/bath to ensure that they are easily accessible and functional. For example, you may want to place the sink near the door to allow for more space in the rest of the bathroom, or opt for a corner sink to free up more floor space.

In addition to fixture placement, you can incorporate multipurpose elements into the design to save space and enhance functionality. For example, you may want to choose a vanity with built-in storage or a medicine cabinet with a mirror to serve dual purposes. By incorporating these elements into the bathroom design, you can maximise functionality without sacrificing style.

When it comes to choosing materials and finishes for a small bathroom layout, it’s important to select options that are both durable and visually appealing. Porcelain or ceramic tile is a popular choice for bathroom flooring and walls because it is moisture-resistant and easy to clean. A designer and a renovation company can help you choose the best materials and finishes for your bathroom based on your preferences and budget.

Your designer will also help you choose the right accessories and storage solutions that maximise functionality in a small bathroom design. This may include towel racks that double as shelving, wall-mounted storage solutions, or even a built-in shower niche to provide additional storage space. By incorporating these small details into the design, you can create a bathroom that is both functional and visually appealing, even in a small space.

In summary, achieving a functional bathroom layout for a small space requires careful planning and design. By prioritising fixture placement, incorporating multipurpose elements, choosing durable materials and finishes, and selecting accessories and storage solutions that maximise functionality, you can create a bathroom that meets your needs and reflects your personal style.

Small Bathroom: Full Size Bathroom Layout

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Dimensions: 40 square feet (5’ x 8’), Fixture: Sink, Toilet and Tub Shower Combo or Luxury Shower.

The most common dimensions of a small bathroom are 5’ x 8’ and requires a minimum of 36 to 40 square feet to be considered a full bathroom. If your small bathroom has similar measurements, you have a standard-sized small bathroom. We have two different layout recommendations that you can consider to jazz-up your bathroom. Depending on your bathing preferences there are two options you can choose from.

Choose a modest tub-shower combo, shown on the left-hand side figure, or.
Choose a fancy shower with multiple shower heads.

Whether you decide to choose option one or two, we can guarantee you will be able to towel off with ease without hitting or dumping on your door or toilet.

Small Bathroom: Three-Quarter Bathroom Layout

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Dimensions: 36 square feet (6’x 6’), Fixtures: Sink, Toilet and Standard Shower.

A three-quarter bathroom is another common small bathroom size and are usually 6’ x 6’ in dimension. This type of bathroom meets the minimum requirement of a full bathroom. A small bathroom is considered a full bathroom if it consists of a toilet, vanity, shower, and bathtub. Our recommended layout for this type of small bathroom, consists of a toilet, vanity, and shower. We like to keep the layout simple for a few reasons.

Reason one: Having a bathroom in a limited space can take up too much space.

Reason two: The bathroom can give a bulky image giving your bathroom a cramped feeling. As we are working with limited space, we want to aim to keep the layout simple and have a smooth traffic flow. Another idea to keep your small bathroom spacious, you can position your shower or vanity in the corner.

Small Bathroom with a Separate Tub and Shower

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Dimensions: 45 square feet (5’ x 9’), Fixtures: Sink, Toilet, Tub and Shower.

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Small Bathroom with a Sliding Door

Having a small bathroom that has both a bathtub and shower may sound like a tricky dream to achieve. However, with a well-planned layout, nothing is impossible! To achieve fitting both fixtures into your small bathroom, and having an enough space to get in/out of your tub and shower, the ideal size of your bathroom should be no less than 45 square feet. Shown on our recommended layout plan above, we can see that there will be limited space for dressing and undressing. Therefore, to make your small bathroom dreams come true and have enough space we recommend swapping out your average swing door with a sliding door.

Narrow Small Bathroom

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Dimensions: 27 square feet (3’ x 9’) or 32 square feet (4’ x 8’), Fixtures: Sink, toilet, and shower.

Homeowners with narrow and small bathrooms, usually struggle to arrange the placement of essentials fixtures. Most customers find that most standard-sized fixtures stick out too much or interrupt with traffic flow. But do not worry! We have some universal tips that may help with this problem.

Outward Swinging Door: An outward swinging door will offer benefits, such as getting in and out of the bathroom with ease, as well as allows you to make the most out of your narrow bathroom.
Sink and Toilet Side by Side: By placing your sink and toilet along the same wall, this gives the bathroom a cleaner look, as well as creates storage and foot traffic along the other walls.
Wall Niches for Sink and Toilet Cistern: Using wall niches prevents your sink and toilet cistern from sticking out too much. You should consider using wall niches if a standard-sized sink and toilet are too big.
Shower Against the Short Wall: Make your narrow bathroom look more spacious and help arrange the rests of your fixtures, by placing your shower against the short wall.

Small Bathroom: Tiny-Half Bathroom Layout

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Dimensions: 20 to 30 square feet, Fixtures: Toilet and sink/shower.

A tiny bathroom layout is one of the smallest bathroom layout you will find, with dimensions between 20 to 30 square feet. Often, homeowners use these tiny bathrooms as a half bathroom that only contains a toilet and a sink. However, even though the space is small, you can still make use of the space and create a full bathroom without the need to carve out extra space. How? Is it very simple, use a sink faucet converter. With a sink faucet converter your sink can do double-duty as a shower and a sink without the extra space. But note, you will need to make sure you get a drain installed on your floor.

Small bathroom owners, there is no need to envy big bathrooms. With a simple layout, you can make your small bathroom look more spacious and more comfortable. Feel free to contact us for more information regarding renovating your small bathroom.

How to Maximise the Space for Small Bathroom Renovation?

In most cases, the bigger the home there is a lack of evenly distributing the space. There are usually a lot of excess storage or closet space, but only one or one-and-a-half bathrooms. Yes, extra storage may sound very appealing, however adding an extra bathroom to your floor plan can have great benefits. It will pay off significantly when you ever decide to resell your home and will make your life easier if you have a large family, or ever decide to expand your family.

If you find a little bit of extra space in your home, maybe you have an extra closet space you do not use, or there is corner in your living room you can close off. Or even if you have unnecessary space in your home that needs a bit of love. We recommend you consider converting it into a bathroom!

10 tips you can maximise the space for a small bathroom renovation.

1. Take in account of fixtures and solutions of your small bathroom

The next step when you have finalized the location of your small bathroom is to make a design plan. Do not underestimated the size of your small bathroom. Even small bathrooms need a bathroom layout and bathroom design, that include the essentials- a sink, lighting, a toilet, and other fixtures (mirrors and cabinets).

Depending on the size of the space you are wanted to renovate, turning a moderately sized closet into a full bathroom can be a challenge. However, give up hope just yet! If you are effective with your space, you can use space-saving fixtures such as fold-up tubs, corner showers or half-footprint tubs.

2. Be Careful with Plumbing

Make sure where you are placing plumbing fixtures, if possible, try to locate them near existing water and sewage lines. By doing this, it will be a huge time and money saver, as you will not need to pay extra costs to relocate pipes. Another aspect to take caution, is adding fixtures to your small bathroom design. Make sure to check the structure of the floor before making any further additions. This means you will need to ensure the floor maintain the weight of new fixtures if the floor seems like it will not support the weight you can alternatively reinforce the floor by adding more joists.

3. Plan for you Towel Hanging Space

Since you will be working with limited space, suing a washstand that comes with built in towel bars can be a great space-saver.

4. Windows and Venting

A crucial aspect of a small bathroom renovation that is often ignored during the planning process is venting and window space. The main concerns are usually focused on plumbing; however, a form of ventilation is very important and required to avoid any development of mold and mildew.

If the circumstances of your new small bathroom cannot fit a window, you can use fan vents to help keep air circulating. No one wants a stuffy bathroom, by investing in a fan vent it will reduce stuffiness, as well as prevent any development of mold or mildew.

Ultimately, you should consider talking to your contractor about which option, whether it is installing a vent or adding a window, is best fit for you!

5. Taller and Leggier Tables are your Best Friend!

Opting for tall, open base tables will significantly take up less space in your floor plan. Remember it is important to make the most of your small bathroom space.

6. Simplicity is Key

The overuse of colour and patterns can give your small bathroom a negative effect. When colour and patterns are overdone, especially in smaller spaces, it will make the bathroom look enclosed, cluttered and claustrophobic. To avoid this, we recommend using paint or tiles with bright, simple colours that will make your small bathroom feel and look more open.

7. Simple Storage Solutions for Small Bathroom Designs

Extra storage in the bathroom is always a nice touch to have, however, storage should not be put in at the expense of mobility. Especially for small bathrooms, storages and fixtures should be spaced out so they are accessible and still have room in the bathroom for movement.

If space is very limited, where the vanities are taking too much room in the small bathroom, you should consider using medicine cabinets instead or small racks instead!

Remember, before going ahead with any construction on your small bathroom, make sure you are keeping everything up to code and your local ordinances. Have a look at the permits for your town or suburb.

8. Use a pedestal sink

pedestal sink can be a stylish and space-saving solution for a small bathroom layout. This type of sink sits on a pedestal, taking up less floor space than a traditional vanity.

9. Use floating shelves

loating shelves can be a great way to add storage space to a small bathroom layout without taking up any floor space. These shelves can be mounted on the wall, providing a space to store toiletries, towels, or decorative items.

10. Install a wall-mounted toilet

A wall-mounted toilet can be a great way to maximize space in a small bathroom layout. This type of toilet is mounted to the wall, freeing up floor space and making the bathroom feel more open.

Cost for a Small Bathroom Renovation

Average Cost to Remodel a Small Bathroom

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Option	Material (NZD)	Labour (NZD)	Removal & Disposable (NZD)	Total (NZD)
Bathroom Installation	$566-$1420	$636-$850	$70-$425	$1273-$2688
Countertop Installation	$141-$1420	$70-$212	$7-$42	$219-$1669
Flooring	$84-$183	$495-$919	$42-$850	$622-$1953
Lighting Fixture Installation	$70-$169	$212-$311	$7-$14	$290-$495
Shower Installation	$350-$450	$495-$636	$42-$70	$1033-$1415
Sink Installation	$141-$353	$424-$495	$21-$134	$587-$983
Toilet Installation	$141-$707	$495-$636	$14-$28	$651-$1372

In New-Zealand to remodel a small bathroom can be expected to range anywhere from $2,122 to $21,228 NZD more. When wanting to do a full remodel of your small bathroom you can either go with low-end fixtures with DIY labour, or high-end fixtures installed by a licensed contractor. There is a price difference between the two options. With DIY labour, you will be expected to pay approximately $99 NZD per square foot, in contrast $353 NZD per square foot with a licensed contractor.

Remodeling your small bathroom is an easy, inexpensive way to increase the value of your home and to update the look of your home. On average, 66% of your remodeling cost will be retained back after you sell your home, as updated homes are statistically found to sell a lot faster. If your primary goal of remodeling your small bathroom is to sell, we recommend choosing inexpensive but new fixtures. New fixtures usually add extra value to a sale, rather than high-end fixtures.

For skilled DIYers who have the tools and experience, remodeling a small bathroom is a great task to take on. However, it is recommended that you consult with a licensed professional before undertaking any projects to ensure plumbing pipes and other necessities are up to code.

Remodeling your Small Bathroom by Function

The planning process of your small bathroom remodeling journey can vary depending on the room’s function. The function of each room determines on what type of finishes you install. For example, for a children bath you would usually use less expensive and function fixtures, such as a basic bathtub and new surrounds. However, on the other hand, for a master or main bathroom you may use high-end finishes, such as a glass tiled walk-in shower and glass mosaic features. Functions and fixtures used for guest bathrooms usually consists of a mixture of both two extremes.

Powder Room Remodel

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Powder Room

Remodeling a powder room is the perfect opportunity for a DIY project. The final costs of this type of bathroom usually fall below $990 NZD for a basic DIY remodel. On the other hand, a professional remodel will cost $1,981 NZD on average. A powder room can be referred to as the main floor half bathroom that is intended for guest use. These bathrooms usually consist of only a sink and toilet, with a simple set up requiring less plumbing and electrical assisting. A powder room are grouped with smaller bathrooms, with dimensions around 15-25 square feet.

Guest Bathroom

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Guest bathrooms fall under the mid-range category, with a cost of $212 NZD per square foot for remodeling. Unlike powder rooms, the guest bathroom is a private three quarter or full bath set for overnight guests. We have no recommendations when it comes to remodeling a guest bathroom beyond personal preference of fixtures and finish choice. Let your imagination go wild!

Read more on Guest Bathroom Designs here.

Master Bathroom

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Master Bathroom Client based in Redvale.

Read more about Sarah’s bathroom renovation journey here.

Master bathrooms are the focal point when to comes to selling your home. Remodeling master bathrooms usually consists of increasing space, which require moving walls, electrical, plumbing, and engineering and architectural concerns. Therefore, can significantly increase costs.

Kids Bathroom

A child’s bathroom is primarily focused on functionality. You will be expected to pay approximately $141-$253 per square foot, covering costs for lower end finishes and functions, for more practical use rather than aesthetic design.

Other Price Factors

When hiring a general contractor, you may need to organize a various subcontractor, such as framing, plumbing, electrical subcontractors, and the drywall and tiling professionals. This may sound scary and a hassle but do not worry, there are some organizations, like the team at Superior Renovations that organize everything for you!

Overall Small Bathroom Renovation Costs

Remodel and renovation are used interchangeably, the two words are very similar yet slightly different. Remodeling refers to changing the appearance of the bathroom, whereas renovation is more about repairing and updating. Taking away the old and dated fixtures and bring in the new and modern fixtures.

The cost for small bathroom renovations will vary depending on what type of finish you want. For example, hardwood floors or glass tiles are generally more expensive per square foot compared to vinyl. High-end finishes will ultimately be more cost effective but will have its benefits when it comes to re-selling your home.

Here is a breakdown of the costs that goes into renovating your renovations.

Note: Price are per square foot so will vary depending on the size of your bathroom, as well as what type of finish you are after.

Types of Installation	Cost
Hardwood Floor	$4.25-$11 NZD per square foot. Small bathrooms usually vary between 20-40 square foot so hardwood floor, it will be cost between $84-$452 NZD.
Tile	: Ceramic floor tiles usually cost between $21-$28 NZD per square foot. Compared to hardwood floors, ceramic floor tiles are more durable in wet and steamy environments.
Mirror Installation costs	$247-$672 NZD.
Painting	To hire a professional to will cost $254-$693 NZD. However, is this a perfect DIY job to save a bit of money as a cost of paint will cost between $42-$141 NZD.
Installation of Lights	$113-$424 NZD.
Cabinet Costs	$636-$1273 NZD.
Glass Shower Enclosure	If you are after a modernized bathroom without a shower curtain, a glass enclosure will be the perfect update. This will cost $778-$1910 NZD.

Gutting & Demolishing and Half to Full Bathroom Redoing

Demolition costs of a small bathroom will cost between $707-$2122 NZD. Demolishing your previous bathroom does not require any specialized tool but does require some basic knowledge about demolition. You must understand what processes to take before going further with your demolishing, such as understanding electrical wire and plumbing are located. If these processes are followed feel free to make this your next DIY project, or else you can always contact a professional to do the job.

Adding a Shower to a Half Size Small Bathroom

The addition of a shower will convert your half/three quarter bathroom into a full bathroom. Adding a shower will have the same costs and considerations. Adding a shower to your half bathroom will require to make more space or a new layout with plumbing and possibly new electricals. This process will cost an average of $4953 NZD.

Retiling a Small Bathroom

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Photo Credit: Tile Depot NZ

Renovating your small bathroom equals getting new fresh tiles. Fresh new tiles equal a luxury contemporary look for your bathroom! The average costs for new ceramic or porcelain titles are approximately $1415 NZD. There is also the option for glass or stone tiles, but these can be more expensive.

Read more about bathroom tiles here.

Want More Space?

Whether you want to install and new bathtub or a new shower in your small bathroom, you will need to make more space. As a result, you may need to alter the layout of your current bathroom and shift around your plumbing to accommodate new drain locations. To redesign the layout, this is going to require hiring an architect or a structural engineer. This will usually cost an average of $7000 NZD, but prices can vary if it is just expanding your bathroom.

More on Bathroom Costs…

Bathroom Renovation Cost Calculator for New Zealand

How Much does it Cost to Renovate a Bathroom New Zealand

Tips when Remodeling your Small Bathroom on a Budget

Not everyone can afford the luxury of spending thousands on remodeling/renovating our small bathroom, and that is okay! You can still update and refresh the look of your bathroom with these simple upgrades.

Re-grout your tiles for a fresh look.
Give your bathtub a resurface.
Refinish your cabinets and give them the extra shine!
Install new faucets.
Re-paint your bathroom. A perfect DIY job.

Do It Yourself? Or Hire a Pro?

Inspections are usually put into place when you are selling your home. If your next DIY project is remodeling or renovating your small bathroom make sure your work is up to code standards. When doing DIY work in general, remember to check with local and national codes. As well as getting the proper permits and inspections done. In this an important aspect to consider not just to sell your home but also for safety reasons. Since a bathroom is a wet environment, there are many requirements, specific electrical and safety hazards that must be followed!

DIY projects is usually an alternative homeowners consider when trying to save money. Sometimes the quality of the bathroom can fall, resulting the bathroom looking cheap affecting the resale process. Remember, the bathroom is one of the top selling points when it comes to home selling. Therefore, we recommend homeowners with the right experience and tools to go through with the DIY projects for your bathroom. Alternatively, there are always licensed professional contractors just a call away.

8 Mistakes to Avoid for a Small Bathroom Renovation

Designing a small bathroom can be a challenge, but with the right approach, you can make the most of the space you have. Here are some mistakes to avoid when designing a small bathroom

1. Not Having a Budget

Many first-time renovators do not priorities time to plan their costs and budgets before renovating their small bathroom. Not having a detailed understanding of the costs and your set budgets will cause major setbacks along the journey. It is important to know what aspects of your bathroom you are wanting to repair or replace and know what your cost limits are. Find a company that respects and fits your budget. By doing this, it will prevent any bumps along the journey- including not being able to complete the renovation.

2. Poor Ventilation

Air circulation and having a good ventilation system for your bathroom is key. This is often overlooked resulting in many bathrooms with poor ventilation. Poor ventilation equals a damp bathroom and the growth of mold and mildew. No one likes having a damp, suffocating bathroom. There are always alternative ventilation options, such as extraction fans if your bathroom does not come with a window.

3. Poor Finishes

The most common mistake people make when trying to budget or cut corners is not using good quality trades and products. When budgeting, we recommend prioritizing investing in good waterproof fixtures and the best finishes you can afford. These aspects will contribute to making your bathroom look and feel more luxurious.

4. Wrong Choice of Materials

The bathroom deals with a lot of wet surfaces due to all the washing and splashing of water. Therefore, it is crucial you select materials that are suitable to high amounts of moisture. This is especially important for your vanity top, cabinets, and tiles as the necessities for a long-lasting bathroom. We recommend avoiding materials made from wood, metal and porous. These materials are more prone to either rot, rust or gathering more bacteria.

5. Bad Lighting

Bathrooms with dim lighting may make your bathroom selfie look amazing. However, bright lightening is an important aspect to a good functional bathroom. Having good crisp lighting in your bathroom makes it easier to clean and a provides shadow-free lighting to make tasks such as applying make up easier. Imagine all the mildew and mold growth you will miss when cleaning in dim light!

Lighting is essential in a small bathroom layout, as it can make the space feel brighter and more open. However, poor lighting can have the opposite effect, making the bathroom feel dark and cramped. When it comes to lighting, it’s important to incorporate multiple sources of light, such as overhead lighting, task lighting, and natural light if possible. For example, you can install a bright ceiling light, a mirror with built-in lighting, and a small table lamp for task lighting. Additionally, you can install a frosted glass window to allow natural light to enter the bathroom while still maintaining privacy.

6. Unskilled DIY

It may be very tempted to have a go at plumbing or tiling your bathroom yourself. Many homeowners think due to the size, renovating the bathroom is a simple process. However, there are approximately up to 10 to 12 trades involved. Renovating your bathroom is not as easy as it seems, so make sure you consult with a professional before moving forward.

7. Neglecting Storage

When it comes to a small bathroom, storage is critical. Neglecting storage can lead to clutter and disorganization, which can make the bathroom feel even smaller. Incorporating storage solutions such as shelves, cabinets, and baskets can help maximize the available space and keep the bathroom tidy. A great way to optimize storage is to use vertical space by installing shelves or cabinets above the toilet or door. Additionally, you can use storage solutions that can serve dual purposes, such as a mirror with built-in storage or a shower caddy that hangs from the showerhead.

8. Oversized fixtures

Using oversized fixtures in a small bathroom can make the space feel cramped and overwhelming. Instead, opt for smaller fixtures that are specifically designed for small spaces. For example, you can choose a pedestal sink or a wall-mounted sink instead of a larger vanity. Additionally, you can choose a compact bathtub or a walk-in shower instead of a traditional bathtub with a shower curtain. Using smaller fixtures can help free up space in the bathroom and create a more open and airy feel.

9 . Bad Placement of Fixtures

Just having good-quality fixtures and a nice design means nothing without good placement. Placement is very important. No one wants to walk straight into a toilet, or have a toilet placed right behind the toilet. It is crucial you consider the placement and think about what placements work and what do not. This is where designers are here to help!

10. Overcomplicating your Bathroom design

When designing a small bathroom, it’s important to keep the design simple and minimalist. Overcomplicating the bathroom design can lead to a cluttered and overwhelming space. Instead, opt for a limited color palette and simple, clean lines. For example, you can choose a neutral color for the walls and add pops of color through accessories such as towels or artwork. Additionally, you can choose a simple, streamlined sink and vanity instead of a more ornate option.

11. Choosing the wrong materials

Choosing the wrong materials can make a small bathroom feel even smaller. For example, using dark tiles or heavy drapes can make the space feel closed off and claustrophobic. Instead, opt for light-colored tiles and sheer window treatments to create a more open and airy feel. Another small bathroom idea is to use mirrors strategically to reflect light and make the space feel larger.

12. Using too many patterns in your Small bathroom Design

While adding patterns and textures can be a great way to add visual interest to a small bathroom design, it’s important to use them sparingly. Too much pattern or texture can make the bathroom design feel busy and overwhelming, so consider using a single patterned tile as an accent, or incorporating texture through accessories such as a woven basket or a fluffy bath mat. Another small bathroom idea is to use a patterned shower curtain, which can add a pop of color and pattern without overwhelming the space.

This bathroom that we renovated in Titirangi, shows that when cleverly designed, a small bathroom design can incorporate patterns. Our client did not want a generic contemporary bathroom design but wanted art deco tiles to create a visual impact. Hence, we chose patterned white and black tiles in a small size for the flooring. However, since it was a small space, we decided to keep the patterns and colours of wall tiles simplistic. We installed matte white subway tiles for 2 of the walls with black grouting to match the floor tiles. The other 2 walls were painted a neutral white. In order to bring some warmth within the bathroom design, we installed cabinetry with wooden oak paneling with black trimmings to promote continuity with the rest of the bathroom which created a cohesive bathroom design.

Project Spotlight: See full project specifications + Before and After pictures

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This bathroom design shows that patterns can be used in a small bathroom without making the design too overwhelming.

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Beautiful Artisan tiles used on the floor for a beautiful art deco tiles.

13. Ignoring the door swing

When designing a small bathroom, it’s important to consider the swing of the door. If the door swings inward, it can take up valuable floor space and make the bathroom feel even smaller. Consider using a pocket door or a barn door that slides along the wall to maximize the available space. This small bathroom design idea can also add a unique touch to the space.

As seen below, we created a barn style sliding door for this bathroom we renovated below in Greenhithe, Auckland. This was done to maximise the space within this small bathroom. We wanted to ensure that we fitted a large bathtub, toilet, vanity and shower. As the corridor outside was very narrow, we could not build a door that swung out towards the corridor and in order to accommodate a toilet next to the door we could not build a door that swung inwards.

Project Spotlight: See full Project details + Pictures for this Vintage Bathroom renovation in Greenhithe.

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Custom built Barn Door installed in this Vintage bathroom renovation in Greenhithe, Auckland

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Matte Black trimmings in this barn sliding door.

14. Not Utilising the corners

Corners can be a great place to add storage or fixtures in a small bathroom. Consider installing a corner sink or a corner shower to free up space in the center of the room. Additionally, you can use corner shelves or cabinets to store toiletries or towels. This small bathroom idea can help you make the most of every inch of space available.

15. Forgetting Functionality

While aesthetics are important in any bathroom design, it’s essential to prioritize functionality in a small space. Make sure to choose fixtures and storage solutions that are practical and easy to use. Additionally, consider incorporating features such as a handheld showerhead or a medicine cabinet with adjustable shelves to make the space work for your needs. These small bathroom ideas can help you create a beautiful and functional space.

There are many ways you can change up your small bathroom. All you need is to find the right layout that best fits your needs. The key elements to make your small bathroom renovation less hectic have been highlighted throughout this blog.

Can you remodel a bathroom for $5000?

Yes, this is possible if you are a DIY project. However, if you are wanting to work with a professional renovation company it will cost more. At Superior Renovations our bathroom renovations start at $18,000 NZD. This includes service before and after, design, supply and project manage. You can find more information at https://superiorrenovations.co.nz/how-much-does-it-cost-to-renovate-a-bathroom-nz/

Does a bathroom need a window?

Yes, it is very important your bathroom has a window or a ventilation system. This will help keep the air circulating and reduce the growth of mold or mildew. If you do not have a window, you can opt for a ventilation system.

How do you renovate a small bathroom?

You can either start your small bathroom renovation journey with a professional renovation company or DIY. DIY projects are only recommend to homeowners with the right experience and tools, as bathroom renovation can be very complex. If you have any enquiries or want to start your renovation journey feel free to contact us at 0800 199 888.

Need more information?

Take advantage of our FREE Complete Home Renovation Guide (48 pages), whether you’re already renovating or in the process of deciding to renovate, it’s not an easy process, this guide which includes a free 100+ point check list – will help you avoid costly mistakes.

Download Free Renovation Guide (PDF)

Related queries:

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Renovation costs nz per square metre

Still have questions unanswered? schedule a no-obligation consultation with the team at Superior Renovations

WRITTEN BY SUPERIOR RENOVATIONS

Superior Renovations is quickly becoming one of the most recommended Kitchen Renovation & Bathroom Renovation company in Auckland and it all comes down to our friendly approach, straightforward pricing, and transparency. When your Auckland home needs renovation/ remodeling services – Superior Renovation is the team you can count on for high-quality workmanship, efficient progress, and cost-effective solutions.

Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.

Request Your In-home Consultation

Or call us on 0800 199 888

www.superiorrenovations.co.nz

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House Renovation

Everything Your Need To Know – Full House Renovation Guide

February 20, 20220

2021 and 2022 were years filled with uncertainty and continuous lockdowns. Although this new year as some of us slowly returned to an office, it is safe to say we spent a lot of time at home, being the perfect opportunities for renovating house. Whether it is for in-person hangouts, parties, or a stay-cation, homes have the destination for these gatherings. It is hard to say what 2022 will bring, but let’s not make this uncertainty prevent us from getting those dream house renovations, and renovating house projects ticked off! In this blog we will cover upcoming full home renovation trends for renovating a house in New-Zealand.

Nowadays, especially when it comes to renovation old homes in NZ, homeowners become more aware of the home layout and the aesthetics for a space. This is because, the energy and atmosphere of the home can significantly change before and after a house renovation. A common renovating house trend in NZ that many homeowners’ favours is the process of turning a spare room or unused space to a home office. Due to the many hours spent at working from home, a home office has been a crowd favourite. When renovating house in New-Zealand, incorporating a home office will boost the functionality of home, and may be at the forefront when selling your home in the future.

Home renovation, whether it is a full house renovation nz or a singular room many homeowners value the layout and the aesthetic of the room. It can easily be said that these aspects can contribute to the productivity of the home. In 2022, since many homeowners will spend more time and effort in designing a unique working space to maximise their concentration and productivity when renovating house.

When renovating old nz homes, the home offices and dining rooms were the first rooms you see when entering the home. It is great to see that this home design trend is making a come back in renovating house projects in 2022! Homeowners can also try incorporating build in high-tech solutions such as smart boards, projectors and/or wet bars when renovating house.

15 Full House Renovation Design Tips

1. Enhanced Outdoor Spaces and Features when Renovating House.

According to our in-house designers, 25 percent of more homeowners are now investing in patios, terraces, and decks compared to 2020. More homeowners are now prioritising creating space for family get together and entertainment when renovating houses. During the full home renovation process the floor plan can be extended to create flow from indoors to outdoors. New Zealand homeowners have quickly realised that when renovating house, with the correct landscaping, furnishing, and styling, it can make all the difference in how they use the space each day.

How to Enhances your Outdoor Space:

Although common outdoor spaces and features are located behind homes, you can also utilise the surround space of your home by renovating these features on the side and front of the home. By doing the house will be given a curb appeal and creates spaces around the house homeowners can relax in. A full house renovation can be a hefty topic, so it is important you plan before with a certified designer to think of ways and/or new trends you can maximise the current space you have. Some outdoor full home renovation designs we recommend are enclosed porches paired with natural plants and florals to bring the relaxing atmosphere from outdoors in. The use of natural plants and decorations can also create a sense of softness and dimension, therefore is one full house renovation design we highly recommend.

Another design aspects you can incorporate in your renovating house process is to introduce shade structures like awnings. We have seen an increase of homeowners making plans to incorporating awnings in full home and outdoor renovations. Awnings can create an aesthetically please shade structure and not only provide protection from the sun but helps make the outdoor living area feel more connected.

Try look for fabrics with certified UV sunlight protection. As more and more homeowners start their full house renovations in New Zealand, outdoor rooms such as pools, outdoor kitchens and fire pits are popular features added to the clients wish-list. Another full house renovation design idea for your outdoor space is connecting these spaces to indoor rooms with luxurious French doors or doors that fold back.

2. Texture All Around

Texture, especially when it comes to renovating old homes in New-Zealand, will become the biggest trend you will see for 2022. It is amazing to see the differences of what incorporating of a texture can do to the before and after of your home renovation.

Faux Finishing

Another design trend that will be rising in 2022 is the use of texture. Faux finishing has significantly exploded in the house renovation nz market in New-Zealand. When renovating a house or planning your renovation journey say hello to a surface you want to run your hands over and/or engage with in a tactile way. A common texture used especially in full home renovations is Faux finishing. Faux finishing is when materials are used to mimic installed materials. This finishing has exploded within the renovation market with the advent of materials and processes that make home renovation and designing more approachable from both a cost and skill perspective. A popular way to incorporate faux finishing texture is through a faux brick wall. If this is done well with certified professionals, you can barely spot the difference. Within many of our clients we often see homeowners opt for using a faux finish to achieve the look of Venetian plaster, concrete, or marble.

Grasscloth

Another texture to incorporate in your full home renovation journey is the use of Grasscloth. Grasscloth is a perfect option to create a more traditional and transitional space, as well as bring a soft subtle atmosphere to your home. This texture is perfect when you want to maintain the traditional aesthetic when renovation old homes NZ. A common use of grasscloth is lines of 3D wall panels giving the home space a dimensional look, which have been very popular with home designers for modern or contemporary home renovations. Texture is a perfect way to spice up the atmosphere of your home and create a sort of visual interest. During a full room renovation process many of our designers have found many clients have become bored with basic paint for wall applications and have opt out for textured designs instead.

Fabrics

It is safe to say, that texture fabrics are here to stay and have always been a crowd favourite. Recently we have seen an increase in demand for crème bouclé in renovating house in 2021. Crème bouclé tones have been a popular colour in more traditional houses that we have seen a lot on our renovation projects for older homes in New-Zealand. We are happy to see this colour make a comeback as it is timeless, whilst providing the elegant warm aesthetic. This year texture fabrics such as sage green, pale yellow, pale greys, and blues can be predicted to be the new crowd favourite. Texture fabrics as well as soft-to-the-hand fabrics create a feeling of warmth to the house and are one of the upcoming home designs features our in-house designers are gravitating towards in 2022.

Raw Metals and Natural Wood

Interesting materials are taking the front seat for homeowners, especially those who are renovating old homes nz. Another interesting material to incorporate during your full home renovations are raw metals and natural wood textures. Wood textures can make a significant difference to the before and after of the home renovation nz. Being the reason, many homeowners are now more excited about making a sophisticated statement that highlight their distinct style and personality. Raw metals and other panelling options are commonly requested on modern and contemporary renovation projects. Whereas natural woody accents with a hint of patina tone textures have been popular for more traditional and country projects. Materials like raw metals and natural woods have an easy application during the renovation process and can be simply be placed on top of already existing walls without expensive structural work.

Textures are an upcoming trend in 2022 that we will most likely see a lot of homeowners considering textures during their full home renovation process, especially old home renovations. Textures give a home, even an old-fashioned home soul and richness to the space around us.

3. Incorporate Technology within your Full Home Renovation

Technology will make huge advancements within full home renovation interior design. Digital interior design in renovating house was already increasing pre Covid days, and now more designers and homeowners we will see the efficiency of online interior design becoming bigger in 2022. The space and size of interior designs can be seen to have gotten significantly bigger due practice social distancing. Whether the design is a renovation for an office or a new store the value of space have increases compared to before and after renovations nz. We also expect home decor apps and design firms to implement technological changes to their business plans for 2022. This could potentially lower renovation costs as design fees will be decreased.

A great way to start incorporating technology aspect to your home is during your full home renovation design process, using virtual staging with 3D models. The rise of technology within home renovation in New-Zealand when renovating a house nz are expected to rise and there has been a significant increase in demand before COVID. The ways technology is incorporated are also expected to increase as more home décor apps and design firms implement technology during any home renovation process and/or their design operations. An easy way to start incorporating technology into your home renovation design process is virtual staging. Virtual staging will be an easy way to get the idea of how your new home will look like, as well as will make it easier for furniture shopping.

These days, we are on our phones, tablets, and computers a lot more than before being more of a reason technology should be incorporating when renovating a house nz. Whether it is answering to emails, attending work conferences, or just mindlessly scrolling, technology has become an important sector of our day-to-day routines. Therefore, our in-house designers recommend incorporating more specialised outlets, such as the Ultra-Fast Plus Power Delivery with USB-C, or a pop-out outlet during the designing process of your full home renovation or renovating a house nz in general. These types of innovative outlets will provide homeowners with faster charging ports, as well as a sleek design with no bulky adapters needed.

4. Full Home Renovations: Create a Modern and Multi-Purpose Kitchen

When renovating a house nz, the kitchen is where the family spends most of their time together and can be seen as the home’s hub. Renovating the kitchen, whether it is a kitchen focused project or a full home renovation project, is one of the most common projects our clients undertake. As well as have a significant return in the renovation costs as it is the most commonly used areas in a home. More and more clients are investing in larger, modern design kitchens. This can be seen especially due to the increase in hours spent at home and the kitchen due to COVID lockdowns. The kitchen, during full home renovation projects are usually take up majority of the planning and designing stage. This is because, many of our clients have realised the importance of utilising the space, as the family spend so much time in that area. The median of clients spending time and money on kitchens have increases in the last past three years, the investment on the renovation to large kitchen is expected to jump in the coming years.

The house renovations before and after of a kitchen is truely amazing. Renovating house is truely an awarding experience.

5. House Renovations NZ: The Bathroom is your Private Sanctuary

The bathroom is the second most popular room renovated by homeowners during 2021 and the start of 2022 when renovating a house nz. During continuous lockdowns, having a little alone time at any point during the day is a reward. If you found yourself continuously hiding in the bathroom to get a little alone time, a luxurious bathroom renovation is for you! The before and after of bathroom renovations nz will amaze you.

So, what does a full home bathroom renovation entail in renovating a house nz? A typical bathroom renovation includes replacing the cabinetry/vanity, countertops, and the toilet. While the numbers spent by homeowners to renovation their bathroom has been steady along the years. The renovation cost spent on a primary bathroom renovation is at $8,000 nzd average. The renovation of smaller primary bathrooms has increased by 20 percent, as homeowners shift to maximising every room of their homes during a full house renovation process.

For many of our clients and homeowners, the bathroom during house renovations nz has become the only private space away from children or family. This space provides relaxation and respite; therefore, the renovation of the bathroom has become a necessity- especially with travel plans being cancelled. Our in house designers state, “For many, the bathroom is acted as a private space away from any distractions, and the bathroom provides relaxations and respire increased almost every night. This is why when clients are renovating a house nz, especially renovating old homes they like to focus on the bathroom”.

Bathroom Cost Calculator

Guide to Bathroom Renovation Design

6. Include your Guest Bedrooms

This year we encourage our clients and homeowners to give the guest bedrooms more love with the incorporation of trending home designs when renovating a house nz. Here are some of the guest bedrooms trends that have been increasing through the years:

Add a luxurious coffee bar or a mini fridge during your house renovations nz. A full house renovation nz calls for the opportunity to incorporate new features to the guest bedroom. Especially when it comes to the renovation old nz homes, the guest bedroom is the perfect opportunity to bring in more modern designs and move on from the traditional.
Include a spacious desk for guests who work remotely and will need a private area to have Zoom calls or check their emails during house renovation nz. Renovations cost to include a luxurious spacious desks for your guests do not cost a fortune. The simple act of incorporating new and modern design furniture can make a significant difference to your house renovation before and after nz.
House renovations nz: introduce an interesting wall treatment or specialty lighting. Incorporating wall treatment during renovation a house nz is a perfect way to make your house feel more foreign and luxurious. Wall treatments have been very popular overseas and we can see an increase in this trend with clients when renovating house.
Design for the destination. This includes adding coastal, farmhouse, metropolitan, or southwest elements that are specific to your home atmosphere and location. Designing to fit the destination is journey many clients take during house renovation nz. This is often because it breaks free from the traditional designs of New-Zealand house renovations nz. The house renovations before and after nz effect for these designs will amaze you!

Interior Design Inspirations

7. Create a unique place for Primary Bedrooms

Creating a space when renovation a house to retreat to so you van relax and recharge is the reason why many clients love renovating old nz homes primary bedrooms. The house renovations nz of the primary bedrooms is one of the sixth most popular interior projects taken. The primary bedroom is a place where homeowners can retreat to relax and recharge. The uprising trends for primary bedroom renovations are the incorporation of dramatic colours and wall treatments. This includes anything from 3D applications, like boards and battens to bold colours and textures, such as a bold green or even black. Our in house designer states, “It is refreshing to see when renovations old nz homes that many clients create a sanctuary from themselves. We encourage clients to choose and embrace design choices that are personalised to them and their lifestyle. It is always a joy to when renovating a house and during a house renovation nz project to see clients break free from text book designs and trends”.

8. Go Bold!

Recently, we have been seeing a lot of homeowners incorporate the use of wallpapers and are an easy way to be installed, as well as be swapped out for any design changes during full house renovations nz. Current trends show many homeowners using wallpapers with bold patterns during their renovation process when they want to experiment with colour and texture. Experimenting with colours during the process of renovation a house nz and/or before house renovations is a perfect way to trail and error your colour choices. Wallpapers are often common in nurseries or the children’s room. However, more and more homeowners have created their own individuality through unique colours and patterns wallpapers can offer. Popular colours our in-house designs recommend for full home renovations are pinks, burnt oranges, peacock blues and pine greens. Wallpapers are not only used in rooms but can also be a unique way to create contrast in your kitchen on a backsplash, or cabinets.

For several years we have seen white dominating whole interior and exterior home renovations. However, this year we have seen a shift to dark neutrals, such as natural wood panelling or dark grey focus walls during full house renovations nz. The house renovations nz before and after nz from switching from neutral tones to bold personalised colours work wonders to the home atmosphere. Our in house designers state. “Dark is the new white. We are seeing a strong interesting in dark neutrals and dark wood stains when renovating a house nz. We see this especially when renovation old nz homes as these tones during more of a modern feel to the home atmosphere”.

2022 is also the year we will see the rise of the “side-hustle bedroom” during house renovations as well as full house renovations nz. With many Gen Z and Millennials with an entrepreneurial mindset, a bedroom dedicated as a filming set to creative studio and/or a warehouse to ship facilities have become an increasing trend. Renovation costs for these bedrooms are not scary as it may sound, consult with your designers to build up a plan that works for you when renovation a house nz or even when renovating old nz homes.

9. Become Green

Greens have been a huge factor in full house renovations in 2022. Many of our clients are inspired by historic and organic references in architectural design for their full home renovation design. People have gone back to the roots of a materials and incorporate chemical free paints and resources during their full home renovation journey. The pandemic has significantly contributed to the realisation of health and the environment, as more homeowners become less materialistic. Our in-house designers state that the primary focus on revamping up a space is to reuse materials and furniture.

During full house renovations nz, many homeowners inspired by historic and organic references, which pairs with the demand for reclaimed and sustainably made materials. The demand for more organic and refreshing designs can be seen increasing when renovating old nz homes. This is because many old nz homes come with traditional designs and wood features that can bring a dark atmosphere to the home. As these demands increase, many renovation company’s along with ourselves have been working on more creative ways to incorporate this innovation in house renovations.

10. Natural Sunlight

The request for natural sunlight to be incorporate in their home by homeowners have been becoming increasingly popular. This can be done through bigger windows and door openings. When swapping out windows for doors and investing in adding larger windows, give a sense of greater connection to the outside and nature. We see many of our clients embarking on remodelling work to replace traditional patio doors with large scenic doors to create a seamless transition and sense of freedom.

Not only can you bring nature to your home through windows and doors, but through warm tone colours. Move beyond classic white and blues and gravitate towards colour-ways that bring the essence of nature. Try incorporating greens, ochre, terra-cotta, oatmeal beige, and greys during your full home renovation design process.

Our in house designers highly recommend homeowners when renovating an old house nz to lean into a soft modern aesthetic. This can be done by incorporating organic wood tones and clean, natural colours that will create a positive impact on well-being and inspire the sense of connection with nature.

11. Durable Surfaces

Having durable surfaces and a good quality home is a key when you are renovating your full house renovations nz. Especially with many homeowners stilling a large amount of time cleaning and scrubbing their countertops, it is important you incorporate durable material. Our in-house designers recommend acrylic solid surfaces. These surfaces are seamless and offer max durability with no additional maintenance, with a sleek beautiful design. Our in house designers state, “As more and more homeowners become more savvy about the maintenance required for countertops especially homeowners renovating old nz homes seek for acrylic surfaces. Acrylic surfaces are seamless and offer durability without any extra work required and will not be a burden to renovation costs. The home renovations before and after nz with wooden countertops and acrylic have a significant difference”.

12. Sustainable Renovation

Eco-friendly home renovation designs are becoming a clever way to upgrade your home, while minimising environmental impact. There are our top four sustainable home designs you can incorporate during your next renovation journey. A easy way to become a sustainable household as well as maintain renovation costs will involve upgrading appliances. Not only should you seek to find Energy Star-rated appliances that focus on energy use, but also do the research and find the brands that offer this efficiently. Making changes in your household does not need to be a full house renovation or have a huge renovation before and after difference. Making small changes like this can also contribute to making a change in your home, like a house renovations.

1. Living Walls

Living walls and living roofs involve installing live plants into the structure of your home. Not only does this turn into the statement of your home, but it is also highly sustainable as it acts like a natural air purifier. Incorporating natural greens in your renovation design is scientifically proven to make a person happiness and improve wellness and mood, making a huge difference in house renovations before and after nz.

2. Smart Homes

Implementing technology within your home is also boost sustainability in your home. There are many newly developed technologies that can track water levels and usage in bathrooms and kitchens and leak identifiers. Technology can now also track how much power you are using and make it easier to remember to turn off lights with automatic sensors.

3. Tiny Homes

Living in a tiny home is a lifestyle change. However, tiny homes are identifiably more environmentally friendly, thus, being the reason why many homeowners consider tiny homes. Tiny homes are naturally smaller than your average home. Therefore, in the long run it will use much less water, gas, and electricity.

4. Solar Panels

Another smart way to opt out into a sustainable lifestyle is using solar panel energy. Solar energy is a renewable resource that will contribute into reducing energy use of a household astronomically. Whilst installing solar panels can be expensive and can involve a difficult renovation process, the end results and benefits it brings will not disappoint!

13. Smooth Curves

The trend of curves and sculptural furniture are expected to come back in 2022. Try incorporating these designs within your full home renovation design process to create an elegant European flair atmosphere, through using curved pod chairs, and arches.

Sustainable trends do not need to charge a significant amount to your renovation cost or budget. Simple acts of knowing where your materials are being sources and repurposed can turn any house renovation and renovating a house nz into one that helps the environment. Renovating old nz homes that did not focus on these aspects can also significantly improve your home’s sustainability and is a perfect way to reduce carbon footprint. When sustainability is trending in house renovations, everybody wins!

14. Vintage and DIY

Vintage and DIY projects are a great way to add a bit for your own personality into your home design. Some interior designs and furnitures can come with a high price point that just aren’t feasible. In this case, we recommend looking at what you already own and how you could spice up these items to create a new look. Could it be on-trend with a new fresh coat of paint or some new reupholstering?

15. Matte and Stone

Trends have shifted from gloss to matte and can be seen as an upcoming trend in 2022. More and more homeowners are now incorporating matte finishes in their bathrooms and kitchen fixtures, such as brass, brushed coppers, black matte, and even white matte. Move aside gloss, matte and stone finishes are here to stay!

Full home renovations can be a hefty topic. There are so many aspects to consider such as renovation costs, as well as renovation designs. In this blog we have highlighted upcoming full home renovations design trends for 2022, and there are a lot more trends to come throughout the years. Your full home renovation journey does not need to scary. With the correct specialist, contractors, and designers, we can guarantee your renovation journey will be a breeze.

How much does it cost to renovation in Auckland?

The price of your renovation project will vary depending on what materials and finishes you decide on. To get a estimate price, have a look at our blog that covers renovation pricing in Auckland: https://superiorrenovations.co.nz/renovation-costs-auckland/

Is it cheaper to renovate or build a home?

The price for both options can vary, therefore, there is no definite answer. Make sure to discuss with a professional to get a quote.

How long does it take for a full home renovation?

The estimated time period for a full home renovation is 7-10 months.

Further Resources for your house renovation

Featured projects and Client stories to see specifications on some of the projects.
Real client stories from Auckland

Need more information?

Download Free Renovation Guide (PDF)

WRITTEN BY SUPERIOR RENOVATIONS

Superior Renovations is quickly becoming one of the most recommended Kitchen Renovation & Bathroom Renovation company in Auckland and it all comes down to our friendly approach, straightforward pricing, and transparency. When your Auckland home needs renovation/ remodeling services, Superior Renovation is the team you can count on for high-quality workmanship, efficient progress, and cost-effective solutions.

Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.

Request Your In-home Consultation

Or call us on 0800 199 888

www.superiorrenovations.co.nz

Have you been putting off getting renovations done?

We have partnered with Q Mastercard ® to provide you an 18 Month Interest-Free Payment Option, you can enjoy your new home now and stress less.

Learn More about Interest-Free Payment Options*

*Lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. Mastercard is a registered trademark and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Please note: Whilst all information is considered to be true and correct at the date of publication, changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the information. The information may change without notice and Superior Renovations is not in any way liabe for the accuracy of any information printed and stored or in any way interpreted and used by a user.

Bathroom Renovation, Media

Q & A with Holly (The Kitchen Hub) – Choosing the right tapware for your bathroom design

November 12, 20200

Bathrooms are often the smallest space in any home which means that they must find the right balance between functionality and aesthetics within any bathroom design. Even a decade ago, most bathrooms had a clinical look about them with white tiles or walls and standard shiny chrome fixtures. Bathrooms of today however are very different in terms of aesthetics as there are many more options to choose from.

One of the easiest ways to improve the look of your bathroom is to integrate statement taps within your bathroom design. Bathroom accessories are often overshadowed by bathtubs and vanity which means that they are often a secondary consideration when renovating. Most people don’t realise however that statement tapware can really elevate a bathroom design.

Statement tapware and basins can transform a bathroom whether you are doing minor upgrades or renovating your entire bathroom. In the last year or so we have seen an increasing number of our clients opting for designer tapware for their bathroom design.

Hence we decided to look for suppliers in Auckland that could fill this niche and hence our partnership with The Kitchen Hub was formed. The Kitchen Hub specialises in designer tapware for bathrooms and kitchens designed by leading designers in Australia, UK and the USA.

We met with Holly from The Kitchen Hub to understand a bit more about their company and the trends in tapware seen in Auckland.

This article will discuss the following:

Q & A with Holly – The Kitchen Hub’s process on narrowing down the right tapware for clients
Top 5 Tips on choosing the right type of bathroom accessories for different styled homes in Auckland

Meet Holly from The Kitchen Hub

“My role is to assist in promoting and advertising our bespoke collection of kitchen, bathroom and laundry products. My passion is to create brand awareness for our high-end boutique ranges that will assist our clients in discovering and selecting the right products for their homes. At The Kitchen Hub, we strive ourselves on offering unique brands that create luxury statements. Which is why I am always working closely alongside our clients to help provide innovative outcomes.”

Holly, Sales & Marketing Manager

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We sat down with Holly from The Kitchen Hub to see how she helps clients with their tapware choice

Superior Renovations: How can clients narrow down their choices amidst such an overwhelming tapware selection?

Holly: I usually first ask what kind of budget they are working with and how much they are willing to allocate towards the products that they are after. If they are working with a tight budget then I will usually point them towards Meir and our other more cost effective brands, or if they have a larger budget then I will suggest Astra Walker or The Watermark Collection.

Understanding the client’s budget helps me identify the brands that are suited for them. Once I have identified the brand, then I dive a little deeper and start to understand the design a bit more. This is where I ask what kind of build it is (new build or renovation) and whether it is contemporary or traditional design. This helps me narrow down to specific product ranges which I can then show to the client.

Superior Renovations: How do people choose through the various finishes? How do you help them choose?

Holly: Selecting finishes will depend on various factors. First I need to understand what the setting is and who will be using the tapware. If it is for a family home, then clients will be wanting something that is durable and easy to clean. So I tend to recommend a stainless steel or brushed finish, something that won’t show finger prints and is low maintenance. Sometimes, if clients have young children, I do suggest not to use a matte black finish. While most of our matte black finishes are electroplated and are very durable, they still tend be easier to scratch if they are not handled carefully.

Superior Renovations: What is the difference between living finishes and Sealed finishes?

Holly: Living finishes are becoming more popular for their raw and organic appearance. They are designed to change and evolve, so they will develop a unique worn appearance over time. But the aged look is not for everyone.

If our clients want a living finish then our go to would be either Astra Walker or Buddy. These brands offer of range of living finishes, including natural brass and aged brass, which are the most common finishes that our clients tend to go for.

If the client wants a finish that will remain the same over time then I would recommend our trending sealed finishes which are matte black, brushed brass, stainless steel, brushed nickel and gunmetal. These finishes are offered by various different brands which gives a bit more flexibility when it comes to product selection.

Sealed Finish

Living Finish

Superior Renovations: Are there any specific trends that you are seeing in bathroom tapware?

Holly: There are a couple of design trends that have started to emerge with bathroom tapware. I have noticed a lot of people are now going for coloured tapware, especially brass finishes, as opposed to standard chrome and matte black. Living finishes are also becoming increasingly popular for the more industrial and retro design look. Elevated tapware is coming back into fashion as well, with a lot of interest in our cross handle and lever options as opposed to standard wall mixers.

Top 5 tips on choosing the right tapware for your bathroom design

Tip 1 – Design your bathroom which complements the rest of your home

Every person is unique which means that the style of every home is different from the other. However, the 5 broad categories that most homes fit into is contemporary, Traditional, Modern, Rustic, and Industrial. Most homes are not however designed to specific style and often contain a mix and match of various styles.

Modern or minimalistic Bathroom designs

Modern bathroom designs usually have tapware which are sleek and with straight lines. The overall look of a modern bathroom design often features a minimalistic look with a clean and uncluttered look. Most modern bathrooms used to feature shiny tapware, but a growing trend has seen a shift towards black matte tapware. Matte black look adds a certain sophistication to a bathroom design. It is versatile and works with most colour schemes in a bathroom. Even with smaller bathrooms where the colour scheme is often neutral, black matte taps can add a great design element to the bathroom.

Read: TOP 15 BATHROOM DESIGN TRENDS IN NZ FOR 2021 BY DESIGNERS IN AUCKLAND

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If you are going for a Trendy and modern look for your bathroom then this range can be great to incorporate within your bathroom design.

Traditional Villas and Bungalows

Most bungalows and villas in Auckland feature traditional elements within their structure like hardwood floors, casement windows, and traditional chandeliers. The overall design of traditional homes can be carried on to bathrooms while still having modern luxurious like bathtubs and wet rooms. You can add a traditional element to your bathroom design by installing traditional tapware like the classic range from Aster walker. The classic range has taps and bathroom accessories are reminiscent of old Victorian and Edwardian times which come in over 23 textures and colours to suit most traditional bathroom tastes.

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Matte Black Olde English 3 tap set up used from the Astra Walker range. This set up is perfect for Villas and Bungalows that want to retain the old world charm for their homes.

Rustic Style bathrooms

There has been a growing trend in rustic style bathrooms in Auckland. We recently renovated two rustic style bathrooms which featured brass sinks and antique gold finishes. Rustic style bathrooms often feature elements of nature such as wooden accents, warm colours and matte brown or golden fixtures with an antique finish. If you are looking at adding rustic elements to your bathroom then changing your tapware could be a great way to do so.

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Elk Eco Brass is a great choice for a
Rustic bathroom

Icon range can be used for a modern
Rustic Style bathroom

Contemporary bathrooms

Contemporary styled bathrooms are one of the most popular in bathroom designs of today. The contemporary style borrows a bit of every style for a streamlined look. It is mostly a bit of old and a bit of new. There is a lot to choose from when you are designing your bathroom in a contemporary style. When choosing accessories for a contemporary bathroom, think about your colour scheme as well as your family situation.

Metropolis-Matt-Black-Jpeg-1, Kitchen Renovation, Bathroom Renovation, House Renovation Auckland

Contemporary bathrooms often feature basins which are placed above the countertop with tapware attached on the wall (Metropolis Black matte tapware from The Kitchen Hub)

If you do have a young family then opt for tapware which is shiny and not matte. Matte finish tapware leaves fingerprints on them a lot easier which means you will have to wipe it more often. Hence, if you have a busy household with young children then we would recommend you to use a shiny finish for your tapware.

Industrial style bathrooms

The industrial look was first inspired by the typical New York style apartments. Most industrial design takes clues from old industrial pipes and old factories. This style works great for apartments and architectural homes. However, if you love the look then you can add a vanity, basin or tapware in an industrial design without changing the whole look of the bathroom.

Tip 2 – Choose the right type of shape for your bathroom fixtures

Not all types shapes are right for certain bathroom designs or even the layout. When choosing your tapware make sure that you are choosing something that looks great but also something that is functional for your family. Think about your family dynamics and who is going to be using that bathroom. Are your young children going to use the bathroom, are adults or the elderly members? If young children or someone who is elderly are using the bathroom then it would be best to install a basin and tapware that is easy to use. Perhaps a single leaver which can be used with one hand is more suitable but if there are adults using the bathroom then you can install a 2-leaver set up for your bathroom.

Also think about your overall bathroom design to make decisions on the tapware that you choose. If you have a traditional or vintage look in your bathroom then opt for 3 tap set up for your basin. Use a separate hot and cold-water knob fixture to re-create a traditional vibe. Do not use a very sleek or shiny tapware and basin. Opt for more traditional looking basins and tapware. If you have a more modern or contemporary like set-up then go for large square sinks with tall-curved tapware.

If you have a small bathroom design then think about a smaller and less cumbersome vanity set up. Always choose your bathroom fixtures in accordance with the size of your bathroom. A lot of people make the mistake of buying bulky fixtures for their small bathrooms which often ends up becoming an eyesore when the renovation is completed. A great advantage now is that there are a lot of options when it comes to smaller vanities in various design and style options.

Further inspiration for small bathrooms

15 BATHROOM IDEAS FOR SMALL BATHROOM DESIGNS IN AUCKLAND – 2021 EDITION

Tip 3 – The type of finish you choose should depends on your family situation

Our clients often find it hard to choose the right finish for their tapware due to the countless options available today. They often struggle with whether they should get chrome, matte black, or a brushed finish.

Choosing the right type of sheen or finish is important as they determine how your bathroom will look as well as how you will be maintaining it. So we decided to ask Holly for her expertise in choosing the right finish for bathroom tapware.

When asked how she helped clients using the right finish she said “Selecting finishes will depend on various factors. First, I need to understand what the setting is and who will be using the tapware. If it is for a family home, then clients will be wanting something that is durable and easy to clean. So, I tend to recommend a stainless steel or brushed finish, something that will not show fingerprints and is low maintenance. Sometimes, if clients have young children, I do suggest not to use a matte black finish. While most of our matte black finishes are electroplated and are very durable, they still tend be easier to scratch if they are not handled carefully.

BATHROOM RENOVATION PHOTOS FOR OUR TOP 17 RENOVATIONS IN AUCKLAND

Tip 4 – Size of your bathroom

It is important to choose the correct size of tapware for the size of your bathroom. Getting the size of your tapware wrong can disrupt the overall look and flow of your bathroom design. Before you choose your fittings, you should measure up the space of your bathroom. Measure the space for your vanity, shower, toilet and the height available between your vanity and mirror for the tapware.

If you have a small bathroom then perhaps you can opt for a shorter tapware set up or even wall mounted tapware. If you have plenty of space available, then you can choose a long-arched tapware. The same goes for your vanity. If you have a small bathroom then make sure you measure the space available for your vanity before you go shopping. This will help you choose a set up for your bathroom in terms of aesthetics and functionality.

Tip 5 – Choose tapware that is compatible with your water pressure

If you are renovating your home, then chances are that you are going to be using your existing plumbing. Auckland homes that are built over 20 years ago often have low water pressure. Its always good to check the type of water pressure you are working with before you buy your tapware. You can get your water pressure checked by a professional or simply look at your water cylinder. If you have unequal or low water pressure, then your water cylinder will say ‘low pressure’. Unequal water pressure means that your cold water will have more pressure as compared to your hot water, hence unequal water pressure.

edwardian_nickel_black_porc_basin-jpg, Kitchen Renovation, Bathroom Renovation, House Renovation Auckland

This porcelain basin and 3 tap set up is perfect for villas with low pressure water (Edwardian Nickel black porcelain basin and tapware from the Astra walker range)

Read: 18 TOP TILE TRENDS IN BATHROOM DESIGN FOR 2021 – NZ EDITION

Newer homes do not have unequal water pressure which means that your cylinder will say ‘main pressure’. The pressure for hot and cold water for newer homes however is equal. Most villas and bungalows in Auckland have low pressure which means that you will have to find tapware which is compatible for low pressure. Most single leaver tapware is only suited for main pressure cylinders . If you have a low pressure water system and are not ready to change it to main pressure then you have to ensure that you choose tapware which is compatible for low pressure water cylinders.

Our Featured renovation projects highlighting bathroom accessories

Rustic Bathroom Renovation in Westmere

This rustic bathroom has all the classic features of natural elements that make a space look warm and inviting. The use of green tiles as a feature wall adds depth to the wet area by making it a calm and serene space. Matte gold is often used in rustic design and was hence used in the design of this bathroom.

Read – Full project details for this bathroom renovation

Tracey’s Artisan Style Contemporary Bathroom renovation in Titirangi, Auckland

This small bathroom was renovated in a black and white theme using designer tiles on the floors and white subway tiles on the walls. We also used a floating wooden vanity to add some warmth in the bathroom along with matte black tapware and shower fixtures keeping the theme in mind.

Read – Full project specifications for this bathroom renovation.

DSC00169-1, Kitchen Renovation, Bathroom Renovation, House Renovation Auckland

DSC00119-1, Kitchen Renovation, Bathroom Renovation, House Renovation Auckland

DSC00141, Kitchen Renovation, Bathroom Renovation, House Renovation Auckland

Spanish Style Kitchen and Bathroom Renovation

Mary Stuart’s renovation was as much as a credit to her as it was to our designers and renovators. She had a clear vision tearing of converting an old closed off kitchen into an open and spacious Spanish style rustic kitchen. Her inspiration came from the arched hallways when she first bought her home. She was not afraid of bold colours and wanted to convert her bathroom and kitchen into a rustic villa reminiscent of Spain right her in Auckland see more

Further Resources for your house interior design

Ideas for Bathroom renovations in our bathroom renovation gallery of bathrooms we have renovated in Auckland
Ideas for Kitchen renovations in our kitchen renovation gallery for kitchens we have renovated in Auckland
Featured projects and Client stories to see specifications on some of the projects.
Real client stories from Auckland

What kind of bathrooms are best for contemporary bathrooms?

The great thing about contemporary bathroom designs is that they take elements from various styles to bring a cohesive bathroom design and look. This means that you have a lot of options when choose tapware or fixtures for bathroom designs. The growing trend however has been black matte in contemporary designs and stainless steel. If you have more questions about which tapware or bathroom fixture is best for your bathroom design then get in touch with our design team at 0800 199 888 ext 1.

Do I have to get my own designer?

Not when you are renovating with us. We have designers on our team which will help you choose the right bathroom fixtures and tapware for your bathroom.

Can I buy my own bathroom tapware?

We prefer working with our own suppliers in Auckland so we can maintain quality and workmanship. However if there is something that you prefer then bring it along and we can see what we can do.

Still have questions unanswered? schedule a no-obligation consultation with the team at Superior Renovations

WRITTEN BY SUPERIOR RENOVATIONS

Superior Renovations is quickly becoming one of the most recommended renovation company in Auckland and it all comes down to our friendly approach, straightforward pricing, and transparency. When your Auckland home needs renovation/ remodeling services – Superior Renovation is the team you can count on for high-quality workmanship, efficient progress, and cost-effective solutions.

Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.

Request Your In-home Consultation

Or call us on 0800 199 888

www.superiorrenovations.co.nz

Have you been putting off getting renovations done?

We have partnered with Q Mastercard ® to provide you an 18 Month Interest-Free Payment Option, you can enjoy your new home now and stress less.

Learn More about Interest-Free Payment Options*

*Lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. Mastercard is a registered trademark and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Media

Container Homes Vs Regular Granny Flats in Auckland

September 7, 20200

What is the difference between container homes and regular sleepouts/granny flats?

Container Homes

There has been a growing demand for container homes in recent years. They can be made into granny flats, or a fully functioning home by joining several containers together.

They look trendy and have become somewhat of an architectural gem. So, what exactly are container homes? Container homes are just what they sound like. They are large containers which are used to transport goods. With almost 1.4 million ‘out of service’ container homes around the globe, they have become a novelty that can now be converted into homes.

Container homes must be bought and then either shipped directly to your site or it can be built off-site. Internal timber frames are then erected, the structure insulated and then renovated to make it a liveable space. The structure of container homes is sturdy, but the roof is often an issue. This means that a new roof must be put on the container home before it can be used as a living space.

Regular Sleepouts and Granny Flats

Regular sleepouts and stand-alone granny flats are built from normal building materials. They can either be extended out from your existing home structure or can be built as a minor stand-alone dwelling on your property.

The current economic climate has seen a rise in demand for granny flats, sleepouts and minor dwellings on an existing property. This can be either your need for extra space or as a source of additional income. They can be rented out and can yield between $300 – $600 per week in Auckland.

In this article we will discuss:

This article aims to draw a comparison between container homes and Regular minor dwellings/granny flats for the following factors:

The difference in the Consent process
Ease of construction and Time taken for construction
Average costs in Auckland for container homes and Regular minor dwellings
Their relevance in Urban Auckland and your return on Investment

Pros and Cons of Container homes Vs Regular Sleepouts and Granny flats in Auckland

1. Consent Process

What is the consent Process for Container homes?

Container homes can act as a sleepout or a standalone dwelling for properties. However, there is always a consent process when you want to build a container home in New Zealand.

Container homes are a relatively new concept in New Zealand which basically means that the process of consent can vary.

“That’s one thing you find straight away”, said Burne the co-founder of Architecture and Interiors Ltd. “Many, many, shipping container homes don’t have permits or consents, and they probably wouldn’t get them because they don’t meet the building code”. (2019, February 1^st) (Stuff)

This means that a lot of the ‘cheaper’ container homes that you see in New Zealand are not approved by the council. The process or the time taken to approve a consent for a container home in New Zealand is not consistent and the rules are ever-changing. This can prove to be challenging when building container homes as a source of an additional income in Auckland.

This however does not mean that you cannot build a container home in Auckland. We recommend you hire a professional company and not do a DIY job. Yes, the consent process might feel like a grey area, but it is possible.

Regular minor dwelling – Granny Flats and sleepouts

Regular minor dwellings like standalone granny flats or attached sleepouts have been built in Auckland properties for years. This means that the consent process for such dwellings is much easier and straightforward as compared to container homes.

The recent Building Act of August 2020 has made building minor dwellings even easier.

‘Single-storey detached buildings include sleepouts, sheds, greenhouses and other similar structures can be built without a building consent. Kitchen and bathroom facilities are not included in the exemption. Any plumbing work to a new or current building still requires a building consent, and any electrical work will still have to be carried out by a registered electrician’.

The act further explains that the dwelling must be 30 square metres or less to be except from consents. This means that you can easily make a sleepout without even requiring any sort of consent work for your property. This would save you time and money.

However, if you are investing in building a sleepout then we would recommend you include a bathroom and kitchen within the sleepout. This will require consent but it is an easy and straight forward process.

You could rent the sleepout and generate an additional source of income. A newly built 1 bedroom or even 2-bedroom minor dwelling on your property complete with Kitchen and bathroom can yield between $400 – $600 a week in Auckland.

The consent process for all the plumbing and electric work for the kitchen and bathroom is simple. If you are renovating with a professional renovation company then they will handle the entire consent process along with the build. They will have an architect on board who will draw up the plans, get the documents ready and submit it to the council for approval.

Verdict

The consent process for container homes in NZ is ever evolving which means that the process is more complicated as compared to building a regular minor dwelling on your property. The consent process for minor dwelling has been made easier with the recent Building Act in NZ which allows you an exception for consents for dwellings up to 30m2. If you do want to add a kitchen and bathroom (which will require consent), the process is still easier compared to container homes.

2. Ease of Construction and Time taken for Built

Shipping Container homes NZ

Container homes have become a popular choice recently due to its durability, architectural appeal, and ease of transport. ‘Ease of transport’ means that they can be bought from a shipping yard and delivered directly to your home or to the factory. Once built and renovated, they cannot however be transported to several sites through the year.

Melissa Burne from Architecture and Interiors says “There are plenty of myths out there about container homes. People think they are classed as portable. They’re not” (2019, February 1^st) (Stuff)

Renovating a container home

Once the consent process is completed, you can begin renovating your container home. Container homes do require a substantial amount of renovation to make them fit for habitation. The first thing is erecting a timber frame within the container for the electric wiring and plumbing to be installed. This is also where the insulation will be put into the frame before the walls are erected.

Once the walls are put in, you can start putting heating systems, ventilating systems, and flooring. Most containers have a weak roof which is understandable due to them being stacked on top of each other. Hence you will almost always have to construct a roof on top of your container home if you want it to last longer. Re-cladding the exterior is also recommended to further protect your container home from the natural elements.

Melissa Burne says that it took them 250 hours in labour and 180 hours in project management to renovate a 1 bedroom container home. (2019, February 1^st) (Stuff)

Container-home-1024x577, Kitchen Renovation, Bathroom Renovation, House Renovation Auckland

Picture Courtesy of Stuff (2019, 13 Feb) https://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/homed/latest/110555556/open-homes-for-tiny-container-house-with-auction-proceeds-going-to-charity

Regular minor dwellings like Granny Flats and Sleepouts

Standalone dwelling or detached

Standalone dwellings can be constructed on a property depending on whether the property is zoned for such a construction. The time taken to build and renovate a stand-alone granny flat from scratch can be anywhere between 3 to 5 months after consent has been approved. Listed below are the factors that determine the time taken to complete a project.

Excavation of site: When building a dwelling, the ground will have to be excavated to reach the pipes underneath the dwelling. If there is a lot of stones underneath your land, then they will also have to be removed via a more specialised machine.
Pipes and drainage below the land: The pipes underneath your land will have to be checked to see if they are in working order. If they are not, then they will have to be replaced.
The actual built: This will depend on your renovation company and the hours they are going to spend on your site building your dwelling.

Extending your house to make a Granny flat/Sleepout

Extending your house to make a granny flat or sleep out will take a longer time than building a standalone dwelling on the property. This is because there are many things that need to be considered before a house can be extended.

The extension must be done according to the structure of your existing house which can give rise to several complexities. An extension project of your home will take between 4 to 7 months after you have received your consent from the council.

Verdict

Taking all the factors into account, container homes take lesser time to build and renovate when compared to extending your current house.

However, the time taken to get a consent, build and renovate a container home would take around the same time as making a stand alone dwelling on your property. This is because the consent process of container homes would take longer than a stand alone dwelling.

If you do have a garage that you do not use then converting that into a granny flat is a relatively easier, shorter, and less complicated way of building another dwelling on your property.

Converting your garage into a granny flat

3. Cost

How much do container homes cost?

Contrary to popular belief container homes are not a cheap housing solution. Low priced container homes are only possible if you are not building in accordance to the code of compliance. We also do not recommend a DIY project as there are some technical complexities involved when renovating a container home which are better left to the professionals.

Melissa Burne a co-founder of Architecture and Interiors recently built and renovated a 1-bedroom container home in Hawkes Bay for the charity ‘Look good feel good’. “People think they can convert one for $60,000 – they won’t if they do it properly and with the necessary consents”. (2019, February 1^st) (Stuff.

They bought a container for $1000 and the final renovation costs came to $127,000 including consents, subcontractors, labour, material, and project management. The container home boasted 1 bedroom, living room, kitchen, bathroom, and a laundry.

Asked if she would recommend taking on a container house project, Burne said “There is some sense to them, but for the cost of doing it properly you would be much better spending a bit more and getting a modest timber-framed house. It would give you more flexibility with better proportions. The good thing about a container is that you could pick it up and remove it if you ever wanted to”. (2019, February 1^st) (Stuff)

Renovating a container house is just like renovating a normal home. You will require professionals like electricians, insulators, builders, plumbers, painters, and other skilled professionals.

Regular dwellings – semi-attached and detached

As discussed above, standalone dwellings or extensions to include a sleepout to require substantial amount of work. Even if you are merely building a 30m2 dwelling which would not require consent, there is still a lot of work that needs to be done.

If you are just building a 30m2 dwelling without a kitchen or a bathroom then it can be very cost effective as compared to container homes. You will not need consent to build the structure and will only have to employ skilled electricians to build in accordance to the code of compliance.

If you are however building a granny flat with a bathroom and kitchen then there will be consent work involved. The cost of building a standalone timber framed dwelling will be anywhere between 150K to 180K. This would include costs for consent, excavation, building materials, all skilled professionals, and a project manager to over see the project.

Verdict

One of the biggest myths about container homes in NZ is that they are cheap. They are only cheap if treated as a DIY project and built without consent. Roughly a 1-bedroom 40 feet container house will start from about 120K. Materials like the type of flooring, kitchen fixtures etc will determine how high the cost will go to.

A minor dwelling like a granny flat with kitchen and bathroom will cost you higher than a container home by about 15k to 20K. However, if you are just looking at making a sleepout of up to 30m2 without plumbing then it would be considerably lower than a container home. This is because you would not require any consent owing to the new Building Act released in August 2020.

4. Urban Auckland Lifestyle and your return on Investment

Container homes in Auckland

Container homes are a unique form of architecture which has a polarising effect on most people. A lot of people find the industrial look of container homes trendy and unique. Others find it an eye sore. The aesthetics of a container home can be a very personal choice for people.

So how do container homes fit into the Urban Auckland lifestyle? A standard container home has the size of 40ft by 7ft. Once the insulation and internal walls are put in, the interior of a container home can be quite narrow. This however can be rectified by adding other containers on the side and cutting one of the sides.

Auckland homes usually do not have that kind of land space to put a huge container home on their property. You can put the container and make it a sleepout to make it less bulky structure. Another disadvantage of putting a container home on your property in Auckland will mean that there will is no continuity in structure or the overall look of your home.

Return on investment for container homes

You can put a container home on your property to generate an extra source of income. You could rent a 1-bedroom container home for up $400 per week or more.

Having a container house in your property however will not add value to your property. You might have a harder time selling your current home in the future with a container home on your land. Buyers might not find a container home to their taste which means that you will have to remove it from the property. It also does not contribute to the over-all perceived value of your current home structure.

Regular dwellings – semi attached and detached

You can build Semi attached and detached dwellings exactly to your specification. They have that advantage over a container home sleepout in terms of aesthetics and continuity. You can build the dwelling with the same or similar materials as your home to ensure continuity.

The return on investment for regular granny flats and sleepouts

The return on investment on an additional dwelling on your property is huge. Even if you are just making a sleepout or granny flat without a kitchen and toilet, it will still add more value to your home than a container home.

If you take the plunge and decide to build one with a kitchen and bathroom then you can rent it anywhere between $400 to $600 a week. Future buyers will also be willing to pay a higher amount for an extra room or a unit on the property.

Verdict

The verdict for this one is simple. Container homes are just not suitable for Auckland homes as a means of additional income. A container home granny flat on your property will not add any value to your home. Container homes can be great if you have a land and just want to build an entire home out of it. That would still work in form of a container granny flat.

Selling a property with a container home on it is also going to be a problem. Container homes are great for more rural areas or towns. They would also be great as trendy cafes or stores in Auckland.

Regular dwellings suit the urban lifestyle of Auckland a whole lot more. They are great as an investment to add value to your home or to yield an additional source of income.

References

The real (compliant) cost of a shipping container home: an architectural designer’s experiment (2019, 1Feb), Stuff https://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/homed/110306517/the-real-compliant-cost-of-a-shipping-container-home-an-architects-experiment
Open homes for tiny container house, with auction proceeds going to charity (2019, 13Feb), Stuff https://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/homed/latest/110555556/open-homes-for-tiny-container-house-with-auction-proceeds-going-to-charity
Cover image, credit to: containersforsale.co.uk

Further Resources

Ideas for Bathroom renovations in our bathroom renovation gallery of bathrooms we have renovated in Auckland
Ideas for Kitchen renovations in our kitchen renovation gallery for kitchens we have renovated in Auckland
Featured projects and Client stories to see specifications on some of the projects.
Real client stories from Auckland

What are container home prices NZ wide?

Container homes are not a cheap option as most people believe. A 1 bedroom container home would cost you $120,000 at the minimum. This is if you are building it with proper consent and in accordance to the code of compliance.

Are there many container homes to rent in NZ?

Container homes can be a great source of additional income in NZ if you put it up for rent. You will however not find many container homes to rent in Auckland.

Is container home better or granny flat?

This will depend on where in NZ you live. If you are in Auckland then making a detached or a semi detached granny flat will be better than a container home. This is because a container home will not add any real value for your property and might be an eye sore on your property for future buyers. The lack of abundant space in Auckland homes also makes it a bulky structure for Auckland homes.

Still have questions unanswered? schedule a no-obligation consultation with the team at Superior Renovations

WRITTEN BY SUPERIOR RENOVATIONS

Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.

Request Your In-home Consultation

Or call us on 0800 199 888

www.superiorrenovations.co.nz

Have you been putting off getting renovations done?

We have partnered with Q Mastercard ® to provide you an 18 Month Interest-Free Payment Option, you can enjoy your new home now and stress less.

Learn More about Interest-Free Payment Options*

*Lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. Mastercard is a registered trademark and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Media

Importance of Space Planning in Home Renovation/ Interior Design

September 1, 20200

Renovating your own house is something that most people would look forward to and why shouldn’t they? The thought of changing your kitchen, bathroom or entire house to give it a complete makeover would get anyone excited.

One of the most important aspect of renovations however is the design process. This article will focus on the design process of a renovation. It will give you some vital interior design ideas that are important for a successful renovation.

The design phase is where all the excitement lies. This phase however can also be a complicated process. it is often difficult to put your ideas and vision into paper. To add to this complication, different members of your family would have different ideas on what they want from your home renovation. There is often a lot of back and forth with your family members which can make it all seem very frustrating. So what should you do?

Meet Orly from Place2Be

As a designer, my highest purpose is to create for my clients a tailor-made design that contains the ideal floor plan, colour scheme, material combination and concept, while considering their goals, style and budget and make sure they are happy with the outcome.

I believe (and it is also scientifically approved) that the environment around us affects our mood, productivity, and energy levels. With my efficient design process, I can help you to create a space where you would feel comfortable, organised and at peace.

Orly Baliti – Interior Designer

Website: https://www.place2be.design/ | Email: orly@place2be.design

Orly specialises in space planning and concept/color consultation which is exactly the kind of person who renovators need in order to get the best outcome from a renovation.

We decided to have a sit down with Orly Baliti who has been an interior designer for over 11 years to discuss various factors that come into play when clients are planning a renovation. She has worked with architects, engineers and builders designing and managing various projects in the commercial and residential sectors.

Here is what we discussed with Orly:

Importance of Planning for renovations and the design phase
How the correct design can add value to your renovation
5 crucial steps in space planning to complement your renovation as told by Orly
Designer Home renovation projects by Superior Renovations in Auckland

Importance of space planning in your design process

When asked what the most important step for success was, Orly had no hesitations saying that it was planning. It was something which resonated with us as that is exactly what we tell our clients when they renovate with us. Your planning should include the following:

Budget planning
Your top priorities for renovating
What outcome you want from your renovation
Research
Timeframes
And the often forgotten one which is space planning.

What is space planning?

If you are wondering what exactly space planning is? Orly explains that space planning is an important aspect of the interior design process. Space planning is an in-depth analysis of how physical space is used in structures. It considers the purpose of spaces and who will use them. Space planning is a process that takes several steps, and its an important component that helps to ensure efficient use of floor space without wasting it. This also shows how you would move within the space. The plan is finally completed by putting details like textures, colours and even furniture in their places to show the overall look and feel of the place.

What can go wrong if space planning is not done well?

Orly explains that there are several things that can go wrong if you do not plan your space properly. If you do not plan your space well then it could lead to several problems once your renovation is completed. Space planning is a part of interior design that goes hand in had with renovations.

You might want a L shaped kitchen with a huge island but did you account for the dining table next to it? Perhaps that L shaped kitchen with an island has left no space for a decent sized dining table. Now you can only buy a 4 seater dining table when in fact you have a 6 person household. Having the right type of kitchen design especially in an open planned kitchen is important. For more kitchen and bathroom design ideas look at our kitchen gallery and bathroom gallery of renovated kitchens/bathrooms in Auckland.

Orly has shortlisted Top 5 things that she has seen with poor space planning.

Bad planning that leads to a space where you cannot fit your furniture
Non functional kitchen layout which leaves little working space
Non functional power points and lighting positions.
Lack of storage
Awkward material and colour combinations

DSC06659-1000, Kitchen Renovation, Bathroom Renovation, House Renovation Auckland

DSC06663-1000, Kitchen Renovation, Bathroom Renovation, House Renovation Auckland

DSC06664-1000, Kitchen Renovation, Bathroom Renovation, House Renovation Auckland

DSC06665-1000, Kitchen Renovation, Bathroom Renovation, House Renovation Auckland

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Storage and Disposable solutions for our client’s kitchen renovation in Papatoetoe

How interior designers are an integral part of a renovation process

An interior designer can really take your renovation to the next level if you make her an integral part of your renovation process.

Orly explains that a lot of her clients renovate to add value to their property, whether it’s for them to enjoy it, rent it or sell in future. We found this to be very true for our clients as well because most of them looked at renovations of a way to add some sort of value to their home. In our experience renovations that add the most value to any home were:

Naturally, you are looking to increase your return on investment and, the last thing you want is to be disappointed by the outcome. You also need to consider that during the renovation, there are lots of decisions to be made and lots of options available.

For example; choosing the right style, colours and materials, planing the lighting, create a better layout to maximise the space, add storage, etc. Confirming these details at the beginning of the renovation is essential to ensure there are no delays when it comes to finishing your home. Orly mentions that she often helps clients choose the materials for their renovation (like kitchen cabinets, tiles and wall paint) to help them realise their overall vision of their renovation.

Full house renovation completed in West Harbour, Auckland

5 Simple steps of space planning as told by Orly

So now that you know that space planning is important for a successful renovation you must be wondering where you should start. Orly says that the most important thing is not to get overwhelmed. Interior designers are there for a reason. It is their responsibility to narrow down the choices for you and make your design process as seamless as possible. She has outlined her 5 Step process to successfully plan a space for her clients.

Step 1: Explore the space and understand your purpose for renovation

Your first step should be have a walk around your space and ask yourself what the use of the space would be? What is the purpose for this renovation and what do you want to achieve? Is there anything you can do without? what would you like to change? Do you have a particular vision or is it a mix of things?

Once you get the answers to these questions, you will be able to prioritise the work that needs to be done, focus on the most critical issues and update your budget accordingly.

Step 2: Defining Zones and Natural Pathways

Take your time to do proper space planning and confirm it meets your needs and lifestyle. Try to define zones depending on their primary use.

If you are after a modern open floor plan where the kitchen, dining room and living room are all connected, it’s necessary to define each area. One way of doing it is adding an island to mark the heart of the kitchen. Just don’t forget to double-check if you have enough space to sit conveniently around it and that it doesn’t block your natural pathways.

You can also use furniture like the back of a sofa or a stylish bookshelf to create boundaries. Alternately you can even set a unique flooring feature to define a space like the living room. Once the spaces and your requirements are clear, you can sketch out the area. It would be useful to do it in scale, so you will be able to visualise how it all works together and achieve a functional layout. This will make shopping for furniture in the future easier.

Step 3: Choosing Colours and Textures

After you finished planning your space, it is time to choose colours and materials. It would be easier to start with tones and textures of design elements such as flooring, tiles, cabinetry, benchtop and splashback. It would be good to consult an interior designer for this process. You can select the wall paint colour last to finish up the look and create a complementing background

Step 4: Create a Mood Board

Collect samples from showroom and suppliers. Gather these materials and finishes to create a mood board. Explore, take your time to compare, see how they all work together. Remember that colours affects our mood and the atmosphere in the room. So don’t try to save time here as this process can definitely save you from making unnecessary mistakes in the future.

Step 5: Lay the actual space in your room with Samples

Once you’ve chosen your favourite colour tones, buy small pots of the paint to make a larger model that you can place around the room. Play around with lightings as things can look very different under different lighting. Also get some samples of textures to put around the room to see how they would look in different spaces.

Full house renovation completed in Epsom, Auckland

So do you need an interior designer for your renovation?

Your renovation company will have a designer on board to design the basic layout. However, if the process of pre-planning and designing your aesthetics sounds challenging to you then you should consult an interior designer. Consider working with an experienced interior designer alongside the builder at the very beginning of the project.

This can save a lot of frustration in the future. An interior designer will help you focus on functionality. The interior designer will also help create best layout and room flow for your needs. This will include furniture placement, kitchen and bathroom design, lighting design and colour consulting.

There’s no need to stress and overwhelmed about the colour, materials and choices in finishes. A skilled Interior designer will recommend and present a cohesive plan of how all the different elements work together. An interior designer and builder working together could yield a remarkable and highly functional space.

Designer home renovation projects by Superior Renovations

1. Urban Luxury home Renovation in Parnell

Our client had a centrally located quaint townhouse in Parnell. While the location was great, it lacked modern conveniences in the kitchen and living space. It was tiny, not functional and aesthetically unappealing. This home was fully renovated with concrete designer floors, changing the location of the kitchen to maximise functionality, adding a luxury modern feel to the bathrooms, building a false wall to install a fire place. See full case study here.

Full Town house renovation in Parnell by Superior Renovations

2. Cottage Style Kitchen Renovation

This was a special kitchen as it was about incorporating natural elements into the kitchen to reflect our client’s country surroundings. The kitchen was dated and was transformed into a chic country style kitchen complete with treated real wood as bench-tops, butler’s sink, floating shelves and cabinets that were wrapped in Dezignatek Thermoform with a ‘Ronda’ pattern to give them cabinets a vintage look see more

Ambury-2, Kitchen Renovation, Bathroom Renovation, House Renovation Auckland

Ambury-Rd, Kitchen Renovation, Bathroom Renovation, House Renovation Auckland

Ambury-5, Kitchen Renovation, Bathroom Renovation, House Renovation Auckland

Full kitchen renovation in Mangere Bridge, Auckland

3. Entertainer’s dream Kitchen and Lounge Renovation

Guru and Neeta from Massey had a closed off kitchen which did not let them enjoy an open plan living. They wanted to renovate to introduce a feel of luxury but also make it an open space which could double as an entertaining space. We opened up the space for them and also extended the kitchen counter towards the lounge to act like a bar. The black and white see more

Kitchen, Lounge and Dining room renovation in Massey

4. Spanish Style Kitchen and Bathroom Renovation

Bathroom, Kitchen and Laundry renovation in Stanmore Bay

Further Resources for your house interior design

Ideas for Bathroom renovations in our bathroom renovation gallery of bathrooms we have renovated in Auckland
Ideas for Kitchen renovations in our kitchen renovation gallery for kitchens we have renovated in Auckland
Featured projects and Client stories to see specifications on some of the projects.
Real client stories from Auckland

What does an interior designer do?

An interior designer is there to help simplify the process of building or renovating, they do this by working within a client’s brief and budget to create and implement schemes to fit the client’s taste and lifestyle whilst working with the renovation company simultaneously.

When should I hire one?

The earlier into your project the better, If your project is large enough to require plans and drawings by an architect or architectural designer, it can be very useful to have an interior designer look these over, to optimise space planning and interior layout.

Who is Orly Baliti?

Orly is an experienced interior designer, Orly specialises in space planning and concept/color consultation which is exactly the kind of person who renovators need in order to get the best outcome from a renovation.

Still have questions unanswered? schedule a no-obligation consultation with the team at Superior Renovations

WRITTEN BY SUPERIOR RENOVATIONS

Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.

Request Your In-home Consultation

Or call us on 0800 199 888

www.superiorrenovations.co.nz

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Tag: renovation design

Guide On Small Bathroom Renovations: Layout, Costs and Designs

Small Bathroom Layout

Small Bathroom: Full Size Bathroom Layout

Small Bathroom: Three-Quarter Bathroom Layout

Small Bathroom with a Separate Tub and Shower

Narrow Small Bathroom

Small Bathroom: Tiny-Half Bathroom Layout

How to Maximise the Space for Small Bathroom Renovation?

10 tips you can maximise the space for a small bathroom renovation.

1. Take in account of fixtures and solutions of your small bathroom

2. Be Careful with Plumbing

3. Plan for you Towel Hanging Space

4. Windows and Venting

5. Taller and Leggier Tables are your Best Friend!

6. Simplicity is Key

7. Simple Storage Solutions for Small Bathroom Designs

8. Use a pedestal sink

9. Use floating shelves

10. Install a wall-mounted toilet

Cost for a Small Bathroom Renovation

Average Cost to Remodel a Small Bathroom

Remodeling your Small Bathroom by Function

Powder Room Remodel

Guest Bathroom

Master Bathroom

Kids Bathroom

Other Price Factors

Overall Small Bathroom Renovation Costs

Gutting & Demolishing and Half to Full Bathroom Redoing

Adding a Shower to a Half Size Small Bathroom

Retiling a Small Bathroom

Want More Space?

Tips when Remodeling your Small Bathroom on a Budget

Do It Yourself? Or Hire a Pro?

8 Mistakes to Avoid for a Small Bathroom Renovation

1. Not Having a Budget

2. Poor Ventilation

3. Poor Finishes

4. Wrong Choice of Materials

5. Bad Lighting

6. Unskilled DIY

7. Neglecting Storage

8. Oversized fixtures

9 . Bad Placement of Fixtures

10. Overcomplicating your Bathroom design

11. Choosing the wrong materials

12. Using too many patterns in your Small bathroom Design

13. Ignoring the door swing

14. Not Utilising the corners

15. Forgetting Functionality

Can you remodel a bathroom for $5000?

Does a bathroom need a window?

How do you renovate a small bathroom?

Need more information?

Have you been putting off getting renovations done?

Everything Your Need To Know – Full House Renovation Guide

15 Full House Renovation Design Tips

1. Enhanced Outdoor Spaces and Features when Renovating House.

How to Enhances your Outdoor Space:

2. Texture All Around

Faux Finishing

Grasscloth

Fabrics

Raw Metals and Natural Wood

3. Incorporate Technology within your Full Home Renovation

4. Full Home Renovations: Create a Modern and Multi-Purpose Kitchen

5. House Renovations NZ: The Bathroom is your Private Sanctuary

6. Include your Guest Bedrooms

7. Create a unique place for Primary Bedrooms

8. Go Bold!

9. Become Green

10. Natural Sunlight

11. Durable Surfaces

12. Sustainable Renovation

1. Living Walls

2. Smart Homes

3. Tiny Homes

4. Solar Panels

13. Smooth Curves