SOAK IT UP!

UNCOVER $$$-SAVING SECRETS TO CREATE A LUSH BATHING SPACE THAT DELIVERS YOU A BEAUTIFUL, RELAXING EXPERIENCE

Bathrooms are primarily private spaces and yet for many families, they need to be shared. Does a queue at the door or jockeying for position at the wash basin sound familiar? But whether it's for quick showers and getting ready for school or work, or long soaks and somewhere to retreat alone, get your bathroom reno right and it can be all things to all people and at the right price!

1 PETITE BUT MIGHTY

Even if your bathroom is compact, your dream of a freestanding bath and separate shower may be possible. The answer is to downsize your ambitions ever so slightly with a 1400mm oval tub and a standard-size shower. For an air of spaciousness, opt for a glass screen - even if it's only a part-screen between the two.

2 GET THE LOOK

Utilise affordable large-format (300 x 600mm) marble-look ceramic tiles for your walls and floor to create a timeless bathing space. PS, the smaller the gap joint the better - say, 1-3mm between tiles.

3 FRAME UP

Use the same ceramic tile throughout the room, even for niches but frame each with white border or edging tiles. Ask your tiler to mitre the corners a finishing detail that quietly yet emphatically is suggestive of luxury.

BATHROOM BEAUTIFUL

Well before you begin your remodel, make a list and mood board of your dream bathroom ware, tiles and finishes.

• Work out what you can realistically fit in the space - freestanding tub, walk-in shower, two-person vanity? It helps to draw a floor plan to ensure everything fits and to adjust item sizes where necessary.

• Are marble tiles on your wish list but too pricey? Shop around for ceramic lookalikes. Wait for sales or visit online auctions for even better bargains on tiles, tapware, heated towel rails and more.

• Allow for closed-door or concealed storage - clutter is not restful!