As shared by Hatch Renovations. 

Investing in a new build or home renovation project is an exciting and nerve-wrecking prospect. As you start imagining your dream space, scrolling through Pinterest and Instagram, it’s easy to get carried away by a myriad of design ideas and aesthetics. These ideas can overlook your initial vision and budget, which can significantly undermine your investment down the line.  

 

In order to ensure your renovation investment withstands time whilst delivering on functionality and style, there are three important elements to focus on:

1. Plumbing Fittings

2. Tiles

3. Cabinetry

 

Plumbing Fittings

We’ve found it can be tempting to skimp on plumbing fittings, but it’s important to remember that these hardware items are used on a daily basis. For the most part, the hardware is hidden behind walls and cabinets, and low-quality fittings are susceptible to leaks which will not only cause a headache, but will have an impact on your wallet too.

 

Investing in high-quality plumbing fittings doesn’t mean buying the most expensive option available.

 

1. Key points to look for when selecting your plumbing fittings are:
2. Material – Opting for materials like Stainless Steel & Brushed Nickel offer longevity and resistance to corrosion. They also don’t compromise on style!
3. Look for the “W” watermark on all plumbing fittings to ensure they are industry certified and up to Australian Standards.
4. If you’re looking to save or have a lower-budget, ensure the fittings you choose are compatible with your existing plumbing to avoid any future mishaps.
5. Consider functionality. Mixers are taking over from hot and cold taps. They provide more control when it comes to temperature and water flow.

 

Hatch Hint: Consulting with an Interior Designer will help you find plumbing fittings that offer a suitable warranty, offering an extra layer of security to your investment.

Clark Tapware offers a high-quality range at an affordable price point suitable to any budget.

 

Tiles

Tiles are the first item we select to create the aesthetic for your space. As designers, we naturally want your renovated space to be beautiful, but it’s important to not have this be your only factor. Durability and maintenance need to be considered to ensure the tiles you select are appropriate for their use.

 

Tiles can make or break the aesthetic appeal of your space. However, beauty should not be your only concern. The tiles you choose need to be durable, easy to maintain, and appropriate for their intended use.

You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars per square metre on tiles to achieve your dream, but we do recommend considering the below to secure your investment:

 

1. Porcelain vs Ceramic Tiles

Porcelain tiles are denser and more durable than ceramic tiles. They are less porous and absorb less water than ceramic tiles as well, which means they will last longer than ceramic tiles. This makes them perfect for high traffic areas.

 

2. Consider the location of your chosen tiles.

Non-slip tiles are crucial for wet areas, whereas high-gloss tiles will be more appropriate for a Kitchen or Laundry Splashback or Bathroom Feature Tile.

 

3. Rectified vs Pressed Edge

Rectified tiles offer less grout lines, which means less cleaning! Who doesn’t love that? Having rectified tiles also allows for effective use of grout colours to an area, so you don’t have to see chunky, dirty grout lines.

 

Pressed Edge (or cushion edge) tiles have larger grout lines that can be tougher to maintain over time.

 

4. Tile Size

If your Interior Designer or Builder has 300 x 600mm floor tiles included to your Laundry and Bathrooms, take advantage of this! Bigger tiles = less tiles to be laid = less grout lines = less cleaning!

 

Hatch Hint: Always buy an additional 10-15% more tiles than needed to account for extra cuts, any breaks and future replacements.

 

 

Cabinetry

Cabinets are an essential in your Kitchen, Laundry and Bathrooms. They are a high-traffic item, enduring constant wear and tear throughout the day. Investing in high-quality cabinetry not only enhances the aesthetics, but adds to the functionality and durability of your space.

 

A few items to look for:

1. Cabinetry Finish

Opting for laminate, vinyl wrap or painted doors comes down to budget and look.

If you are looking for a flat-panel door or drawer face and have a slightly lower budget, selecting laminate is a great option. Laminate has advanced over the years and offers a range of colours and finishes!

 

Vinyl Wrap is a great option if you are looking to incorporate a profiled door for a specific look (i.e Hamptons style = Shaker Profile door). Vinyl Wrap offers a beautiful finish, but it does come down to budget.

 

Painted Doors offer flexibility in colour and door style. The beauty of painted doors is the colour can be changed in the future if you want to freshen up your cabinetry, but it’s an expensive finish suited to a higher-end budget.

 

2. Hardware

Ensuring hinges, drawer sliders and handles are of high-quality will provide longevity to your cabinetry.

Opting for items such as Finger Grip Rails or Soft-Close features can elevate your space and add a touch of luxury, whilst specific style handles can honour a specific aesthetic.

 

3. Customisation vs Pre-fabrication

Custom cabinetry offers the luxury of having cabinets tailored to your space and specific needs. This is a higher priced option, but is an investment that offers durability.

It’s important to consider your lifestyle and requirements when designing and selecting your cabinetry. Do you love to cook? Do you have children and need easy to clean surfaces? Do you love to entertain, therefore need to store plenty of platters and serveware? Let your Interior Designer know so they can design your cabinetry to suit!

 

Hatch Hint: Hiring a professional will also help you avoid making costly mistakes! Working with an Interior Designer is the best investment you’ll make to create a beautiful AND functional space and the peace of mind knowing you have a carefully designed investment.

 

Securing your Renovation investment doesn’t mean reinventing the wheel. Marrying aesthetics with functionality and quality in relation to Plumbing Fittings, Tiles and Cabinetry can significantly secure your home investment for the long term.