Small bathrooms often look messy – even the lightest clutter makes it messy. It’s hard to store bathroom necessities while creating space to get ready comfortably, especially when your bathroom serves multiple people. Creating a functional space that still looks great is frustrating, but you might be able to maximise that space without spending big on bathroom renovations.
As bathroom renovation experts, Crystal Bathrooms can help you design the ultimate small bathroom layout to maximise your space. In the meantime, check out these clever tips to maximise the space in your existing bathroom.
If you’re planning on renovating bathrooms, you can save space by selecting fixtures and fittings designed to do just that.
A corner sink can tuck in nicely without dominating your bathroom space; wall-mounted toilets require additional plumbing work, but they are a sleek design to make spaces look bigger. You can also invest in a slimline vanity unit – it will take up more space than skipping a vanity altogether, but it delivers on the storage front, and that’s a big must in small spaces.
A shower cubicle is a smarter space-saving choice than installing a bath, but if you need a bath, you can opt for a slimline shower bath. If it’s your only bathroom, then a bath may be necessary to maintain home value, as many buyers expect a bath in a family home.
Whatever you’re looking for, manufacturers are getting much better at designing fixtures and fittings designed with small bathrooms in mind.
One of the best and most creative ways to maximise small spaces is vertical storage solutions. Shelves and cabinets deliver on storage space but can also align with your aesthetic. You can store towels, display toiletries, or opt for baskets to hide what you’re storing.
If you’re worried about executing vertical storage and sacrificing the aesthetic, there are creative ways to embrace vertical storage. A ladder-style rack will take up a little more space than other options, but delivers on aesthetic. A dark walnut rack will fit in seamlessly with a rustic design, sleek black works for modern looks, and a shiny white rack delivers a contemporary design.
Floating shelves are sleek, stylish, and storage-friendly. You can install a floating shelf above the sink or toilet, up and down the wall next to the toilet, or staggered across a main wall. If you’re willing to spend a bit more then recessed shelves are ideal. Not only does it provide you with the storage space you need, but it makes the space look larger.
Cabinetry is an excellent storage solution, but can make a small space feel even smaller. If you need a lot of storage but don’t want to feel boxed in – cubes can serve as a stand-in for cabinets. Alternatively, tall boy cabinets are long and slim, which might be the perfect fit for your bathroom renovation.
Mirrors are a clever design trick, perfect for creating the illusion of space in small spaces. In the bathroom, you can hang mirrors to reflect natural light, which will expand the room visually. You can take it to the next level by choosing a light colour scheme, perfect for creating an open space.
One of the most effective design tricks is to match the floor tiles with the wall tiles; it visually expands the room and makes it seem much bigger than it is. You can take it a step further by painting the ceiling the same colour or a shade lighter. A glass shower screen is a great way to remove boundaries that can make a space seem smaller.
You can fit hooks and hangers for additional storage space without taking up any space. They’re ideal for hanging towels or robes, whether you’re in the bathroom or out. You can fix hooks inside cabinets to gain additional storage space.
These types of hints and tricks will change perceptions about the size of your bathroom, but maximising your storage solutions is key to creating a slick aesthetic and having everything you need to hand.
A small bathroom doesn’t have to mean a cluttered mess with the tips and tricks above; you can design a space that works well and looks great. Whether you’re planning a total renovation or looking for a little facelift, there are plenty of clever ways to maximise space and give the perception of space. It all comes down to space-saving fixtures and fittings, vertical storage solutions, and clever design tricks.
Are you tired of tiny bathrooms Sydney? We understand your frustration, and can help you maximise the space in a small bathroom. Get in touch with us today to discuss your bathroom renovation options; we’d love to work with you to create the bathroom of your dreams.
Vertical Joint (VJ) Panelling is an interior design trend used for over 170 years in Australian homes. Its’ history dates back to the 1850s, when it was predominantly used in Queenslander-style homes.
Characterised by its vertical lines and made from medium-density fibreboard, VJ Panelling adds depth and warmth to any space. It is a versatile design element – and it’s making a comeback, not only for the aesthetics but also for its durability and easy installation.
If you’re considering VJ panelling for your bathroom renovation, here’s how it can transform the space.
Texture is a big part of interior design, providing warmth to a room that wouldn’t necessarily be there otherwise. VJ panelling delivers texture and warmth; as a result of both additions, it also creates visual interest. It’s far more interesting than plain tile or wet wall.
In addition to its visual appeal, it’s versatile, coming in a wide range of colours, finishes, and styles. It’s easy to clean, enhances imperfect walls, adds charm to the space, and is easy to install. It’s a great addition to any bathroom renovation.
To create a focal point in your bathroom, you can use VJ panelling when renovating bathroom spaces. You can create a feature wall to draw attention and set it off with contrasting colours and decorative accents. With the visual interest, depth, and texture VJ panelling delivers, it’s a great feature wall addition.
Wainscoting covers the wall’s lower portion, and VJ panelling is a popular option to create this effect. It’s a classic technique; it’s a great solution to reduce moisture issues and create a traditional bathroom aesthetic. It’s versatile, so you can adjust the height accordingly, depending on your preference, or to ensure it is true to the bathroom’s design.
It’s a job you can DIY if you are confident in your skills.
The first step in installing VJ panelling as wainscoting is to decide the right height and ensure your panels are cut to size. The most common height for this treatment is 90 cm to 120 cm. Measure from the floor up and mark the right height on the wall. Be sure to use a spirit level and pencil. Now, cut the panels to the correct height before applying the adhesive to the backs of the panels. Be sure to evenly spread it to ensure it creates a strong bond against the wall.
Now, it’s as simple as pressing the panels into position and using the spirit level to ensure they are installed straight. You can use finishing nails to secure them in place – aim for the grooves so the nails are concealed. Continue until all of your panels are in place. Use wood filler to fill gaps or holes and sand once dry before painting or staining. You should finish the job by caulking around the edges – it gives a finished look and seals the seams.
You can install VJ panelling on your ceiling to create a unique design element that conveys a cozy cottage-core feeling. It also addresses a more practical consideration – moisture resistance. It adds a touch of sophistication and can be used in various ways to create architectural interest and transform your bathroom renovation in Sydney.
VJ panelling in your bathroom renovation is a great idea, and tackling the project yourself can be rewarding. It’s essential to consider certain factors to ensure the job is successful.
The first is whether you plan to install it in a wet area. You should always choose moisture-resistant materials in the bathroom, which includes VJ panelling. The bathroom has high humidity, and MDF is a better choice to withstand that moisture level.
You must consider how VJ panelling will interact with new fixtures and fittings or the ones you plan to keep, whether it’s mirrors, sinks or vanities. You need to ensure the installation won’t interfere with how anything functions or prevent maintenance activity when necessary. Maintenance-wise, ensure the VP panelling you choose is suitable for use in the bathroom and easy to clean.
The colour and finish you choose can impact the bathroom’s overall ambience, so be sure to consider how the lighting works with the finish and whether it will all work once complete.
While it’s something you can install yourself, consider your level of expertise before you do. It might be okay to handle it outside wet areas, but the professionals will deliver precise, secure installation in those damp areas that rely on proper waterproofing.
If you’re upgrading bathrooms in Sydney, look no further than Crystal Bathrooms. Whether you have a fully formed vision and want our designers to create it in 3D or need professional ideas, our team will make your dreams a reality. We will be with you every step of the way, from design to handover. Contact the team if you’re ready to discuss your options and start planning your bathroom renovation.
No modern home is complete without an updated ensuite, and if yours is looking less than fresh, it might be time to look at bathroom renovations. A bathroom renovation can provide an aesthetic upgrade, energy efficiency, accessibility, and increase your home value.
An ensuite is a great addition for you! It provides privacy, a sanctuary away from the hubbub of your home, convenience, and a stellar selling point when you eventually list your home for sale.
Planning and Design
The planning phase of renovating bathrooms has to involve a discussion around your needs for the space and how those needs shape the goals and budget of the renovation. If you’re planning a renovation focused on creating a functional space, your budget will look very different than if you were creating a spa sanctuary.
Once you have a clear idea of what you need from your ensuite space and your budget is set, you can begin with the design stage. At this point, you should consider working with a skilled team specialising in bathroom renovations, licensed in Sydney. A design team can guide you on layout options; you must consider your space and work around plumbing fixtures and functionality. If you have to move plumbing, the price may increase.
Whether you prefer the look of modern minimalism, Scandinavian simplicity, wellness retreat, or dark and moody vibes, there are plenty of styles and themes ideally suited for ensuite bathrooms.
Fixtures and Fittings
When it comes to fixtures and fittings, an ensuite typically includes a sink, toilet, shower, bathtub, or combination fixture.
The fixtures and fittings you choose will depend on the space you’re working with, the style you have chosen, and your budget. You will also need to consider the functionality of the bathroom if space is tight and you want a big tub. While your needs are the most important, you can’t forget to consider what a potential buyer will think of the space if you plan to sell in the next seven years.
You can select features to improve functionality and limit the space as well, from vertical radiators to high-level shelves for additional storage. Where there’s a will, there’s a way to get your perfect ensuite bathroom in Sydney.
Materials and Finishes
There are plenty of materials and finishes to choose from when planning your ensuite bathroom renovation. Tiles are the most popular material in a bathroom because of their waterproof nature, whether they’re used in wet areas, on all the walls, or just for flooring.
Tiles are easy to clean and durable, but wet walls may be a cheaper option for those wet areas, which will help you stretch your budget further and use tiles elsewhere. Ceramic tiles are the most cost-effective, but if you’re going big opt for porcelain or natural stone, which are both more work maintenance-wise.
When it comes to countertops, quartz is an excellent option if you want durable, low maintenance, affordable, and a wide selection. Granite and marble should also be considered, depending on goals and budget.
Laminate is the most budget-friendly option for your cabinets and vanity, but you can look into solid wood if you’re looking to spend more on key pieces.
Ultimately, you should consider the theme of your new bathroom and your budget and use those two factors to guide your decision process on materials and finishes.
Budgeting and Cost Considerations
Going into a renovation with a clear view of your plans and designs is one of the most important factors in budgeting accurately. Take time to research costs so you can factor in the cost of labour and materials and any unexpected expenses that may crop up once work begins.
As detailed in the materials and finishes, there are great options available for budget-friendly renovations. The key is spending where it matters to you and saving elsewhere to balance your budget without compromising on design or quality. So, think about the changes that will have the most impact. If you can reuse some items, consider upcycling them to incorporate them into your ensuite.
Hiring Contractors vs DIY
You are limited to the type of bathroom work you can do in a DIY renovation. If you are tearing the room back to the studs and starting from fresh, you need contractors because only a licensed contractor is permitted to complete waterproofing work. Before you hire a contractor, seek out several quotes and read reviews to ensure you’re working with a trustworthy team.
If you are simply painting and decorating, these are steps you can handle yourself. You can also handle light demolition (carefully), plastering, and tile sealing. However, you want to make sure your skills are up to the job as you want your work to last and look great.
With a contractor, you can rest easy knowing they have everything covered and you will have the high-quality finish you deserve.
Project Management and Execution
Most people don’t realise the amount of project management required for an ensuite renovation. It might be a small space, but there’s still a lot going on. If you enlist the services of a team like Crystal Bathrooms, our in-house team will handle all of the work; there’s no need to coordinate different contractors from different companies. We make the process as simple as possible.
Otherwise, you have to manage the timeline intricately to ensure the demolition team finishes in time for plumbing and electrical and balance that with the delivery and installation of fixtures and finishes. The most efficient way to manage the process is to hand the project management hat over to the experts.
Final Touches and Styling
No room is finished without the decorative elements, accessories, and lighting. From mirror selection and art to greenery, storage, and textiles, the colours and decorative elements you select need to fit with the overall theme of the space to create a visually appealing, cohesive ensuite you look forward to spending time in. It reflects on your personality and provides you with the perfect escape.
How Crystal Bathrooms Renovation in Sydney Can Help
The Crystal Bathrooms team can help you through the renovation process from start to finish, whether you want to work with one of our designers to put your plans on paper or you want to talk us through your ideas. Either way, we are happy to incorporate all your wants and wishes and keep you within budget to deliver the stunning ensuite renovation you’ve been dreaming of.
Reach out to book your free Crystal Bathrooms consultation today or call us directly to discuss your options with a member of our team.
If you’re planning a bathroom renovation for 2024, let a new wave of colour palettes inspire your creative decisions. Colour can be a powerful design choice in any renovation, particularly bathroom renovations. Here, we dive into some of the most popular colour schemes so you can breathe new life into creating an oasis.
Whether you’re looking to embrace the timeless nature of neutral tones or an invigorative bold colour to accent the space, we touch on all your options.
Neutral colours are a staple of renovation because they deliver a sophisticated aesthetic and a timeless look. Neutral is far more versatile than most people realise, covering shades of grey, beige, and white. With varying undertones to choose from, you have a clean canvas to execute the design elements of your dreams. Neutral tones are a great way to easily personalise your space if you’re renovating bathrooms in your home.
Warming neutrals are set to be particularly big this year, so look for undertones of pink and yellow.
If you want to create statement bathrooms in Sydney, think bold accent colours. It’s a great way to showcase your personality and create a vibrant space – think fiery reds, emerald greens, and navy blues to take your design to the next level.
You can use textiles and accessories to incorporate your bold colours or opt for a focal fixture or accent wall to showcase your bold accent colour. Some people use a tile pattern to express the energy and character they want.
If you want to transform your bathroom into a calm, serene retreat to escape the chaos of everyday life, then soothing palettes are a good place to start. Soft blues, gentle lilacs, and muted greens are excellent soothers on the colour spectrum. Opting for these soft, warm colours instils a sense of relaxation and can be used to create a sense of serenity in your bathroom renovation in Sydney.
You don’t have to stick to a specific colour scheme or worry about ensuring everything is monochromatic. If you want a bright, prominent design, complementary colours are a great choice, but you can also opt for an analogous colour scheme.
While monochromatic designs are shades of the same base colour and a complementary scheme is colour wheel opposites, an analogous scheme incorporates three colours from the same side of the wheel. It’s suggested you choose one bold colour and opt for muted shades for the other two to avoid overwhelm.
Ultimately, you can mix and match with colours and shades that work for your style and design. Monochromatic schemes are popular because they achieve a design that delivers visual engagement and cohesive style.
Whether it’s a natural or artificial light source, different light sources can change the appearance of your colour palette. So, when you’re choosing colours you need to think about how those colours interplay with the light to ensure your bathroom looks incredible, whether it’s day or night.
First, consider what direction the natural light comes from. If your bathroom window is north-facing the light is bluer and cooler compared to south-facing light, which is much warmer.
The intensity of that light also changes throughout the day and can influence the perception of colour. Placing samples on the wall and checking how they look throughout the day is a good way to get a sense of how light will impact your design choices.
Lightbulbs are also a factor – factor that into the decision-making process; some emit a cooler glow than others. You should also consider placement because strategically installing your lighting will ensure you showcase your colour palette effectively.
Additionally, certain colours reflect more than others. If you want to reflect light to make your space feel open and bright, lighter colours will do that more effectively than darker ones, creating an intimate feeling.
The current trends include the greys and greiges of neutrality, the greens and blues of the earth, bold statement colours of reds and purples, and metallic finishes. The neutrals can serve as a versatile backdrop for a range of designs, while the greens and blues bring nature indoors. Bold statement colours are great for accenting accessories, and metallic finishes can add sophistication, luxury, or modernity.
You can incorporate trends through fixtures, accessories, temporary statements like a feature wall that can be easily updated, and natural touches like plants.
A renovation is an opportunity to exercise your creative juices, and at Crystal Bathrooms, licensed renovations company, our design team can help you make your dreams a reality. Whether you want us to handle the design or you have ideas you would like us to transform, we can deliver every stage of the bathroom renovation journey.
For now, you’re equipped with the knowledge to explore colour palettes to plan a stunning bathroom renovation. You can reach out to us when you’re ready to take the next step. We’ll deliver a masterpiece that promises calm and serenity.
Your morning routine takes you to the bathroom. Your evening bedtime routine takes you back there, and you make countless trips throughout the day. Shouldn’t your bathroom be everything you want and need it to be?
If you’re thinking about a bathroom renovation and want to elevate your space, you can’t overlook custom vanity designs to personalise your bathroom retreat. From materials exuding opulence to elegant shapes and storage to combine aesthetics and functionality, you can elevate your space with several key elements.
As complicated as bathroom renovations can be, when it comes to your budget, you can still make the most of custom pieces with materials that speak luxury. While marble is an opulent material, you can achieve a luxurious look with the warmth of wood. If you’re looking for sleek sophistication, you can find it in quartz. There are so many great materials that deliver character to a custom vanity and can help you create a distinctive look that speaks luxury.
If you want elegance and durability, marble can help you achieve a truly timeless look. Whether you prefer the dramatic veining that Calacatta offers or the classic look Carrara delivers, natural marble delivers big when it comes to elegance and opulence. There are various ways to incorporate the look, whether it’s your backsplash, the vanity countertop, or opt for a vanity made entirely of marble.
Wood delivers many aesthetics, from a rich, dark wood to create a traditional look to a light, blonde wood to go contemporary. Wood doesn’t just provide warmth; it can also be incredibly versatile in styles and finishes. There’s a powerful link between humans and nature, so if you have a big, bright space, utilizing the natural light and adding the warmth of wood can create a stunning retreat.
Quartz delivers on style, but it’s also low-maintenance, which makes your life of luxury a little easier to manage. While most people think of the typical quartz look when imagining a custom vanity, it’s worth remembering that quartz comes in an endless array of colours and patterns. You have so many options for customising your vanity. As it’s non-porous, it’s durable against scratching, cracks, chips, and stains. If you want a customisable material, it’s difficult to beat quartz.
As important as the right material is, you can also create a personalised look with a different shape of vanity. You can be innovative with the look far beyond a rectangle, whether you want to add angles, include curves, or go all the way with asymmetry.
A floating vanity is modern; it provides a contemporary design that is sophisticated while also delivering an illusion of space. You can create a truly timeless look by choosing minimalistic details and sleek lines for your bathroom renovation in Sydney.
Asymmetry gives you options for renovating bathroom space. You can play with heights, shelving, and drawer placements to create a piece of art that adds a personal touch to your bathrooms in Sydney. Whether it’s side-access drawers and shelves or countertops at differing heights, there are a lot of ways to incorporate the idea.
An asymmetrical vanity is an unconventional approach, but it can transform your bathroom space.
There are also different ways to incorporate roundness into a personalised vanity, whether you simply want to embrace curves all around or just opt for a circular countertop on top of a rectangular base. Ultimately, round vanities work well in small spaces.
As important as the aesthetic is when creating a custom vanity, you can’t forget about functionality. The beauty of a custom design is you can incorporate your storage solutions within the vanity without sacrificing the look. Every item can have a designated home without distracting from the aesthetic.
Deep drawers can help you maximise storage with custom dividers to neatly arrange all your essentials. You can add a luxurious touch with soft-close mechanisms.
Open shelving can add a chic touch if you want to incorporate decorative touches with luxurious bath items and towels. It creates a personalised touch, especially if you’re trying to design a spa-like bathroom. It also contributes to an open feeling in the bathroom, and you can complement your overall design with mixed and matched materials.
If you’re not into the open look you can choose concealed storage instead. With a mirrored medicine cabinet, hidden compartments, and pull-out shelves, there are plenty of options to choose from to capture the look you want without sacrificing storage space. Whether it’s one or all of these options, hidden storage is a great way to blend the features you want and the design you love seamlessly.
A new look is your opportunity to express yourself through your design choices. Bathroom renovations are no different, and a custom vanity is peak self-expression. You choose the shape and storage options, it’s up to you to select the perfect balance of materials to create a sanctuary that ticks all your style boxes. You can redefine elegance and elevate your space with a stunning custom vanity.
Get in touch with the Crystal Bathroom Renovations Sydney licensed team to assist you in the design process. We can take you through the entire process, from start to finish.
Before you dive right into a bathroom renovation in Sydney, you might be able to achieve the same outcome by making the space more functional. With some innovative storage solutions and minimalistic designs, you can transform your bathroom and improve your daily routine. It’s stress-free and we provide tips to make the process seamless.
When was the last time you took a look through the items you’re storing in your bathroom? You might just be surprised to find out how many of those “essentials” expired several years ago. Empty all of the drawers and cabinets to ensure you go through every item. If it’s expired, old, or unused dispose of it. Once you’ve culled your toiletries, you can divide them into categories. If space is at a premium, create a cleaning kit and store it somewhere else handy to free up more space.
Now that you have a clean slate, you can lay the foundation for organisation.
Step one required heavy decluttering, now you can put practical storage solutions into place to store the important items.
This step is all about space optimisation, whether you install vertical shelving or buy under-sink organisers. High shelves are a great place to store baskets and boxes, which can also feed into your preferred aesthetic. A vanity sink unit also provides additional storage space, which you can further organise with shelves and slots. You can use decorative touches as storage as well, jars make a great place for cotton buds and balls.
Minimalism has been popular for a long time and that’s due, in part, to the calming clarity it brings when properly executed. Bathroom renovations can help you achieve this, especially when you make strategic design choices with sleek fixtures and clever colour palettes. It’s all about creating effortless chic to deliver organisation and a calming atmosphere.
Crystal Bathrooms Sydney can work with you to design the perfect bathroom for your space and style. We optimise the usage of space to deliver something special.
You can take preventative steps to avoid decluttering after you have finished renovating bathroom spaces in your house.
Medicine cabinets are great, but what if they’re overflowing?
Only keep necessary items in the bathroom and for that typical countertop chaos.
Decluttering can be a big job, which is why you should make it a regular practice. Disorganised drawers can be a source of great frustration.
You can improve your bathroom organisation and maintain your aesthetic with multi-functional furniture and accessories. Items like mirrored cabinets, storage stools or benches, and vanities with built-in storage are ideal ways to make the most of your space while delivering useful objects that form part of your daily ritual. Towel ladders, floating shelves, and baskets can fit with the overall look of the space while delivering plenty of storage space. With magnetic strips, apothecary jars, and decorative trays, you can organise easily and decorate the space.
You can minimise waste by choosing sustainable and eco-friendly organisation options. Bamboo is one of the planet’s most sustainable materials so look for baskets, caddies, shelves, toothbrush holders, and cabinets for the ultimate in sustainability. You can optimise organisation while still making eco-friendly choices.
Using refillable containers is also a great way to reduce your footprint – glass jars, fabric storage bags, and refillable dispensers. You can even invest in reusable bamboo face rounds to replace the disposable cotton ones. You can recycle any plastic storage items you have or upcycle old.
The aesthetics of any space matter, but it isn’t all about that – learning how to declutter and organise a space can be just as transformative as a full renovation. With the tips and ideas above, you can create an ordered bathroom that delivers the daily tranquillity you’re after.
If your bathroom needs a redesign, reach out to Crystal Bathrooms Renovations Sydney’s licensed team. Our designers can help you create the perfect layout for your new oasis and incorporate those space-saving ideas from the outset. Whether you’re looking for a basic update or high-end luxury, our team has a bathroom design and renovation perfect for you and your budget.
Bathroom renovations can be complicated, especially with so many styles and designs to choose from. If you want luxury, you can elevate your bathroom renovation or existing bathroom by upgrading your shower and tub.
Whether you’re looking for a focal point or you just want a spa experience, there are plenty of options for every budget and style.
Embrace Convenience and Style
Walk-in showers are growing in popularity because they deliver on style and function. From the trendy tile designs to frameless glass doors, there are varying aesthetics to choose from, and a walk-in shower can seamlessly integrate with any design. Walk-in showers deliver accessibility, and help contribute to an open aesthetic.
Add a rainfall shower head, and not only will you be living in luxury, but potential buyers will be instantly drawn to your listing should you decide to sell in years to come.
There are an endless number of designs and options that come with installing a walk-in shower.
Soak in Luxury and Style
Freestanding tubs are a fantastic option for any style of bathroom, but they’re particularly wonderful for creating a stunning focal point in a larger space. A sophisticated tub can elevate your bathroom renovation in Sydney.
The clawfoot freestanding tub is a classic, and it’s perfect for a more traditional style or if you’re looking to create an opulent look.
Modern freestanding tubs come in many shapes, designs, and materials, whether you’re thinking about an oval stove tub, a rectangular acrylic tub or a composite tub with wavy lines.
Placement can make a difference. While a centrepiece placement is most common if you’re looking to create a dramatic focal point, you can opt for other placements if you’re looking to create a spa-like ambience. If there’s a large window, placing your tub there or a caddy corner are great options.
Transform Your Bathroom Into a Relaxation Haven
If you want to transform your bathroom into a home spa, there are plenty of features you can incorporate to achieve just that. Adjustable therapeutic jets are a must for targeted hydrotherapy, whether you prefer rotating or pulsating water streams. What could be more indulgent?
Chromotherapy is great for setting the mood and inducing relaxation; it gives you a spa-like atmosphere, whether you’re sinking into a bubble bath or taking a relaxing shower. With adjustable features and various colours, these LED lights are perfect for any ambience.
Up the spa touches with heated towel racks and smart shower controls to adjust temperature and flow. You can install aromatherapy diffusers with timers or smart controls, rainfall shower heads, steam showers, and built-in sound systems.
Balancing Aesthetics with Functionality
Before you upgrade your Sydney bathrooms, let’s cover some of the practical considerations involved in upgrading your showers and tubs.
The Crystal Bathrooms design team can help you maximise your layout and ensure the bathroom’s functionality. They can create a custom solution tailored specifically to your needs.
Finding the Right Approach for Your Bathroom Renovation
The Crystal Bathroom Renovations Sydney licensed team can complete your bathroom renovation from start to finish, which means easily managing your budget and delivering a consistently high quality of work.
If you’re installing a new tub or shower, should you DIY it or opt for a professional installation? In New South Wales, waterproofing must be completed by a licensed professional.
If your installation job doesn’t require waterproofing or plumbing work, you could save money by doing it yourself.
DIY can be rewarding, and it does give you more control over the timeline and decisions. The potential for risk is high, though, especially if you aren’t experienced. Not only can the job take longer, but there could be warranty issues down the line.
The professionals bring their tools and experience to tackle the job and will complete tasks quickly and at an expert level. They also typically offer a warranty or guarantee for their work. You can also expect the professionals to know the ins and outs of building codes and hold the necessary insurance and licenses.
It might be more expensive to use a professional, but it offers more protection and a professional finish.
Crafting Your Personal Retreat
As you start planning your bathroom renovations, remember the ultimate goal is creating a space reflective of your style while still meeting the practical needs of your family. You can achieve that with some of the ideas above, and at Crystal Bathrooms, we can help you transform your space into a retreat.
You can depend on the team for a personalised consultation and design process, professional installation, budget-friendly solutions, and project management excellence. We even offer post-installation support if there are concerns or questions. At Crystal Bathrooms, we take pride in our work and are passionate about delivering the bathroom of your dreams.
Minimalist principles dictate that grandiosity and excess are unnecessary trappings of the modern-day phenomena of consumerism run amok and that by transitioning to a low-scale degree of possessions, you can live happier, healthier and with less ‘stuff’.
When it comes to your bathroom, it is fairly easy to perform a bathroom renovation with minimalism in mind, as you don’t have to be overly exuberant in your choice of decor, lighting fixtures, bathroom appliances and so on. When renovating your bathroom, be conscious not to fill all the empty spaces with soap holders, mirrors, pictures or other trinkets and trappings of overexuberant design.
Choosing a minimalist look in your bathroom can be achieved when doing a bathroom renovation by understanding that less is more: more space, more light bouncing around the room, better functionality and an overall more relaxing and peaceful vibe in a space that should be all about getting away from the world for a few minutes.
Adopting a minimalist approach to interior design can be tricky, especially across a busy household filled with children or other adults who seem to be a ‘thing’ magnet. Companies like Wish and Amazon have made it almost too easy to buy and receive things nearly immediately, making minimalism difficult to achieve.
Minimalism must be a mindset you adopt and persist with continuously. Consider what you want to get out of your new bathroom during a bathroom renovation with minimalism in mind. Simplicity is the key to a minimalist bathroom renovation.
Minimalism in the bathroom also reduces the time it takes to clean the space, as there are fewer individual items to wipe down. Fewer things in a room also mean less clutter, offering a greater feeling of zen, a highly desirable trait in a bathroom.
Minimalist bathroom designs offer great simplicity, little flourish and flair, and more practicality and utility. They favour clean design lines – such as straight tiling and straight-edge vanity countertops with hard lines and a simple showerhead or bathtub without much by way of complex fixtures.
Typical minimalist bathrooms include basic shapes using natural materials over synthetics, including repurposing materials. Colour palettes in minimalist bathrooms tend to be neutral and lacking in exuberance. Think greys, cream whites with brass fittings or forest green walls with granite countertops.
One of the main draws of minimalism is that it provides an opportunity to declutter and organise your bathroom. When adopting minimalism in the bathroom, efficient storage spaces are key. Keep the vanity clear of unnecessary items like extra (unopened) soap bars, and avoid storing things atop cupboards or leaving towels lying around.
Using a small laundry hamper for dirty towels tucked neatly in a corner is a good idea. Organise your cupboards by keeping things together like clean towels, face cloths, or bath mats. Ensure you keep your toiletries in a separate drawer or a cabinet beneath your vanity.
Plan efficient storage into your bathroom renovation to maximise open space and clean countertops. A monthly audit of what you have in the bathroom cupboards is a great way to minimise clutter and efficient organisation.
In a small, minimalist-style bathroom, space-saving and functionality are key. When selecting fixtures for your bathroom, consider how you’ll navigate your space. Where will you turn to use certain things? Would a wall-mounted cupboard system above the vanity, with a minimalist mirror in between and simple light, be a better use of space than a large, sprawling vanity?
Consider making your shower space small with recessed shelving to make better use of the space with simple tiling that’s straight and simple in its colour pattern. You could incorporate technology into the functionality of your sink by choosing a motion-activated tap rather than having large taps that you turn on and off manually.
A few minor considerations during your bathroom renovation can offer fantastic functionality without sacrificing space.
Using natural materials during your bathroom renovation is a fantastic way to increase the longevity of your bathroom by creating a sense of connectedness to the earth. Using stone wall tiles or real wood during the construction of the vanity or cupboards, rather than synthetics. These materials tend to be waterproof and generally more durable.
Using warm wood tones will help add to a sense of calm. Combine that with soft, warm lighting fixtures to create a relaxing ambience.
Minimal lighting means thinking small during your bathroom renovations. Decide on a simple over-sink lighting fixture, perhaps a spot-light system in the ceiling over the shower or bathtub area, combined with another one over the sink featuring bright, warm bulbs.
Additionally, you could add motion-sensor dimmable switches to maximise lighting flexibility and dim or increase the luminosity to match your daily mood. Motion sensor switches also allow you to save money by not having to remember (or constantly ask your kids) to turn off the bathroom light.
When doing any electrical work, find an electrician licensed for bathroom renovations in Sydney.
Using contrast in colour palettes and creating textures using natural stone materials is a fantastic way to add visual space to a minimalist bathroom without increasing square footage. Renovating bathrooms in Sydney allows you to use natural light to create contrast between shadows and bright spots. Consider using skylights or large windows to take advantage of Sydney’s nearly 2,600 peak hours of sunlight per year.
One of the main benefits of having a minimalist bathroom space is that maintenance and cleaning become simple and quick. You can easily vacuum, mop and wipe down a small, minimalist bathroom space in under an hour. As things are stored efficiently, and the space is kept pristine by dutifully putting things away where they belong, there is less cleaning to be done regularly.
If you want to ‘go small’ with your next bathroom renovation, consider adhering to minimalist principles by using less space, having less stuff and minimising clutter and mess. You may not need to expand your bathroom space if you can come up with a minimalist design, or you may have the square footage to fit two bathrooms into one house if your bathroom renovations include a minimalist second bathroom aside from your master bathroom.
When doing bathroom renovations in Sydney, always run your plans by licensed professionals like those at Crystal Bathrooms. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff would be happy to set up an initial consultation to discuss your minimalist bathroom design, allowing you to live in a space where “less” really is “more.”
Renovating a bathroom is exciting! Whether you’re tearing down an older-style bathroom and replacing all of the plumbing like toilets, showers, bathtubs and sinks, or are just doing some simple touch-ups to a previous bathroom renovation job. Or perhaps you’ve decided that renovating your bathroom is a great first step to rejuvenating your entire home.
To have a functional and aesthetically pleasing bathroom space, you’ll want to update your bathroom fixtures to improve their functionality or add different technology to make your water usage more efficient. But when is the right time to do bathroom renovations? Let’s take a look at the importance of having a functional and good-looking bathroom space and the best time to start renovating your bathroom.
Homeowners often put off bathroom renovations as they don’t have time or the funds to do so, or their bathroom doesn’t look “that bad.” However, there are a few key signs that it may be time to bite the bullet and start your bathroom renovation in Sydney.
Sometimes, new homeowners will put up with a colour on a bathroom wall or the way that the vanity is small and box-like with a small sink. Or, they’d like a larger cupboard for towels and toiletries but don’t want to deal with the hassle of going through bathroom renovations. One of the key signs that you need to renovate your bathroom is when you just can’t stand certain things anymore. If the colour of the walls, or the fact that there is wallpaper, is starting to get on your nerves, it’s time for a change.
This may be particularly true if you’ve bought an older home, but you should definitely commence bathroom renovations if things are starting to break in your bathroom. Whether that’s if the bathtub is starting to peel, or flecks of paint are starting to come off the taps, or the ceiling fan isn’t doing as well at absorbing moisture, causing your ‘real wood’ cabinetry to become damp and smell of mould.
If you’re noticing that things are starting to break or lose their original aesthetic appeal because of their age or environmental factors, it’s time for those items to go! Newer items with longer lifespans can replace these during your bathroom renovation.
Maybe you’re noticing that your showerhead isn’t spraying at the same rate it once did, or there’s a near-constant ‘drip, drip, drip’ sound after the shower has been turned off, despite your best efforts with plumbing tape. Perhaps that rickety old exhaust fan is just too loud when you’re trying to enjoy the peace of a shower, away from the usual day-to-day rumblings of the household.
If you notice certain appliances are failing, it’s time for a bathroom renovation.
Speaking of functionality, it’s one of the primary reasons people change anything in their home to get better use out of the space. This is true of the bathroom as well. Perhaps your bathroom is small, and you have to settle for using an overhead shower in a small bathtub rather than a walk-in shower you’d really like.
One functional consideration that families and individuals need to make as they get older is the accessibility of a space. During a bathroom renovation, you may want to include a walk-in/roll-in shower so that individuals in wheelchairs can use them if you have a family member in a wheelchair who sometimes visits. Other accessibility considerations are low-rise toilet seats or lower-than-usual vanity countertops for the same reason. Building accessibility into your bathroom renovations shows a level of planning for the future and considering the present if you have a disabled family member or friend.
As the saying goes, “Out with the old, in with the new!” Keeping up with the aesthetic trends in a bathroom space and replacing older styles with newer ones is as good a reason as any to do a bathroom renovation! These can include installing a window in the bathroom to let in more natural light in combination with an all-white look.
Other aesthetic updates could include the use of metal cabinetry and granite or marble countertops rather than traditional lumber cabinetry and perhaps old vinyl coverings for vanity counters. Additionally, waterproof vinyl flooring works fantastically well and comes in a variety of wood-like patterns, replacing old and ragged linoleum floor. If you’re starting your linoleum cracking or peeling, then it’s time to add flooring to the bathroom renovation to-do list.
When planning any renovation, you must ensure that you have the budget to see things through. You don’t want to run out of money and need to stop halfway through! When planning your bathroom renovation in Sydney, consider the following:
Create a realistic picture of your available funds and how they’ll be used during the bathroom renovation. This should be as detailed as possible and map out where nearly every penny will be spent. However, if you plan on hiring a Sydney bathroom renovation company to do the work for you, include their total estimate for the work you want done and a windfall for material cost increases.
With online shopping, it’s fairly easy to find like-new materials cheaply. Whether you’re shopping in the IKEA Clearance section or Facebook Marketplace, desirable cabinetry, sinks, bathtubs, and even bathroom floor tiling can be found at a significant discount. If you’re satisfied with not buying brand new and are trying to save money, then buying used is a great option.
All in all, setting a realistic budget for your bathroom renovation is essential to planning the project. You’ll need to consult with the firm conducting the renovation at every stage of the financial planning process to see if they can work within your budget.
No, we aren’t talking about cold weather climates causing freezing waterpipes but rather planning your bathroom renovation to coincide with seasonal promotions on material costs. Or avoiding peak construction times (summer and autumn) to avoid having difficulties finding a bathroom renovation licensed contractor in Sydney. If you’re not in a rush, it might behove you to wait until the off-season for your bathroom renovation.
Many Sydney bathroom renovations will not need a building permit, providing they are only aesthetic changes. However, some changes will require building permits that can be obtained through the Department of Planning, mainly structural changes. For example, if you’re going to knocking down a wall to expand your bathroom space, you’ll need to ensure that your bathroom renovation company has acquired the necessary building permits.
You’ll also want to ensure that a licensed and reputable plumber does any plumbing work.
Before you begin any major bathroom renovations, you’ll need to consult with bathroom renovation experts and contractors for their advice and input on your bathroom renovation plans. This will provide you with insights into problems that may arise that you hadn’t thought of or alternative options for materials that you hadn’t considered.
In any case, consultation with professionals with years of experience renovating bathrooms is always a good idea for your first bathroom renovation.
One of the lesser-talked-about things that happens during a bathroom renovation is that your bathroom becomes an unusable space that may even be hazardous to brush your teeth in, depending on the scale of the bathroom renovation.
Plan for this! See if you can use a family member, friend or neighbour’s bathroom space for the duration of the renovation. Ensure that all of your toothbrushes, toothpaste, and any other exposed items (like towels) are covered or packed away for the duration of the dirtiest parts of the renovations.
Having any renovations done on your home will impact your daily routine; simply expect this (temporary) interruption and plan accordingly.
Deciding to do a bathroom renovation can be a tricky thing to plan for, as there is so much to consider. But, with careful forethought given to every aspect, including finding the properly licensed bathroom renovation professionals, you’ll have a new bathroom that’s shiny, modern and exactly as you want it.
If you’ve been pacing the bathroom floor, trying to decide what to do about that awful wallpaper, those dated cabinets or that peeling bathtub, give Crystal Bathrooms a call and set up an initial consultation. After that, we can discuss your bathroom renovation options and start giving you the bathroom of your dreams.
2023 has been a big year in the re-modernisation of personal space, not more so than in the humble bathroom. Bathrooms are a place of escape from the hustle and bustle of home, the screaming children or the moody teenager. Modernising your bathroom space could be a part of your next bathroom renovation.
If you’re focused on creating a luxurious retreat that’s a relaxing and quiet space within the home but need help with the particulars, this article is for you! We’ll explore how best to create a spa-like ambience in your bathroom and how you might choose to make your next round of bathroom renovations ‘chill vibes only’, with a built-in flair for modern shapes, designs and fixtures.
To give you some insight into how you can live in the lap of luxury in your own bathroom, here are some 2023 design trends to incorporate into your bathroom renovation.
While tiles have always been a popular inclusion in any bathroom space for their waterproofing attributes, intricate designs, and variety of colour patterns that fit almost any colour scheme, 2023 was the year of floor-to-ceiling tiles. Tile designs this year encapsulated the entire bathroom space, sometimes transitioning from large-sized floor tiles to long-edge shower tiling and then to small wall tiling.
2023 was the year of the tile. Combine this flooring and wall choice with a gorgeous walk-in shower to begin feeling more luxurious in your home. When renovating your bathroom and using tile, it’s important to consider tile sizing as well as pattern and colour scheme with the rest of the room’s decor. Also, consider that not all tile is created equal, it is however a fantastic option if you’re installing a walk-in shower as part of your bathroom renovations.
One of the most important additions to any new bathroom renovation is the addition of real or faux wood. While real wood can be heavy when applied to large bathroom closets or cabinetry, having some sliding wooden doors on your sub-vanity cupboards or small in-vanity wood cubby holes is never a bad idea. Wood tends to warm a space and blends perfectly with many different tiling colours.
Bathrooms have traditionally been one of the few rooms in the home where you can be alone with your thoughts. Or a magazine, if you prefer. In 2023, bathrooms are all about shutting yourself off from the world outside and relaxing. Whether in a hot bath or shower, or the simplicity of an uninterrupted morning routine. To this end, your 2023 bathroom renovation could include candles, motion-activated soft music, plants to oxygenate the space, and plenty of natural light to give you a ‘grounding’ effect, bringing you closer to nature and a sense of internal peace.
One design trend that’s lent itself well to relaxation is the colour palettes of 2023 bathrooms. Blues, greens, whites and a stained wood vanity. We’re talking light blue wall paint, coupled with a gorgeous white granite sink and vanity countertop, who’s cupboards are made from lightly stained maple, cherry or oak.
Other light, bright and airy colour palettes are desired this year, as they provide a sense of softness and relaxation. Soothing, light tones combined with unharsh furnishings and plenty of natural light (meaning medium-sized windows with frosted glass, or traditional glazing with white or light green or blue curtains.
While some may of the word ‘sustainable’ as a buzzword, it has become anything but in the design world; it’s become a staple. It is a necessity and, thus, a central point in almost any bathroom renovation. Using natural materials like real wood, granite, marble, or stone can play a huge role in incorporating a touch of nature into your new Sydney bathroom renovation. Equally, incorporating natural light into the space through appropriate windows is another natural-world addition necessary for any modern bathroom.
Sustainability also means using reclaimed wood or effectively re-using old things during bathroom renovations. This could mean scouring the internet for old wooden cabinetry or an old (but restorable) claw-foot bathtub, just like the one you’ve always dreamed of. Similarly, using bamboo in your construction process (to build things like sink vanities), or even in basic toiletry items like toilet paper is a fantastic way to keep things eco-friendly and sustainable.
Gone are the days of harsh lines and cut-offs in a bathroom space. The open-concept living room/kitchen has migrated to the open-concept bathroom. Minimalism and lines are the keywords here. Minimalistic fixtures, sometimes incorporating smart technology, along with glass partitions, can help give the illusion of an open-concept bathroom with more space than is in the room. Consider how open you’d like your bathroom to be during your bathroom renovation.
The bathtub or shower is a centrepiece of any bathroom. You may want your bathtub or shower to make a statement like “Here lies relaxation.” This could mean an antique clawfoot bathtub, deep enough to swallow you whole on difficult days, or a large walk-in shower with recessed shelving and comfortable seating, perfect for a long shower when all you need is peace.
Choosing large bathtubs with minimal fancy with the taps and faucets or a walk-in shower with a large showerhead with an adjustable flow rate is a great way to save money on your water bill and incorporate a relaxing flow to your shower. Consider making your bathroom renovation all about how that gorgeous tub or spacious shower will take it’s place.
The future has been here for several years now, and smart technology is merely an integration of computer-aided processes in our everyday lives. However, you may not consider your bathroom the ideal place for smart tech. Well, you’d be wrong. Many modern bathrooms will incorporate some version or another of smart-technology.
This could be motion-sensor lights on dimmer switches controlled via your phone at a basic level. Other, more complicated introductions of smart tech into the bathroom space include smart mirrors, which can provide live weather and traffic updates for your morning routine, or waterproof sound systems that can play relaxing music during your bath. These smart-systems can even be included in your shower to improve water conservation. Despite these systems’ outlandishness, they make your life easier and are priced accordingly.
Consider spending more money upfront on your bathroom renovation to save money later!
One of the most important aspects of any bathroom renovation is how your bathroom will be lit. While introducing plenty of natural lighting with large windows is important, creating a luxurious bathroom retreat means grand lighting solutions like chandeliers or large over-mirror lighting. Your whole bathroom can be wired on dimmer switches with warm LED lights to both save money on your electric bill and have a sense of control over how bright or dim you want your light.
With the integration of smart technology, these can be controlled from your phone in situ or pre-set before entering the deep clawfoot bathtub’s fresh, warm water. When dealing with electronics in the bathroom, always have your electronic devices installed by licensed electricians who help with bathroom renovations in Sydney.
Bathrooms are where we go to relax. Design companies know this and thus, have created products that help us better relax and ‘be well’ within our bathroom spaces. Consider incorporating steam showers, in-floor heating and aromatherapy techniques in your next bathroom design.
Stepping onto an already heated floor maintains your blood pressure and heart rate at a calm level, immediately relaxing your whole bathroom experience. Similarly, steam showers are fantastic at clearing out blocked pores and sinuses by creating a sauna-like experience.
If you’re looking for a way to incorporate luxury into your bathroom renovation, ask how Crystal Bathrooms can help make your newest renovated bathroom the most luxurious space. Filled with design ideas, years of renovation experience and a desire to bring you the best bathroom renovation possible, our staff will help you book a consultation with our bathroom renovation experts to start the process. Contact us today!