Updating your kitchen and bathroom doesn’t have to break the bank. Choosing the right accessories can create a big impact and is an easy and affordable way to refresh the space for any level DIYer.
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Bunnings national buyers Simon Warmington and Adam Cole say flatpack systems are easy to use and an inexpensive way to achieve a stylish new look in the kitchen, bathroom or laundry. A few well-placed accessories add the finishing and personal touches to your new space.
The Kaboodle Kitchen Range uses a D.I.Y. Flatpax System so cabinets and colours can be mixed and matched to personalise each element of the kitchen. You wish to simply change the cupboard handles for a more contemporary look or also change the cupboard doors for a different splash of colour.
Adding down lights to illuminate benches and shelving will make the space brighter and more user friendly. LED lights use less energy than halogen or incandescent lights, saving money on power bills, Simon says.
“Install storage devices such as pull-out racks and shelves in the pantry to eliminate clutter and maximise space in the kitchen. Mount shelves to the walls and place hooks on the inside of the door to hang utensils such as tongs, pans and chopping boards,” he says. A great way to save on space and keep the kitchen looking tidy is installing a pull-out bin in a cupboard.
Bathrooms have evolved over the years and in some instances have become a luxury room and much more than a place to get clean. Whether it’s creating a large family bathroom or a spacious private ensuite, simple items such as tapware, bath tubs and showers can completely transform the look and feel of a bathroom.
In the bathroom, update the shower head and replace the shower curtain with a transparent screen to make the room look and feel more spacious. Rejuvenate your vanity by replacing dated tapware and cupboard handles, and add a new toilet or toilet seat for even bigger impact. Consider the toilet’s WELS rating to reduce water wastage and save on bills, Adam says.
Make use of extra wall space by mounting shelves to store essential bathroom items and decorative pieces. Keep towels off the floor by installing a towel rail. “Add a touch of luxury by investing in a heated rack that will keep towels warm and crisp,” he says. Other tips on choosing bathroom necessities:
Choosing baths:
- The amount of space available in a bathroom will determine the type of bath that suits the room. A freestanding bath makes a strong design statement, particularly if used as a centrepiece for the room, while a traditional built-in bath is dropped into a customised surround and suits smaller rooms.
- Tapware choices will be influenced by the type of bath, such as floor-mounted vs wall-mounted taps. Freestanding baths often require floor-mounted taps, though a back-to-wall freestanding bath also allows for wall-mounted taps to be used.
Choosing taps:
- Consider what the taps will be used for and the type of basin or bath the water will flow into. Tall or wall-mounted taps suits an inset or above the counter basin, while longer spouts are needed to extend across to a freestanding bath.
- Save water and money by choosing a tap with a high WELS rating. A 6-star basin mixer saves around three litres more per minute than a 4-star rated version operating at full flow, meaning less money spent on water bills.
Choosing showers:
- Wall showers on movable arms allow you to direct the spray angle of water, while a hand shower is great for kids and can be angled to suit different heights.
- There are a variety of shower spray patterns available, ranging from narrow or wide to soft and hard. Many showers now have more than one spray setting, which can be easily changed at the push of a button to cater to the whole family’s needs.
Ensuring each room and cupboards remain clutter free is the key to maintaining the refreshing makeover. A new blind for the window will complete the look.