Real Estate Investor Magazine South Africa July 2013 | Page 36

IMPROVING

can do a lot with just the right amount of light,
either via windows, skylights or having a wall of
glass where your normal wall would be, making
your bathroom bright and light filled.

Go granite
One big splurge item, which will enhance
your bathroom, is granite, think countertops
and floors. Born from molten magma, granite
is a much more durable and functional stone
than marble. Granite’s crystalline structure is
far more resistant to abrasions, staining and
discolouration than most marbles. Denser and
stronger than all natural stones, granite is an
excellent choice for high traffic areas where
class and style are desired.
Granite feels at home in a country farmhouse
as well as a modern high rise. The variety of
colours and textures are traits that set granite
apart from the rest.

Sink about it

showerheads, shower tiles, rain bars, body
sprays or steam showers.
If you opt for a bathtub, think more along
the lines of a deep, insulated tub where you can
stretch out and relax.

Let the light in
Depending on where your bathroom is, you
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July 2013 SA Real Estate Investor

How many sinks do you want? While you may
be tempted to get two sinks, the addition of
another sink to your bathroom can raise the roof
on remodelling costs and you may have to limit
counter and mirror space. You have to decide if
you really have to have that second sink.

Utter luxury
When it comes to extras in a master bathroom
remodel, look toward the luxurious. Hang an
extravagant chandelier over a soaking tub; add
built-in warming drawers for towels or install a
pass-through fireplace for ambience and warmth.
Sound systems and televisions have become

SOME TOP TIPS
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Some hardware stores and home
improvement stores offer free “how
to” classes on everything from
painting to tiling.
You can refresh a shabby linoleum
floor by bleaching it to get rid of
stains and grime.
If you buy new tiles for your floor or
tub enclosure, buy enough to have
extras on hand in case you need to
make repairs in the future.
Avoid cluttering your bathroom
with toiletries, pictures, gimmicky
things, etc. This makes a bathroom
look less spacious and puts off
potential buyers (and guests).
Don’t skimp on the paint. Spend a
little extra and get a good quality
paint that is mildew-resistant.
Apply a primer and at least two
coats of finish colour.

quite common in master bathrooms, but today’s
remodels are taking the concept to a new level.
Flat screens are becoming more popular and
in-mirror models, where the television is visible
only when it is on, are another option.
A bathroom is more than just a place to
shower and get clean, it is a refuge from a busy
and hectic lifestyle and often the only place you
can relax and unwind. Make sure you know
exactly what you want, and then consult a
professional about your bathroom remodel.
www.reimag.co.za