TIP No.1 : Don’t economise on your extractor fan
You may know that we go on about extractor fans A LOT but it’s because saving a little bit of money on this key item is a big no-no! Choosing one which isn’t powerful enough can mean humid bathroom air isn’t extracted fast enough and can make your bathroom look shabby more quickly.
TIP No. 2: Don’t cut corners on paint finishes
Make sure you specify the right paint finishes for your new space (especially if you have kids). Spend a little more time on the wipe clean versions! It will mean you won’t have to decorate as quickly.
For the products with the best reviews, see these three below:
- Dulux Trade Diamond Matt is a tough and cleanable emulsion with a smooth, even matt finish. Perfect for busy environments that require frequent cleaning. Price: Approx. £40 incl. VAT / 2.5 litre
- Johnstone’s Emulsion is the best washable paint for any homeowners looking for convenience. Tougher than conventional emulsion paints, this product is strong enough to withstand constant wear and tear, and for a lower price. Price: £22.50 incl. VAT / 2.5 litre
- Crown’s Clean Extreme Scrubbable Matt provides a true matt finish with the durability and longevity that allows repetitive cleaning. It also has the added benefit of excellent stain resistance. Price: Approx. £33 incl. VAT / 2.5 litre
TIP No. 3: Don’t scrimp on your kitchen worktop
Looking for maximum aesthetics at minimum cost? A great way to achieve your dream kitchen for a wallet-friendly price is to use basic Magnet or IKEA carcasses and simple cupboard doors – but spend a little extra on a killer worktop. It will elevate the whole design plus the worktop gets the most brutal use and a good quality one will pay dividends over time.
Another way to reduce the overall cost of your kitchen is to use standard sized units, typically 40cm wide or 60cm wide. Bespoke items come with a price tag!
For some inspiration check out our three worktops below:
Corian is a synthetic, solid, nonporous surface with the ability to feature a nearly seamless joint.
Corian is also extremely durable and easy to maintain. It’s stain, heat, and sunlight resistant and comes in a variety of colours that do not fade or tarnish from wear and tear.
Drawbacks: Although Corian is a strong material, sharp objects should be avoided as they could cause damage.
Price range: £300- 700 per sq/
Marble is effortlessly beautiful, and we especially love Carrara Marble with its light grey veins and patterning. It works really well against a white backdrop, or light timber such as birch ply, or with painted cupboards like the example above. It’s also heat resistant, a plus for any kitchen worktop.
Drawbacks: It must be looked after properly, including being re-sealed every few years.
Price range: £300 – 500 per sq/m
Concrete is a very durable and long-lasting surface, immediately adding depth to any space.
It can be custom made to any size or shape, doesn’t scratch and is easily cleaned.
Drawbacks: Concrete worktops are expensive, and require annual sealing. Additionally, they are almost impossible to repair and cracking does sometimes occur.
Price range: £250 – 400 per sq/m
TIP No. 4: Don’t tighten your belt with ironmongery
If you are on a budget, then the slightly sad reality is you can’t upgrade every item to the higher end of the price spectrum. If you do – even with small bits here and there – you run the risk of going over budget, and fast! However, there is a place for considering a small upgrade on an item you’re in contact with every day. Namely: Ironmongery.
Selecting the cheapest option for door handles can be a mistake as you need them to be robust and withstand the everyday use. We recommend getting a sample of your chosen ironmongery and checking how it feels and looks before pressing the go ahead button.
TIP No. 5: Don’t save on design
We purposefully left the best tip until last!
When working to a tight budget the fittings and finishes don’t have to be expensive. BUT it will always pay dividends to employ a professional to design a space for you. For example, paying for a bathroom design that is well considered will have more impact and look more expensive than paying for pricey fittings that haven’t been well placed or considered.
So if you’re looking for longevity, and that extra special touch, don’t scrimp on your designers!
