How many bathrooms?

For many years most New Zealand homes included just one bathroom although, in two storey homes there was usually a toilet on each floor while homes in the upper echelon of society would likely have at least two bathrooms.

Around 1970, the en suite started appearing as almost standard in any new build home not just the most expensive houses but, now, as the price of homes continue to escalate we are again seeing more new builds with just one bathroom or toilet, a saving on cost.

So, if building a new home or wanting to renovate an existing property, the homeowners may be wondering how many bathrooms to install.

Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:

• KNOW THE DIFFERENT TYPES:

Bathrooms are sometimes categorised as full baths, three-quarter baths, half baths and quarter baths. Full bathrooms have a vanity, toilet, shower and bathtub. Threequarter baths have a shower, vanity and toilet but no tub – a format often favoured for en suites attached to a bedroom. Half baths, often known as powder rooms, only

have a vanity and toilet. Quarter baths, a term not usually used in New Zealand, have just a toilet or, as Kiwis would say, a separate ‘loo’.

• ASSESS THE FAMILY’S NEEDS:

It’s important to consider how many people are in your family as well as their accessibility requirements. For example, a bathtub may be difficult for a person with limited mobility to step over, but it’s convenient for bathing young children. If you have teenagers, an extra full bathroom or ‘three-quarter’ bath (en suite) is probably a wise investment and if you have a family member with mobility issues then a large, walk-in shower may be preferable over a cubicle shower especially if a cubicle shower base has a lip. Take into account the type of door on an enclosed shower – a door that swings wide open will probably suit better than a three-panel slider especially for people of large build.

• KEEP THE LONG TERM IN MIND:

You should be mindful of the future when installing or renovating a bathroom. In addition to considering how the needs of your family members are likely to change over time, you should think about how your choices may impact the resale value of your property. Even though some new builds now have only one bathroom, it is often desirable to have an extra toilet.

If you need advice on your renovation project, consult a building contractor in your area.

• BE PRACTICAL:

For those who have a generous build or renovation budget, there may be the possibility of including some extra practical solutions, such as a toilet and basin and even a shower near the back door, laundry or garage. Those who do a lot of outdoor work, such as gardening, or have a wellused swimming pool, then a toilet or small bathroom which can be accessed from the outside will save people traipsing through the house in wet swimwear or dirty work clothes.

Trusted solutions for NZ homes BATHROOMS | WARDROBES | TILES • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INSTALLATION • MAINTENANCE

P Chris on 021 880 371 E info@abernethyelectrics.co.nz

www.abernethyelectrics.co.nz

The Carlielle difference

From modest budgets to high-end designer kitchens, the Carlielle Kitchens team will bring your new kitchen to life.

Carlielle Kitchens is a family owned company with a proud history of designing and manufacturing the highest quality kitchens in the Franklin area. Over the past two decades owners, the McMiken family, has built up a close-knit team of 20 staff, each handpicked for his or her own area of expertise.

“Our reputation means everything to us,” say the McMikens. “As a long-established family business, we have been helping New Zealanders make their kitchen dreams a reality for 25 years. We are committed to providing an exceptional customer experience, from inspiration to installation.”

For its new clients, Carlielle Kitchens offers a free, informal meeting either at their home or at the Pukekohe showroom where they’ll meet with one of the company’s awardwinning designers to chat about their project, key features, budget and timings, and to get a good understanding of ideas and objectives for the client’s new kitchen.

Carlielle Kitchens’ talented designers work across a wide spectrum of styles from traditional to contemporary, and everything in between. All of the design team are fully qualified in interior or spatial design and have the passion and experience to work with any space.

The company has also developed a range of exclusive cabinet and door products which ensures a new kitchen, bathroom or laundry enjoys a longer life and has optimal performance and a superior design. To back that up, Carlielle Kitchens provides a 20-year guarantee on its products and workmanship.

Call Carlielle Kitchens today on 09 238 5222 or visit their showroom at 138 Manukau Road, Pukekohe. www.carliellekitchens.co.nz @carliellekitchens

WE DO MORE THAN DESIGN & BUILD KITCHENS

At Carlielle Kitchens, we have developed an exclusive range of products that ensure your kitchen, bathroom or laundry cabinets are of a superior design, perform optimally, and have a longer life. Contact us 0800 373 337 • carliellekitchens.co.nz