Updated bathrooms add value to homes

Designers Colin and Justin are encouraging us to tackle home improvements this summer, starting with the bathroom.

The results of a new research study released by Ideal Standard reveal that less than one in 10 people believe the bathroom will add much value to the home.

Four out of five homeowners said that they had up to six home improvement jobs planned for their homes, with as many as a quarter of all these tasks having been on their to-do list for more than two years.

More than 50 per cent of those surveyed said that the bathroom was the home improvement task that filled them with the most fear and uncertainty, which is the reason they opted to complete easier jobs such as buying new bedroom furniture or putting up shelves.

However, Colin and Justin believe that it should be at the top of people's lists; they claim that improving the bathroom can have a significant impact on the value of a home.

The designers said: 'The bathroom is one of the main rooms in the house that potential buyers consider when buying a property, so keeping it updated is vital for increasing the chance of a sale.

'They want a bathroom that is clean, new and needs the least amount of work compared to other rooms, which they want to improve themselves.

'Plus, a bathroom improves your quality of life by providing a peaceful, serene environment to relax in,' added Colin and Justin.

They recommend that, for a dramatic impression, homeowners should create a focal point for their bathroom, such as a roll-top or freestanding bath.

If price or space is an issue, this can be scaled down to a countertop or vessel basin sitting on a vanity top.

The Bath by Ideal Standard comes with trestle or wave legs to add glamour to any bathroom.

Mirrors are said to be a simple way of creating the illusion of space.

Surrounding lights can even be added to give a polished look.

Future buyers will instantly see their reflection in the mirror and be able to visualise themselves in the home.

The Ideal Standard Simply U 1,200mm mirror with lamps and a digital display clock is claimed to create dressing-room elegance.

For smaller bathrooms, homeowners should consider corner furniture - such as the Concept corner basin with furniture unit - to maximise space.

Ideal Standard also offers the Space range of bathroom solutions specially designed for small bathrooms.

To instantly update a bathroom, changing the taps can help create a modern feel.

Homeowners should ensure that they match to give a co-ordinated look with taps, such as the Ideal Standard Active.

If space is an issue and the homeowner wants the luxury of a bath and the convenience of a shower, he or she could consider adding a shower bath to provide the best of both worlds.

The Ideal Standard Space shower bath has a wide P-shaped showering area with options for a bath screen.

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