Everybody's talking

No longer the last rooms to be tackled in a renovation project, bathrooms today are much more likely to be a focus of attention right from the start. And with good reason bathrooms are increasingly seen as private sanctuaries with the power to restore our equilibrium.

Before planning such a project, however, it pays to talk to the experts at the National Kitchen & Bathroom Association. The NKBA can put you in touch with local designers and cabinetmakers who can work with you to ensure your bathroom meets your requirements in terms of looks and practicality.

NKBA executive director Nicki Mills says choosing an NKBA designer can also fast-track the process and save both time and money.

"NKBA members have a wealth of experience in finding solutions to specific design challenges, both big and small," she says. "Nothing is overlooked in respect to the functionality of your bathroom or kitchen."

Mills says NKBA members have a thorough knowledge of design trends and new products and materials, which they can source at competitive rates. In addition, members attend regular seminars and courses, and are fully up-to-date with building and renovation regulations.

"NKBA members also offer a safeguard to consumers they abide by a strict code of conduct," she says.

The two bathrooms shown here were designed by NKBA members. The bathroom on the facing page, designed by Lloyd Richardson of Invercargill, features a freestanding, sculptural tub and a long, cantilevered vanity unit that appears to float within the space. The bathroom shown above, which is in a traditional Mt Eden villa, was designed by Natalie Du Bois. Its piéce de resistance is a solid, 1.2m-long marble vanity slab.

For details, contact the NKBA, phone 0900 4 NKBA. Website: www.nkba.org.nz.

Lloyds Joinery: phone (03) 215 8383. Website: www.lloydsjoinery.com.

Du Bois Design: phone (09) 529 5526. Website: www.duboisdesign.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas