Fresh start with help from Westpac

A bathroom renovation not only improves your lifestyle it also adds value to your home. But it often needs the eye of a designer to pull a look together.

Interior designer Brian Haftka was asked to renovate a dated bathroom in this traditional villa. The owners wanted their new bathroom to be light and white, and include a larger bath and separate shower.

"They visualised it all in white, which looks great, but isn't very practical. So we opted for subtle variations on the theme," says Haftka.

White Carrara marble with charcoal and brown veining forms the vanity top. Walls were painted in an off-white shade with a hint of grey to complement the marble, and the vanity cabinetry was lacquered to match. Other surfaces include high-gloss white wall tiles, and charcoal porcelain tiles on the floor and tub surround.

To enhance the serenity of the space, Haftka added bifold windows beside the tub. These overlook the garden.

For most families, the first challenge in such a project involves financial planning, and this is something that is best sorted at the outset.

One bank that knows and understands this process is Westpac, which offers a number of loan options, including the Westpac Choices Everyday loan. This works as a line of credit that you draw down as required, so you don't pay interest on the money until you use it. This links well with a Westpac hotpoints® credit card. Or you might wish to top up an existing home loan. Westpac can advise on the different types of home loans, so your loan can be structured in a way that works best for you.

For more details, visit your local Westpac branch or phone 0800 177 277. Alternatively, visit www.westpac.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas