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Residential Decorators Service in Battersea: Key Considerations Before Starting Your Project

Warm timber panelled interior with staircase decorated by residential decorators

Residential Decorators Service in Battersea: Key Considerations Before Starting Your Project

When it comes to transforming your home with the help of a professional residential decorators service in Battersea, careful planning is essential to ensure the project runs smoothly and meets your expectations. Whether you are refreshing a single room or giving your entire home a makeover, taking the time to consider a few key factors can help you achieve the best results. Here’s a guide to help you make informed decisions before starting your decorating project.

1. Establishing a Clear Vision

Before hiring a residential decorators service in Battersea, it’s important to have a clear vision of what you want your space to look like. Consider the overall style and atmosphere you want to create, whether it’s modern, traditional, minimalist, or eclectic. Think about colours, textures, and how the decor will complement the rest of your home. Having a defined vision will guide the decorator and ensure the final result matches your expectations.

2. Setting a Realistic Budget

Budgeting is one of the most important considerations when planning a decorating project. Understand the costs associated with your project, including materials, labour, and any additional services such as furniture or custom items. Be realistic about your budget to avoid unexpected costs during the process. A professional decorator can help you prioritise your needs and recommend cost-effective solutions that don’t compromise on quality or style.

3. Choosing the Right Decorator

When hiring a residential decorators service in Battersea, it’s crucial to select the right professional for the job. Look for a decorator with experience and a portfolio of work that matches your style and project requirements. Ask for recommendations, read reviews, and check their previous projects to ensure they have the necessary skills and expertise. A good decorator will also offer advice on the best design choices for your space, based on their knowledge of trends, colour schemes, and materials.

4. Understanding Your Timeline

Clear communication about your project timeline is essential to avoid any surprises. Discuss your desired start and completion dates with the decorator, and ensure they can accommodate your schedule. While smaller projects may take a few days, larger renovations may require weeks or even months. Setting realistic expectations and a clear timeline from the beginning ensures that the project progresses smoothly and stays on track.

5. Assessing Your Space for Practicality

Every space is unique, and a key consideration when planning a decorating project is how to make the most of your home’s layout and features. Residential decorators service in Battersea can help assess your space and recommend practical, functional solutions. For example, if you have a small room, the decorator may suggest light colours or multi-functional furniture to maximise space. They can also advise on creating visual balance and making the most of natural light.[vc_single_image image=”10415″ img_size=”full” css=””][vc_single_image image=”10306″ img_size=”full” css=””]

6. Selecting Materials and Finishes

The materials and finishes you choose for your project can make a significant impact on the overall look and durability of your space. Whether it’s paint, wallpaper, flooring, or furnishings, selecting the right materials is crucial for achieving the desired aesthetic and ensuring long-term quality. A skilled decorator will guide you through different options, considering factors like durability, maintenance, and suitability for your lifestyle.

7. Staying Involved in the Process

While you’re trusting professionals to handle the technical aspects of the project, it’s important to stay involved and maintain open communication throughout. Regular check-ins with your decorator will allow you to provide feedback and ensure the project stays on track. It’s also an opportunity to make adjustments to the plan if needed, ensuring the final result is exactly what you envisioned.

8. Post-Project Touches and Maintenance

Once your decorating project is complete, think about how you can maintain the space going forward. Whether it’s touch-ups or routine cleaning, keeping your home in top condition will ensure the longevity of your investment. A good decorator will offer guidance on how to care for your newly decorated space and provide tips on preserving the finishes.

Make Your Home Shine with Red Box London

Taking the time to consider these key factors before starting your decorating project will help ensure a smoother process and a more successful outcome. When you’re ready to transform your home, trust Red Box London’s experienced team of residential decorators. With expert advice, high-quality materials, and a keen eye for design, we’ll bring your vision to life and create a space that truly reflects your style.

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Decorators Service in Fulham: Tips for Small Space Transformations

Freestanding bath and picture window in a small Fulham bathroom with built-in storage

Decorators Service in Fulham: Tips for Small Space Transformations

When it comes to small spaces, every square inch counts. Whether you’re dealing with a compact apartment, a cosy room, or a bijou flat in Fulham, the right decorating service can help maximise the potential of your space, making it feel larger, more functional, and stylish. With clever design strategies and expert tips from a professional decorators service in Fulham, transforming a small space into a welcoming, efficient haven is easier than you think. Here are some key tips to consider:

1. Opt for Lighter Colours to Open Up the Space

Using lighter shades on walls, ceilings, and floors can make any small room feel bigger and more airy. Light colours like whites, soft greys, and pastels reflect light, making the space appear brighter and more spacious. A professional decorator can help choose the perfect light shades that will complement your space’s design, enhancing the natural light and giving the illusion of a larger room.

2. Use Multi-Functional Furniture

When dealing with limited space, furniture that serves more than one purpose is a game-changer. Consider investing in pieces such as sofa beds, fold-out desks, or storage ottomans that can easily be tucked away when not in use. A decorator can help incorporate space-saving furniture that doesn’t compromise on style or comfort, ensuring the room remains functional while keeping the layout flexible.

3. Embrace Vertical Space

In smaller rooms, it’s important to think vertically as well as horizontally. Wall-mounted shelves, floating cabinets, and tall bookcases draw the eye upwards, giving the illusion of more space. A skilled decorator in Fulham can design custom storage solutions that take advantage of vertical space without making the room feel cramped.

4. Keep the Floor Plan Open

In smaller spaces, an open floor plan is key to maintaining a sense of flow and freedom. A decorator can help optimise your layout, eliminating unnecessary partitions and furniture pieces that disrupt the space. By keeping pathways clear and creating distinct zones with rugs or lighting, the space can feel less cluttered and more expansive.

5. Incorporate Mirrors to Enhance Light and Depth

Mirrors are a brilliant design trick to make a small space feel larger. By reflecting light, they can brighten up the room and make it appear more expansive. Strategically placing mirrors across from windows or light fixtures can enhance natural light and give the illusion of depth. A decorator can help you choose the right mirror styles and placements to suit your room’s design.[vc_single_image image=”10382″ img_size=”full” css=””][vc_single_image image=”7238″ img_size=”full” css=””]

6. Maximise Storage with Custom Solutions

Storage can be a challenge in small spaces, but a professional decorator can recommend and design custom storage solutions that blend seamlessly into the room’s aesthetic. Built-in shelving, under-bed storage, and hidden cabinets can help keep clutter at bay, while still maintaining a clean, stylish look. These clever storage solutions ensure you’re making the most of every inch of available space.

7. Use Clever Lighting to Create Atmosphere

Lighting is a powerful tool in small space transformations. By using a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting, you can create a more open and inviting environment. Recessed lighting, wall sconces, or track lights can help brighten up dark corners, making the room feel more expansive. Professional decorators can help design the perfect lighting plan, choosing fixtures that are both space-efficient and stylish.

8. Choose Streamlined Furniture and Décor

Avoid bulky furniture and excessive decor in small spaces. Opt for streamlined, minimalist furniture that doesn’t overpower the room. A decorator can help you select pieces that are proportionate to the size of your space and keep the design simple yet elegant. By focusing on fewer, high-quality items rather than overcrowding the room, your small space will feel more sophisticated and open.

Maximising Small Spaces with Professional Decorators in Fulham

Transforming a small space into a stylish, functional living area requires expert planning and a keen eye for detail. By using clever design strategies such as light colours, multi-functional furniture, vertical storage, and smart lighting, a professional decorators service in Fulham can help you make the most of your limited space. Whether you’re looking to maximise storage, enhance natural light, or create a relaxing atmosphere, the right design choices can make your small space feel expansive and inviting. Contact Red Box London today to learn how our expert decorators can help you transform your small space into a beautiful, functional home.

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Planning Your Kitchen Renovation? Here’s What to Do Differently for the Best Results

Planning Your Kitchen Renovation? Here’s What to Do Differently for the Best Results

Renovating a kitchen is one of the most exciting and rewarding home improvement projects, but it can also be one of the most complex. As many homeowners discover, even the smallest decisions can make a big difference to how the space functions and feels once complete. At Red Box London, we’ve worked on countless kitchen renovations across London and have seen first-hand the lessons people often learn too late. Here are a few key things many wish they’d done differently when transforming their kitchen.

Planning Beyond the Aesthetics

It’s easy to get caught up in colours, finishes, and fixtures, but thoughtful planning should always start with how the space will be used. Many homeowners later realise they didn’t allocate enough preparation areas, storage solutions, or lighting options. A kitchen should not only look beautiful but also make everyday life easier, something we prioritise in every Red Box renovation.

Investing in Quality Where It Counts

Cutting corners on materials or fittings can seem tempting during the design phase, but it’s often a decision that leads to regret. Worktops, cabinetry, and flooring face daily wear, so durability matters as much as style. Investing in high-quality finishes from the start ensures your kitchen remains elegant and functional for years to come.

The Importance of Professional Design Support

One of the most common reflections homeowners share is wishing they had sought expert guidance sooner. A professional design and renovation team can spot potential layout issues, suggest space-saving ideas, and coordinate the project efficiently from start to finish. At Red Box London, we collaborate closely with clients to refine every element,  from layout and lighting to the smallest design detail, so the finished result feels cohesive and timeless.[vc_single_image image=”9881″ img_size=”full” css=””][vc_single_image image=”10429″ img_size=”full” css=””]

Lighting, Storage, and Flow

Underestimating the importance of good lighting or storage can greatly affect the practicality of a kitchen. Layered lighting, including task and ambient options, creates flexibility for cooking and entertaining. Meanwhile, smart cabinetry solutions ensure that every corner is used effectively. Balancing these elements helps your kitchen feel open, inviting, and easy to navigate.

Working with Trusted Specialists

A well-executed renovation depends on experienced craftsmanship. From structural adjustments to the final paint finish, working with a trusted, fully managed service like Red Box London guarantees quality, precision, and peace of mind. Our attention to detail ensures that each kitchen renovation runs smoothly, stays on schedule, and achieves stunning results.

A Kitchen You’ll Love for Years

Every renovation project comes with insights, but with the right preparation and professional support, you can avoid the common pitfalls. At Red Box London, we focus on creating kitchens that are as practical as they are beautiful, spaces designed around the way you live. If you’re planning to renovate your kitchen, let our experts guide you through the process for a seamless, stylish, and lasting transformation.If you are planning to do work in your home including decorating, then these points are, some to consider and preparation is the real key to a successful result that you will be happy with.

 

For inspiration see some of our website and Instagram photos as these can really help with inspirational ideas.   If you would like more ideas or advice, then, by all means, drop in or send us a list of what you’d like to achieve, and we’ll advise you as to how to make your budget stretch as far as possible.

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Home Improvements for Book Lovers

Home Improvements for Book Lovers

Do you love reading? Lets look at ways you can update your home for your passion!

It’s World Book Day – let’s talk home improvement and upgrades for book lovers!

Here are some creative ideas for home renovation projects inspired by books:

  • Library Nook: Dedicate a corner or a room in your home to create a cosy library space. Install floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, add comfortable seating like bean bags or armchairs, and incorporate soft lighting to create a welcoming atmosphere. You can even paint the walls with quotes from your favourite books or authors.
  • Themed Rooms: Choose a favourite book or series and design a room in your home around its theme. For example, a Harry Potter-inspired room could feature Hogwarts house colours, floating candles, and magical decor elements. A jungle-themed room inspired by “The Jungle Book” could incorporate lush greenery, animal prints, and adventure-themed decor.
  • Bookshelf Wall Mural: Transform a wall in your home into a giant bookshelf mural. You can either paint the mural yourself or use removable wallpaper with a bookshelf design. Arrange real books on shelves for an added touch of authenticity.
  • Reading Nook Under the Stairs: If you have unused space under a staircase, convert it into a charming reading nook. Install built-in bookshelves or floating shelves to store books, add a comfortable seat or cushions, and hang soft curtains for privacy.
  • Storybook-Inspired Playroom: Create a whimsical playroom inspired by classic children’s books. Paint colourful murals of storybook scenes on the walls, hang character cutouts from the ceiling, and incorporate themed toys and games. You can even add a small stage area for dramatic readings or puppet shows.

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  • Literary Quote Wall Art: Use stencils or decals to create wall art featuring your favourite literary quotes. Arrange the quotes throughout your home to inspire and uplift your family and guests.
  • Book-Themed Kitchen or Dining Area: Bring your love of literature into the heart of your home by incorporating book-themed decor into your kitchen or dining area. Use book pages to create unique table runners or placemats, hang framed book cover art on the walls, and display literary-themed dish ware and accessories.
  • DIY Bookends: Get creative and make your own bookends inspired by your favourite books or characters. You can use materials like old books, action figures, or even miniature dioramas to craft unique and personalised bookends for your shelves.
  • Literary-Inspired Colour Palette: Choose paint colours for your walls inspired by the covers of your favourite books. Whether you prefer the rich burgundy of “The Great Gatsby” or the serene blue of “The Secret Garden,” incorporating literary-inspired hues into your home can add depth and character to your space.
  • Reading Garden: If you have outdoor space, create a tranquil reading garden where you can escape into your favourite books surrounded by nature. Add comfortable seating, shade-providing plants, and perhaps a small fountain or bird feeder to enhance the ambiance.

These ideas can help you infuse your home with the magic of literature and create inviting spaces where you and your family can enjoy reading and storytelling together.

CONTACT RED BOX LONDON

CALL US 02073811539

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Have You Checked Your Roof For This Winter?

Design and Planning

Have You Checked Your Roof For This Winter?

It’s been a tough winter for London’s homes, especially the roofs of older properties with the strong winds and rain.

Roof maintenance is essential for preserving the integrity and longevity of your home’s roof. Here are some tips for effective roof maintenance:

  • Regular Inspections: Conduct visual inspections of your roof at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall. Look for signs of damage such as missing or cracked shingles, rust spots on metal roofs, and signs of algae or moss growth.
  • Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water to back up and damage your roof. Clean them regularly to ensure proper drainage.
  • Trim Overhanging Branches: Tree branches hanging over your roof can cause damage during storms or high winds. Trim back any branches that could potentially fall onto your roof.
  • Remove Debris: Keep your roof clear of leaves, branches, and other debris that can accumulate and trap moisture, leading to roof damage and deterioration.

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  • Repair Leaks Promptly: If you notice any signs of a leak, such as water stains on your ceiling or walls, address them immediately to prevent further damage to your roof and interior.
  • Check Flashing and Sealants: Inspect the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights for signs of damage or deterioration. Replace any damaged flashing and reseal around these areas as needed.
  • Maintain Attic Ventilation: Proper attic ventilation helps regulate temperature and moisture levels in your attic, which can extend the life of your roof and prevent problems like ice dams in winter.
  • Schedule Professional Inspections: Consider hiring a professional roofing contractor to conduct a comprehensive inspection of your roof at least once every few years. They can identify potential issues early on and recommend necessary repairs or maintenance.

CONTACT RED BOX LONDON

CALL US 02073811539

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A Pizza Lovers Home Renovation Dream

A home renovation plan for pizza lovers

As its National Pizza Day today, it seemed the right moment to share these tips for pizza lovers planning a home renovation!If you’re planning a home renovation, especially for your kitchen – and your household has a love of all things pizza, then these tips might be the right ideas for you.

Join us as we explore innovative renovation tips and tricks tailored specifically for pizza lovers.

  1. Kitchen Renovation: The heart of every pizza lover’s home is undoubtedly the kitchen. Transform your cooking space into a pizza-making haven with these renovation tips:
    • Install a high-quality pizza oven: A dedicated pizza oven can take your homemade pies to the next level. Whether you prefer a traditional wood-fired oven or a modern electric model, invest in a quality oven that suits your cooking style.
    • Create a designated pizza prep area: Designate a section of your kitchen counter for pizza preparation. Install a spacious countertop with ample room for rolling out dough, assembling toppings, and slicing pizzas.
    • Optimise storage for pizza-making essentials: Organise your kitchen cabinets and drawers to accommodate pizza pans, pizza stones, pizza cutters, and other essential tools. Consider installing custom shelving or pull-out racks for easy access to ingredients and equipment.

[vc_single_image image=”10260″ img_size=”600×400″][vc_single_image image=”10261″ img_size=”600×400″]2. Outdoor Pizza Patio: Take your pizza obsession outdoors with a dedicated pizza patio or backyard kitchen:

    • Build a DIY pizza oven: Explore DIY pizza oven kits or construction plans to build your own outdoor pizza oven. Invite friends and family to gather around the fire and enjoy freshly baked pizzas in the comfort of your backyard.
    • Design a cosy seating area: Create a welcoming outdoor oasis with comfortable seating, ambient lighting, and weather-resistant furnishings. Incorporate features like a pergola or canopy to provide shade during sunny pizza parties.

3.   Pizza-Inspired Colour Palette: Infuse your home with a pizza-inspired colour palette to evoke the warmth and vibrancy of your favourite pizzeria:

    • Choose rich reds, golden yellows, and earthy browns reminiscent of tomato sauce, melted cheese, and crusty dough.
    • Accentuate with pops of green to represent fresh herbs and vegetables commonly found on pizzas.
    • Incorporate neutral tones like beige and tan to balance the boldness of pizza-inspired hues and create a harmonious overall look.

CONTACT RED BOX LONDON

CALL US 02073811539

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February Home Renovation Planning Ideas

Design and Planning

February home renovation planning ideas

 

February might be the shortest month, but there’s still time to be productive.

Whether you’re ready to get started or planning things out, here are some areas to consider around the home to get your started during the winter months:

1. Indoor Painting: February is a great time to refresh the interior of your home with a new coat of paint. Consider updating walls, trim, or cabinets for a fresh look.

2. Kitchen Remodel: If you’ve been considering a kitchen remodel, February is an ideal time to start planning and executing the project. You can focus on updating cabinets, countertops, backsplash, or appliances to give your kitchen a modern and functional makeover.

3. Bathroom Renovation: Renovating a bathroom can greatly improve both the functionality and aesthetics of your home. Consider upgrading fixtures, replacing tiles, installing a new vanity, or adding storage solutions.

4. Flooring Upgrades: Upgrade your flooring to enhance the overall look and feel of your home. Consider options such as hardwood, laminate, tile, or luxury vinyl plank flooring for durability and style. – Have you considered underfloor-heating?![vc_single_image image=”10183″ img_size=”600×400″][vc_single_image image=”9932″ img_size=”600×400″]5. Lighting Updates: Improve the lighting in your home by installing new fixtures or upgrading to energy-efficient LED bulbs. Consider adding dimmer switches or smart lighting systems for added convenience and ambiance.

6. Window Replacement: Replace old or inefficient windows with energy-efficient models to improve insulation and reduce energy costs. This can also enhance the appearance of your home and increase its resale value.

7. Insulation Improvements: Enhance the energy efficiency of your home by adding or upgrading insulation in walls, lofts, and crawl spaces. This can help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and reduce heating and cooling costs.

8. Organisation and Storage: Maximise storage space and organisation in your home by renovating closets. Install custom shelving, drawers, and racks to optimise storage and keep belongings neatly organised –or if you have the space, have you always wanted a walk in wardrobe?

CONTACT RED BOX LONDON

CALL US 02073811539

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Red Box Tips for Improving Your Home

Red Box Tips for Improving Your Home

 

You have probably decided at this stage to improve your own home rather than move and it is surprising what you can achieve with a little thought and ingenuity for a fraction of the overall cost of moving house. The following suggestions are a summary of our 15 years in the business, which you will almost certainly find helpful. Some might seem obvious but it’s surprising how often they are overlooked.1) Explore what’s possible with a company like ours, preferably recommended,to find out what’s possible within your budget.
You may be surprised as to what can be achieved without needing an architect or planning permission.

2) Obtain a specification which is worded in a way that relates to your home and without hidden costs.

3) Agree a proposed timescale and how you may be affected.

4) Check company credentials and agree a payment plan.

5) Ask for references and possibly seeing a finished project.6) Request a copy of the company’s insurance and expect around£2million Employers’ Liability and a minimum of £2million Public Liability insurance.
You might wish to consider Home Works Insurance Policy too.

7) Speak to neighbours before any planning application or party wall awards have started. Your neighbours may carry out similar works in the future, so demonstration of goodwill helps!

8) Receive written confirmation of any planning permissions and party wall awards.

9) Ensure that your chosen company introduces themselves to neighbours up front and provides them with a reliable point of contact and business card or leaflet.

10) Ensure that your company does tidy up properly at the end of each day including pavements.

11) Alert neighbours in advance of any particularly noisy work or deliveries.

12) Check your company’s guaranteesand also ensure that all appliance instruction manuals and other important documents are retained in your ‘House File’.[vc_single_image image=”10235″ img_size=”600×400″][vc_single_image image=”10068″ img_size=”600×400″]Project Management:

Here are some handy hints  on the project management role which is often overlooked but vital.

Tempting though it may be to ‘project manage’ works in your own home we recommend that you engage the help of a professional and in the case of our company project management is included as standard and always has been. Good project management will not only help you with timing and the overview as per our Recommend Tips leaflet but also at least some of the following as well:

 

  1. Delivery arrangements for the larger ‘kerbside delivery only’ consignments
  2. Help with sourcing not only the main products but also all the support products, the absence of which at the right time can bring a project to an expensive standstill
  3. Liaison with third parties
  4. Communication with your neighbours
  5. Ensuring that insurance appropriate for your project is in place
  6. Being available when you may not be to address any issues as they arise
  7. Compatibility of different products, plans and integration
  8. Ensuring completion on time and within budget, including managing additional items both cost and time wise

Suggestion for quotes:

Colours: we’ve noticed during our last half dozen Fulham projects that clients are increasingly choosing neutral but not bland wall colours so as to provide an effective backdrop behind brighter furniture or wall art colours. One particular choice has been Ammonite for walls with oil based white eggshell or more refined Satinwood for woodwork.

Sliding pocket doors: these are more sophisticated than they used to be and can be really valuable way of designing in a space saving feature as they avoid the need for a swinging door. They are now more cost effective to fit and the mechanisms can hold a door that’s in keeping with the rest of the property, but instead of swinging open it can slide back discretely inside the wall. Great particularly for bathrooms.

Skylights: these can be great way of bringing in additional light into both a kitchen extension or top floor mansard or loft extension. The latest electronically controlled skylights sense rain for automatic closing and bring valuable other features. Skylights also provide useful access to the roof for cleaning and general maintenance whilst at the same time enhancing your home. There are a wider variety available now giving both a good choice of style and size.

Doorbells: whenever we install a new doorbell or door entry system we ensure that there is some audible indication to the caller at the front door that the bell is working. A bell near the front door really helps as the caller can heart the bell which discourages endless pushing of the button!.

CONTACT RED BOX LONDON

CALL US 02073811539

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Crittall Style: The 19th Century Method Making a Comeback

Bathroom Remodelling Battersea

Planning a Home Update? Let’s Talk About Crittall Style

 

Crittall Style: The 19th Century method that’s making a comebackWhilst Crittall style is nothing new, it is gaining popularity with interior designers and home owners.  The method was first used and created in 1860 by Henry Crittall, an Essex ironmonger, to create steel-framed windows.  Whilst the style has been around for over 150 years it still gives the contemporary and modern feel, and metal framed windows and doors have never looked so good!

Crittall Style has been gaining popularity across the pond in New York city art deco or industrial style apartments and lofts, making use of large window spaces and the UK are catching up, but the style is not only being used for window frames anymore, but designers are also making walls, extensions, room dividers, and even shower screens!

The sturdy and stylish frames tap into the current industrial trend for an edgy and versatile look and feel.  A Crittall style design can turn a room into a cool, modern space plus will help open it up and let in more light at the same time!Crittall doors are perfect for inside and outdoor spaces – inside they help to keep light running through the house, outside they look good as courtyard frames and home extensions/outside buildings.

Decorative yet minimalist, these steel-framed grid-like doors can blend with other styles too to make the most of your home.

A little newer to the scene is a lighter alterative to steel Crittall – aluminium. The on trend, sleeker and smoother aluminium look.A lot of companies are now offering the Crittall “Lookalike” for the customer who wants they cool grey look.

Aluminium frames can be more cost effective to build and install than their more famous steel Crittall[vc_single_image image=”10251″ img_size=”600×400″]

No matter what you choose, both styles offer a sleek and bright finish to any home renovation design.

CONTACT RED BOX LONDON

CALL US 02073811539

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Bathroom Trends: Wet Rooms for Modern Homes

bathroom lighting by red box

Bathroom Trends: Wet Rooms for Modern Homes

 

Many home owners are considering creating wet rooms in their homes, versus a traditional bathroom. A wet room can give your home that little bit of a luxury look to visitors and there’s something that little bit freeing and fun about not being confined to a small box shower or bath tub and the worry of splashing the floor!What is a wetroom?
Simply put, a wet room is a bathroom that can get completely wet.  It is a fully tiled floor that has been tanked (Waterproofed) instead of having a conventional shower or bath tub.  As the entire room has been tanked, there’s no need for glass screens/shower doors or dividers – the entire room becomes the shower enclosure and a drain on the floor – trends are showing that some home owners do prefer to add a shower panel – to avoid too much splashing across the room.

The cost of a wet room can be in the region of around £5000-£10,000.  If the wet room and waterproofing are not done correctly, water damage repairs can be costly, it is especially important to ensure adequate tanking for flats and apartments.There are many benefits to installing a wetroom into your home, here are a few:

  1. Space saving – A wet room can help even the smallest of bathrooms feel bigger, by removing an old bath or shower enclosure you open up more space in the room.
  2. Easy to clean – with no fixtures in the way you’ll have less hassle cleaning the floor – underfloor heating can also help reduce time spent cleaning!
  3. Increased safety factor – special non slip tiles make the room safer than traditional floor tiling.
  4. Adds value to your property – Phil Spencer, best known for Location, Location, Location suggests that adding a new bathroom to your home will add an extra 2.88% to the value of it. A wet room is likely to add even more.
  5. Makes bathroom more accessible – added tip – pet owners will find it far easier to give the dog a bath in a wet room versus trying to have them stay in the bathtub!
  6. Stylish looking and more design options

[vc_single_image image=”10079″ img_size=”600×400″]But won’t it be slippery after a shower?

Quite a common thing for people considering a wet room to misunderstand, but wet room floor tiles are infact safer than standard bathroom floor tiling.

A wetroom’s floor features special slip-resistant tiles and fitted level to ensure maximum safety when wet (or dry).

 

Will everything get damp and steamy?

Smaller rooms can be tricky with retaining the moisture, however with good ventilation and extractor fan installed you can easily overcome any potential issues.Challenges and Decisions

 

There are a few key areas and options to consider when planning a wet room. Whilst some of these aren’t necessary, they are worth thinking about before starting to work as it would be less work to put them in from the beginning, rather than going back to install later on.

Drainage & Tanking

This is vital for any wet room, without adequate tanking and drainage systems in place you risk substantial maintenance and repair costs due to any leakages or water damage.  The costs and plans for this must be added to your plans from the beginning.

You will also need to incorporate a slight gradient into the floor in order to channel any water that escapes the shower or sink area.

 

Ventilation

As already mentioned above, proper ventilation options are needed for a wet room (or any bathroom in fact), to avoid mould growth and supply a healthy air flow circulation. If the room has no external windows, an extractor fan will need to be fitted to remove the moisture.

 

Choose your floor tiles

Wet room floor tiles are different to standard bathroom tiling, they have a non-slip coating to ensure safety when wet.  It is important to get the right type of tiling installed to avoid any accidents or injuries – we recommend avoiding high gloss/polished sheen tiles.[vc_single_image image=”8939″ img_size=”600×500″]Underfloor heating

Whilst underfloor heating isn’t necessary, this added perk to your bathroom has benefits. Not only does it keep your feet toasty warm as you walk barefoot across the tiles – it also helps dry the wet room quicker, meaning less mould risk and less time cleaning the floor.

Underfloor heating should however be decided upon before the project starts, as it is far easier to install at this stage rather than later down the line – and isn’t that much extra work when you’re already waterproofing and tiling the floor.The importance of tanking your bathroom – (whether you choose a wet room or a standard bathroom).

Tanking can often be missed as a step in installing a new bathroom. Whilst, many home owners have the opinion that if the bathroom is fitted properly tanking would be irrelevant.  However, with the process being fairly inexpensive, it is a worthwhile insurance for the future of your home – should the unthinkable happen.

Another reason, some home owners and/or companies may skip installing the tanking system process in an installation, is they believe that bathroom tiles are waterproof anyway.  Which to a certain level, they can be, however, this can depend on the type of stone used – natural stones are not always waterproof, same goes for grouting which can soak up the water.

So, what is tanking? The simplest explanation is, taking is a waterproof membrane that are fitted beneath the tiles/flooring of your bathroom.  Tanking can come in sheet or liquid form (i.e sheet membrane or a paint on product).

The idea behind the tanking system, is that once it is fitted, the room /area will be water tight, so the background material/surfaces cannot be damaged by any water leakage.

If your shower has mould starting to grow along the grouting lines, chances are your bathroom was never tanked and the water has been absorbed into the grout and the plasterboard has become a breeding ground for mould.

If your bathroom fitter hasn’t suggested tanking – we recommend asking them why before starting any project.

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