My first advice to all the clients, when looking for interiors’ inspiration, is to refer to lifestyle magazines, of course the web, and then display homes, where the latest interior solutions are always on show to look, touch and inspire. The next suggestion to my clients is to always refer to well-stocked retailers which are known for their quality and service. I have no qualm admitting that once I have a look in mind, for that kitchen, bathroom or laundry’s plumbing I always start from the Cook's Plumbing's Website.
I have dealt very happily with the team at Cook’s Plumbing for many years now, and this is not only due to their large stock, but also the quality of product and a prompt customer service that has always exceeded my expectations.
But your burning question might be how do I choose Tapware, for example? With so many styles, colours and models here are my tips to get you started:
For the style, match the overall character of the home, consider any existing design details that may inspire you with shape and design;
For the colour, follow the lead of existing features in the surroundings, like the colour used for the windows frames, the cabinetry handles or some statement metallic finish used elsewhere, or the accent colour you’ll intend to use in the styling.
For the type of tapware, my infallible tip is ‘keep it practical’. In the laundry for example, a mixer lets you easily turn the tap on even when your hands are busy.
I always say that tapware is like earrings on an outfit, and by changing these we can affect the entire look, so choose the look that fits the personality of your home.
For Sinks or Basins, I follow the same steps, starting with the overall character I want to achieve, then the colour or material that matches the rest of the space and always, and I mean always, I make sure it's practical. These vessels must not only look good but be easy to use and maintain. Kitchens, bathrooms and laundries are functional spaces that are used continuously, and the right choices here must help create spaces that are easy to use and ultimately attractive. Same goes when choosing bathtubs, mirrors and bathroom accessories: beautiful, yes, but practical, always!
Cook’s Plumbing have an extensive range of quality products which are accessible to both trade as well as retail customers, and to find new ideas for all your plumbing needs the Cook’s Plumbing pages on Instagram and Facebook are also a great source of inspiration.
Finally, we never take quality for granted! These are high-ticket items we use every day, and whether building a new home or renovating an older one, costs can all quickly add up, so it’s easy to be tempted and buy cheap products. Beware! as with most items, the taste of that bargain will soon turn into a disappointment, requiring the new intervention of a plumber and the purchase of new products. Taps, for example, when new, might all look quite the same, but cheap ones will soon fade, peel or easily scratch, and inside, the cartridges and mechanism can vary greatly in quality and performance, so, my final tip is ‘stick to good quality’ and let this save you future headaches as well as money.
For more, much more information on bathroom layout, design and finishes selections, as well as how to's and practical tips and case studies about the whole home, James Treble's Practical Design Modules offer the knowledge accumulated in three decades of Building and Interior Design. Yours to download, keep and read on your computer or portable device.
James Treble is an ambassador for Planet Ark and firmly believes in sensible purchasing, recycling and creative re-purposing. James has three decades of accumulated experience in the Building Industry, Real Estate and Interior Design and regularly shares his knowledge and experience in adding value to properties through effective design & styling. Watch his free videos on YouTube, and follow him on Facebook and Instagram for more free information. More of James' knowledge is now accessible via Practical Design Online Course.
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