As the property market continues to favour buyers, homeowners are increasingly under pressure to market their houses effectively. This often means expensive cosmetic changes that do not necessarily add to the value of the home.

During a slower housing market, remodelling choices should focus on functionality, needs and aesthetics, instead of on luxury extras.

Bathrooms are consistently one of the areas that benefit most from refurbishment and in this room, even small, budget-friendly upgrades can have a marked influence on the room and therefore on the home as a whole.

Freshing the bathroom

Kate van Niekerk, marketing manager for Tile Africa, recommends replacing the grouting around tiles, baths and basins as a first step towards freshening up a bathroom.

"Clean grouting lifts tiles immediately, making them seem brand new," she says. "It is an inexpensive solution that has significant impact."

In a bathroom where tiles reach part of the way up the wall, and where budget is a concern, van Niekerk suggests adding a border of tiles in a contrasting colour or texture.

"A neutral bathroom with an added border of bright glass mosaics is given a fun, funky look that is currently very popular."

Should a larger budget be available, consider replacing fixtures that are outdated — a tap with a contemporary design, or a shower rose instead of a standard showerhead, can change the tone of the room.

Baths too are available in revised, modern shapes, and equipped with spa jets, add a subtle touch of luxury.

Pedestal basins are frequently replaced by basins on vanities, increasing the usefulness of the bathroom by adding storage space as well as improving the visual appeal.

Should space allow, think about adding a second basin, which also adds to the convenience of the room.

The greatest impact

Replacing the bathroom tiles completely will, of course, have the greatest impact on the bathroom, and will potentially require the greatest budget.

If planning on selling the home, when retiling, consider a neutral palette that will allow new owners to personalise the room to their taste with ease.

"Neutral need not be boring," says van Niekerk. "Combine tiles of differing shapes to create a feature wall, or combine textures to create visual interest." Colour can then be added using bright accessories.

When planning your bathroom remodelling project, try to maintain a unified look and feel, no matter what your budget. Taking the time to decide on a theme will make finishing the project a great deal easier. More importantly, a unified look and feel will present a more attractive picture to all those potential home buyers.

For more on Tile Africa, visit www.tileafrica.co.za or call their Toll Free number: 0800 002 783