How to renovate a bathroom: The Block's Greville Pabst

Guest observation

On The Block: Triple Threat this week, Charlotte and Josh and Deanne and Darren received the highest scores from the property buyer's advocates jury.

I advised the contestants then to renovate to the area's demographic, and compare their renovations to hotels in the local area.

The scores from the buyer's advocate jury:

• Charlotte and Josh: 26
• Tim and Anastasia: 19
• Aidan and Jess: 23.5
• Dee and Darren: 26

Below are a list of features for renovators and investors to consider when it comes to bathrooms.

Some will pertain to powder rooms specifically, while others are more general comments about bathrooms.

• Quality of finish

Consider tiles, bench tops and vanity / cabinetry, tiles and flooring, lighting, tap fittings, basin, glass screen fittings or shower screen, toilet (porcelain with soft close), metal towel racks and toilet roll holders (not plastic or imitation), soap dishes.

• Design should be sleek, simple and practical.
  
  
• Bathroom should be well-lit, preferably with natural light, but also with white practical lighting.
  
  If there's no external window, could a skylight work?
  
  
• Space should be functional
  
  With practical basin (not something too shallow), adequate storage and bench space, as well as sufficient power outlets.
  
  Also, include a power point on the inside of the vanity, or behind the mirror if used for storage. Shower heads should be practical too, with sufficient water pressure. Check the pressure!
  
  
• Separate toilets are preferable, if possible.
  
  
• Use of natural materials
  
  Such as real timber, granite and porcelain.
  
  
• Frameless showers are popular and easier to clean.
  
  However, ensure the return adequately collects the water so the bathroom isn't flooded.
  
  
• It's ideal to have external windows and adequate ventilation to allow light and air circulation.
  
• Have sufficient privacy with privacy glass and/or window furnishings, and perhaps a lockable door.
  
  
• Include a heated towel rack.
  
  Heated floors and heated lighting and exhaust fan should also be considered.
  
  
• Ensure bathroom is practical and not difficult to use for elderly or the young.
  
  If a toilet is too close to the wall it may be hard to access. Are there sharp corners that could cause injury?
  
  
• Baths and spas shouldn't be too close to the wall if freestanding.
  
  Make sure the bath can be cleaned easily and to facilitate air flow to reduce or prevent the occurrence of mould.
  
  
• One basin or two?
  
  
• Non-slip tiles or flooring.
  
  Greville Pabst is CEO of WBP Property Group and a judge on The Block Triple Threat.

Above: Deanne and Darren's bathroom, courtesy Channel 9.