Affordable bathrooms – is buying premium worth it?
The bathroom is often considered a sanctuary, a place of relaxation and rejuvenation. It's no surprise that homeowners invest time and effort into making their bathrooms both functional and aesthetically pleasing. But when it comes to the cost of a new bathroom, does more always mean better?
On the surface, premium and mid-range bathroom furniture might appear worlds apart, but as we delve deeper into the details, you'll discover that the differences between them can be surprisingly subtle.
Splashing out on premium products when embarking on a bathroom remodel is without a doubt something that many homeowners aspire to. The perception is that higher prices will guarantee greater quality a higher standard of finish that will be more durable and age gracefully throughout the years.
But as with all things, the rising cost of living has taken its toll on home refurbishment budgets, and in order to continue to be able to provide affordable bathroom furniture to the average homeowner, bathroom furniture that was typically considered to be second tier – not quite up to the standard of the best bathroom furniture out there – have begun to up their game, reducing the step up between premium and mid-range to a level that, to the naked eye, can be hard spot.
Keep on reading to learn more about the differences when comparing top selling mid-range bathroom furniture ranges and their less than cheap counterparts. The gap between price and quality may surprise you.
Materials and Build Quality
Let's begin with one of the most critical aspects of bathroom furniture: the materials used and build quality. Premium bathroom furniture is often associated with meticulous craftsmanship and high-quality materials such as solid wood, marble, and natural stone. These materials not only exude luxury but are also durable and long-lasting. In contrast, mid-range bathroom furniture usually relies on engineered wood and laminates.
Though these materials are more budget-friendly, many of these materials are used for parts of the furniture that you don’t see in the bathroom – making the visible differences in materials less clear-cut than it seems.
The hard-to-spot difference: Veneers and finishes. Mid-range bathroom furniture often uses veneers and finishes that mimic the appearance of premium materials. These clever imitations can make mid-range pieces look surprisingly similar to their high-end counterparts. It's only upon closer inspection and extended use that the disparities in quality become apparent.
Mid-range Ashton 1242mm Basin & WC Unit Pack in Nebraska Oak, with soft close drawers.
Premium-range two-door WC Unit in Solid Oak.
Hardware and Fittings
The hardware and fittings used in bathroom furniture play a crucial role in functionality and aesthetics. Premium bathroom furniture typically features top-of-the-line fixtures, faucets, and handles made from high-quality materials like brass or stainless steel. Mid-range options often incorporate less expensive alternatives, like zinc or plastic.
The hard-to-spot difference: Finishes and functionality. Mid-range bathroom furniture manufacturers have become increasingly adept at mimicking premium hardware finishes. You may find mid-range fixtures that look just as elegant as their premium counterparts. However, the true difference becomes evident over time as the less durable materials in mid-range fittings may show signs of wear and tear sooner than their premium counterparts.
Design and Craftsmanship
Premium bathroom furniture is often associated with unique, custom designs that cater to individual tastes and preferences. These pieces may feature intricate carvings, custom paint or stain finishes, and bespoke sizing options. Mid-range options typically offer a more limited range of designs and finishes.
Premium bathroom furniture is renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. Skilled artisans carefully construct and finish each piece, resulting in flawless surfaces, perfectly aligned joints, and exquisite hardware. Mid-range furniture, on the other hand, is often mass-produced, which can sometimes lead to slight imperfections in construction and finishing.
The hard-to-spot difference: Assembly and finish consistency. While premium pieces are consistently flawless in their construction, mid-range furniture can sometimes be hit or miss. Some mid-range pieces are exceptionally well-made, while others may exhibit small imperfections. It's essential to thoroughly inspect mid-range options and read reviews to identify the ones that maintain a high level of quality control.
The mid-range Ashton bathroom furniture range in light grey gloss gives a clean, timeless look for contemporary bathrooms style.
Premium bathroom furniture range in clay grey, available in both glossy reflective or soft finish..
Longevity and Durability
Premium bathroom furniture is renowned for its longevity and durability, often capable of withstanding the test of time for decades. Mid-range options may not have the same level of durability, but they can still offer several years of service.
The hard-to-spot difference: Warranty and longevity. Mid-range furniture typically comes with shorter warranties compared to premium options, although nearly all mid-range bathroom furniture available online at The Bath House bathroom shop come with a 5-year manufacturer warranty.
The mid-range Ashton Basin and WC Unit pack in graphite grey finish.
Premium bathroom Basin and WC Unit in a graphite grey finish.
Price Comparison
One of the most apparent differences between mid-range and premium bathroom furniture is the price tag. Depending on the decisions you make, the final figure for your new bathroom cost can vary significantly.
Premium pieces can be significantly more expensive than their mid-range counterparts, often commanding a premium for the use of high-quality materials, craftsmanship, and brand reputation.
The hard-to-spot difference: Cost-benefit analysis. While premium bathroom furniture comes with a hefty price tag, it often offers a more extended period of satisfaction and durability. Mid-range options may require replacement or repair sooner, which could cost more in the long run. It's essential to weigh the upfront cost against the expected lifespan and quality of the product.
Premium vs Mid-range Bathroom Furniture Price Comparison Example
Below is an example of the price comparison between premium and mid-range bathroom furniture for a Basin and WC Unit package, calculated by our team of bathroom specialists.
Premium Bathroom
Wing Basin
Basin Unit
WC Unit
Plinth & End Panels
Handles
Basin Tap
Cistern
WC & Seat
Total Price:
£2,589.00 RRP (inc. VAT @20%)
Mid-range Bathroom
Basin
Basin Unit
WC Unit
Plinth & End Panels
Handles
Basin Tap
Cistern
WC & Seat
Total Price:
£1,825.00 (inc. VAT @20%)
As you can see, it is possible to achieve a £764.00 saving by choosing to buy the Ashton bathroom furniture range from The Bath House vs a premium bathroom furniture alternative – not an insignificant sum.
Some homeowners will consider spending the extra on the premium range justifiable. Though in many cases, perception will be playing a crucial role in the decision-making process, and ultimately the choice they make – paying more, means buying better.
But (and it’s a big but), if you are working to a tight budget for your bathroom makeover, the question has to be asked: does the premium bathroom furniture give £764.00 of ‘better’ that it’s mid-range counterpart?
More to the point, that £700-plus saving could pay for your bath, shower panel and side panel. When you consider it in those terms, it casts a huge vote in favour of opting for the mid-range bathroom furniture.
The Bath House Ashton 1242mm Basin & WC Unit Pack (RH) - Matt Graphite Grey (SKU: TBHW107005)
Final thought on mid-range bathroom furniture from The Bath House vs premium …
In the world of bathroom furniture, the differences between mid-range and premium options can be hard to spot at first glance. Both categories have their strengths and weaknesses, and manufacturers of mid-range furniture have become increasingly skilled at replicating the look and feel of premium pieces.
Ultimately, the choice between mid-range and premium bathroom furniture depends on individual priorities. Just remember that the distinctions can be subtle, and may not be as pronounced as the gap in price suggests. The Bath House mid-range bathroom furniture certainly holds its own with its excellent build quality and finish.
In the end, the choice will ultimately depend on your budget, and personal preferences.
If you’re unsure about anything we have covered in this article, never be afraid to pick up the phone or send an email to ask a bathroom specialist for advice.
Shop affordable bathrooms
Whatever your individual style and budget, we're sure that when considering bathroom remodelling opting for affordable prices will still work out beautifully in your home, whether you're planning a full renovation project or just looking to update your bathroom with a few on-trend pieces of furniture. Now you have read this article, why not shop our range of mid-range bathroom furniture, available in a choice of sizes and colours.
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Shop items featured in this article
Ashton WC Toilet & Basin Unit Pack - Nebraska Oak
H900xW1242xD421mm
Original Price:£1,200.00
Sale Price:£780.00
Product Number/SKU: TBHW107023
Ashton 500mm Basin Unit - Light Grey Gloss
H720xW500xD318mm
Original Price:£319.00
Sale Price:£207.35
Product Number/SKU: TBHW2631
Ashton 600mm Basin Unit - Matt Graphite Grey
H720xW600xD318mm
Original Price:£341.00
Sale Price:£221.65
Product Number/SKU: TBHW103353
