A new bathroom
Sometimes, you have the feeling that you are overwhelmed because there are too many choices. If you are planning to buy a bathroom in the Netherlands, you can have this feeling. Where do I start? What is normal here? What do I need to expect? In some cases, it is the same as when you want to buy a kitchen.
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Where can you buy a bathroom in the Netherlands?
Showrooms
There are specialized showrooms all over the Netherlands where you can buy a bathroom. Normally, they sell everything you need for your bathroom: shower arms, tiles, toiletry cabinets and much more. Ideally, go for a visit to get an idea of what you want.
In most cases, you can enter a showroom without an appointment. Scheduling an appointment is wise to do when you are seriously interested. The salespeople will usually make time for you.
Construction markets
You can also find a section in every renovation store with appliances for bathrooms, like tiles, baths, tabs, etc. They are generally cheaper than the specialized stores. However, they only sell the materials. You will need to find a handyman to do the job or do it yourself. Another remark: the quality at these stores can differ a lot.
Specialized stores
Then, you have specialized stores in tiles. If you want something special, go there.
Online
You can also buy the materials online.
The last one: is construction companies
Did you know that construction companies can renovate bathrooms too? This can also be a good way to start your journey. Especially when there is more work to do in your house than only modernizing your bathroom.
Preparing
When you want to buy a bathroom, first have a look at your current situation.
- Is it possible to renovate the bathroom while still living in the house? The best moment to renovate the bathroom is when the house is empty. If that’s not possible, think of places where you can bathe yourself for the time being.
- What is the state of your current bathroom?
- Are you satisfied with the current floor plan? Or does it need to change?
- How important is the bathroom for you?
- What items have to be there? Do you want a bath, shower, or cabinet? What about a vent, toilet, sink, or light?
- Is there a budget?
- What is your style?
- Measure out your bathroom including the doors, windows and connections.
- What are your routines? Is the whole family brushing their teeth at the same time? Do you like long showers, or is a bath after work your way to relax?
- Ask for an appointment with your preferred supplier. They will take you more seriously.
Visit a showroom or supplier
You now know what you want and need, your budget, and where to go. So it is time to buy a bathroom! Exciting!
Keep in mind that salesmen have many tricks. So don’t be surprised if they offer you lunch, coffee with apple pie, or even a glass of wine. Don’t be disturbed if they want you to decide the same day, stating if you do then you get a special price. Keep calm, be direct with what you want, and ask for a quotation. Take time to think and ask for at least one other offer from another company.
A basic bathroom will start from €4,000, and a luxurious bathroom can cost you easily €25,000.
Some tips and tricks for the best offer
- Negotiate on the price! Yes, in this case, it is really common to negotiate in the Netherlands. You can get up to 10% off, in some cases even more.
- Consider what you can do yourself. Are you able to remove the existing tiles? Are you able to assemble furniture?
- Compare prices.
- Think about how you will have to clean the new bathroom. Now is the time to make it easy for yourself!
- Ask for the date when the bathroom can be installed. Be aware that a waiting list to start the job is normal, and it can take several months.
For the best result
When somebody comes over to do work for you, offer coffee and cookies. They will highly appreciate it. Ask daily how the work is going, and check their work regularly. Be direct! You can expect a lot of dust, noise, and cleaning work. It is also a good idea to inform the neighbours that you are planning to renovate the bathroom and how long it will take. This helps to keep a good relationship.
Our own experiences
We didn’t have much choice as we bought a new house and our budget was tight. The bathroom was less important than the kitchen for us.
So the basic bathroom as included in the contract was fine. It included a shower, sink and toilet. We could only choose 3 colours of tiles on the floor and wall. Although the seller was very surprised by it, we wanted nothing extra. I had a plan to make the bathroom cosier. Low budget. And that worked out very well.
Step 1: We installed a glass shower screen, to prevent the floor will be flooded every time you take a shower.
Step 2: Buying an old oak table, saw it into planks. And glue it on the windowsill.
Step 3: Buy an old oak drawer to use as storage in the bathroom.
Step 4: Apply sealant around the sink, shower screen and toilet. This helps to keep cleaning easy.
Total costs: € 350.
Conclusion
If you want to buy a bathroom in the Netherlands, know what you want and need. Compare prices and negotiate. And take care well of the people who mount the bathroom. Good luck.
If you are planning to renovate your house? Download this renovation guide for free, here.
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