Around the world, humanity is feeling the effects COVID 19 is having on not only our wallets, but our spirit and mood too. Besides for its economic implications, the spread of the disease has left many of us canceling vacations, postponing joyous celebrations as well as putting our lifelong reno dreams on hold. It is undoubtedly a sad time for all however, there is enough morbid rhetoric on the matter going around, and that is not the purpose of this blog.

We are here to show you the light at the end of the tunnel; we're about to dish the ways that will enable you to re-energize your spirit through renovating the space you've always wanted. The sole reason we felt the need to share this article with our Tilesofezra fam was to remind you that the current circumstance does not have to prevent you from doing the things that make you happy.

Instead of filling your time with countless trips to the fridge (we see you!) or scrolling mindlessly through Instagram, why not dedicate your extra time to something that ignites a fire in your belly. There are ways for you to carry on with your dream build and renovation hopes in light of the economic pinch we're all feeling. The trick is simple; you just need to be smart and resourceful about it.

We've got the quaran-tips that are going to enable you to carry on creating the space you've always dreamed of. 

The B Word

Budget. Budget. Budget. Your schedule has suddenly freed up, take advantage of that free time to sit down and really hash out what budget works for you.

Do some research about what hidden costs you need to factor in and be sure to include the costs of labour, fittings, fixtures, materials and supplies as well as do concrete research into what things actually cost. You would be surprised at how off you may be with your estimates!

Can you fit that dream tile, basin, or tap set in if you focus on spending less in other areas of the space?

Perhaps now is also a fitting time to actually save, you can finally allocate funds to your reno budget instead of spending this money on a night out.

Our tip to you:

Sit down, pen and paper, and clearly identify from 1 to 10 your priority items in the bathroom and then choose the first 2 to make it in the project. The truth is that there is no such thing as right or wrong when it comes to Interior design; even top interior architects are consistently navigating their way through what they had originally designed and what the budget allows for. This is the time to choose what can be sacrificed and what needs to be kept in, non-negotiable! 

Life is always about balance

Life is always about balance, right? You do not need to adorn your entire abode in premium high-end products from corner to corner. Sometimes, the more cost-effective option looks better in the space and even lands up being better quality. It's about finding that sweet spot between the two. 

When it comes to tile selection, if you are on a tighter budget, a space covered from head to toe in custom zellige mosaic tiles will not be an option. However, this does not mean you cannot use the tile somewhere. Why not select a more cost-effective, larger format tile for the floor and go with a beautiful handmade tile for walls or splashback? This will look equally stunning and possibly even more effective as you will be highlighting those feature tiles like no one's business!

Less is more often than not, more.

Classy refinement is a dying breed. How gorgeous is this gorgeous fireplace nestled in Lumiere Lodge?

It's the subtle touches that really make your heart skip a beat. Premium products are perfect for helping these spaces catch your eye. Smaller quantities needed, bigger WOW delivered. 

In with the old, in with the new.

Not everything needs to be brand spanking new in your reno. By keep beautiful pre-existing features, you are saving BIGTIME. Repurposing old features can really bring warmth and character to a space and tend to blend seamlessly with new products. 

Check out this repurposed chandelier in the home of Georgia Ezra (designed by Studio Ezra.)

Use the extra dollars to spend on something a little more lavish that you absolutely adore. Cutting the spend on things that will work in the space will allow you to allocate that money elsewhere. 

Stick to the classics

Although for this one you won't necessarily be saving money in the short run, you are certainly saving yourself bucket loads in the long run. By opting for a timeless design, you are creating a space that you will love forever, even after the trend has faded. Go for something you love, something that you won't get sick of and need to replace in 3 years time.

We implore you, for no other reason than your own well being, to carry on with activities and tasks that will make you feel better, accomplished, motivated. 

At the end of the day, when the dust has settled and we have beaten this obstacle, we can only hope that we will have a new lease on what it means to be truly connected and uplifted human beings. And you can be pretty certain that creating interiors that inspire will do just this.