RESIDENTIAL LETTINGS: head to toe makeover

Residential lettings need regular attention and a complete refurbishment approximately every ten years. These shots refer to work recently completed in a flat in Chelsea: 3 new bathrooms, one kitchen and much decorating and joinery work later and... the rental income is back in line with the market. Quality of workmanship and fittings were never skimped on but a few simplifications helped to contain the overall budget and always please tenants, estate agents and landlords alike. Regardless of trends I have never regretted keeping things too simple!

With thanks to Logan Photography

RENTAL PROPERTIES: keeping it simple

Having tried a number of different solutions the basic formula revealed itself to be the best: keep it simple! "Simple" may mean neutral colours, which will allow any colour scheme the tenant may wish to introduce, but it also means:
- durability v. quality issues should be carefully considered (in the kitchen shown above a laminate worktop was preferred to real wood, which requires regular maintenance, but a 40mm thick "top end of the market" product was selected)
- quality materials, fixtures and fittings should be used: they pay off in the end
- pay attention to maintenance issues (allow for inspection panels and ease of access to pipework etc., comply with regulation regarding labling of all fused switches)
- generous and well equipped storage spaces should be provided in proportion to the number of bedrooms in the property
- wiring should be laid and sockets (power, TV & phone) should be as numerous as possible to allow for different furniture layouts without the need for later (surface and unsightly) additions

Simple rules always work best.