Understanding the Differences Between Builder Grade vs. Designer Grade Home Fixtures
One of the most common questions asked by homeowners is whether it is worth the investment to upgrade from builder-grade to designer-grade home fixtures during renovations.
A question worth asking yourself is: What is it that you want to achieve with your repairs?
If renovating with designer fittings will help bring your interior design vision to life, and you have allocated a budget for it, do it! However, if your goal is to replace worn fixtures that no longer serve their purpose, and you just need something basic and functional, builder-grade furnishings might just do the job for less.
Costs aside, what are the differences between builder-grade and designer fittings?
What are Builder-Grade Fixtures?
Builder-grade fixtures are generally selected for practicality, affordability, and ease of installation. They are commonly used in residential developments where consistency, functionality and construction budgets are important considerations. Examples include standard light switches, power points, door handles, tapware, bathroom accessories and basic light fittings.
Typically, these fixtures feature straightforward designs, standard finishes, and familiar shapes. They perform their intended function without necessarily adding much to the overall interior aesthetic.
However, practical does not have to mean ordinary. Vimar's Plana range, for example, offers a simple, modern, and versatile design that works across a variety of interiors. Its technopolymer material and broad colour options make it an appealing choice for homeowners seeking practical and functional yet stylish.
What are Designer-Grade Fixtures?
Designer-grade fixtures take functionality a step further by making design, materials and detailing an important part of the selection process.
Rather than simply blending into the house, these fixtures can complement architectural features, coordinate with interior finishes, and enhance the theme of your space.
A good example is Vimar's Eikon Exé light switch collection, which is designed to combine style with technology. Its finishes include glass, wood, leather, mirror, stoneware, and various metals in different colours to match a variety of interior elements.
Within the Eikon Exé luxury light switch collection are three distinct control styles:
Eikon Exé Vintage Light Switches – feature traditional toggle/metal lever controls that match premium cover plates of various metals and materials; recommended for heritage-inspired or retro-themed interiors that aim to exude luxury.
Eikon Exé Flat Light Switches – designed around simplicity and minimalism, these switches fit contemporary interiors perfectly. Each button can be customised and can be used to control lighting and other automated home features like shutters, garage doors, HVAC, and security fixtures. This range is commonly used in high-end hotels and apartments all over the world.
Eikon Exé Tondo Light Switches – created for those who prefer softer shapes, these switches feature circular controls and subtle LED backlighting around the buttons. This collection has consistently won accolades for best design and technology.
Outside of the Vimar Eikon Exé light switch collection is the Vimar Arké Classic range, which has an ultra-low slim profile that makes it a preferred choice for industrial-theme interiors.
Is the Designer Upgrade Worth the Investment?
One of the articles published by realestate.com.au shows that interior styling and decoration can potentially increase a property's value by up to 120% more than the basic house next door. The main reasons behind this are the buyer's emotional response and the valuer's perspective of a home.
Depending on your goals and budget, it is worthwhile to consider designer fixtures. Whether you live in the home or sell it later, the advantages of living in a well-designed space contribute to your wellbeing and the way you experience your space.
The Finishing Touch to a Thoughtfully Designed Home
Ultimately, homewares and electrical fixtures deserve the same consideration as other bigger interior elements, as they are used every day, appear throughout the home, and contribute to the visual consistency of every room.
If you would like to get more information about our collection of Vimar designer light switches, please contact us at hello@designer-light-switches.com.au. We'd be delighted to be a part of your project!
