Chris Ross is both the client and architect behind this bathroom renovation project of a rental property in Bayview, Auckland. A Senior Draughtsperson for Paul Brown Architects, Ross designed the bathroom makeover and installed the panels himself. Despite his previous experience incorporating James Hardie products into his designs, the DIY project was not without its challenges.

James Hardie Invibe panel and jointers were applied to the interior bathroom walls.

"The use of a pre-finished panel seemed to be the best solution for this area. It is mould resistant, easy to clean, and tough — or in other words, tenant resistant," explains Ross. The coating provides an impervious surface barrier to moisture, and the cement-composite substrate is resistant to damage from moisture, providing a double shield of durability. "It also provided the added bonus of adding a splash of colour to the bathroom."

Ross selected gloss panels in Rouge and Stone for an 'on trend' finish. "The gloss finish not only provides a modern, industrial feel to the bathroom, it has actually increased light levels in the area," says Ross.

Invibe panel is also quick to install as it does not require a base substrate for installation. The panel can be silicone butt-jointed or installed with the ARChitectural range of aluminium mouldings.

Ross worked with James Hardie representatives to modify the installation to suit the project better.

"The challenge I faced was how to finish the vertical jointer neatly at the top edge of the panels. The solution was to use a timber profile to cap the top of the panel and notch the back to receive the vertical jointer. This solution achieved a crisp edge against the Invibe panel and meant the Invibe panel could be installed much more easily."

Ross concludes that, "while it lends itself well to an industrial-type application, it is an amazing product to have in my home and I would recommend it to all types of clients."