gold plating

n.

Including unnecessarily expensive items in a construction or renovation project to justify a large budget or a substantial rent increase.

Example Citation:

"All improvements must be reviewed and approved by the rent board, which frowns on what is known in industry jargon as 'gold-plating,' that is, loading up the building with extravagances like Oriental rugs, crystal chandeliers or antique furniture."

— Tom Zoellner, "Proposition Would Bolster S.F. Rent Control," The San Francisco Chronicle, October 17, 2000

Earliest Citation:

"Jay Oren, a staff architect for the cultural affairs department, said that the $5.15-million plan is 'not a gold-plated program,' but that he understands how some people have been surprised by the estimated price. 'It doesn't shock me because I'm used to building construction costs,' he said."

— Larry Gordon, "Park Center to Rise From Ashes, " Los Angeles Times, March 12, 1987

Notes:

This term first began popping up in the late 80s.

Related Word:

shovel-ready

Category:

Housing and Architecture