I am so excited to share my latest ensuite bathroom remodel project with you and I can honestly say, “WOW! What a transformation!” Read on for all the details and design tips on how this beautiful, spa-inspired ensuite bathroom was transformed from an outdated, cramped and ordinary bathroom.
Bathroom Transformations
When I was hired to remodel a small ensuite bathroom for an older couple, (and when I say “ensuite”, please note that I really mean HER bathroom. HE uses another one that I also remodeled and will share in another post.) I was first astonished by how small the space was. (see photo below) The original bathroom was only 5’5W by 7’8L! Not grand by any means. Second, the awkward layout had me shaking my head no, just no! Which leads me to
Design Tip #1: NEVER place the toilet directly opposite the door opening!
The next design flaw that needed solving was the small tub/shower combo that was proving difficult to get in and out of increasing the chance of falls, therefore, becoming potentially dangerous for them to use. Fortunately, they really no longer used the tub portion for bathing and would be happy to see it go.
The final bundle of issues that needing solving was the lack of counter space and storage, the outdated materials, and the poor lighting overall. All of the above sealed the deal for a full gut and ensuite bathroom remodel.
Design Tip #2: Start with a space plan.
After inserting the existing dimensions into my design software, I created several different layouts that addressed the aforementioned problems. The bathroom’s vanity wall was shared with a large, adjoining laundry room, so I knew I could grab some real estate from that room. By stealing just 2 ft. and some thoughtful space planning, I had an excellent design plan for their new ensuite bathroom. After showing them how the new plan more than doubled the counter space, quadrupled the storage, and dramatically improved the lighting and the overall flow of usage, the plan was quickly approved.
Design Tip #3: Know where to save.
Keeping the budget in mind, we made some affordable design decisions with materials and finishes that still made a huge impact. The couple loved spa-like finishes like marble. So we chose to envelop the shower and the vanity wall in a marble-patterned porcelain tile which is less expensive than actual marble. The other two walls were left to be painted which also helped save on labor and material costs. We reused the base molding and the bathroom door, but had them painted to match the new cabinetry.
The chrome finishes in the shower and at the sink are a more affordable finish, yet still striking. A bench and niche were incorporated for ease of showering tasks and great storage for shampoos and soaps keeping them out of the line of sight from the rest of the space. Matching penny tiles were used to help prevent slipping and BONUS they feel great on your feet.
Design Tip #4: Know where to splurge.
We kept space in the budget for these sconce lights that not only add a touch of glam, but properly light the face for applying makeup and other tasks. Cabinetry is unlikely to get replaced, so always choose the highest quality you can afford. The antique finish on the custom maple cabinetry is timeless and beautiful.
The antique gold finished mirror and hardware add interest and bring a warm touch to the room. Using a quartz countertop is an excellent material choice for bathrooms because of its inherent anti-microbial properties. I chose this solid white quartz for its calming juxtaposition with the more lively veining of marble-look tiles.
Everything turned out beautifully and they love it! If you are struggling with an outdated ensuite or any other type of bathroom, your 1st step is to schedule a FREE discovery call with me. I’ll tackle your problems so you’ll have the beautiful and functional master bathroom of your dreams too.