Before & After: A Cramped, Outdated Bathroom Turned Cozy, Spa-like Retreat

Anna Spaller
Anna Spaller
Currently living and creating in Boston, Anna is up for any adventure and loves getting to know places, people & food through photography. You can often find her combing the best antique shops in New England, and always dreaming about parquet floors.
updated May 3, 2019
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Bathroom under renovation with exposed wall studs, old bathtub, and debris on the floor.
(Image credit: Tobin Curran)

Erin and Tobin had been living with a bathroom that was fairly functional, but cramped — and in desperate need of a modern update. The two creatives decided to tackle the project themselves, but as anyone who has ever taken on a remodel knows, projects can take longer than expected. This “weekend endeavor” turned into a six-week transformation, but the result was well worth the wait!

(Image credit: Anna Spaller)

They began by removing all of the old flooring and hardware, then realized the whole sub floor would need to be rebuilt — which turned out to be a big undertaking! Once that was structurally sound, they had the help of a certified electrician take care of the wiring, Erin laid the new floor tile, and they both worked on the construction of the steam shower.

A simple coat of bright paint, open shelving, DIY lighting and a single IKEA sink and vanity completed the bright, modern and earthy space. With a little help — and their own ingenuity and hard work — the couple transformed this outdated space into a spacious steam shower retreat. Those cold New England winters just got a lot cozier!

(Image credit: Anna Spaller)

Thank you Erin and Tobin! See all of their beautiful home → Heart & Soul in a Jewelry Designer’s Providence Condo