An “Unfortunate Builder-Grade” Bathroom Gets a Bespoke New Look But Keeps the Same Layout
When you’re renovating a bathroom (or a kitchen, for that matter), it’s cheapest to keep the plumbing and fixtures in the same spot as the “before.” That’s what designer Courtney Batten (@paigestudiotx) and her clients chose to do in this bathroom makeover, which takes the bathroom from gray to glam.
“My clients specifically requested more counter space and wanted a space with more personality … rather than the boring builder-grade look it had,” Courtney says. “It had … gotten an unfortunate builder-grade facelift that included a lot of dark gray finishes.” The pedestal sink offered no countertop space; and the built-in cabinet, though it did provide storage, was too bulky and in-the-way next to the door.
Courtney and the clients (along with contractor Bob Kaulbach) embarked on a bathroom reno that was more functional, kept the fixtures in the same spot, and added style to boot.
The vanity adds drawer storage.
Because the built-in unit was demoed out, Courtney and co. had to make sure there was ample drawer storage in the vanity. They went with a light wood unit from Signature Hardware.
“The vanity we [originally] selected ended up being backordered once construction started, so we had to pivot,” Courtney says, but then they found the Signature Hardware piece, “swapping out the hardware to give it a more mid-century feel — an easy way to customize a vanity without paying for fully custom,” Courtney says.
The tile and wallpaper add reds and pinks.
The vinyl wallcovering behind the vanity is from Mitchell Black (the clients are horse lovers), and the burgundy floor tile is from Imagine Tile. For the shower, Courtney went with a blush pink zellige tile.
“As a designer, it’s always inspiring to have clients who trust you and will go along with your crazy ideas,” she says. “Not everyone would jump on board with such geometric bold tile and pink wallcovering but the couple I was working with LOVED it and I’m thrilled with how it turned out for them.”
This designer’s best advice? Lock in your layout early.
Courtney’s advice for remodeling a bathroom — whether you’re a DIYer or hiring a pro — is to determine your layout early. “Even if you don’t hire a professional designer, take the time to plan your renovation BEFORE any construction starts. Having your layout figured out and your main materials selected ahead of time will help the project run smoother and will allow you to get more accurate bids from contractors,” she says.
Courtney says in another universe, she’d be curious to see what it looked like if the clients opted to overhaul the layout, but overall, she’s pleased with the way they were able to work with the existing placements. They even kept the original vintage tub from the 50s and refinished it! “That not only saves them money but helps to add character to the space,” Courtney says, adding that the after “bring[s] all the character and charm back into their bathroom, and it fits with the rest of the home so much better now.”
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