Making Space With a Contemporary Bath Remodel
The homeowners wanted a more contemporary master bathroom space. Designer Carla Aston wanted to deliver a design that did both that as well as make the room feel larger and fresher. By working through a few design challenges, she was able to create a spa-like retreat that was perfect for the homeowners.
Describe the homeowner's wish list.
The homeowner wanted a spa-like retreat and wanted a more contemporary feel in the bathroom. She did not like the rounded tub and wanted to go with a rectangular tub at the windows.
Spacious, Contemporary Bathroom Remodel
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What was the biggest issue the design addressed?
I wanted the bathroom to appear more spacious and spa-like with new, fresh finishes so that it would feel like they had a completely different bathroom. I pushed them to consider new windows at the tub, because with a contemporary bathroom, the windows were too traditional looking and did not have insulated glass. You could hear the dog barking so loudly in the yard next door. The new windows and shades fixed that and gave them a much more insulated, well-constructed exterior wall.
Describe an obstacle in the space.
The biggest problem was getting the grout joints to line up. The exterior walls were crooked as the house had settled, and when things aren’t exactly plumb, a small grout joint can accentuate that problem. I worked it out on the site with the contractor, carefully evaluating the grout lines and how they would look compared to the walls.
How did the end result match your original vision?
Everything worked out really well here. There were a few bumps along the way with the grout joints, etc., but the project really looks like the drawing I originally did for the bathroom.
What lessons did you learn from this project?
I learned how crooked walls can really wreck a tile layout that is meant to be precisely installed. I also learned about how your relationships with contractors can really help get what you want on a job. I already knew this, but it was reinforced here.
What are the hidden gems that make a big difference?
The sconces on the mosaic glass tile really gleam in the bathroom. Those sconces were purposefully placed for the sparkle they would bring to the space. The field tile has a linear quality about it that works with the linear design of the room. One of my main goals was to make this bathroom appear larger. By bleeding the finish materials around the room in a continuous fashion with careful attention to the transitions and details, we were able to visually enlarge the space. The recessed base on the cabinets with tile applied and lighting installed underneath makes the cabinets seem to float. Tiling up the walls adds quality and detail to the room and makes for a very special, relaxing vibe.
