From Worn-Out to Wow: Transforming Marco’s Bathroom into a Spa-Like Retreat
/When Marco took over the family house from his brother, he knew it was time to make it his own. His first major project? A complete overhaul of the second-floor bathroom—a space that had seen better days. With its old, worn-out fixtures, poor functionality, and dated style, Marco’s bathroom was in desperate need of attention. What followed was a remarkable journey of transformation, collaboration, and creative problem-solving that resulted in one of the most dramatic bathroom renovations we’ve ever completed.
Before photos of Marco’s Bathroom
The Value of Planning Ahead
Marco’s approach to this project was exemplary. Unlike many clients who start planning renovations at the last minute, Marco reached out months in advance, giving us plenty of time to collaborate, finalize plans, and ensure every detail was accounted for. We first met with him in November, and with the holidays and an early January vacation on the horizon, Marco wisely scheduled the start date for late January. This thoughtful timeline allowed us to avoid any rush and ensured a seamless process from design to execution.
Planning ahead is one of the most important steps in any renovation. It allows time for careful decision-making, sourcing the best materials, and accounting for unexpected delays. Marco’s foresight set the tone for a smooth and successful project.
Before: A Bathroom in Need of Renewal
Marco’s bathroom had served its time and then some. The steel tub was heavily worn, the vanity was falling apart, and mold had taken over much of the caulking. The bathroom felt dark and cramped, with poor lighting and outdated fixtures. While we don’t like to judge, it was clear this space was far past its prime. If this had been a home inspection, it would have been marked as "marginal" and recommended for a complete renovation.
The layout of the bathroom was functional but uninspired. The tub, toilet, and vanity were all in their original locations, and the space lacked any personal touches or modern amenities. For Marco, this renovation wasn’t just about upgrading the bathroom—it was about creating a space that felt like his own.
The Vision: Turning Ideas into Reality
One of the standout aspects of this project was Marco’s clear vision. A self-professed Pinterest enthusiast, Marco came to us with a wealth of inspiration photos, magazine clippings, and design ideas. He envisioned a luxurious spa-like retreat, complete with a navy blue, white, and gold colour palette, sleek finishes, and thoughtful details.
Unlike many clients who rely on us to guide their decisions, Marco had a strong sense of what he wanted from the start. He knew how each element would come together, from the gold-accented tiles to the recessed storage cabinet behind the door. His ability to visualize the finished space not only made the design process smoother but also ensured that the final result was exactly what he had dreamed of.
Overcoming Challenges During Renovation
As with any renovation, surprises awaited once we began demolition. Behind the walls and under the floor, we discovered issues that required immediate attention:
Reinforcing the Shower Wall: The five-foot wall intended to house the walk-in shower had only two studs—a far cry from what was needed to support the large 2 ft by 4 ft tiles Marco had chosen. We essentially rebuilt the wall, ensuring it met building code standards and could handle the weight and size of the tiles.
Plumbing Adjustments: The original plumbing for the tub was poorly positioned, with pipes sticking up above the floor. To create a seamless walk-in shower, we had to recess the pipes into the floor—a necessary but time-intensive task.
Logistical Challenges: Accessing the second-floor bathroom via a curved staircase required careful maneuvering, especially when transporting drywall and dense shield. Parking also proved tricky, as Marco’s home had limited driveway space and street parking was scarce. Despite these hurdles, our team worked diligently to keep the project on track.
Innovative Features and Design Highlights
Marco’s bathroom was more than just an upgrade—it was a complete reimagining of the space, incorporating unique features and thoughtful design choices:
A Custom Recessed Cabinet: One of the most creative elements of this renovation was the recessed cabinet behind the door. Marco wanted to make use of this often-overlooked space, and after several design iterations, we collaborated with our cabinet maker to create a floor-to-ceiling storage solution. The final result was both functional and beautiful, with a brushed gold handle that seamlessly tied into the bathroom’s overall aesthetic.
Smart Toilet: Marco’s decision to install a Korean smart toilet brought a touch of modern luxury to the space. This innovative fixture required a dedicated electrical outlet, a first for our team. The smart toilet was not only practical but also a reflection of Marco’s forward-thinking approach to design.
Gold Linear Drain: Finding a brushed gold linear drain that matched Marco’s colour scheme was a stroke of luck. It was a small but impactful detail that added to the cohesive and luxurious feel of the space.
Curbless Shower Design: Achieving a seamless transition from the bathroom floor to the walk-in shower required precise planning. To ensure proper drainage without compromising aesthetics, we used smaller tiles for the shower floor. The result was a stunning, spa-like shower that felt both expansive and inviting.
The Glass Enclosure Saga
The only major hiccup in the project was the custom glass shower enclosure. Despite working with a trusted glass company, a series of mishaps delayed its completion. Scratched panels, misaligned measurements, and factory errors required multiple visits to get it right. Throughout it all, Marco remained calm and understanding, a testament to his patience and trust in our team.
To address the delay, we offered to install a temporary shower curtain and rod at no charge, but Marco’s laid-back attitude made it clear he was willing to wait for the perfect result. When the enclosure was finally installed, it was worth the wait. The unique design, which featured a showerhead and slide bar mounted directly onto the glass, was a first for both us and the glass company and added a distinctive touch to the space.
After: A Stunning Transformation
The final result was nothing short of spectacular. Marco’s bathroom was transformed from a dated, marginal space into a luxurious spa retreat. The navy blue and white palette was beautifully complemented by gold accents, creating a sense of elegance and sophistication. The LED mirror, sconce lighting, and pot lights added layers of illumination, enhancing both functionality and ambiance.
The attention to detail was evident in every corner, from the large-format wall tiles to the thoughtfully placed recessed cabinet. The combination of sleek modernity and timeless design made this bathroom a true showstopper.
Lessons for Future Renovations
Marco’s project is a shining example of how planning, vision, and collaboration can lead to exceptional results. For anyone considering a renovation, here are some key takeaways:
Plan Ahead: Starting the process early allows for better decision-making, smoother execution, and fewer surprises.
Know Your Vision: Having a clear idea of what you want, like Marco did, can save time and ensure your space reflects your style.
Be Prepared for the Unexpected: Renovations often uncover hidden issues. Trust your team to address them transparently and professionally.
Focus on Quality: Investing in high-quality materials and thoughtful design details pays off in the long run.
A Transformation to Remember
In over 35 years of renovations, Marco’s bathroom stands out as one of the most dramatic transformations we’ve completed. It’s a testament to the power of planning, the beauty of a clear vision, and the importance of trusting your renovation team. Marco’s bathroom is more than just a space—it’s a sanctuary, a reflection of his style, and proof that even the most outdated spaces can be reimagined into something extraordinary.
Ready to transform your outdated bathroom into a stunning sanctuary? Our team specializes in creating luxurious spaces tailored to your vision. Contact us today to start planning your dream renovation.
