Coastal bath remodel

Repeat clients are the best!

Second phase projects with clients are a definite specialty of ours! After about a year break post-master bedroom re-design we were consulting on this coastal master bath remodel. There were definite structural limitations to this project as the footprint of the bathroom really could not change. Therefore, architecturally it lacked character and just felt heavy, dated, and a bit blah.

Coastal bath retreat

The clients were looking for a space that would be tranquil and pretty without being overly done or ornate. With a beautiful home on the water, accentuating the outdoors in a unique way was part of the overall design goal. When assessing aesthetics, it was mandatory that the existing tub be replaced.

Much of the initial “seed” for this design came from the idea of texture.  In other words, how could texture be used to accentuate areas of the bathroom. In addition, how to make the client feel special while still maintaining function. It really is difficult to pick a favorite element ! The combination of wall covering selections and mix of tile shapes and textures provided a fresh, clean, eclectic variety. Above all,  adding the interest and beauty that this space really deserved.

Objectives for this coastal bath remodel

• Revive master bathroom with a brighter, lighter feel that speaks to the client’s style. In addition, enhancing the landscape outdoors (complementing the master bedroom designed for them a year prior).
• Identify unique opportunities for material selections. Lending functionality and interest to each dedicated area of the bath
• Accentuate limited layout with finishes and detail that brighten and “open” the bathroom entry up
• Incorporate more functional storage where possible
• Create a tranquil environment. Utilizing white but that does not feel sterile and typical

Design challenges

• Existing tub was dated and too cumbersome for clients to use
• Existing entry narrow and laden with heavy, dark finishes and light fixtures
• Limited layout of plumbing fixtures in shower required review of client preferences and analysis of shifts to ensure functionality now and in the future as they age
• Custom stained glass window by tub
• Heavy wall and ceiling texture to compete with

Design solutions

• Removing existing built in tub and steps freed up substantial space for a freestanding tub. Offered a sleeker look and more airy vignette when viewing the bathroom from the entry
• Build out of small ledge and wall behind tub provided a functional space for soaps and accessories while also allowing space for plumbing needs for bath filler
• Re-design of dual sink vanity area with single level countertop offers more functional surface area and more closed storage beneath
• Combination of sculptural stone wall tile by the tub, custom watercolor-inspired grasscloth wallcovering by the vanity and mixed tile application in the shower gave each space value and aesthetic impact while also offering a balance across the overall bathroom
• Demo of antiquated arched niche area by the shower transitioned perfectly to a space for additional closed storage and simple shelving for towels, toiletries and accessory accents

Special features

• Custom S-curve vanity designed by our team and executed by local cabinetmaker, accented with beautiful mother-of-pearl in-laid hardware, crisp white vessel sinks and gorgeous cast resin urchin shapes
• Linear niche running length of the shower offers additional texture and interest with a more detailed stone mosaic tile and LED lighting
• Assorted light fixtures add ambiance without feeling heavy and dated
• Juxtaposition of materials to execute a design focused on the interrelationships between graphic shapes and slightly softer organic details
• Replaced stained glass window with clear glass which offered more appropriate look for the bath and provided the opportunity to install a beautiful patterned roman shade that offered an extra pop of color and the privacy control needed for a master bath
• Cutting back the size of the bench in the shower and re-locating the handshower ensures better function for the homeowners now and as they age
• Faucets by DXV- click here
• Countertops by Vetrazzo

See more design inspiration in our portfolio!

If you are inspired by Coastal bathroom design, check out this nautical bathroom for more inspiration!