bathroom inspirations TIPS, TRICKS, HACKS FOR ROOMS OF REASONABLE SIZE & BUDGET

Even considering the usually small square footage, the bathroom in an older house is often the most challenging design conundrum during renovations.

- ERIKA KOTITE, MARY ELLEN POLSON

First, you have moisture damage (rotted materials, mold, mildew) that may have led to structural issues. The plumbing may need replacement and the fixtures updated. Beneath the tiled walls and vinyl-clad floor, things may be downright soggy. Then, we face aesthetic shortfalls: hastily added shower stalls, mismatched colors, weird or cheap tile, big-box vanities, builder-special lighting, and layers of flooring. The room may be far removed from the vintage harmony we hope for. A few case studies inspire with solutions but also show how even the best-laid plans require flexibility. Things may change when demolition begins. With at least one unexpected finding during their bathroom projects, these old-house lovers showed ingenuity.

BEFORE (above) The tiny tub came right into the toilet space! Wallpaper dated to the Sixties. AFTER (right) A big closet became the tub niche; a tile border that follows the floor plan is a sharp enhancement.

A COMPLETE MAKEOVER
DESIGNER PAT GAYLOR MONTCLAIR, NEW JERSEY
This job went way beyond cosmetic. With the room sinking and shifting, it was demolished down to lath and floor beams; a steel beam now shores up the floor. Reconfiguring the space allowed for a full-size tub. White tile, a wood wainscot, and Englishstyle wallpaper create a timeless room for an 1810 house built before indoor plumbing.

PROUD DETAIL: Using plain tile (instead of marble) and wood allowed a splurge on polished nickel fittings.

BEFORE (right) The main bathroom, not very big, was a hodgepodge of colors and styles.