When my clients purchased their 1958 ranch-style home, they fell in love with its character—white trim, built-ins, and rich wood grain details that gave it a classic and inviting feel. However, some rooms felt too dated for their taste, and one space in particular stood out: the bathroom. They knew they wanted to refresh it while maintaining the charm that originally drew them to the home.
A Vision for Transformation
The homeowners had a clear idea of where to start—removing the existing green tile and replacing it with beadboard or wainscoting to match other rooms in their home. They wanted a design that felt fresh yet cohesive with the rest of the house, a space that blended light and dark elements while maximizing the beautiful natural light streaming in from the skylight.
Overcoming Design Challenges
Every remodel has its surprises, and this project was no exception. Once we removed the existing tile, we discovered the walls were extremely out of square, which required more extensive drywall work than anticipated. While we had hoped to avoid a full re-drywall, this step was necessary to ensure a polished and well-structured end result.
Creating a Balanced & Timeless Space
The most successful part of this design is how it balances light and dark finishes. With an abundance of natural light, the mix of bright whites, warm wood tones, and matte black accents creates a stunning yet timeless aesthetic.
One major change that made a significant impact was reimagining the linen storage. Previously, the linen closet opened into the hallway, but by replacing it with a cabinet that matched the vanity, we achieved a more cohesive and open vanity area. This thoughtful modification made the bathroom feel more integrated and intentional.
The client loves modern farmhouse style, but we wanted to ensure the space wouldn’t feel dated in just a few years. Instead of common white-painted shaker cabinets, we opted for Cherry cabinets with a Baltic stain. This choice added warmth and depth, while contributing to a more enduring design.
On-Trend Tile & Finishing Touches
The tile selections played a key role in the transformation. The hand-glazed look of the Hackney Pearl 3x9 shower tile and the Moroccan-inspired Decora Redondo floor tile reflect current design trends while offering a timeless appeal. We’re seeing a growing variety of colors and patterns in these tile styles, allowing for personalization without sacrificing longevity.
Other key design details include:
- Cabinetry: Merillat Masterpiece Martel Door in Cherry Stained Baltic
- Hardware: Richelieu Matte Black
- Countertop: Onyx White Quartz
- Tile: Decora Redondo for the floor, Hackney Pearl 3x9 for the shower
- Plumbing Fixtures: Delta Ashlyn Series in Matte Black
- Shower Doors: Kohler Levity
- Tub: Kohler Underscore
- Lighting: Signature Hardware Albury Light
An Award-Winning Design
This project was not only a success for the homeowner but also received national recognition, winning the Gold Award in the 2024 NAHB Best in American Living Awards in the Remodeling – Bath up to $50,000 category. I am beyond honored to have my work recognized on this level, and it’s a testament to the power of thoughtful design—even in a modestly sized remodel!
At KSI Kitchen & Bath, we believe every space has the potential for transformation, no matter the budget or scale. This project proves that small changes can make a big impact, creating a space that feels both functional and timeless.
If you’re dreaming of your own bathroom refresh, our designers are here to help turn your vision into reality. Let’s create something beautiful together!
