How This Designer Helped New Parents Transform an Outdated Bathroom

If there’s something we never get tired of seeing, it’s a great makeover. Whether it’s transforming a retro bathroom into a modern oasis or giving a lackluster bedroom a fresh look, pros perform these design miracles all the time.

To give designers a chance to showcase their favorite makeovers—and to bring you plenty of inspiration for your own home—we’re sharing the best before and afters we’ve seen in our series, Makeover of the Week. Take notes for your next renovation.

“After living with a poorly functioning bathroom for years, my client and her husband learned they were expecting their first child and made updating their home’s main bathroom a priority. They wanted to increase the storage space and overall function of the room, while incorporating a California coastal vibe,” interior designer Tiffany Leigh Piotrowski says.

Before:

“The biggest issue with the old bathroom was the poor layout—the sink wasn’t centered below the lighting and one of the vanity doors opened up to a wall," Piotrowski shares. "Plus, the brick backsplash, full-wall mirror, and older shower all dated the space.”

After:

“To give the bathroom a coastal feel, I applied 6-inch tongue and groove shiplap to one of the walls and installed a white oak vanity with a durable white quartz top,” Piotrowski says. “Adding a tub made the bathroom more kid-friendly as did concealing the medicine cabinets behind some wall art.” 

What Changed:

• Color theme:  A mix of black, white, and brass hues creates a modern vibe. 
• Vanity: The quartz countertop runs up the wall to form a shelf while the black hardware pops against the light wood. 
• Sink hardware: A cross-handled brass faucet is mounted on the wall for a more stylish look.
• Lighting: The midcentury modern sconces tie together the room’s three predominant colors—black, white, and brass.
• Mirror: The arch-shaped black metal mirror softens the straight lines in the room. 
• Wall art: Surf prints were framed in white and conceal the room’s medicine cabinets.
• Floor: A durable neutral-colored porcelain tile allows the other elements in the room to shine. 
• Walls: Vertical shiplap creates architectural interest while making the walls appear taller. 
• Window: A custom Roman shade in a cream linen fabric allows in light while providing privacy. 
• Tub: The shower/tub features slightly imperfect matte subway tiles, unlacquered brass hardware, and a white cotton shower curtain.
• Stool: A vintage stool provides a place to perch while bathing the baby or a spot to hold a glass of wine while relaxing in the tub. 
• Towels: Striped black and white tasseled Turkish towels add texture to the space. 

Shop the Look:

LD Shoppe Julia Sconce $232.00

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“I’m drawn to oversized lighting like these sconces, which look great in just about any room,” Piotrowski notes.

Crate and Barrel Edge Black Arch Wall Mirror $299.00

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“This mirror is on trend with its curved stainless steel frame and beveled glass,” Piotrowski says.

West Elm Organic Turkish Tassel Towels $1,929.00

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“These striped 100% organic cotton Turkish towels have become a textile staple in all my bathroom makeovers,” Piotrowski shares.