This Designer Gave Her Clients the Modern Bathroom of Their Dreams—Here's How

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.

“My clients lived with this bathroom for 25 years as they raised their two girls. It was original to the home and in need of updating,” says interior designer Lisa Davey. “The layout was functional but the finishes all needed a facelift.”

Before:

“Not surprisingly, the beige carpet in the bathroom was the first thing to go,” Davey laughs. “Along with the dated honey-tone oak vanity, built-in bathtub, and the red 12” x 12” brick tile on the countertop and in the shower.”

After:

“My overall goal was to create a light, bright, and timeless bathroom,” Davey notes. “To achieve my vision, I used natural materials such as Calcutta marble and walnut wood, then mixed in warm tones and texture with polished gold plumbing fixtures, vinyl grasscloth wallpaper, and woven wood window shades. What sets this bathroom apart is the fact the tub and shower live together behind a glass partition.”

What Changed:

• Color theme: Classic grey, white and wood tones combine to create a calming effect.
• Vanity: Walnut wood along with recessed knurled brass and black hardware compliment the vanity’s clean lines.  
• Mirrors: Three oversized black mirrors rest on the ledge of the backsplash and feature metal details. 
• Backsplash: The Calcutta marble backsplash mirrors the floor tile for a continuous and cohesive look.  
• Sconce: Four iron starburst sconces provide filtered light throughout the space.
• Floor: A herringbone pattern on the Calcutta marble floor is both classic and modern.
• Armoire: The walnut wood armoire is stained in an ebony hue adding warmth to the space, while its curved top provides softness against all the room’s hard edges.
• Window treatments: Woven wood shades add texture while filtering light and providing privacy.
• Shower/tub: The soaking tub and shower are encased behind glass and feature Calcutta marble in a brick pattern on the walls.  
• Runner: The terracotta hues in the vintage rug add a pop of color and a cozy vibe to the bathroom. 
• Stool: A circular ceramic stool has a unique twisted center and provides a spot to sit at the vanity.  
• Wallpaper: Grey vinyl grasscloth wallpaper on the walls behind the vanity and armoire provide texture.
• Accessories: Minimalist accessories include blacktop soap dispensers and a wood tray that holds glass jars filled with cotton balls and Q-tips.

Shop the Look:

Circa Lighting Strada Small Sconce $499.00

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“This sconce gives any room a custom finish,” Davey says.

Shades of Light Monarch Mirror $638.00

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 "This black metal mirror will elongate a wall and make the ceiling look higher,” Davey notes.  

Stephanie Cohen Home Bea Twisted Ceramic Stool $500.00

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“A stool is a fun way to add seating to a bathroom vanity,” Davey says.