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by dhs_tdp
10 months ago in Design Dilemma
Need help with 5' X 10' Bathroom makeover
I am looking for thoughts, ideas and advice on this latest renovation. I will be gutting our bathroom. It was built in 1980 and last updated in (I think) 1980. I would give a photo of it now but, just trust me it's bad. My home is built on columns as we are near the coast in FL. The current layout is a real waste of space. we can not waste space as the home is small.

The goal: new everything; tub, commode, sink/vanity, fixtures,lights, floor.
The budget:Max $4,000 total my rough estimations:
tub = $1200-$1600
commode = $250,
sink = $300,
vanity = $500,
mirror, lights, other parts = $400
flooring = $400
LABOR = $ ALL ME

This bathroom is a guest bath but it has the only tub too. The master is a walkin shower. Oh the wife wants a linen closet too.

The first issue is layout. I can move plumbing as needed. I've got lots of hours into layout and I need help. The attatched image is current layout. There is a 32" window just to the left of the 10' mark on the drawing.
Share:
 
Mint Design Are you certain you want a window at the water closet? Have you considered a pocket door to save space? I suggest you move the tub to the longer wall marked 59", move the door over enough to accommodate that and move the lavatory and water closet to the opposite 5' wall. This will give you room for a comfortable chair by the window. A mirror behind the tub facing the window will reflect light and visually enlarge the room. I suggest you retrofit a small chest for you vanity and spend the savings upgrading your other fixtures.
10 months ago · ·
crazylife My thoughts are:
Tub: Leave the tub in the same spot. It uses the space very efficiently in the present orientation.
Vanity: Keep the vanity in the same spot, but rotate it 45 degrees to the length of the wall, (North wall that says 59 inches.) I assume you'll be buying a 48 inch one.
Linen Cabinet: construct shallow one between the tub and the window OR change the vanity to a 36 inch vanity, and use the 29 inches left over to put the linen cabinet in the north west corner between the vanity and the wall. Purchased linen cabinets are from 18 inches to 22 inches and bigger. If you have a cabinet maker make one or make your own, of course you can use every inch of the wall space.

Personally, once the fixtures are in and you get a good idea of how you can use the space, I 'd wall off the commode with pony wall or a small alcove wall 35 inches from the south wall in the corner where the commode is. I think its a nicer look.
May I ask what you are thinking of for flooring and cabinet colors? It will be fun to see your room take shape.
Good Luck.
10 months ago · ·
D.Coop, LLC @Crazylife - Though upon first glance I might be inclined to entertain the idea of moving the vanity to the 59" wall, remember that by doing so you're only providing approx. 36" from vanity to wall (possibly less depending on the unit chosen). The layout dhs_tdp allows not only for additional "leg room" afront the vanity but also allows the 60" wall to become a "plumbing wall" per say - sharing vent/waste lines and ultimately keeping plumbing and framing costs to a minimum.

Regarding the linen closet: Optimally I'd remove the bath tub entirely, replacing it with a 42" wide shower and a 12 or 15" wide linen closet. However, keep in mind that if you're thinking of reselling the home in the near future, this may not be the best of ideas.
10 months ago ·
Wow Great Place If this is your only tub, then yes, keep it for resale. Tubs are ideal for families with kids, and preferably not in the master bath, so kids can have a bath when they are older, too.
I'd keep the tub where it is, but would move the vanity along that long wall (10' wall) even with a window in the wall, You can add symmetry with a mirror beside the window.
I'd keep the toilet where it is, but rotate it so it backs onto the 10' wall. You can then add a shallow linen closet in front of the toilet, on the 59" wall. (would be great if it could recess into the wall studs, to give you extra depth)
You have plenty of space in a 5' wide bathroom to place a vanity on the long wall, I have it in my own house, and it works beautifully.
10 months ago · ·
Dytecture I think this layout is fine, perhaps you can make the bathroom shorter to 8 feet so you can gain some space in adjoining rooms. I also think it's a good idea to move the vanity to the 59" wall to make it a double vanity or large linen cabinet in the corner.
10 months ago · ·
crazylife Lets all remember he wants a tub in the room. Lets also remember the house is on stilts, and plumbing access is no problem and plumbing labor is not an issue.

DCoop, You are absolutely right. I think this is the whole crux of the issue, and I agree. His plan does allow for more access to the vanity, but it is only a 30 inch vanity. I was trying to maximize storage. Do you think that 36 inches clearance in front of the vanity is too tight? I appreciate your comments and was concerned about the same thing. That why I kind of like the tall linen cabinet in the corner, it shifts the vanity over to maximize the clearance impedance of the toilet. Just curious, where would you put a linen storage cabinet in the floor plan as dhs presented? This room is a big puzzle, I know there is going to be a good solution that we say, "Aha!"

DHS, you have only the option of an 18 inch linen cabinet if you choose the vanity + linen cabinet on the 59" wall. You need to save room for casing the door.

Best Wishes to All!
10 months ago ·
Wow Great Place Here are my thoughts, plotted out on paper....I am still not sold on a linen tower, especially in a guest bathroom. Couldn't the vanity have some storage under it for towels and such?

10 months ago · ·
D.Coop, LLC I'm better with images than words so thought this might help....

"WowGreatPlace" got me thinking about toilet location. If the toilet were to be moved to adjacent the tub and quite possibly replaced with an in-wall tank set up gaining even more leg room, the 5' wall at west could be used entirely for storage/vanity. Two options would then be available in this case - Option 1 being a 36" vanity with a 24" wide storage tower or Option 2 being a 36" wide vanity and a storage closet that could open into the space outside the bathroom.
10 months ago · ·
Wow Great Place D. Coop, though I agree with you that placing the vanity directly opposite the tub gives lots and lots of storage, one of my biggest pet peeves is seeing the toilet the second you enter the bathroom, or in this case, even as you walk by the door.

Theoretically, that option works, but I really would not want to see that toilet from the hallway.

The in-wall option also works in both of our scenarios, as it saves space (though would completely blow the budget!)
10 months ago ·
D.Coop, LLC @Wowcrazylife There is one other little tweak that could happen and that is to, using the second option with the closet that opens to the hallway, fit the toilet into the space between the closet and the door. The pocket door ends up being eliminated as an option due to plumbing but this would alleviate the view of the toilet from the door.

That or the door could be shifted over say 30" so that your view is of the opposite window rather than the toilet.
10 months ago · ·
Wow Great Place That could work, though we have no idea what is outside the bathroom.
Having a linen tower outside the room, that steals space in the bathroom, may not be feasible. I am still not convinced that a guest bathroom IS the best place for linens....how much storage are we talking about? A few towels for the users of this bathroom, along with toilet paper, cleaning products, etc., or is this THE linen closet for all the sheets and pillows and blankets for the house (he did say the house is a small one)
10 months ago · ·
D.Coop, LLC One thing to remember is that the author mentioned that the house is tiny, that, in essence, every square inch cannot be wasted. Considering the guest bathroom is 10 feet in length, the author has the luxury of available space. Personally, I could easily recommend shortening the bathroom entirely to 8 feet (as was mentioned in an above comment) and create a closet for an adjoining room simply to gain space.

My second option showing the closet opening into the adjoining room doesn't necessarily need to be just for linen. You could be talking cleaning supplies, toys for the children (if there are any) using the bathroom, a secondary pantry if the kitchen is nearby etc. etc. The important thing to remember is it isn't necessarily about what the storage will be used for but that we're providing additional storage.
10 months ago ·
Mackenzie Austin Design Not sure if this has been mentioned yet, amidst all of the suggestions...I have a PDF of it, but can't attach that to this thread (is that even possible?) Anyway, here's my take on the layout:

Tub: remain as is with plumbing on door wall
Toilet: top left corner, facing right (tub) wall
Vanity / Linen Stg. (with over 7' of storage): window wall, extending from bottom left corner to tub. window is approx. centre of vanity
Door: pocket if possible, move closer to centre of room, facing window
10 months ago · ·
Wow Great Place All attachments have to be jpegs in order to work.....but I like your suggestion!!!
10 months ago ·
Wow Great Place Like this? (And I would suggest narrow linen tower doors, to be able to open them properly beside the toilet)
10 months ago ·
Mackenzie Austin Design Thanks Wow Great Place, I've been trying to figure out how to make it a jpeg, but my computer isn't cooperating.
Yes, that is basically what I was thinking. Although, I too am not a fan of towers (at least not in this scenario) and would like to see that whole wall nothing but mirror-window-mirror (wall sconces, etc.) with all of the storage below; it would make the room appear larger. But it sounds like the homeowner would prefer more of a full height unit; either way it works. I would also suggest moving the door down to approx. the centre of the room, across from the window.
Thank you so much for illustrating that for me, none of my electronic equipment seems to want to cooperate with me today.
10 months ago · ·
lefty47 HI -- The toilet cost the most to move so I think it should stay in the same spot. I have two ideas . First one is - Put a 5 ft. free standing tub on the ten foot wall to the right of the toilet ,- then have a linen closet to the right of the entrance ( pocket ?) door which could move over a little to the right. Then a long vanity can be backed to the 59 + wall . That might leave room for a frosted glass or pony wall privacy divider for the toilet if needed. --- Second idea ,--- is to have a vanity on the 5 ft' former tub wall . The bathroom door will still need to be moved to the right a bit. Now the tub can go where the old vanity is ( 59 + wall ) so its beside the toilet. Linen storage can be on the right end of the new vanity. With each of these floor plans the window ( and toilet ) can stay where they are. I hope you can understand my explantions.
10 months ago ·
crazylife Wow= Joanne, I completely agree with you. I have the same pet peeve about being able to see the toilet from the entry of the room, or worse yet, the the hallway. I always build at least one wall, or even better a complete enclosed closet for my bathrooms. It's one of the key elements of good design for a bath, IMHO. It was a big concern, but I could not figure out how to add the 4+1/2 inches needed for the wall, and not sacrifice storage.

D.Coop: I still come back to my original idea, with the addition of a closet as you suggest in the second drawing accessed from the hall.
The closet as you suggest solves the clearance and the sight line issues to a certain degree, it's as good as it gets.

On your second drawing , (drawing on the right)

1.) Move vanity to north wall between closet and door.
2.) Move toilet to where the vanity is, with an east -west orientation. It is tucked behind the back wall of the closet, sight line and all the clearances are fine. Still only a 30 inch vanity, but it's as good as it gets.

Dytecture is right. David, I did a plan taking off 30 inches, (allows for framing) and framing a closet with bi-fold doors in the room to the left, but I still came up with clearance issues. It is the most efficient use of space, though. Have you figured it out better?

D.Coop, Just noticed you said the same thing. I've been working on these plans so long all kinds of messages have been posted!
Sorry. I know I could do this better by scanning and posting a diagram. I'll figure it out later.

Great ideas everyone. Take Care.
10 months ago · ·
crazylife D.Coop. I was working on my message while you posted. Just don't want you to think I'm a complete idiot. )

Have a good day everyone.
10 months ago ·
D.Coop, LLC @Crazylife Now worries there! I'm a quick poster ;) It sounds like since this is the guest bath, vanity space isn't so much of an issue; especially considering it appears there is already a 30" vanity in place. Sounds like between the two of us we managed to get in a bunch more storage than the homeowner had before. Woohoo!

@Mackenzie Austin Design - Slight problem with the layout suggested is that there is a window on the wall that you've placed the tower/vanity. Not certain to it's exact location but you're potentially either losing a mirror above the vanity or blocking the window with the tower.

Additionally, for a toilet to have proper spacing you should be locating it no less than 15" on center from the wall, though 18" is preferred. Having the toilet at this location means that there is a tight clearance between the toilet and the front of the linen closet so unless the doors on the closet have 180 degree hinges, the closet is nearly useless unless you climb up on the toilet.

@Lefty47 In this particular homeowner's case, the toilet would not be as costly considering the house was built on stilts making access to plumbing at the underside substantially easier. The majority of the cost would come from the vent lines though depending on where the plumbing for the existing tub is located, could be a simple tie in.

Not to mention I see no reason to move the tub which fits well in it's alcove into an area where there is the potential for more storage.
10 months ago · ·
crazylife D.Coop: Laughed when I read your message. I think they solved the issues of World Peace during the time I was working on that floor plan. I was ready to post, "Hey, DHS, Love your existing floor plan!! Think you should run with it!." LOL

Very nice of all you posters to spend your precious time and energies on this.

Best Wishes.

Diane
10 months ago ·
Mackenzie Austin Design @D.Coop - I did take into consideration the 32" window and there is over 2' of wall space on either side of that window for mirrors. I think having a mirror flanking either side of that window would actually be quite nice, especially given the geographical location (I visualize a real coastal feel to this bath). I also actually wasn't suggesting a tower, I was suggesting a 7'+ vanity from wall to tub under that window (although WOW was kind enough to help me illustrate my suggestion). I felt that even though there would not be a linen closet or storage tower, that in a guest bathroom over 7' of cabinetry would provide sufficient storage for towels etc., all below counter level. If they chose to put a tower there, there would still be room for it and a mirror on the other side of the window. And yes, I realize the height off of the floor was not given for that window (although in a bathroom I can't imagine it is that low), but the centre portion of the vanity could be lowered if that is an issue, which will break up the long length of counter and provide a place to perhaps put a stool and stand mirror, creating a little make-up area. I am also aware of minimum clearances for toilets and have placed it 16"OC from the wall and 22" OC from the front of the vanity. If using a standard Kohler toilet, you will have 12" from the widest point of the toilet (the tank) to the vanity, and more than that from the bowl. Alternatively, the tower could be placed next to the tub, if a tower is desired.
Thank you for pointing those thing out, I did try to take every factor into consideration. This isn't exactly an ideal scenario for designing a bathroom, but I think we're all providing dhs_tdp with some great suggestions and important factors to consider. I hope he updates us when construction is underway!
10 months ago · ·
Mackenzie Austin Design LOL crazylife! As with any design, everyone has their opinion and the possibilities can sometimes seem endless!
10 months ago ·
lefty47 HI -- D. Coop --- Thanks, but was already aware and I thought why move toilet if you don't have to and I was just trying to save the home owner some money and effort --- I am just use to doing things the way I use to do when I designed kitchens and baths . Everyone has valid ideas and I guess we have given the home owner many choices.
10 months ago ·
D.Coop, LLC @Mackenzie Austin Design - I'm with you that dhs_tdp better update us! Actually I think there are a number of questions that remain in play that with his input could help us all better help him. But hey, he did ask for help only 15 hours ago ;)

Anyway, although I don't disagree that having a large scale vanity could be a good use for the long corner space. IF this were a bathroom that saw a great deal of use. Typically speaking I'd be more apt to locate "utility space" (ie: make-up counters, etc) in the master bath where it is more than likely going to see more use. Though in this case, being that the bathroom is a guest bathroom, maximizing the potential for storage would seem to be paramount. And of course, when you can't go out you go up - a storage tower or built in closet (even shortening the bathroom to 8 feet and allocating a closet space to another room) would most definitely maximize the potential for storage elsewhere (remember: dhs_tdp did say the house was small).

But I will agree that in the end, the priority lies with the homeowner - storage vs. utility.

What's the prize for winning again? HAHA!

@Crazylife - I thought that solving bathroom crises WAS the key to world peace!
10 months ago ·
D.Coop, LLC @lefty47 Although you mentioned leaving the toilet in place, you did suggest moving the tub to an alternate location which depending on level of finish is ultimately more expensive than moving the toilet. Relocating the toilet would be a change to waste and vent line as well as the relocation of a cold water line. And, of course, the relocation of the fixture itself. Relocating a tub (which is more than likely a tub/shower combo) would require changes to waste/vent lines, a hot and cold water line, and the relocation of the tub and it's finish above. All in all a more expensive proposition in the long run.

I did want to make one suggestion outside of the floorplan. In calculating the budget I saw absolutely no number in play for a contingency. Homeowner - please budget at least 10% for overruns. You never know what you're going to find once those walls are opened up.
10 months ago ·
Wow Great Place umm, excuse me, but has anyone SEEN the homeowner lately?
Hellooooooo.....we have a ton of design ideas for you.......never never leave your e-mail unattended when you post on Houzz, we go a little nuts here in your absence! LOL
10 months ago · ·
D.Coop, LLC @lefty47 To clarify - I am in interior designer with 13 years and a million square feet of experience. My points are not meant to be rude and I apologize if they come off as such. My commentary is merely meant as an examination of all possible points of contention in the renovation process and are expressed solely for the point of allowing all of us to provide the best possible schematic for the homeowner. The process for creating a great design involves asking the appropriate questions and determining not only what will work, but what does not.
10 months ago · ·
Mackenzie Austin Design Lol...this is getting quite funny. Yes WOW, I completely agree!! I think a homeowner weigh-in is required at this point.
10 months ago · ·
lefty47 HI -- YES, that is who I would like to hear from and what they think about all our ideas.
10 months ago ·
Danniels-French Design, ARIDO, IDC WOW! What a lot of ideas! I agree - a BIG pet peeve is to look into a bathroom and look at the toilet. Also, I don't like the layout moving the toilet to the top left with a linen closet in bottom left - too awkward to get into the linen closet and moving toilets is expensive. Keep toilet where it is - just swing it to face the 59" wall. Building Code here in Canada requires 24" clearance in front of toilet so depending on toilet - you would only be able to have a linen closet of approx 13" deep - think overhead kitchen cabinet - so actually quite good space. Deeper cabinets just means you lose things! I like the idea of WOW grear Place original layout - placing the linen cabinet on the 59" wall and keeping the tub where it is, though linen cabinet could be wider. Vanity goes on 10' wall between tub and toilet - use free standing so looks like a furniture piece. Not clear where window is, but the trend seems to be for free hanging mirrors as opposed to cabinet to ceiling so should be able to work. So - lets here from the home owner!!
10 months ago ·
PoshHaus What a great thread... Love seeing all the ideas flow.
10 months ago · ·
PoshHaus I would say consider a wall hung toilet.

http://www.poshhaus.com/store/c/24-Toilets.html
10 months ago ·
Mackenzie Austin Design Thought I would see if that homeowner ever showed up tonight?
But he did say they live near the coast in Florida...maybe they're making hurricane preparations...?
10 months ago · ·
dhs_tdp It has been a very long day with high winds and heavy rain & lots of work. Sorry!! Wow! I am overwhelmed with the great Ideas (I know I shouldn't be). There are so many creative & talented people here. It’s hard to answer each idea independently so…
Ok a few information updates:
1.The wall that the door opens up on is a hall. Putting access to a linin closet in the hall was also the wife’s idea. Just not sure about that. Storage of a few towels and personal things is what I’m after. Why waste the space?
2.Right now there is no door. I had to remove it to finish the floors. (Brazilian Macchiato Pecan) I also do not like seeing the commode when the door is open. Swing or pocket door will in part be chosen when I find the commode placement.
3.Window is 29” from corner of commode wall & 45’ from floor. Love to move it but, I’m not ready to put the new exterior siding up. That is about 2-3 projects down the road. Trying to finish interior of the home first.
4.Relocating the tub is an option and yes, I fully understand about the DWV lines and water lines needing relocated. Yes it’s more work & $$ but, if the end product works then I’m happy.
5.Flooring- I will put in the porcelain tile that looks like natural wood. I think it will go well with the macchiato pecan.
6.Shrinking the bathroom is off the table. The only wall (besides the exterior) connected to another room is the current vanity wall. It shares with a bedroom. The space would not work well if added to the bedroom.
7.Our washer /dryer room is directly below that bath and we currently have a kind of hidden laundry chute. Really like to work that into the new plans.
8.Contemplating moving tub (standalone type- maybe claw foot) to long wall
9.Long vanity sounds appealing.

Thank you all so much for your input. I added the one picture of the layout and am working on getting a few new ones up. I do promise to keep you all updated. Just know I’m good with the demo-build part but the finishing touches always seem to elude me.
10 months ago ·
Mint Design If you decide to go with the closet I suggest the tub along the long wall as my earlier suggestion but instead of reversing the water closet and lavatory to the opposite short wall leave either one of those on the left short wall and place the other on the right short wall in the outside corner. This leaves the closet in the upper right corner with access from the hall. No reason for access to be in the bath as it is a guest or child's bath and access is better without having to enter the bath. If you leave the water closet on the left short wall and move the lavatory to the right outside corner, consider using the space between the studs on the back wall of the closet for shelves in the bath. This can also be down on the tub/hallway wall to keep things handy for the tub like bath oils, rolled towels and washcloths, etc. In a small house accessing space between studs can be a real boon! :) Since you are in Florida, you can even do the same on the exterior wall adjacent to the water closet for toilet paper, magazines, etc. Hope you did not suffer damage from Issac! :)
10 months ago · ·
Danniels-French Design, ARIDO, IDC Just a comment re: using a tile that looks like wood so as to work with your real wood floor. I always feel it is best to use finishes that complement one another rather than try to match. Think in terms of clothing – I don’t think you would wear a beautiful pair of leather pants and then try to match them with a fake leather shirt - a beautiful cotton shirt would be a much nicer look. Try to figure out the look you are going for – clean and airy, spa like or country cozy etc and then work towards that. And remember the KISS theory – simple is good, especially in small spaces and for things that will be there for a long time such as floors!
10 months ago · ·
Mackenzie Austin Design Hopefully the hurricane doesn't affect you all too badly. Here are a few...okay, more than a few (I got a little carried away) photos depicting what I was envisioning for your bathroom yesterday, in particular Master Bathroom 1. I love your hardwood, but like another poster said, you certainly do not have to match it with a tile version.
So many things to think about!

10 months ago ·
Danniels-French Design, ARIDO, IDC Here's an idea - not perfect but then often things are not - you just have to do the best you can! Problem - putting tub on this wall is tight - can door opening be shifted a bit to accommodate tub? Tub and sink just swap plumbing basically. This way you don't have to move toilet, windows not a problem, linen cupboard is not huge but should be fine - so just another option! Also have attached a picture of vanity with mirror in front of window for reference..
10 months ago ·
dhs_tdp Just got home and this is the first place I checked. The storm just made us wet and have to do a bit of cleanup. We were very fortunate. I’ve been through several CAT3/4 hurricanes. I’ll take Issac all day long.
Mackenzie, I really like the use of the window and vanity /counter. I would not have thought of that approach.
Deborah, I see your point. I was not trying to match the wood floor. I actually thought it would flow well. As for “The look” we are going for, well…. That is kind of is the issue. This one bathroom has to fill so many functions.
Mint & Wow, I am liking what several of you said about the access to the linin closet- It should be in the hall. I just think maybe an open shelving(custom Built in space) might allow for linins and knickknacks. Just working the visual.
D Coop, You are so on the mark with budget overruns. I have to admit my Max budget is closer to 5K but, 4-4.5k is what I am planning on spending. If you tell a contractor you have 5K to spend- it’s magic, whatever your trying to do cost JUST that much. Even though I will be doing the work, I don’t want to DREAM outside my budget. I too have a want list and a NEEDS list. With myself doing the labor this will afford me better quality and better creativity (with every ones help) because, I’m paying material cost only.

General notes: The home was a summer cottage that is now a main residence for the wife & I. It was neglected and in dire needs of attention. This is the LAST room to renovate(inside). I really would like to give the wife a special place. After all I get the entire garage and Shed.Haha
10 months ago ·
crazylife dhs, Another major consideration is the location of your plumbing stack. My local code will only allow a 6 foot tie in, max.
I know every one here is very glad you are O.K. and you weathered the storm.
Good Luck & Best Wishes.
10 months ago ·
Danniels-French Design, ARIDO, IDC dhs_tdp - random thoughts going round my head this morning about your bathroom - I am assuming you are not a designer, nor using a designer, so just a couple of things to keep in mind. First, regardless of your layout what will make a huge impact as to the look and "useability" of your bathroom will be all of the little details that hopefully come together and regardless of how much money you are spending, you want to spend your money to the best of your ability. As they say - get the biggest bang for your buck.
So - lighting is essential in bathrooms. Around the vanity keep the lighting at EYE level - that means a sconce either side if you can do it and don't mount them high - this means you should know the style of sconce BEFORE you have the electrical box installed. Does the light fixture go up or down from the centre. Lighting above the mirror is referred to as "hag" lighting - not very flattering. THen you will also want a ceiling fixture or pots lights to fill in.
Secondly. Don't feel you have to get carried away with accent tile trim - especially if it is a colour. Down the road this can be limiting. Keep it neutral and keep it simple. Don't put in so many things that they fight each other - accent on floor, accent in bath etc.
As for cabinet doors - why do people always feel that the door has to be so detailed - some places a plain slab door is beautiful and elegant - not boring.
And a big thing in my mind - you do not need MARBLE or GRANITE! You have described your home as having once been a cottage - I also live in a similar home and these houses do not suit marble and granite. It is out of place in this type of home. There are many nice plastic laminates out there (I can already hear the horror in peoples reaction to this!!) but plastic laminates have come a long way and when working on a tight budget, they can be great if chosen and installed properly. People DO NOT use post formed any more so just get a clean squared off look. Or if you have Mr Marble available to you, they actually make some great counter tops when you use just the plain white finish - very reasonable and looks just like the china sinks and counters you see in many stores these days.
Anyway - you should keep posting you ideas here as you can get lots of free advice - probably more than you want!! :-) Good luck!
10 months ago · ·
dhs_tdp Deborah Danniels-French
Thank you for the insightful thoughts. No, I am not a designer. I fit more into the builder role. It does take me a bit longer sometimes to grasp the bigger picture when it come to the small design details but, I KNOW- it is all about the details. This particular bath has gotten the better of me. I put this dilemma on HouZZ.com because for whatever reason I just can’t see this room. I know the space is underutilized and as I’ve stated earlier I want to make a statement with the room yet, it still needs to have good function.
The lighting input is understood. Friends have laughed at me because I love lights & light control. With the size of the room- options are somewhat limited. I have Golden river granite in the kitchen and it works well. I agree some laminates can look just fine-It’s not really what I’m after though. I believe I’ve come up with a THEME- I want the room to be very spa-like and relaxing. I willing to allow it to go more feminine (fancy foo-foo-as I call it)than normal, for the wife.
Here is the current floor plan. This layout does not give me a linin closet but with the long vanity, I believe we should have ample storage. Leaving the commode on that wall will allow me to not move the DWV (saving$$). The tub-same spot -no plumbing move (saving $$).
My only STILL UP IN THE AIR part: I like the restricted view of a hinged door (swing in) to block commode & the openness of the pocket door. Asking: every ones thoughts.
Just about ready to start shopping for pieces & part. Let the fun begin!! I’ll be looking for input on many of these. Hope everyone is ready.
Thank you all for your ideas.
10 months ago · ·
ma4tl I read a few of the others ideas...I also have a tiny bathroom. I love beadboard omg! I mean doesn't it just FIX everything?? We will be working on it in the next few weeks, and I might try something different with it...not sure yet but I might try turning the BB horizontally (??) =D
10 months ago · ·
Danniels-French Design, ARIDO, IDC dhs_tdp - I think you are right - your layout works well and as you say - should give you quite a bit of storage - and it creates a nice visual when you enter the bathroom. Another thing you could do to give more storage but keep things looking clean is to use something like the medicine cabinet Element Single View by MAAX. It comes in a variety of sizes and it can be either mounted on the wall or recessed. I have used the recessed one several times as it looks great. For your bathroom as you will be limited size wise between the tub and window - you could use 2 - 16x36 or 2 - 20x24. People often initially think this is small but when up, it works and looks good, plus you get lots of storage inside.
The one disadvantage to your layout is of course you can't use sconces either side of the mirrors but one thing I have seen used a couple of times lately is having light fixture hanging from the ceiling - sort of like you see over kitchen islands but smaller - see if you can find pictures of this - better than hag lighting!
I have attached an image of a bathroom I did a while back using Mr. Marble countertop with integrated sink - I think looks nice and very reasonably priced - if available in your area. Note - the sconces are TOO HIGH even though I had marked on the wall the height for the electrician - sometimes you just can't win!! Also - this is the Element medicine cabinet.
10 months ago · ·
Mackenzie Austin Design I must admit, I'm very excited about the plan! I think going with a spa-look for this bathroom is definitely the way to go, and using granite or marble or limestone would be perfect. Your wife will never miss not having that linen closet! I think the wall sconces you have on the plan are great; they, together with the natural light coming in from the window, will give you the most flattering lighting. You need about 24" between each pair of sconces, so if my calculations are correct you've got just enough room. I would mount tall, slender sconces directly on the mirror (see pic) to give you the optimal width and spacing. The only lighting I don't love in the plan are the pots over the vanity. I don't think they're really necessary and I would suggest a semi-flush or flush-mount (depending on ceiling height) fixture instead (see other pic). Centre that in the room (on a dimmer) for ambient lighting, and to give the space another decorative element. As for the door, I too have been going back and forth on it for the exact same reasons. I see validity in each option. The only real drawback on having it swing is it getting in the way of the toilet. But, chances are if your guests are sitting on the toilet, the door is closed anyway. Just put a stop on the hinge so that it doesn't actually hit the toilet. The door will be open more often than not, and disguising that toilet would be nice. I don't know what is opposite that bathroom, but a view of the commode is not ideal. I'm the first person to vote for pocket doors, but in this case my vote is swinging.
It's going to be a beautiful space when you're done with it! I hope you keep us posted on the progress! Good luck!!
10 months ago · ·
Vikrant Sharma Homez Guys the budget is $4k not 40k .
10 months ago · ·
dhs_tdp It has been a bit since anything new has happened here. The ball is rolling again and I have a deadline of Thanksgiving. I was just informed I'll have the parents down for the holiday. That said, I have a few new ideas to share and maybe get some input.

New tub = Kohler Hourglass 60X32 white

New toilet = Kohler Persuade Curv white
New sinks = Kohler Ladena white
Counter = thinking a light marble, granite or maybe Cambria - one for input here

Now the vanity-has to be a custom made piece. I’ll put up a photo of the idea. I took inspiration from the dark "Bath Vanity-$3,000.00"

Question for everyone= I'm going with the dark wood vanity and light everything else. Just not sure if I should trim out the mirror and window with white trim or if I need to trim mirrors with dark wood(same as vanity). There is only 29" each side of the window, the window trim needs to be the edge of the mirror frame. The inspiration is from my idea book.
9 months ago ·
dhs_tdp Oh the $4K original budget is now around $7K and just will not stop. Thank you all for umm... your great help with that too.
9 months ago ·
Mackenzie Austin Design Great to hear everything's moving along, thanks for the updates. Good thing you don't live in Canada...Thanksgiving's tomorrow!
I think the soft curves of all of your plumbing fixtures work well together and the Ladena is one of my favourite sinks.
The design of the vanity from your idea book is perfect and I think medium to dark wood would really warm up the space nicely. I would keep the mirror and window frames light to avoid a "choppiness" from dark vanity to light counter to dark frames. I think the light counter with light frames would be a softer transition and would also keep the eye going to the exterior and not stopping on the frames first. The "Master Bathroom 1 by Brian Watford" (a few responses above) addresses the frame of the window and mirrors nicely by treating it as one piece. You could also consider metal frames on the mirrors. Calacatta marble is very nice and would work well here, but I would like to see what you're thinking for tiles too.
Can't wait to hear and see more.
Good luck!
9 months ago · ·
dhs_tdp Mackenzie Austin Design
Thank you for your feedback. Very good think I’m not in Canada. It would be a long night! The funny thing is "Master Bathroom 1 by Brian Watford" is actually a big part of the idea. I think you are on the mark. With the space limits, I know that it will work out perfect. I was leaning towards the lighter frames to better blend the window frame, shutter and the mirrors. I’ll get some shots of the tile up here soon. Thank you for the input on the Vanity. I’ll keep you all posted. Thank you all again.
8 months ago ·
dhs_tdp If anyone is still following this, there has been a minor setback. I had a bit of an accident and now have 25 stitches with a repaired artery, vein, and tendon at my wrist. I let a broken porcelain toilet base roll across my wrist/arm. Upon completion of the demo, I was placing items in the truck and “POW” one second of misplaced attention and it was a scene from the movies.
All that said, the new tub, toilet, sinks and lights look great sitting in the garage. I do NOT see this getting done prior to the family –holiday visit. This leaves me - time to plan and over analyze everything now.
I need your help one more time. I have to have a custom vanity built. The photo “Bath Vanity-$3,000.00” is the seed for this build. I am torn between these two plans. I can see both built and looking great in the space.
The long doors on the end of the cabinet allow me to install a trap door/laundry chute in the left base unit. A must for the wife!! The space will get baskets or rolled towels or something.
Sorry no tile selection yet. Things got a bit behind here. Thank you in advance for any input.
8 months ago ·
pruner Too many comments to read! I sympathise with your problem, having gutted and rebuilt one. (Don't forget the waterproofing)!
It is a guest bathroom, so firstly think practically - how big does the vanity have to be, and where are the towel rails going? The only way to hide the toilet on opening the door (and possibly from another room as well) is putting it in corner to the far right of the door, hidden as you enter by a tall and slim linen closet (and the toilet roll holder can be drilled into the side of that. Vanity opposite the toilet, so you can have the light from the window on your face to apply makeup and a direct walk to wash hands.. Put a normal or heated towel rail under the window to 'service' both the vanity and bath users! Leave the bath in situ. Also consider 'niches' into the wall for display, shampoos or other decorative bits above the bath.
8 months ago ·
Kivi Geez... glad to hear you are more or less ok. Been there too.. It's a firm lesson on how things can go wrong quick. I hope the healing goes well.
When i first looked at your 2 plans for the vanity I thought I liked the top one better, but I have switched and I like the bottom one better. I like the extra opened space at the bottom giving it a lighter look. I think it will look great with towels and baskets.
I like the plan for this long vanity on this wall.
8 months ago · ·
dhs_tdp Here is the faucet pick and the center light pick. I think this will work well with the two BRYANT SCONCE W SILVER TRIM (TOB2002PN-NP/st)

The light I wanted: Circa lighting-RANDOLPH LARGE ROUND FLUSH MOUNT -$840.00
The one I went with: Amazon.com- Nuvo 60/4737 Candice Brushed Nickel Semi-Flush $130.00
The faucets: Moen T6125BN Kingsley Two-Handle High Arc Bathroom Faucet without Valve, Brushed Nickel
The tub fixtures: Moen T3113BN + 3570 Kingsley Moentrol Tub and Shower Trim Kit without Valve, Brushed Nickel
8 months ago ·
Mint Design Glad you are ok! Your wife is getting her laundry chute, right?
8 months ago · ·
dhs_tdp Mint Design
Thank you, for your kind words. Oh yes! if this bathroom has anything- it WILL have the laundry chute. I'm told!!! With love of course. I'm working on the plumbing this week. The new sub floor is all down. With one arm out of commission it now takes me 6 hours to do 1 hour of real work. After plumbing comes the Electrical.
8 months ago ·
Mint Design You are one brave man! I forgot to mention....porcelain and ceramic tiles are the most damaging to the feet and joints...yes, they are harder than natural stone...Please use wood stone, or a high quality true linoleum....:)
8 months ago · ·
Mackenzie Austin Design I'm glad you're okay...that accident sounded like something you'd see on TV! I can't believe you're still working on it right now. My husband would have milked that injury for as long as possible ;)
Your lighting and faucets are pretty and will look nice with your other plumbing fixtures. I'm seeing marble working really well in there.
Of the two cabinet drawings, I prefer the top one. But I would suggest either making those two square cabinets deep drawers (great for hair appliances), OR eliminating them altogether and doing two shelves on either side of that centre bank of drawers. You could put towels on the bottom shelves and maybe glass jars (or whatever) on the top shelves. If going this route, I would suggest a false panel behind, to hide the plumbing.
That chute can't go in the centre section, can it?
Thanks for bringing us up to speed. Good luck working on it with only one good arm.
8 months ago · ·
dhs_tdp Wow! It’s been a very long Renovation. Thought I would update this thread. Arm is doing great-Doesn't look great but it works. The bath is 90% finished and 100% over budget. I guess that's about right-Haha. Thank you all, again, for all your input. I'm having trouble getting good photos because of the size of the room. There just isn’t a good vantage point. So my photos will not look like the great shots that inspired this build. The only thing left is the counter & backsplash. Having the most trouble with this call. I'll update when it's complete. Thank you
4 months ago ·
Mackenzie Austin Design Congratulations dhs_tdp, it's looking great! I've wondered how it's been going.
Thanks so much for the update!!!
Look forward to the final reveal!
4 months ago ·
Mint Design Well done!
3 months ago ·
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