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Before and After: A Tile-Heavy Bathroom Is Transformed from Mismatched to Classic

published Aug 2, 2019
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Credit: Katie Wassmer Johnson

Katie Wassmer Johnson and her husband, ​David,​ purchased their home in Memphis because they “fell in love with the Craftsman-style details, hardwood floors, and tree-lined street.” The house had all of the charm of the 1940s—but the bathroom left much to be desired.

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​”In what could only be described as a mish-mosh of DIY through the decades, the bathroom ‘before’ featured an array of mismatched mirrors on one wall, reflecting white, black, and baby blue tile throughout,” Katie writes. “The floor tile was a drab beige, and the window had been painted for privacy, but the effect was more haunted house. The entire space felt dark and unwelcoming, and badly in need of an upgrade.”

Credit: Katie Wassmer Johnson

The couple decided to start fresh. David tore every last thing out of the space, including the alcove above the shower, which his 6-foot-7-inch frame couldn’t even fit under. He took on the bulk of the work himself, with the exception of plumbing and electrical, and finished it in about a month.

Credit: Katie Wassmer Johnson

Because it was the only bathroom in the house, Katie says they wanted it to be a clean and calming space that would fulfill everyday needs and also be welcoming for guests.

Credit: Katie Wassmer Johnson

The couple chose subway tile for the walls and penny tile for the flooring. A window with frosted glass provides privacy while also letting in light (no more “haunted house” vibes!). And a new mirror, sconces​, and a shelf bring everything together and erase all memories of the eclectic mirror situation that previously hung in the space. The renovation cost about $5,000 total, according to Katie.

Credit: Katie Wassmer Johnson

Her very valuable words of advice for anyone about to embark on a bathroom renovation: “Always be prepared to spend more time and money than you think you might, as there are always unexpected things that pop up along the way.”

Credit: Katie Wassmer Johnson

Thank you for sharing, Katie!