Before and After: See a Dark, Damp Bathroom’s Carrara Marble-Filled Transformation
At first glance, Nidia Serrano’s monochrome bathroom seemed like one we’d all like to come home to at the end of a busy day. But when you looked closely, you saw that some tiles didn’t match others, and the tub had permanent stains.
Most significantly, the bathroom had poor ventilation and mold issues. “Our bathroom was very old, and our neighbors started complaining about a leak,” Nidia writes. “My husband, Juan, and I paid someone to fix their ceiling, but this year the leaking problem happened again. We figured we must’ve had some problem with the pipes, so to play it safe, we went with a full bathroom renovation.”
The couple chose white Carrara marble for the floor and shower walls and brushed gold fixtures from Kohler. They purchased most of their materials online and hired a construction company to complete the renovation, which cost around $12,000.
As with most renovation projects, the couple experienced a few hiccups. Their tub got lost in the mail, pushing the project back by two weeks, and they didn’t end up ordering enough tile and had a color matching issue once the second shipment arrived. The whole process took about a month, which was not ideal because it’s the couple’s only bathroom! Luckily (but not so conveniently), they were able to use Juan’s parents’ house for showers.
Based on all of that, Nidia’s advice to anyone about to embark on a renovation is to “get clear and defined expectations from your contractor,” she writes. “I wasn’t clear that most materials were not included: drywall, concrete board, glue for wall and tiles, etc. Sit with your contractor and outline everything that is needed for the project. Order everything in advance and make sure everything is in place before you get started.”
The renovation was certainly not just for the (stunning!) aesthetics: By adding a vent, Nidia and Juan were able to eliminate the moisture issue, and new plumbing fixed the leak their downstairs neighbors had dealt with. A new vanity provides the couple with storage, and a frosted glass window gives the room way more light.
“I love everything about our new bathroom,” Nidia writes. “It’s like a bright, sleek, and beautiful sanctuary.”
Thanks for sharing, Nidia!