Before and After: This $8K Bathroom Remodel Keeps the Old Tile and Peach Tub
This sweet green and pink bathroom is 63 years young, and though it had received a few updates 25 years ago, “It was just time to modernize and freshen up the old bathroom,” according to its owner. Let’s see what a difference 10 days can make in the long life of a vintage bathroom…
Ooh, this looks so great! I love how the newly restrained palette—goodbye, pink, ivory, oak!—puts all the focus on those amazing green tiles and how the new marble and ceramic floor adds so much fascinating detail without competing with the wall tiles. The new white vanity and toilet look perfect with the cool vintage soap dish and shelf brackets. This bathroom belongs to Marlene Balik, who says, “We love how the old tile takes on a new look with the updated fixtures and cabinetry.”The green now feels fresh and modern, yet full of vintage charm.
So, what did it take to bring this bathroom into the 21st century?
The job took 10 days. We hired a company that did work for us before and we would highly recommend. Labor and materials cost $8,000. Unfortunately, we had the added expense of staying in a hotel because that is our main bathroom and only shower. The workers sealed off the second floor so we couldn’t even get into our bedroom. But, it was worth the expense.
Marlene kindly provided a thorough breakdown of what was updated when (and why):
We have lived in this 1955 house for 25 years and have always loved the original seafoam green tiles and the peachy beige tub. When we moved in we replaced the cabinets, sink, shower doors, floor, and window shade. We kept it colorful and lively. This summer we decided to renovate this tiny space. But, realizing the expense, time, and mess, of removing the original tile and tub we decided to keep that as our vintage decor.
We replaced the ceramic floor with marble that actually has a touch of the green in the tile, and introduces a gray and white design. We purchased a solid wood white cabinet and quartz counter with an under counter sink, an all-mirrored medicine cabinet, a higher white toilet with dual flush, and a beautiful white patterned window shade. We bought very modern shower doors. The fixtures and shower door trim and new lighting is brushed nickel. The walls are painted with a pale gray toned paint. The vintage tile is a highlight in the mainly white decor. We are so happy with our choices.
Here are those modern doors mentioned above, as well as the peachy tub. The minimalism of the doors is the perfect counterpoint to the rounded tub and tiles, setting the entire bath area perfectly like a sleek, minimal, stainless steel picture frame.
Now that this bathroom’s second makeover is complete, Marlene has some advice:
Take time to shop around and compare prices. Check out design ideas online and in magazines. Hire a reputable contractor. Be prepared for time delays and major disruptions.
Thank you, Marlene!