Bathroom renovation: Modern family bathroom

Bathroom problem: Before

A very pink and awkward bathroom.

Bathroom layout

“I designed the bathroom around the scale of the bathtub,” says Nicola. She opted to keep the toilet where it was to avoid the extra plumbing cost, but she moved the existing door to create a more logical entry point and to maximize usable wall space. Nicola wanted the shower separate from the tub and chose a low-profile tray and an all-glass enclosure to keep it as unobtrusive as possible. She had the glass walls raised up to lock in post-shower heat. “I find showers feel a little cold when you turn off the water,” she says, so adding in-floor heating was also a must.

Bathroom renovation: After

Homeowner and designer Nicola Marc is grateful for the pre-existing skylight over the vanity, the only source of natural light in her bathroom. In fact, Nicola’s second favourite item in the bathroom is the vanity; with its shiny chrome washstand base and white glossy countertop, it embodies the space’s mix of classic and contemporary styles. To that end, she chose über-modern faucets with white tempered-glass handles that recall old-world porcelain versions. Nicola justified the pricey fixtures by saving some money on the tiles, which you would never guess are all porcelain and ceramic. The custom-cut extra-long mirror draws the eye up; it was hung high enough that splashes won’t mar its beauty.

Family-friendly design

The dreadful pink walls were painted over with “a soft stone colour that works well with the white elements in the space,” says Nicola. A simple rack holds multiple towels, and the stool is handy for helping daughter Clara, 8, climb in and out of the bathtub.

Floating shelves

Nicola opted for open shelving because she enjoys creating little vignettes. Each family member gets a shelf (she plans to add one for her 20-month-old son, Luka).