Introduction
Remodeling a master bathroom can be a daunting task, but with some planning, creativity, and elbow grease, the results are well worth the effort. The family in this home renovation story was seeking to update their outdated and cramped master bath into a fresh, open space with a modern farmhouse style. From selecting finishes and fixtures to demolishing walls and installing new tub and shower combinations, they tackled all aspects of the remodel themselves. This thorough DIY bathroom remodel allowed them to customize the space to their taste while saving on labor costs. Their beautiful, inviting new spa-like retreat is sure to become the favorite room in the house!
Planning a Layout for Functionality and Flow
Careful planning is essential when undergoing a total master bathroom remodel. This family started by considering how they use their bathroom and developing a layout to maximize functionality and flow. Here are some of the factors they kept in mind:
- Creating separate zones for key areas – The shower, tub, toilet, and double vanities each got their own defined space for privacy and practicality.
- Allowing generous circulation areas – With two users sharing the space, they provided ample room to move around comfortably.
- Enhancing natural light – A skylight and new window openings were added to make the bath feel open and airy.
- Accommodating storage – Cabinetry, shelving, and drawer space was incorporated to keep clutter out of sight.
- Selecting durable surfaces – Water-resistant materials were chosen for the shower, tub deck, and flooring.
- Upgrading fixtures – New efficient faucets, showerheads, and lighting were included to enhance the ambiance.
- Incorporating style – They selected finishes to tie into the home’s modern farmhouse aesthetic.
Careful prep work on the layout ensured their new master bath remodel checked all their boxes for both form and function.
Demolition: Removing Outdated Materials and Structures
With the design plan in place, demolition was the next crucial step in this major bathroom remodel. The family suited up with protective gear, turned off the water supply, and systematically tore out the old materials and fixtures. Here is an overview of their demolition process:
- Removing surfaces: The outdated tile, laminate flooring, vanity top, and tub surround were pried up using hammers and pry bars. Any remaining adhesive was scraped away.
- Taking down walls: Non-load-bearing walls were identified and carefully knocked down to open up the space. Drywall was cut away with a circular saw.
- Disconnecting plumbing: Supply lines, drains, and vent pipes were disconnected and cleared in preparation for the new layout.
- Removing fixtures: The antiquated toilet, vanity, medicine cabinets, and tub were uninstalled and hauled away.
- Updating electrical: Old lighting, outlets, and switches were taken out to make way for improved wiring.
- Prepping the subfloor: Once stripped down to the studs, the plywood subfloor was inspected and repaired if needed to create a smooth base.
Demolishing the outdated bathroom was dusty and physically demanding, but also gratifying work. The family could see their plans start to take shape as they opened up the space.
Modernizing Plumbing Systems and Fixtures
One of the major aspects of any bath remodel is updating the plumbing system. For their master bathroom renovation, this family opted to hire a licensed plumber for this critical job. Some of the improvements made included:
- Re-routing supply lines: With the new layout, water supply lines were redirected and replaced with updated piping.
- Installing efficient fixtures: A new low-flow toilet, custom shower system, soaker tub, and double vanities were installed and precisely leveled.
- Improving water pressure: New supply lines increased water pressure to the showerheads.
- Adding a recirculating pump: Hot water is now delivered more quickly thanks to a recirculating pump system.
- Updating the ventilation: A powerful new exhaust fan was added to improve airflow and humidity control.
- Reconfiguring drains: Floor drains and sink drains were reworked to match the new bathroom footprint.
Having functional, modern plumbing laid the groundwork for their dream remodeled bath. The family was thrilled with the performance of the new fixtures and impressed by the expertise of their contractor.
Installing Striking Tile Work
One of the most important finishing touches in a bathroom remodel is the tile work. For their farmhouse style space, the family chose large-format rectangular porcelain tiles laid in a classic brickwork pattern. Their tile upgrades included:
- Shower surround: Full slabs reaching from floor to ceiling create a striking focal wall in the spacious walk-in shower.
- Tub deck: Oversized tiles applied on the deck continue the clean lines. Mosaic glass tile accents the front.
- Bathroom floor: Durable porcelain tiles laid on the diagonal provide interest underfoot. Inset tile matches the shower walls.
- Bathroom walls: Neutral tile wainscoting lends subtle texture and protects walls from moisture and splashes.
- Grout and sealant: Complementary gray grout and sealant keep tile seams watertight.
- Niche and accent: A recessed shelf niche provides shower storage. Contrasting mosaic tile and metal bar soap holder provide vintage flair.
The bold, cohesive tile scheme adds timeless style and a custom feel. Their careful grouting and sealing ensures it will maintain its sleek beauty for decades to come.
Selecting Lighting to Set the Mood
Proper lighting can make or break a bathroom remodel. This family took care to choose varied lighting elements to create the perfect ambiance in their refreshed master bath. Their lighting upgrades include:
- Skylight: A new skylight over the large walk-in shower lets natural light pour in.
- Recessed cans: Multiple adjustable recessed cans provide overall ambient lighting on dimmer switches.
- Vanity lighting: Decorative linear fixtures flanking the two mirrors over the double vanities illuminate grooming areas.
- Shower light: A rain showerhead with integrated lighting creates a soothing glow.
- Sconces: Decorative bronze wall sconces add mood lighting and visual interest.
- Night light: A night light discreetly placed near the floor provides a soft glow during late night bathroom visits.
- Exhaust fan light: The overhead vent fan incorporates an LED light for general illumination.
With their varied lighting sources, this bath is bright and airy but can also be softened to a relaxing spa-like ambiance. The lighting design is truly one of the finishing touches that elevates this remodel.
Designing His and Her Vanities
No master bathroom is complete without ample and comfortable vanity space. For their renovation, the homeowners opted for dual vanities – his and hers. Some key features of their vanity design include:
- Two sinks: Extra-wide custom double vanities provide a sink for each user. An extended countertop allows shared grooming space.
- Proper height: Standard height countertops work for most adults. The height can be adjusted to suit the users.
- Quartz countertops: Durable engineered quartz in a creamy white hue is easy to clean and maintain.
- Farmhouse style: The painted cabinetry with metal accents fits their aesthetic. Drawers provide concealed storage.
- Vessel sinks: Round raised vessel sinks have a stylish updated look. Wall-mount faucets suit the modern style.
- Mirrored medicine cabinets: Large mirrors with integrated storage provide each user with a designated spot for toiletries.
- Custom backsplash: Neutral subway tile protects the wall and complements the vanities.
With spacious his and hers vanities, this couple now has ample room to start their day in an uncluttered, organized environment.
Selecting Finishes for Function and Style
The finishes chosen for a bathroom remodel go a long way towards creating the overall aesthetic. For their farmhouse style space, this family chose a cohesive palette of finishes that checked all their boxes for functionality and visual appeal:
Flooring
- Porcelain plank tile: Durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean porcelain tile mimics wood planks for warmth.
Tub and Shower Surrounds
- Tile: As detailed above, large-format porcelain tile in the shower and tub area adds upscale style.
Bathroom Wall Finishes
- Paint: The drywall walls are coated in an eggshell white paint for brightness and easy wipe-down.
- Tile wainscoting: Neutral white subway tile protects lower walls from moisture.
Cabinetry
- Shaker style: Classic five-piece shaker cabinets in a painted driftwood finish fit the farmhouse look.
Countertops
- Engineered quartz: Resilient quartz with a creamy marble-look tops the vanities.
Fixtures
- Matte black metal: Faucets, shower fixtures, and lighting boast a trendy black finish.
Accessories
- Wood and metal: Woven wood blinds, bronze sconces, and metal bath accessories keep the look natural and vintage-inspired.
The cohesive scheme feels upscale yet classic and livable. By choosing finishes with both aesthetics and practicality in mind, they now have a space that meets their needs in style.
Tub Selection for a Soothing Soak
Selecting a bathtub may not be the first item that comes to mind when planning a bathroom remodel. But for homeowners who enjoy a good soak, choosing the right tub is a key decision. For their farmhouse bathroom, the family opted for:
- Freestanding tub: A standalone tub makes a stylish focal point and allows for easy cleaning access all around.
- Clawfoot tub: The sloped clawfoot design has vintage charm that fits their aesthetic.
- Slipper tub: With a rounded end and a more streamlined silhouette, this tub variety has a unique and iconic shape.
- Enameled cast iron: Cast iron construction with a glossy white porcelain enamel coating provides durability.
- Extra length: At 60 inches long, the tub allows users to recline and fully extend.
- Deep soaking depth: With a depth of 14 inches, the tub is designed for true immersion.
With its vintage design yet modern white gloss, this freestanding tub is the perfect centerpiece for their master bath oasis. The spacious size and deep interior create a wonderful soak.
Adding Character with Decor Touches
Finishing touches are one of the most rewarding parts of completing a bathroom remodel. The decor accents add character to transform the space. For their updated bath, this family creatively incorporated:
- Framed mirrors: Decorative mirrors above each vanity lend vintage farmhouse style.
- Patterned shower curtain: A black and white gingham shower curtain fits the farmhouse look.
- Woven blinds: Natural woven wood blinds filter light and reinforce the neutral color scheme.
- Fresh flowers: A vase of colorful blooms brings life to the space.
- Towel ladder: A hanging bamboo towel ladder adds texture and makes towels easily accessible.
- Artwork: Black and white botanical prints in simple frames accent the walls.
- Candles: A candle and holder on the ledge tub provides mood lighting during baths.
- Bath mats: Plush cotton bath mats with a subtle pattern add comfort underfoot.
With the perfect finishing touches, this family’s renovated bathroom feels curated, polished, and serene – a true custom-designed oasis.
FAQs About Remodeling a Master Bathroom
Remodeling a master bathroom is a complex process with many factors to consider. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
What should I know before starting a master bathroom remodel?
Before beginning demolition, settle on a floorplan, create a detailed budget based on materials and projected labor costs, finalize the design scheme, and secure any required permits. Also, interview and hire contractors if needed.
How long does a master bathroom remodel take?
The timeline depends on the extent of the remodel, but typically a full master bath update takes 4-8 weeks or longer from start to finish. Demolition takes 1-2 days. New construction usually takes at least 3-4 weeks.
What are common styling trends for master bathrooms?
Some current trends include spa-like spaces with soaker tubs, neutral color palettes, natural materials like stone and wood, metallic accents, and vintage inspired fixtures. Focus on a sleek and soothing ambiance.
Should I do a complete gut remodel or renovate in phases?
If you have the budget, completing all updates at once is best. A phased approach can work but will take more time. Prioritize critical updates like plumbing and electrical first before cosmetic upgrades.
How much disruption will a master bathroom remodel cause?
With any home remodel, significant dust, noise, limited access to the bathroom, and loss of water supply during parts of the project should be expected. Proper containment and communication helps ease frustrations.
How can I keep costs down on my bathroom remodel?
Strategic material selections, utilizing DIY labor for parts of the project, phasing in updates incrementally, and keeping the existing footprint rather than moving walls can help decrease costs.
Conclusion
This family’s master bathroom remodel shows that with careful planning, some strategic demolition, upgrades to plumbing and lighting, cohesive finish selections, and personalized decor touches, even novice DIY-ers can achieve a magazine-worthy result. Their new spa-like bathroom became their favorite room in the house and added value and enjoyment to their daily lives. With the proper prep work and by breaking the project into manageable steps, other homeowners can also tackle their own dream bathroom overhaul. In the end, the effort pays off when you have a peaceful and functional space to start and end each day.
