Adding Sparkle and Sophistication to a Compact Master Bath
We were challenged by our client to design and build a master bath on a very tight budget. With creative design, careful material selection and multiple bids we were able to exceed the client's expectations by answering all their needs plus adding sparkle and sophistication to their compact bathroom.
We started our project by selecting Cosentino "Eco", a sustainable counter top material that uses recycled glass. These are usually sold in larger slabs and wouldn't have been practical for our smaller counter top, however, with several phone calls, we were able to find a remnant piece that worked perfectly for us. The color of the attached master bedroom's walls coordinated nicely with the green glass in the counter top.
Again using clues from the master bedroom, we noted the client's iron bed had crystal finials at each of its 4 posts. That was the inspiration for the cut glass knobs and Vienna Full Spectrum crystal light bar. Continuing our glass color and sparkle theme, we incorporating iridescent 4" x 4" glass tiles as well as a fun bubble accent tile- both from Daltile. Daltile can be a go-to company for price conscious tiles. We used their white octagon mosaic for the tile floor and their white 4" x 6" tile for the shower walls. The 20" x 20" floor tiles were a special purchase at Home Depot. At 20" x 20", the floor tiles could be laid quickly and therefore saved on labor. Large format floor tiles can create a nice background to other materials as the pattern of the grout lines competes less than the increased amount of grout lines of smaller tiles. The floor tiles also have a slight texture which helps in anti-slip safety.
Using a less expensive Delta faucet from their Dryden collection allowed for great styling in the faucets. The self rimming sink by Kohler also adds some nice style with its more traditional lines. Using a self rimming sink versus an under mount sink can be a budget conscious selection as the countertop fabricator did not have to finish the countertop edge around the sink.
The existing wall cabinet was freshened by a nice coat of Benjamin Moore paint, new chrome hinges and a cut glass knob. Even though the mirror was custom made at a local frame shop, its cost was under $200. Its beading detail picks up on the bubble accent tile and by custom ordering we were able to maximize the size we used. The prior sink was a pedestal so the homeowner not only was limited on counter top area but had no drawer for her makeup storage. The custom vanity cabinet allowed the client to stow her cosmetics in a drawer as well as maximizing counter top space. We had to keep the sink cabinet raised so the cats could access their litter box which is placed in a floor space niche under the wall cabinet above.
In the interest of maximizing the usability of the small square footage and to not conflict with the shower door operation, we removed the swinging door and replaced it with a pocket door.
Our clients were quite happy with the results- expressing their pleasure by posting their positive comments and high ratings for us on Angie's List.
