From Dated to Spa:
My Bathroom Transformation Journey
There’s something incredibly satisfying about taking a tired, outdated space and turning it into a room you genuinely enjoy spending time in.
My bathroom renovation was one of the biggest transformations in my home, and looking back at where it started,
it’s hard to believe it’s the same room.
The Before
When me and my husband moved in, the bathroom felt dated, cramped, and lacked any real sense of style.
Beige mosaic tiles covered the walls, the corner bath dominated the room, and the overall layout
didn’t make the best use of the available space.
Although the bathroom was functional, it felt cluttered and closed in. The large corner bath,
pedestal sink, and bulky fittings left little room to move comfortably, and the room lacked the relaxing atmosphere we wanted.
The original layout also meant that valuable floor space was being wasted, making the room feel smaller than it actually was.
It was also just falling apart and VERY OLD. The ceiling was also coming down. However, that’s a whole other story!
Rethinking the Layout
The biggest change we made wasn’t just cosmetic, it was completely reworking the layout.
By redesigning the positioning of the key fixtures, we were able to create a much more open and spacious feel.
Replacing the oversized corner bath with a freestanding bath immediately freed up floor space and became a stunning focal point within the room.
The new layout allows for much better flow throughout the space, making the bathroom feel significantly larger without actually increasing its footprint.
Choosing a Bold Design Direction
My Initial thought when we were redoing our bathroom was a traditional white and blue bathroom. However, after much consideration,
we decided to embrace a moodier, more luxurious aesthetic.
Deep green tiles were chosen to add richness and character, creating a dramatic backdrop that instantly elevates the room.
The glossy finish reflects light beautifully and adds depth to the space, preventing the darker tones from feeling overwhelming.
To complement the darker palette, we introduced warm brass fixtures and fittings throughout the room.
The combination of rich green tiles, brass accents, and crisp white bath, toilet & sink creates a timeless yet contemporary look.
Creating a Spa-Like Feel
One of our goals was to make the bathroom feel less like a practical necessity and more like a retreat.
The freestanding bath became the centrepiece of the design, offering a much more luxurious feel than the original corner bath.
We also incorporated built-in shelving and recessed niches to provide practical storage while maintaining clean lines.
The addition of a modern walk-in shower with a frameless glass screen helps keep the room feeling open and uncluttered.
The Finishing Touches
The finishing details played a huge role in bringing the design together.
A bespoke wooden vanity unit adds warmth and texture, balancing the darker walls and tiles.
The vessel sink gives the space a boutique hotel feel, while the illuminated circular mirror creates a soft ambient glow that’s perfect for evening relaxation.
Artwork, plants, and carefully chosen accessories help soften the room and add personality without overcrowding the space.
The Result
The transformation has exceeded our expectations.
What was once a dated and cramped bathroom is now a sophisticated, spa-inspired space that feels both practical and luxurious.
The redesigned layout has made the room feel far larger, while the combination of dark green tiles, brass fittings, natural wood,
and soft lighting has created a calm and inviting atmosphere.
Most importantly, the room now works far better for everyday life. Every element has a purpose, and the space feels considered,
cohesive, and much more enjoyable to use.
Looking at the before and after photos, it’s amazing to see just how much can be achieved through thoughtful design,
a reimagined layout, and a willingness to be bold with colour and materials.
Sometimes the biggest transformations come not from adding more space, but from making better use of the space you already have.
