Here’s How a Designer Renovated a Primary Bathroom Virtually

If there’s something we never get tired of seeing, it’s a great makeover. Whether it’s transforming a retro bathroom into a modern oasis or giving a lackluster bedroom a fresh look, pros perform these design miracles all the time.

To give designers a chance to showcase their favorite makeovers—and to bring you plenty of inspiration for your own home—we’re sharing the best before and afters we’ve seen in our series, Makeover of the Week. Take notes for your next renovation.

“My client was recently divorced and wanted to update her bathroom so that it had a boho vibe along with a more modern and luxurious feel,” says interior designer Lauren Lerner. “This particular remodel was unique because it was done virtually due to the pandemic—I never met my client in person, everything was done remotely!”

Before:

“The bathroom was a bit dingy and dark, with its dated brown tile flooring and cheap-looking tub, vanity, mirror and lighting. It definitely did not exude a feeling of relaxation,” shares Lerner. “The homeowner wanted to keep all the plumbing in its current location to minimize costs, so I had to be very conscious of this in the design.”

After:

“We used a lot of neutral colors to soften up the room, mixing whites with grays and light wood, along with brass accents to promote a calming and peaceful space,” says Lerner.

What Changed:

• Vanity: A custom vanity made from rift cut oak features a quartz countertop and soft brushed brass fixtures.
• Floor tile: White porcelain tiles are laid in a geometric shape for added interest.
• Wallpaper: Vinyl gray geometric textured wallpaper creates movement on the wall behind the vanity. 
• Mirrors: The gray frames are made from faux shagreen adding texture to the mirrors. 
• Sconces: Fluted glass sconces create an ambient glow over the mirrors. 
• Bench: The woven seat on this organic stool is the perfect holding spot for bath accessories. 
• Pendant: Made of natural rattan fibers and brass, the light fixture adds a bit of whimsy over the tub.  
• Rug: A vintage-like gray and pink runner provides color and comfort underfoot. 
• Curtains: A custom roman shade in a subtle geometric pattern provides additional privacy while reducing sun glare.
• Tub: A modern free-standing tub features soft brushed brass fixtures. 
• Shower: Zelligre-like rectangular tiles on the wall alternate between gray and white.
• Barn door: The decorative barn door provides an artistic element and a place to hang a full-length mirror. 

Shop the Look:

Burke Decor Jerome Stool $809.00

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“The tapered legs and metal sabots give this bathroom stool a sophisticated feel,” says Lerner.

Lumens Elyse Wall Sconce $470.00

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“This sconce has an art deco feel and can be hung vertically or horizontally depending on your space,” advises Lerner.

Burke Decor David Mirror $1,650.00

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“This mirror works in most bathroom decors because of its simplicity, and comes in four colors, including sand, ivory, mushroom, and grey,” notes Lerner.