Sommerset Bathroom :: Before and After
The Sommerset Bathroom Project is an early example of a budget-based remodel that reintroduces brightness and delight into an otherwise bland bathroom.
Written by Wilson HackPhotography by Andrea Calo
Photography by Andrea Calo
Main Bathroom
These Austin-based clients originally bought a 1950's ranch style house that had been flipped prior to purchase. There was nothing particularly unique about it; the bathrooms had all been constructed to builder grade and lacked personality. The goal was to begin to re-inject warmth and visual interest back into the house.
Because this was to be the children's bathroom, the clients requested something functional and peaceful — "a spa-like feeling without being too uptight." An original built-in angle tub was removed and replaced with a rectilinear bathtub and shower that evenly anchors the back wall. While the footprint remained the same, the entire bathroom was taken down to the studs and every finish and fixture was replaced.
Marble hexagonal floor tile from Floor and Decor adds visual contrast against the floor-to-ceiling subway tile, a budget-friendly find from a local Home Depot. The purposeful reflectivity of the subway tile opens up the space and creates the perfect backdrop for a gorgeous custom white oak vanity. The warm wood accents are countered by a secondary storage cabinet positioned above the toilet—a fun little space for storing toilet paper rolls. The cabinet was a rare find from Suzanna's annual pilgrimage to the Round Top Vintage Antique Fair. Brass wall sconces from Cedar and Moss coordinate seamlessly with an oversized matching mirror from Rejuvenation. Faucets were chosen from the Kohler Purist line. A colorful vintage Persian rug adds both texture and softness. Turkish towels from Odd Bird and a shower curtain from Target complete the final design layering, resulting in an upscale and kid-friendly space that brims with character and quality.