Suzanna's architectural approach came into play when transforming a family home-turned rental property in South Austin. With only one shared shower for the whole house, it was clear that some retrofitting needed to be done to accommodate two full bathrooms.
Written by Wilson HackThe renovation started with the existing hallway bathroom, addressing two major issues: lack of storage and unsightly HVAC drop-downs over the shower. By moving the entry door slightly, a fixed and functional vanity was added. The ceiling was also modified to conceal the ductwork, creating a clean and consistent height throughout the space.
In keeping with the original spirit of the 1946 house, a mid-century modern credenza found at an antiques store in Austin was transformed into a vanity with impactful storage. The vanity features central drawers flanked by two cabinets, providing ample space. White reflective subway tile from Home Depot brightens and enlarges the room, while dark penny tile punctuates the floor, offering a durable and stylish surface. A playful, "science-y room" Chicago faucet adds a whimsical touch, complemented by a vintage first-aid cabinet above the toilet. Suzanna and her husband enhanced a basic IKEA mirrored medicine cabinet by wrapping it in welded steel plates, creating a custom feature. Lights from Schoolhouse continue the industrial classroom theme, while a vintage Persian rug and towels from the Round Top Antiques Fair introduce soft, playful textures. Overall, these thoughtful changes brightened and streamlined the space into a delightful and functional guest bath.
The master bathroom originally started as a tiny half bath with no shower. Another full bath was necessary for the house to function, but there was no clear answer for expansion. Suzanna ingeniously solved the problem by relocating the entry from the middle of the space to the back wall, creating room for a shower. Similar to the hall bath, floor-to-ceiling white reflective subway tile was used to make the space feel open and bright. The chosen tile's organic texture, however, elevates the bath to a more luxurious level. Off-white industrial square swimming tile balances the natural texture of the subway tile and complements the wavy grain of the custom oak vanity. The mirror echoes the casual yet elegant design elements, and the Schoolhouse light fixture above the vanity, though a splurge, adds significant joy and character. Suzanna herself crafted the ceramics, adding a personal and therapeutic touch to the detailed design. In addition to the new shower, a closet was added to the bedroom, transforming the area into a proper master suite. Suzanna's keen eye for spatial planning ensured the project was not only functionally successful but also filled with character and joy.
