Many times a bathroom remodel can consist of much more than just a cosmetic makeover. For example, how can the space be more functional? This project in Martinsville included both functional changes and some stunning fixtures to make this a remarkable space.
As you can see in the photo below, this bathroom came a long way from where it started. The main issue with the bathroom was the small tub, but that tall cabinet in the center of the room was the first thing I noticed. It actually blocked the old ceiling light. However, it provides a lot of storage so we needed a way to keep it.
The plan for the room was to put in a larger jetted tub and move the toilet and cabinets closer to the door, removing the makeup counter to gain the space. In the process we also moved that tall cabinet next to the door.
Moving cabinets helps, but a few amazing details are what make this bathroom stand out.
The first thing that catches your eye is that leaf vessel sink. I’ll admit, I was impressed when I pulled it out of the box. It’s made by Magick Woods and available at Menards. Installing a vanity and sink these days takes planning. Many of the cabinets are very specific about where the water lines need to be so that the drawers aren’t in the way and you can still access everything. We moved the sink a little from it’s previous location but were still able to connect without moving the water lines.
The tub was a different story- we started from scratch there. The old tub came out quite easily, one piece at a time, but getting a new 36″ jetted tub in it’s place was a little more work. First, I had to run a couple new receptacles (hidden under the tub) so that the tub heater and pump could be on separate circuits. Tubs are installed right up to the studs, that means there is no extra space to actually get a tub in there. I often have to remove some framing to make a new tub a possibility.
After getting the tub in and set in a bed of mortar for support I patched the drywall and installed Kerdi waterproofing membrane throughout the tub surround. This is most known for waterproofing showers, but also works great around tubs.
I also installed new shower/tub fixtures and centered it on the new tub. The waterfall tub faucet is from Beelee. It’s installed on the surface of the tile, so you have to get your rough-in measurements for you pipes in the wall perfect. This is often tricky because you have plan for how thick the wall is, including tile and mortar. I was a little obsessed with figuring this out (because it really needed to be right!) and thankfully, it worked out perfectly. (What a relief!)
As a little extra detail, I added an oak shelf on top of the half wall. The oak actually came from one of the trees we had cut on our farm last year. The tree had grown together with a large maple tree and there was various colors and cool variations in the grain where they met. The log wasn’t as valuable to the timber buyers, but my dad and I thought it was great and cut it up into boards ourselves. This article actually has a photo of us cutting up this very log!
