The Challenging Beginning
Our latest project involved a complete renovation of a ground floor bathroom in a UK home. The first phase was certainly not for the faint-hearted – removing all the existing bathroom elements proved to be quite the challenge! The old fixtures were stubbornly fixed in place, and dismantling them required patience and precision to avoid any damage to the underlying structure.
Plumbing Overhaul
One of the most significant aspects of this renovation was the complete redesign of the plumbing system. We undertook the complex task of rerouting and concealing all pipework within the walls, creating a much cleaner and more streamlined appearance. This required carefully opening up sections of the wall, installing new pipes, and ensuring everything was properly sealed and waterproofed before closing up.
This “first fix” plumbing work is invisible in the final result but makes a tremendous difference to both the aesthetics and functionality of the bathroom. By concealing the pipework, we’ve created a much more modern look while also making the space easier to clean and maintain.
Tiling and Surface Work
We decided to keep the existing floor tiles as they were still in good condition and complemented our new design vision. However, the walls underwent a complete transformation with new marble-effect wall tiles installed from floor to ceiling. The large format tiles with subtle veining create an elegant, spa-like atmosphere and make the compact space feel larger and more luxurious.
The ceiling received a fresh coat of paint, brightening up the entire room and completing the clean, contemporary look.
New Fixtures and Fittings
After the preparatory work was complete, we installed:
- A modern close-coupled toilet with a sleek, space-saving design
- A contemporary wall-hung vanity unit with a dark wood finish and integrated basin
- A heated chrome towel rail for both warmth and towel storage
- A large mirrored cabinet for additional storage
- A premium glass shower enclosure with modern fixtures, including both rainfall and handheld shower heads
The Final Result
The completed bathroom showcases a perfect blend of functionality and style. The marble-effect tiling creates a luxurious feel throughout, while the glass shower enclosure keeps the space feeling open and bright. The dark wood vanity unit provides a striking contrast against the predominantly white fixtures and tiles.
Despite the bathroom’s compact dimensions, clever space planning has ensured it feels surprisingly spacious and includes all necessary amenities. The frosted window allows natural light to flood in while maintaining privacy, and the modern ventilation system ensures the room stays fresh and mold-free.
This renovation proves that even smaller bathrooms can be transformed into stylish, functional spaces with the right planning and execution. The concealed plumbing, floor-to-ceiling tiling, and quality fixtures have elevated this once-dated bathroom into a contemporary haven that will serve our clients well for many years to come.