A dated, characterless powder room from the 1990s has undergone a breathtaking transformation, evolving into a vibrant, boutique-hotel-esque haven thanks to the vision and hard work of Katheryn and Graeme Haswell. What was once a cold, beige space with a tiled platform toilet and an uninspiring ceiling is now a testament to the power of bold design choices and dedicated DIY efforts, proving that even the most overlooked corners of a home can be infused with personality and luxury.
The Rebirth of a Powder Room: A Colorful and Functional Transformation
The transformation began with a complete overhaul of the downstairs bathroom, spurred by a larger main-level renovation. The initial state of the room was far from inviting, described by Katheryn as "beige and dated," featuring floor-to-ceiling beige tiles, a brown mosaic border, and a truly "hideous ceiling." The presence of a toilet on a tiled platform and the absence of a radiator further contributed to its cold and unappealing atmosphere. To rectify these issues, the Haswells undertook an extensive renovation, blending professional expertise with their own significant DIY contributions.
A major structural change involved blocking up a window, a task handled by builders working on a home extension. Katheryn and Graeme then took on the demanding work of removing the existing ceiling, replacing the upstairs joists, and installing a new floor. While they opted to hire a professional tiler for the intricate laying of the new blue and pink tiles, they personally managed the plumbing, showcasing a hands-on approach to their home improvement project.
A core design decision revolved around the tile selection, aiming to compensate for the lost natural light. Katheryn discovered elegant blue floor tiles from Ca’Pietra online, which perfectly complemented her choice of pink wall tiles. She meticulously installed the pink herringbone wall tiles herself, creating a stunning visual contrast. Beyond aesthetics, functionality was also a key consideration; the newly installed blue floor tiles now feature underfloor heating, addressing the previous issue of the room's chilliness and enhancing comfort.
The color scheme extends to the walls, where ballet pink paint, matched to Farrow & Ball's Pink Ground, was applied to areas not covered by tile. Katheryn embraced a "color drenched" approach, painting even the doors in the same bold hue. This strategy, though initially daunting, proved highly effective in creating a cohesive and enveloping ambiance within the small space, demonstrating that daring color choices can be incredibly rewarding. Complementing the vibrant colors are luxurious brass hardware details and a thoughtfully selected vanity unit. Finding a vanity compact enough to fit the powder room's dimensions was a challenge, but the chosen piece not only adds to the room's sophisticated aesthetic but also offers practical storage for essentials like toilet rolls, keeping the space clutter-free and elegant.
Embracing Boldness and Purposeful Design
This remarkable bathroom makeover offers valuable insights into home renovation. Katheryn's experience highlights the importance of thoughtful planning and not shying away from bold design choices, especially in smaller areas. The transformation from a drab, functional space to a chic, comfortable retreat demonstrates that even limited square footage can become a canvas for creativity and personal expression. It serves as a reminder that understanding how a room will be used should always guide renovation decisions, ensuring both beauty and practicality are achieved. The Haswells' journey encourages homeowners to explore vibrant colors and innovative solutions, proving that a little courage can lead to extraordinary results in home design.