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Size Wise: Small bathroom, big makeover
Reva Choi embarked on a bathroom remodeling project in her 40-square-foot Santa Monica condo as she prepared for a new job, a wedding, and a move. Her goal was to transform the small space into a beachy yet modern sanctuary, a style she and her fiancé termed "Midcentury Modern meets beach cottage." Recognizing the challenges of a full remodel amidst her busy schedule, Choi enlisted the help of West Hollywood-based interior designer Amalia Gal. The primary objective for the renovation was to maximize the available space and enhance its functionality and aesthetics.
Initially, Choi underestimated the cost of remodeling a small bathroom, expecting it to be around $10,000. However, Gal educated her that even small spaces incur significant expenses for new fixtures, design elements, plumbing, and labor, similar to larger renovations. The project ultimately cost closer to $30,000. Gal demonstrated sensitivity to Choi's budget by transparently communicating cost implications for various additions. The entire renovation process was completed within approximately six weeks.
Several design strategies were employed to achieve the desired outcome. To create a sense of expansiveness, Gal utilized oversized ceramic tiles with a Carrara marble-look finish from Daltile on the walls and shower surround, minimizing visual interruptions. The wall behind the vanity was also tiled to ensure continuity. Space-saving fixtures included a one-piece San Souci toilet from Kohler, featuring a low-profile design that occupies less visual space, making the room appear larger. Additionally, the shower door handle was designed to double as a towel bar, and shower hooks were installed for extra towel or robe storage, enhancing practicality in the compact area.
To further enhance the feeling of openness, the existing bathtub was replaced with a shower featuring a frameless glass wall. This design choice allows for an unobstructed view across the room, contributing to a more spacious appearance by avoiding visual barriers. The vanity was updated with a 40-inch Kohler Tresham unit in linen white, which, despite being the same size as the previous one, offered more visual space underneath and a lighter Qortstone’s Masis countertop. Choi emphasized the importance of considering storage needs when selecting cabinetry, advising homeowners to visualize how items like towels will be stored.
Textural balance was achieved by incorporating a decorative mirror with a walnut frame from Rejuvenation and wooden shelving for open storage. These wood accents provided warmth, softening the sleek glass, polished porcelain tile, and polished fixtures. Lighting was strategically repositioned, replacing a dated fixture with sleek recessed lighting directly above the shower and sink. Gal explained that placing light directly over the sink reflects effectively in the mirror, enhancing visibility for tasks like makeup application, and advised against overhead lighting that can cast unflattering shadows. Color strategy involved grounding the space with darker tones on the floor and transitioning to lighter shades upwards, using Dunn-Edwards' Cool December semi-gloss on the walls, to create a lighter and more open feel.
One of the design choices that significantly contributed to the budget increase was the selection of cubed porcelain floor tiles in a wood-grained, wire-brushed balsam fir finish from Daltile. Despite the cost, Gal noted that these tiles added warmth, color, and texture, aligning with the "beach cottage" aesthetic. Gal's overarching advice for homeowners undertaking renovations is to prioritize their personal preferences rather than anticipating future buyers' tastes, emphasizing the importance of creating a space they genuinely love. The renovated bathroom successfully blended modern elements with a beach-inspired ambiance, creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing space for Choi and her husband.
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