How One Designer Transformed an Outdated Bathroom Into a Relaxing Chic Retreat

If there’s something we never get tired of seeing, it’s a great makeover. Whether it’s transforming a retro bathroom into a modern oasis or giving a lackluster bedroom a fresh look, pros perform these design miracles all the time.

To give designers a chance to showcase their favorite makeovers—and to bring you plenty of inspiration for your own home—we’re sharing the best before and afters we’ve seen in our series, Makeover of the Week. Take notes for your next renovation.

“My clients recently moved from New York to Texas to begin their retirement,” says interior designer Joseph Tsedaka. “They wanted a primary bathroom that had a spa-like feel, one they could spend time in and enjoy for years to come. I had to balance this desire with the fact the house had a traditional style—I had to be careful not to veer too far into a modern aesthetic.”

Before:

“This bathroom was uninviting—from the cheap cabinetry to the dated wall sconces to the whirlpool tub nobody used to the dirty ceramic tile to the cream chipped painted walls,” Tsedaka shares. “Everything was in need of a refresh.” 

After:

“The outcome was a luxurious and intimate bathroom created by using timeless colors and modern fixtures,” Tsedaka notes. “Increasing the storage space with lots of cabinetry gave the room a spa-like feel.”

What Changed:

• Color theme: Black, gray, gold and cream work together to create a casual yet sophisticated look. 
• Cabinetry: His and her vanities provide separate spaces while tall cabinets double as linen closets to hold bath towels and robes. 
• Hardware: Black matte hardware = a black-on-black uniform look. 
• Mirrors: Dual rounded mirrors soften the hard edges in the room. 
• Backsplash: The 11” x 13” hexagon tile has a leather-like soft finish that looks like snakeskin. 
• Sconces: Linear-shaped modern sconces provide clean lines and a minimalist look. 
• Floor: A rectangular 12” x 24” beige tile is timeless and works well with the black and gray colors. 
• Shower: The room’s floor tiles were used on the shower walls for a seamless look and paired with a 2” x 2” hexagon tile on the shower floor.
• Window treatments: To create privacy and create more room for the shower, the glass block window was covered.
• Paint: The cabinets were painted in Sherwin Williams Black Caviar. 
• Basket: A natural weave basket between the vanities provides a place for laundry.  
• Accessories: Miniature green plants on the countertops act as décor and provide a pop of color. 

Shop the Look:

Wayside Furniture Dandridge Round Industrial Mirror $349.00

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“This unique black matte mirror is made of hand-forged iron and has raised gold ridges around the edging for extra detail,” Tsedaka notes.  

Mitzi Astrid 2-Light Wall Sconce $174.00

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“This sconce looks like a piece of jewelry on a wall,” Tsedaka shares. 

Crate & Barrel Emlyn Basket $99.00

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“A natural weave basket not only provides extra storage, but it can also act as the base for a potted plant,” Tsedaka notes.