The "Other Side" {Main Bathroom Renovation}

Remember the main bathroom remodel we completed once upon a time?!  Well, I'm finally sharing "the other side"!  I've been wanting to get this bathroom photographed, but the ongoing renovations around here have precluded my efforts.  At this moment, this bathroom is also serving as a pseudo-kitchen (the sink) during our kitchen renovation. :)


Rather than waiting any longer sorry, I thought I'd share the photos I snapped of the "other side" of this bathroom awhile back.  I've shared bits and pieces on Instagram, but here it is in one fell swoop.  Kindly ignore my amateur photography skills and just focus on the transformation. :)

Come on in...

herringbone marble tile porcelain tile subway tile shower bench shower pony wall

Here's a look at the new spacious shower...

vertical 4x16 porcelain subway tile herringbone marble mosaic tile porcelain tile shower bench frameless glass door brushed nickel fixtures hardware

herringbone mosaic tile porcelain tile subway denim 4x16 tile frameless glass shower door allen and roth

We clad the shower walls in 4x16 denim porcelain tile, and ran it behind the commode area for visual continuity.  This helps give smaller spaces like this bathroom the feeling of expanse.  It was installed in a vertical "subway" pattern for a modern feel.  The shower floor is lined with the same herringbone mosaic tile that is on the feature wall and vanity backsplash.  The bench is tiled in a combination of herringbone tile, and 12x24 inch porcelain tile that was also used on the bathroom floors.  The original plan was to use only the herringbone mosaic tile on the bench, but it didn't pan out due to installation issues...


To fully appreciate the transformation, here is the "before"...

CAD INTERIORS main bathroom renovation home improvement cast iron tub white tile

Cringe.  I can't say I'm sad to be rid of the pink dingy tub... white tiles that only covered a portion of the tub surround... odd acrylic-like liner to fill the top half of the walls... and unflattering dated shower fixtures!  Looking back, it's hard to imagine we lived with this bathroom for over a year.

CAD INTERIORS main bathroom renovation home improvement

We used cosmetic measures to get us through the "hump" until we were able to renovate this bathroom.  We painted the room a crisp, clean white, and installed a modern shower curtain that served double-duty for function and aesthetics.  We also installed a textured roman window shade, and "fabric" to conceal the lower half of the old vanity (not shown).  I nearly forgot to take pics before the demolition, but was able to snap these just in time!

CAD INTERIORS main bathroom renovation home improvement cast iron tub pink

The photo above highlights the dated linoleum floor.

CAD INTERIORS main bathroom renovation conversion of tub to shower stall

The decision to replace the tub was difficult.  We wanted to keep it and have it restored since it was cast iron.  The issue was that we needed to level the floors in the bathroom, which meant the tub had to be removed.  #oldhouseproblems

To salvage, transport, and properly have the tub restored and properly refinished wasn't budget-friendly, so we opted to demo it and put in a spacious shower stall instead.   We are shower people.  There will be a separate tub in the master bathroom for future resale purposes.

hidden camode pony wall bench new shower herringbone tile subway tile CAD INTERIORS main bathroom renovation
In the photo above, you can see how we continued the subway tile behind the toilet.

I had sight lines in mind when designing this bathroom.  I did not want to see the toilet when you entered the room.  With a shower only, there was room to build a pony wall to conceal the commode.  If we did a tub/shower combination, there would not have been enough space between the toilet and tub to build a pony wall (darn codes).  I also wanted as much natural light to filter in throughout the bathroom, so we had a frameless glass shower enclosure installed.  Installing a pony wall allowed us to "conceal" the commode, AND install glass to allow light to filter into the shower.


CAD INTERIORS main bathroom renovation modern transitional bathroom interior design

CAD INTERIORS main bathroom renovation broan exhaust vent

We also decided to put in a new ventilation system despite having a window in this bathroom.  We rarely leave the window open due to privacy, so the vent has been practical to prevent moisture build-up and improve air circulation.  Like the toilet, I wanted it to be discreet, so we installed it directly above the toilet rather than in the center of the room.


CAD INTERIORS main bathroom renovation custom frameless shower door enclosure fixtures

Upgrading the hinges and handle on the frameless glass shower enclosure from chrome to a beveled and brushed finish was totally worth it.  The door handle was also customized to be larger, and with a more angular and modern design.


hidden camode pony wall shower bench shower frameless glass shower door vertical 4x16 subway tile herringbone marble mosaic tile porcelain tile

Since the shower is quite spacious, we took advantage of the area and put in a small bench seat.  We also recessed a built-in double storage shelf to hold shampoo, body wash, etc.

CAD INTERIORS main bathroom renovation 4x16 denim porcelain tile vertical subway pattern brushed nickel bath fixtures

A perspective view of the "other side" from the vanity area...

main bathroom renovation 84 inch double vanity espresso black herringbone marble tile backsplash modern wall sconces

home improvement frameless glass enclosure subway porcelain tile herringbone marble mosaic tile large shower quartz countertop 84 inch double sink vanity


We have now endured two complete gut bathroom renovations over the past two years. #crazytown  The guest bathroom and main bathroom are checked off the renovation list, with the master bath remaining.  We will tackle this currently half-demolished bathroom when we do our entire master ensuite.  Right now, our attention is focused on these non-bathroom renovation projects!


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Low Cost Focal Wall {The Boys' Bedroom}

As part of my snail-paced ongoing effort to decorate my boys' bedroom, I finally got around to creating a focal gallery wall behind where their beds are positioned.  It has actually been up for a couple months now, and I surprisingly haven't changed things up!  #iamfickle

ikea ribba frames budget wall art decor interior design decorating CAD INTERIORS

I wanted to create a gallery wall at minimal cost.  Since I have so many picture frames in storage, I was initially going to reuse a few for a more collected look.  However, as I was laying things out, I realized I wanted the actual color to come through the images.  I wanted the photos and artwork to take center stage, not the frames.

photo gallery wall

So, I purchased four white Ribba frames in two different sizes to accomplish the look I wanted.  I did end up adding in a coordinating blue frame that I already had, as well as a free table lamp to create more visual balance and "weight".

Design Tip:  An odd number grouping of images will help you achieve a balanced look when creating asymmetrical wall arrangements.

CAD INTERIORS photo art gallery focal wall budget inexpensive kids artwork and pictures

What better way to personalize the kids' focal wall than with their actual photos and artwork?  So easy and cheap (or free)!  With simple white frames, I will also be able to easily rotate out their pictures and add to the gallery wall over time, if I so choose.

Shopping Tip:  Ikea is a great source for simple and very affordable wall frames.  The Ribba frames come matted and are available in various sizes.  Grouped together, they create big impact at low cost!

CAD INTERIORS home renovation budget inexpensive photo art gallery wall
I am still looking for a new "home" for the free mirror!

My boys' bedroom is now looking a bit more pulled together with the addition of the focal wall.  The room is still a work in progress, but it certainly has come a long way from what we inherited.


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Caught My Eye

studio mc gee client kitchen remodel

A gorgeous kitchen transformation packed with beauty and function at every turn.

mid century modern design dining room

Dining room makeover that shows the power of paint AND a statement light fixture!
Colette 49 one kings lane tribal pattern upholstery
Tribal patterns and indigo are a match made in upholstery heaven.  Love this affordable and stylish bench!

amazon product finds
I've been looking for a way to mount a toilet paper holder without drilling into tile.  I came across this product, and I'm super curious to try it.  It's a self-adhesive that claims to bond to pretty much everything.  Need to fix or secure something down?!  This may be worth a try.

DIY projects home improvement

This DIY trash enclosure project is on the home improvement list.  I'm making sure my hubby gets maximum use of his new power tools! #wink

"Mini" E-Design Boards

I'm popping in quickly today to share two of the mini e-designs I recently completed.

e-design interior design decorating rustic transitional contemporary west elm volo room and board pottery barn

e-design interior design decorating transitional modern west elm minted pottery barn world market

These projects were so fun to work on!  I love color, but neutral rooms always provide a great slate.  It is much easier to switch up accessories and accent colors with a neutral pallet.

Interested in having a room custom-designed for you?  Contact me for a quote.

SERVICES


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5 Inexpensive Ways to Modernize Traditional Rooms

I have been working with a client whose spacious 4200sf home is filled with traditional furnishings.  When they first started buying furniture for their home years ago, they thought they should buy "grown up stuff" (her words).  Very traditional, sophisticated, and formal furniture pieces ensued.  The only problem is that their furniture never matched their personalities or casual lifestyle.

This got me to thinking... Is your home filled with lots of traditional pieces too?  Has your style evolved?  Have you been longing for a more casual looking and feeling home to match who you are and your lifestyle?

Here are five ways that you can achieve a lighter, more casual vibe in a traditional space with little investment:


modern contemporary updates in traditional spaces
original source unknown

Update your light fixtures with a modern one.  Swapping out light fixtures will go a long way, especially if it happens to be a statement chandelier.  Do not be afraid to mix styles.  I believe that the most fresh, dynamic, and interesting rooms are those that feel collected - which often incorporates a mix of styles.  The trick to making multiple styles feel cohesive is balance and repetition.

pottery barn aged brass and glass chandelier coastal transitional interior design

In my client's home, we replaced the builder-grade light fixture above their (not so) casual dining set with a modern aged brass pendant.  She sent me photos of how the new light fixture looks at day and night.  We both love the larger scale and the beautiful glow it casts!  The new fixture also now makes a focal statement and draws your eye to "that side" of the great room.  On another note, I also recommended new chairs to give the dining set a more casual vibe.


modern contemporary inexpensive updates in traditional space interior design
image via Elle Decor

In my area, there must have been a closeout special on beige paint over the last decade because "builder beige is the rage" around here.  Try white (yes white) or a shade of gray instead.  These colors provide a more modern slate for traditional furnishings.  You can also create a focal wall using a deep or vibrant color, or paint on geometric patterns (like stripes) to infuse a bold, modern effect.  Paint can make the most dramatic impact with very little money.  Don't forget the ceiling is a wall too!


eclectic transitional traditional modern contemporary interior design chesterfield sofa acrylic nesting tables

I love the idea of using black and white photographic prints as artwork in more traditional spaces.  It is completely unexpected and immediately infuses a modern element.  Another option would be to create an eclectic gallery wall that combines traditional art with modern prints.  Click here for more ideas.


I have a hard time making recommendations that permanently affects valuable antiques or solid wood anything.  I prefer that such pieces be restored rather than altered.  However, one way you can give an heirloom or "quality" furniture piece a "non-permanent" update is by replacing the decorative hardware with something modern.


Do you happen to have a traditional dining set that looks something like this?

modern contemporary updates to traditional spaces interior design tips
original source unknown

It is certainly sophisticated and elegant, but casual looking?  Not so much.  You can always dress up a table for more formal affairs (with dishes, stemware, etc.), but you can't dress down its intrinsic formality.  Apart from changing out all the furniture, I often tell clients to consider replacing just the "host" chairs to tone down some of the formality.  Conversely, you can swap the guest chairs instead.  Upholstered chairs with a simple or modern fabric are a great option.  They add softness, texture, and dimension - and helps break up the "matchy matchy" and formal feel.

traditional dining table room modern chairs transitional interior design tips
original source unknown

The dining room above is an example of how a modern light fixture, contemporary art, and breaking up matched furniture sets (different cabinet style and host chairs) can make a room look and feel more casual and collected, while providing depth and dimension.

Hope these design tips armed you with a few ways to help you modernize your traditional space!

DESIGN TIPS


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Life lately...

...looks like this!

The kitchen has been fully demolished since this photo was taken.  Yippee!


The next phase of our home renovations kicked off last week with the demolition of the kitchen and some dealing with the floors (which I'll explain later).  As you can see, this phase of our renovations will include the kitchen, as well as installation of new hardwood floors and the completion of the family room remodel.

That's the family room behind the plastic tarp.  It is currently a "holding area" for our furniture.

I'll be sharing all the dusty details on the blog, so check in all summer long!

In case you're wondering, we are living in our home while under construction.  Although we are confined to one side of the house, it happens to be the side where our bedrooms and the main bathroom happen to be.  The "upside" to not having started renovation on the master ensuite is that we are currently using the empty space as a makeshift kitchen/dining area.  We can also enter/exit the house through this side without going through the construction area.

On a brighter note, summer break is in full effect for my kiddos!


They love having picnics at the park and playing around, even on gloomy June days!

Have a wonderful week!

Pillow Talk

Pillows are a great way to introduce color, pattern, and texture into a room.  I like to encourage my clients to invest in a few "custom" pillows, i.e. not off the shelf.  I think mixing in a few custom options with off-the-shelf pillows is a great way to achieve a "designer" look on a "high-low" budget.

CAD INTERIORS pillows ikat fabric eclectic indigo blue yellow green teal turquoise lime transitional interior design decorating home accessories
via CAD INTERIORS on Instagram

Sourcing fabrics for pillows (and other textiles) is one of my favorite aspects of design.  Let me loose in a fabric "candy" store, and I am one happy camper!  But I can also be easily overwhelmed by all the options.  My advice to anyone looking for fabrics is to have a color scheme in mind beforehand.  I believe that having a "common thread", like color, is what helps create successful fabric combinations (and keeps you focused).

designer fabric pillows accessories coastal
The color scheme provides cohesion among all the various pillow patterns I sourced for this client.

Pillows are also a great way to create unexpected color/pattern combinations and make a unique design statement.  Don't be afraid to mix colors, patterns, and textures!  Layering textures is especially important in tonal color schemes.

pillows home accessories animal prints nate berkus ikat chevron woven bohemian

The minimal textile color scheme of indigo and yellow for this client project is a favorite of mine!

geometric fabric patterns animal print ikat chevron nate berkus pillows home accessories

animal prints bohemian stripes pillows home accessories designer fabric

  • Large pillows make a bolder statement.  I like combining 22"sq - 24"sq pillows and large lumbars.
  • Have only custom pillow covers made and buy the pillow inserts elsewhere (like a craft store or online).  You could also reuse an existing pillow as your insert.
  • Specialty online retailers is a great source for designer fabrics or pillows.  I love browsing Joss & Main and Etsy.
  • To create fuller looking pillows, use an insert that is 1-2 inches larger than your actual pillow cover.  This is one of my FAVORITE designer tricks! :)


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Springtime Room Design with One Kings Lane

Color, texture, and pattern abound in this living room design that I created for One Kings Lane.  This sponsored challenge was all about creating a spring-inspired retreat that incorporates the hues of the season.  For this project, I injected shades of blue, pink, and orange to bring some spring color into the room.

edesign interior design interior decorating transitional eclectic modern animal print mood board
As with most of my designs, there is an eclectic feel to this space.  If you look closely, no two things match!  The repetition of colors throughout the room is what provides balance and cohesion.  The design also has a quirky dose of the unexpected!  Do you spot the elephant next to the "zebra"?!  Or on a more subtle note, did you notice the patterned wallpaper behind the sofa?  All of these elements add more texture, depth, and dimension.

If you are on the hunt for furnishings, decor, or home accessories (or simply want to browse), One Kings Lane is a great online resource for unique and interesting items.  They offer a wonderful selection of high-quality merchandise for your home!

LET'S CONNECT



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