Elevated Bathroom Renovations
I transform standard, builder-grade bathrooms into personal retreats. My focus is on blending smart, waterproof storage with high-quality fixtures to create a space that feels like a breath of fresh air.
A stylish, organically shaped mirror can instantly become the focal point of a bathroom. Here, it's paired with geometric wallpaper and brass pendant lights to create a powder room with significant personality.
Installing a waterproof vanity is crucial for longevity and style. This vanity features a beautiful herringbone wood pattern and provides a mix of open and closed storage, combining practicality with modern design.
A wall light installed by the mirror is not just for aesthetics; it provides essential, shadow-free task lighting for grooming. This sketch shows how we plan for both function and style from the beginning.
Adding an open shelf above the toilet is a smart hack for gaining storage in a small bathroom. It’s the perfect spot for storing extra towels or adding a touch of green with a small plant.
This powder room nook was transformed with a rustic stone basin, vibrant Spanish-inspired tiles, and a unique, ornate mirror. It shows how even a small, forgotten corner can become a design statement.
This bathroom vanity combines a herringbone-patterned wood drawer unit with open shelving for baskets, offering a mix of concealed and accessible storage. The round mirror softens the lines and adds a modern touch.
A quick before-and-after of a bathroom renovation. We transformed a dated and purely functional space into a modern and stylish bathroom with a new vanity, countertop, and fixtures.
About this collection
Most builder-grade bathrooms suffer from two main issues: poor task lighting and a lack of proper storage. When I renovate these spaces, I prioritize adding a vanity with a waterproof base to handle moisture, and I almost always suggest adding a dedicated light source right by the mirror—it makes an immediate difference to your daily grooming routine.
Renovating a bathroom is about more than just aesthetics; it is about creating a space that handles daily moisture while offering you a moment of calm. In my experience, the biggest mistake is neglecting the 'work triangle' or storage efficiency. Here is how I approach the transformation:
The Foundation: Waterproofing and Materiality
Since bathrooms are high-moisture zones, material choice is non-negotiable. I use BWP (Boiling Water Proof) Marine Ply for all custom vanities to ensure they don't swell or warp over time. For counters, I prefer non-porous Quartz or Kalinga Stone, as they resist staining and are incredibly easy to wipe down.
Tackling Storage and Function
If you have a small bathroom, you do not need to accept clutter. I often design wall-hung vanities to keep the floor clear, which makes a small room feel instantly larger. If the layout permits, adding an open shelf above the WC or converting a dead nook into a vanity area can drastically improve your workflow. It is these small, practical changes—like installing a dedicated appliance garage or hidden drawers—that turn a standard room into a functional one.
The Details That Change Everything
Lighting is often an afterthought, but it is the easiest way to elevate a space. I recommend layered lighting: a combination of ambient light for general use and targeted task lighting (like sconces) near the mirror to eliminate shadows. I also emphasize using narrow, 2mm grout lines with high-quality epoxy grout. It looks cleaner and is much easier to maintain than standard cement-based grout, which tends to discolor.
Whether we are doing a full reconstruction with new plumbing lines or just a surface-level facelift with new fixtures, my goal is the same: to give you a bathroom that feels like your own private spa.
Plavi Design Studio
I'm Plavita. I started my studio because I believe every corner of your home, even the smallest bathroom, should feel like a breath of fresh air. My goal is to guide you through the process, taking the stress out of renovation so we can create a space that is as functional as it is beautiful.
Looking for specific design inspiration?
Explore other areas we specialize in for your home.
More from Home Renovation & Remodeling by Plavi Design Studio