Dancing Light In An Artistic Bathroom Remodel
After 30 years in their home, this West Chicago couple still loves everything about living there. The neighborhood is great, the house suits their lifestyle, and after a primary suite remodel, it is ready for another 30 years as their forever home.
“The homeowners committed to a luxurious bathroom remodel that will last the rest of their lives. We went for timeless materials mixed in with some real wow moments,” says Normandy Designer Ashley Noethe.
The soothing walls and flooring are large format porcelain tile, which is complemented by quartz countertops. “Porcelain is so durable and super user-friendly,” Ashley says, adding, “you get the look of classic marble without the worry.”
Ashley explains the secret to enduring good looks is choosing very realistic porcelain tile. “This looks like marble. It doesn’t look marble-ish or something like marble. The more realistic a material looks the longer it will last. If you go with something less real looking it can wind up being trendy and eventually date the room,” she says.
The light streaming in from the windows touches every spot in the room and influenced every design choice. “The goal was to keep things light and bright. We used a lot of reflective materials. The crystal light fixture throws off beautiful prisms of light. So does the tile in the shower niche.” Ashley says.
The windows also frame the sculptural tub, which is the focal point in a room full of beautiful things at which to look. “It’s gorgeous, and it needs to be,” says Ashley, adding, “You see the tub as you come up the stairs, you see it as you enter the bathroom. It sets the tone for the room and everything else needs to live up to it.”
Even things you don’t notice hold their own here. The double sinks and center vanity appear simply chic. They are much more than just symmetrical and striking though. “It took some dedicated work to get everything to line up just right. We worked with the tile to get the prettiest veining pattern, recessed the mirrors to get them to line up just right with the inset cabinets. The sink drawers were also carefully planned,” says Ashley. In the end, it looks completely effortless. “It all just feels right,” says Ashley.
The cabinets are painted gray, but not any gray of the moment that might date this masterpiece. “It’s a custom color with the right kind of blue undertones. With this sort of gray, you can bring in warm toned accents as they did with the artwork,” says Ashley. This custom gray also appears on the new built-in cabinetry that Ashley designed to replace an awkward fireplace in the primary bedroom.
It’s the perfect retreat for this couple. Artful, but user-friendly, with both the freestanding tub and a large shower for all the spa-worthy self-care this couple needs. They can switch out the art seasonally or after a few years. With walls, windows and surfaces this pretty, any art will shine.
Is your bathroom ready for a refresh? Set up a time to talk to Ashley about turning your outdated space into a forever favorite. There are plenty of other ideas in the Normandy Remodeling photo galleries. If you’re looking for more inspiration, we share ideas on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest. Follow along with us to see the latest.