A deep dive into the Lakeside Wellness Bathroom Remodel, that took place on Lake Washington – just outside of the Mankato Minnesota area. Once you’ve read the full story, please check out the portfolio for this project to see more images of the space!
A glimpse of the transformation
Where it all started
This client reached out to initially address their desire of a steam shower, also knowing that shower shape and materials used in the bathroom were starting to show wear. The clients often entertain in large groups during summer weekends, and this bathroom becomes the catch all from the lake entrance. In the evenings, it serves as the bathroom of their lower level next to the bar and entertainment spaces. During the week, the clients wanted to use the bathroom for taking a steam shower and also use aromatherapy.
What wasn’t working:
- Lack of storage
- Awkward layout of existing block shower
- No space for hanging beach towels or swimsuits as they dry
Design constraint
The bathroom sat between the mechanical room, and the wrap around bar area. Expanding the footprint to accommodate a shower with a bench (very much needed for a steam shower) required creative problem solving. By removing the angled wall behind the toilet and by using a bit of storage space in the mechanical room, we gained enough space to change the layout of the shower.
We solved the storage solution, by flipping a cavity previously used by the bar, to open on the bathroom side. The original bar storage was in an awkward place, and didn’t serve much of a purpose. It was better to utilize the cavity for a large cabinet that could house extra towels, toiletries & swimsuits. On the bar side, removing the obstacle created the opportunity for another seat at the bar.
Knowing that much of the original cabinetry and finishes were going to remain in the areas outside of the bathroom, we wanted to complement those areas with our finishes.
Design decision
A look at the before & after floor plan
Proposed details that the homeowners didn’t ask for, that I wanted to be sure to incorporate:
- A fully tiled wall for hanging multiple items to dry on busy lake days
- A quartz bench seat, to avoid sitting on grout lines
- A hidden niche for shampoo and conditioner, for an uncluttered look
- Floating vanity with under cabinet lighting to allow bathroom to feel larger
- Interesting design elements to add character, and a spa like feel
- A louver over the shower glass door, to allow for steam to escape during regular shower use
Materials & selections
Stain tone – Rift white oak to complement the maple in surrounding areas
Tile selections – A pop of varied tranquil blue, partners with tiles that reflect the natural look and feel of stone and mini stone mosaic pebbles
Quartz – Countertop, curb cap and bench seat – low maintenance
Lighting – Placed as hanging pendants for great cross lighting across face
Collaboration
The clients had a local contractor that they were looking forward to implementing the project with. On the front end of the project, I created all of the plans, elevations & electrical layouts – along with finalizing all selections with the clients. I documented all selections, wrapped up the plans in a presentation package and wrote a full scope of work that the contractor could for meeting with his trades and implementing the project.
Once the project was approved between the clients and the contractor, I attended various site meetings, reviewed cabinet drawings and answered questions throughout the project to ensure that design intent and details were followed.
Result
The clients have a bathroom that is far more functional in layout and amenities than before. Their goal of a steam shower was met, and details to the space create charm as well as serve a purpose in the flexible needs required of the space.
“… Our contractor loved working with her because she gave them very detailed plans and instructions, and was available when they needed her. The end result? A refreshed, brighter and more sophisticated space than we absolutely love…”
Wellness Bathroom Remodel Client
Biggest takeaway
Sometimes small movements of walls can make a large impact on a space. Not all projects require massive square footage changes to meet the goals of the project.
If you’re considering a project, I would love to talk with you!
