Our designer Katie tackled a smaller, but still amazing, project last month. She took this bathroom from “blah” to “bam” with some very unique patterns and fresh new fixtures. Read more below to learn the how and why of the design!
Q: What was the inspiration for the style of the home?
K: “We have slowly been working on updating this client’s home room by room. The foundation is quite crisp. It has a black and white kitchen with new, brushed brass light fixtures throughout. We furnished the living room with classic and transitional pieces that fit the client’s style, and the traditional elements of the house.”
Q: What was the client’s biggest ‘ask’?
K: “Unfortunately this project began with a leak! Repairing that was definitely the first thing on the list, however, that leak ended up being the perfect opportunity to update the space and give it a refresh. If one thing was for sure, the black toilet and vanity had to go.”
Q: Tell me about a design obstacle that you overcame to make the project a success.
K: “I would say the wallpaper was the biggest decision to be made. This was the only bathroom on the ground floor, it’s used by all members of an active family, so the style really needed to work for everyone. We began the hunt focusing on bold floral prints, however, that was quickly vetoed by the men in the house. Darn! So we switched gears and searched for something a bit more masculine yet equally as impactful. In fact, this print was so awesome, that we ran it into the hallway for even more of that wow-factor. In the end, we were happy with this timeless selection and that we got to see even more of it.”
DESIGNER TIP FROM KATIE: If you’re worried about grasscloth pulling or snagging in a bathroom, she suggests using wainscoting below to protect it from any wear and tear—including leaks.
Q: Tell me about the clients so we understand what kind of design they needed or were looking for.
K: “They’re an active family of four that splits their time between the beautiful Truckee mountains and the Sacramento Valley—hence the adorable bear artwork. They all excel at their favorite sports including tennis, volleyball, and football and often attend college games at Purdue University.”
Q: What were some of your favorite items used in this project?
“We started this project with a full suite of Kohler plumbing fixtures such as the ‘Memoirs Stately pedestal sink‘ and ‘Purist widespread faucet‘ in Vibrant Moderne Brushed Gold. Of course, this jewel-box powder bath couldn’t be the showstopper it is without the ‘Emser Elongated Hex‘ mosaic floor tile and the ‘Phillip Jeffries Mad for Plaid‘ wallpaper.”
Q: What do you think your clients will most look forward to in their new space?
K: ” I think they’ll appreciate an updated washroom that functions as well as it looks!”
