master primary bathroom remodel update

As promised. I am here to give you an update on our primary master bathroom remodel progress. It is looking so good! I am so ready to start buying all the finishing styling details, but instead I’m being patient and waiting until it’s done and ready. Good things come to those who wait, right? Come on in and check out all the details of our bathroom remodel update.

Once the bathroom is all done and ready, I will dedicate a post for the reveal. Believe me it will be all styled to the nines then. 😉 The entire process from demo to interior details like plumbing and electrical to exterior pretty details like tile and fixtures is extensive, exhausting and invigorating all at the same time.

*Affiliate links included for your convenience.

a classic timeless bathroom design

I shared the vision board at the onset of the project, which you can view here {classic timelesss bathroom design vision board}. A vision board is a great way to set a clear focus for a design project like this. And although things will probably not end up exactly as on the vision board, it provides a great blueprint and plan to follow. Inevitably, you will make some adjustments and changes along the way.

bathroom remodel vision board

I knew I wanted a white and gray bathroom design, making it very crisp, clear and clean. At the same time this color palette also makes it very cold and neutral. In order to balance the coolness, I want to include details that bring warmth and texture to the space. By using rattan, wood and other natural elements, I hope to give the bathroom warmth and personality.

You can view the secondary bathroom we remodeled over a decade ago here {bathroom reveal}. This provides a sense for our aesthetic. I prefer a classic, timeless bathroom design, avoiding a dated look in the near future. And although I used a retro vintage vibe on this secondary bathroom, it remains current.

classic timeless bathroom design
classic timeless bathroom design vision board

the bathroom remodel process

We are using contractors to do the physical work, but we are making all the design choices ourselves. We did use a designer at the onset of the project so she could draft the drawings. The drawings provide the proper paperwork to present to our town and pull a permit for the work being done.

This is always a plus when you go to sell the house to have all your remodeling work permitted. Every township is different so if you will be doing any type of work in your own home, please make sure to do your research and consult with knowledgeable folks in your area.

The remodeling of any space always starts with the demolition. This is not a pretty part of the process, but of course it’s necessary. It also then leaves you with an empty space, which is the perfect blank slate. This visually gives a new perspective. I am a very visual person, so it always helps me to “see” something in real life if possible.

Although I had some brief conversations with the designer about sourcing certain fixtures and items, the design decisions have all really been up to us. Thank you Pinterest! You can view my board here {de toilette}. I had the overall vibe pretty set in my head, but when you start to get into the particular details it can get overwhelming and confusing.

I sourced the majority of my materials through Home Depot, believing it would be the most turn key and economical resource. Some of that is true, but we also discovered some local gems that are great resources at affordable prices. Our contractors have been a wealth of information in that regard. Having a good relationship with your contractor is KEY!

I will share all the details of the sourcing and materials we used once the project is over. It’s too much information to share today, which would make this post too looooong.

If you don’t want to miss out on any of the upcoming projects you can subscribe to receive all my new posts to your in-box.

things I have learned through the bathroom remodel process

Listen to your gut.

After the designer had laid out the plans, the town had approved the paperwork, and all the demolition had been completed, our contractor approached us and said….”why aren’t you laying the bathroom out like this?”…prefaced by “we do bathrooms day in and day out”. Well, they were right, and it’s kind of how we had envisioned it but we listened to the designer.

So we went back to the drawing board (literally), had new plans made, reapproved by the town and then we were off to the races again. It did cost us extra, and we wish our contractors had said something sooner, but I believe it showed them we trust their advice.

Be open to all suggestions.

I had very particular ideas set in my head at the onset of the project about the layout and materials and even little details. But, by listening to my family’s requests and preferences, as well as my contractors’ advice, I changed my mind on many things.

Changing your mind can sometimes be humbling. It’s basically admitting you didn’t pick the best choice, but that’s not how I’m looking at it. There’s more than one way to skin a cat, right? Isn’t that the saying? Just because it’s a different choice doesn’t make it better or worse.

Stay true to your style.

Although I have made concessions and changes along the way per the contractors, my husband, my father-in-law (who will eventually reside in this space), etc.; I have kept the choices still within my vision and aesthetic.

I am super jazzed about how this bathroom remodel is turning out, and I believe everyone else who is associated with the project is too. I will share the unveiling when the bathroom is done and fully styled so you can see my full vision come to life.

get the bathroom remodel look

“Styles come and go. Good design is a language, not a style.

Massimo Vignelli

sharing @ between naps on the porch

11 Comments

  1. It’s looking SO GOOD!!! I LOVE the tile work…it’s just stunning. Can’t wait to see the rest!!

    1. Thanks so much Rachel. We are super excited. XO- MJ

  2. wendy233 says:

    Your bathroom is looking amazing! Ours needs a desperate make over. Maybe next year. I can’t wait to see your final reveal.

    1. Thanks so much Wendy. We are very happy & it was long over due.

  3. So beautiful. It always feel great to makeover your bathroom. I bet you cannot wait to get it finished. I am happy to feature your bathroom remodel at Love Your Creativity. Happy Mother’s Day.

    1. Thanks so much Linda!! I love joining your party every week. XO- MJ

  4. Cara says:

    I can’t wait to see it MaryJo! Do you think you would have a designer again? We are planning a kitchen remodel, and my mother suggested it since I have struggled with several things. I am not even sure where to turn in searching for one either. We do not really have things like that in my area since I live in a small community. We are struggling right now to find someone to do the work. Make appointments, and people do not show up, or they do not do the scope of work we have planned. I am so glad your remodel is going well, and I love a vintage bath, or really anything vintage 🙂

    1. Oh! I’m sorry Cara. That’s very disappointing and frustrating. I definetly suggest using a designer if you need drawings. I’ve considered taking CAD drawing courses but for now I leave it upto the professionals. As far as the actual designing choices, I’m pretty resourceful in that area and also very particular on what I want & like. Of course the advice of a professional is always helpful. Good luck. And I’m happy to help you remotely in any way I can. I hope we remodel our kitchen sometime soon too. XO- MJ

  5. Oh, wow. . . this is going to be stunning! Thank you for the “behind the scenes” peek. It’s fun to see before-and-after pictures, but really informative to see a big project in process.

    Thanks so much for joining the Grace at Home party at Imparting Grace. I’m featuring you this week!

    1. Thanks Richella! We are super excited. I’m putting some finishing touches on the bathroom right now and will have a full reveal shortly with before and after pictures. XO- MJ

  6. Wow, it’s absolutely beautiful! Love Carrera marble; its so classic. We have it in both bathrooms; timeless, indeed. Can’t wait to see it all done!

I love hearing from you!