Bathroom Projects
East Prospect Historic Bath Remodel

Seattle Bathroom Remodel

This East Prospect bathroom remodeling project features historic elements and improves functionality.

Good things often come to those who wait. After finishing a beautiful kitchen remodel, these homeowners decided to wait several years before turning their attention to the master bath. At the top of the wish-list? To add luxury and style while staying true to their home’s period styling and historic finishes. One look at the attention to detail and we think you will agree–it was definitely worth the wait!

“Material selection was key to the success of this project. We carefully selected everything from the cabinets with period detailing and finishes, to plumbing fixtures that were luxurious, to marble and stone tiles that fit the original Greek Revival styling,” shares designer Kathleen Donohue.

Design Challenges: Lost in a Yellow Submarine

In the 1980s, the master bath was remodeled without regard to the historical significance of the home. It was entirely tiled in small “coin” tiles: the floors, walls and even the rounded ceiling of the shower resulting in a “Yellow Submarine” feel to the room. This same tile was also used as a fireplace surround in the master bedroom, ruining the effect of the historic woodwork detailing.

To preserve the painted plaster walls and ceilings below and adjacent to the bathroom, the tile had to be delicately removed. The design team also had to match the original window moldings, and temporarily remove the radiator heaters and drain the entire house system.

Another challenge: protecting the gorgeous antique furnishings, stairways and walls in the rest of the house during construction. The team installed scaffolding to the second-floor balcony to access the jobsite, sealing off the project from the rest of the home.

“Material selection was key to the success of this project. We carefully selected everything from the cabinets with period detailing and finishes, to plumbing fixtures that were luxurious, to marble and stone tiles that fit the original Greek Revival styling.” – Kathleen Donohue

Aging (Gracefully) In Place

On the wish list: double-sinks, a sit-down dressing area, and space for a jewelry safe. The homeowners also wanted to use the bathroom safely for years to come. Features include:

  • Marble and stone tiles that fit the original Greek Revival styling
  • Emperador Dark marble on countertops, tub surround and fireplace hearth
  • Tumbled Crema Marfil limestone tile for a non-slip surface, broken up by mosaic tile “rugs” gives contrast and further slip resistance, while avoiding the common trip hazard of area rugs
  • Easy-to-grasp lever handles, a seat in the shower space, abundant light at grooming and bathing areas add safety, without making the room seem institutional
  • A “Stabilization Bar” in the shower
  • Pull-out spice units provide storage for medications and grooming supplies
  • A jewelry safe concealed inside a specially designed cabinet at the dressing table

Period detailing combined with modern aging-in-place elements help deliver the ultimate in luxury and timeless design.

Ready to revive your design dreams? Get in touch with Neil Kelly today.

kathleen donohue, bend Design Associate

Kathleen’s distinctive designs have graced the world of kitchens and baths throughout the Pacific Northwest for 35 years. Her heartfelt approach has earned Kathleen national design awards from the NKBA, the SubZero Design Competition, and NARI.  Many of Kathleen’s award-winning projects have been featured in national consumer and trade publications. One publication, from McGraw Hill, is actually her own book, “Theme Design for Kitchens and Baths.”

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