Bathroom Projects
Mid-Century Inspired Primary Suite Remodel in Portland

The owner of a 1967 ranch home in Portland’s Cedar Hills neighborhood had thoughtfully updated much of the house over time, but the primary suite still felt out of sync. Added in the 1990s by the previous owner, the space lacked the character, comfort, and efficiency found throughout the rest of the home. Looking to create a more cohesive and functional retreat, the homeowner partnered with Neil Kelly Portland Design Consultant Jonne Vandehey to reimagine the suite.

Read on to see how Jonne worked with the homeowner to develop a design that reflects his appreciation for mid-century modern style while improving the layout and livability of the space.

Design Objectives

The primary objective of this remodel was to transform the existing primary suite into a cohesive and welcoming extension of the home rather than a disconnected addition. While the rest of the house had been updated with finishes that reflected its mid-century character, the suite lacked that same sense of intentional design.

A central priority was to incorporate the homeowner’s appreciation for mid-century modern aesthetics, ensuring the space felt authentic to the home’s 1967 origins while still offering contemporary comfort and usability. At the same time, the design also needed to consider future resale appeal.

Design Challenges

The original layout presented several spatial and functional challenges. The bedroom itself was unusually long, limiting furniture placement and making the room feel awkwardly proportioned. A low bay window also disrupted the scale of the room while limiting natural light.

There were two small closets providing limited storage while occupying valuable wall space; one walk-in closet adjacent to the bathroom and one reach-in closet with bypass doors.

In the bathroom, the issues were even more apparent. A cramped neo-angle shower felt undersized—especially for the homeowner’s 6’4” frame—and vanity mirrors mounted too low created daily usability frustrations. Door placements further restricted layout flexibility.

The as-built floor plan of an imbalanced primary suite

The “as-built” floor plan, awkwardly proportioned and presenting functional challenges.

Design Solutions

To improve both balance and usability, Jonne expanded the bathroom by stealing space from the walk-in closet. Closet space was then relocated to the south end of the bedroom, expanding the existing reach-in closet to a generous walk-in with additional cabinet storage flanking a mirrored pocket door.

With that additional square footage in the bathroom, Jonne was able to design the space around comfort and efficiency. Her team created a spacious shower, a two-person vanity with ample storage, and a separate toilet room. The bathroom now functions effortlessly while maintaining a clean, uncluttered look consistent with the home’s mid-century influence.

Together with new windows in the bedroom, these changes transformed the primary suite into a layout that feels intentional, balanced, and far better suited to everyday living.

A proposed floor plan for remodeling a primary suite

The remodeled floor plan with relocated closet and expanded bathroom space.

 

Special Features

A number of custom elements elevate both the functionality and the experience of the suite:

  • Two-person trough-style lavatory with generous countertop space for each user

  • Curbless Corian shower pan for a seamless, modern look and improved safety for aging in place

  • Custom vertical grain–matched vanity drawers with hidden interior drawers for discreet storage

  • Fluted linen cabinet adding texture and visual interest

  • Organic-shaped vanity mirror that softens the space

  • Pocket door with integrated full-length mirror in the closet for flexibility and practicality

  • Separate water closet with overhead storage

  • Built-in cabinetry at the suite entrance flanking the walk-in closet, creating a more defined transition into the bedroom while increasing storage and privacy

  • New highlight windows and replacement of the original bay window to enhance natural light

Together, these features create a primary suite that feels both highly functional and quietly luxurious.

Key Suppliers & Manufacturers

If you’re considering a primary suite remodel of your own, the Neil Kelly team can help you explore what’s possible. Our experienced designers work closely with homeowners to create spaces that balance beauty, comfort, and long-term value. Schedule a complimentary design consultation to start the conversation and see how thoughtful design can transform your home.

jonne vandehey, portland Design Consultant

Jonne’s design talent was apparent from an early age. She tackled her first building project (a Craftsman style home) while still in high school, alongside 16 other students. Prior to joining Neil Kelly, she enjoyed helping homeowners discover “the perfect color” for every room and space while serving as in-home paint consultant for Sherwin Williams.

Clients appreciate Jonne’s detail orientation, which is a handy skill to have when it comes to guiding someone through the overwhelming complexity of a remodeling project. She enjoys working with craftspeople and the expanded project team to create aesthetically pleasing and highly functional spaces.

Jonne is a Certified Kitchen & Bath Designer and a member of the Columbia River National Kitchen & Bath Association.

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