The bathroom makeover Gemma sent us is impressive for many reasons: the moody dark-framed mirror, the thoughtful reuse of shower tile above the sink, and most of all the custom-built vanity. The entire transformation was a DIY project, and the result is a fresh, functional, and stylish small bathroom that feels larger and more luxurious than its footprint suggests.
Project Overview: Small Bathroom, Big Impact
Gemma and her husband tackled the renovation themselves, handling everything from plumbing to tiling and constructing a vanity from scratch. Their goals were simple and smart: make the room appear bigger and add clever storage solutions to maximize the narrow layout. By focusing on those priorities they achieved a clean, cohesive result that looks far more expensive than the budget would imply.
Design Choices That Work
Several key decisions helped the space feel airy and refined:
- White walls: Keeping the walls white creates a bright, open backdrop that visually expands the room and lets accent choices stand out.
- Accent ceiling: Carrying the vanity’s color up onto the ceiling draws the eye upward and enhances the sense of height in a compact space.
- Tall mirror: An extra-tall mirror above the vanity reflects more light and makes the bathroom feel larger and more open.
- Coordinated finishes: Classic chrome hardware and fixtures maintain a timeless, cohesive aesthetic.
- Tile details: Using some of the shower tile above the sink creates visual continuity and a custom, tailored look.
The Built Vanity: A DIY Highlight
Because off-the-shelf options didn’t fit their long, narrow layout, Gemma and her husband built a vanity tailored to the space. Painted a sophisticated green-gray, the vanity anchors the room and provides the specific storage layout they needed. The same color subtly repeats on the ceiling, giving the room personality without overwhelming the clean white walls.
Materials and Luxe Touches
Although the bathroom is small, Gemma treated the floor to Carrara marble tile for a high-end feel. Marble underfoot elevates the entire space and balances the economical choices elsewhere. The couple kept other elements restrained and timeless—chrome finishes and minimal ornamentation—to let the custom cabinetry and tile shine.
Smart Storage in a Small Footprint
Creating storage was a top priority. The custom vanity maximizes usable space with drawers and compartments tailored to their needs, eliminating clutter and making daily routines easier. Thoughtful placement of shelving and built-in storage helps maintain a streamlined, spa-like vibe.
Budget and Results
Gemma reports that the entire remodel was accomplished on a modest budget. Careful material selection, reusing elements, and doing the labor themselves kept costs down. Investing in a few high-impact elements—like marble flooring and a custom vanity—gave the room a luxury feel without a luxury price tag. The result is a sleek, classic bathroom that feels both personal and practical.
Final Thoughts
After a month of steady work and hands-on effort, Gemma and her husband transformed a dated, beige bathroom into a modern, functional space they adore. The design proves that with a clear plan—prioritizing perceived space, tailored storage, and a handful of thoughtful material choices—a small bathroom can be made to feel both larger and more luxurious. Every time they pass by the door, they’re reminded of what they accomplished together.
If you’re considering a similar renovation, focus your budget on a few standout features, build storage to fit the exact layout, and don’t be afraid to add a subtle pop of color in an unexpected place like the ceiling. The combination of white walls, an extra-tall mirror, coordinated finishes, and a custom vanity can completely transform a compact bathroom into a serene, stylish retreat.