Bathroom Makeover: From Builder Basic to Spa-Like Retreat
When Brianne sent us before-and-after photos of her bathroom renovation, we were thrilled to share the transformation. What began as a plain, builder-grade bathroom with linoleum floors, brass fixtures, and no storage turned into a warm, functional, and spa-inspired space. Below is Brianne’s own description of the project and a closer look at what they changed and why the results are so successful.
We completely redid our outdated builder bathroom. The original room was stark white with linoleum and brass fixtures, and it didn’t even have a closet—something I always assumed a full bath should include. It was my worst nightmare every time I stepped in there.
My husband Bill, who’s very handy, reclaimed some space from the hallway and added a closet. He built a custom vanity by hand and crafted a frame for an old mirror we already owned. We installed a lower-profile toilet and a brand-new tub/shower. Bill tiled both the floor and the shower walls in travertine, and we painted the remaining walls a warm putty tone to create an earthy, spa-like atmosphere. We also installed a raised sink and topped the vanity with a piece of granite. The contrast to the original stark white room is dramatic—we love it.
The results are a testament to thoughtful design and hands-on workmanship. Adding a closet made the layout far more functional, solving a persistent storage problem without significantly changing the footprint of the room. The custom-built vanity provides practical storage and visual warmth that a prefabricated unit could not match. A raised sink gives the space an updated silhouette, while the granite counter introduces durable, natural texture.
Tile selection is one of the most impactful choices in any bathroom renovation. Brianne and Bill chose travertine for both floor and shower walls, a decision that instantly softened the room and created a cohesive, organic aesthetic. Travertine’s warm tones work beautifully with the putty wall color, producing a calming palette reminiscent of a spa. The lower-profile toilet helps maintain clean sightlines and contributes to an open, uncluttered feel.
Beyond aesthetics, the renovation prioritized durability and usability. Updating the tub/shower system and installing quality tile will make the space easier to maintain and enjoy for years to come. The painted putty walls complement the stone and wood tones, creating a soothing contrast to the original stark white finish.
It’s especially impressive that Bill handled most of the work himself, from structural adjustments to custom carpentry and tile installation. Custom projects like the vanity and mirror frame add character and reflect the homeowners’ personal touch, turning a formerly uninspired room into a welcoming retreat.
Thanks to Brianne and Bill for sharing this project. Their thoughtful redesign—combining smart storage solutions, handcrafted details, natural materials, and a carefully chosen palette—turned an awkward, builder-basic bathroom into a beautiful, relaxing space you’d look forward to using every day.