Our 80s-era house came complete with all its peach-painted walls and almond-colored fixtures, encapsulating the trends of a bygone decade. While functional, the space screamed for an update that would blend modern elegance with practical utility. With a bit of creativity and determination, this half bath and laundry room received a stunning facelift that has transformed it into a coastal-inspired haven.
The Initial State
Walking into the original half bath/laundry room was like stepping back in time. Peach walls, dated fixtures, and a lack of cohesive design made the space feel tired. While it served its purpose, it lacked personality and the thoughtful details that turn a house into a home.
The Transformation Process
The renovation began with an ambitious vision and a few DIY projects to bring it to life. Here are the highlights of the makeover:
1. Wall and Crown Moulding:
Adding DIY wall moulding and crown moulding immediately elevated the space. This simple yet impactful change brought architectural interest and a sense of refinement, setting the tone for the coastal aesthetic.
2. A Fresh New Toilet:
A sleek, white American Standard Acticlean Toilet replaced the outdated almond fixture. Its clean lines and modern functionality were the perfect fit for the refreshed space.
3. DIY Marble Floor:
The flooring underwent a dramatic upgrade with the installation of a DIY marble herringbone-tiled floor. The timeless elegance of marble added sophistication, while the herringbone pattern introduced texture and visual intrigue.
A Coastal Facelift
The goal was to infuse the room with coastal charm without veering into clichés. Here’s how that was achieved:
Vanity Makeover:
The original bathroom vanity received a significant update with a fresh coat of Benjamin Moore Gentleman’s Gray paint in eggshell. New mercury glass cabinet knobs and concealed hinges gave the piece a polished, modern look while maintaining its original structure.
Artful Details:
The walls were adorned with coastal-inspired art, including the “Ocean Landscape” print. Travel photos were framed with mats to personalize the space and bring a sense of connection to the theme.
DIY Oyster Shell Mirror:
A handcrafted oyster shell mirror became the showstopper of the room. This unique piece added texture, natural beauty, and a nod to the coastal inspiration.
Functional Accents:
Practicality met style with the addition of a bamboo shade, a wicker tray from Homegoods, and a mercury glass soap dispenser. These items provided function while contributing to the cohesive design.
Sources and Paint Colors
If you’re inspired to create a similar transformation, here’s a roundup of the sources and materials used:
SOURCES:
- Toilet: American Standard Acticlean Toilet
- Art Print: “Ocean Landscape” print
- Frames for Photos: Frames with mats for travel photos
- Mirror (without shells): Homegoods
- Bamboo Shade: Similar bamboo shade
- Cabinet Knobs: Mercury glass cabinet knobs (similar)
- Closet Door Knobs: Closet door knobs
- Tile: Marble tile
- Hand Towel: Hand towel
- Soap Dispenser: Mercury glass soap dispenser (similar)
- Wicker Tray: Homegoods
PAINT COLORS:
- Vanity: Benjamin Moore Gentleman’s Gray #2062-20 in eggshell
- Walls: Benjamin Moore Simply White #OC-117 in eggshell
- Board & Batten, Crown Moulding, and Doors: Benjamin Moore White Dove #OC-17 in semi-gloss
Bringing It All Together
The result of this transformation is a functional, stylish space that seamlessly blends the purposes of a half bath and a laundry room. The combination of thoughtful design choices, elegant materials, and coastal-inspired details has turned this once-dated room into a highlight of the home.
Whether you’re embarking on a similar project or simply looking for inspiration, the key takeaway is that even small, functional spaces can be elevated with the right approach. From bold paint colors to DIY accents, every detail contributes to the overall charm and usability of the space.
READ MORE HERE!
- Bathroom Reveal
- Herringbone Tiled Floor
- Whole Wall Board & Batten and Crown Moulding
- DIY Oyster Shell Mirror
- A Roundup of Coastal Art
Expanding the Vision for a Bathroom-Laundry-Room Combo
The unique dual-purpose design of a bathroom-laundry-room requires striking a balance between functionality and aesthetics. While many homes separate these spaces, combining them can optimize square footage without sacrificing style.
Practical Layout Considerations
Maximizing every inch of space is essential in a combined bathroom-laundry-room. Here are some key layout features:
1. Stacked Washer and Dryer Units: A stacked washer and dryer configuration was pivotal in preserving floor space while maintaining functionality. By tucking them into a custom-built closet, the appliances blend seamlessly into the design without creating visual clutter.
2. Smart Storage Solutions: Cabinetry was carefully designed to accommodate laundry supplies, towels, and other essentials. Open shelving above the washer and dryer offers easy access to frequently used items, while enclosed cabinets keep the room looking tidy.
3. Sink Integration: The addition of a utility sink adjacent to the washer and dryer added functionality, making stain treatments and handwashing more convenient. The sink area was dressed up with a stunning marble backsplash, tying it into the overall design.
Enhancing the Coastal Aesthetic
Building on the coastal theme, additional design elements were introduced to unify the space:
Light Fixtures: Replacing outdated fixtures with modern, coastal-inspired lighting provided the perfect finishing touch. A pendant light above the vanity and sconces flanking the mirror added elegance while maintaining functionality.
Natural Materials: Incorporating bamboo, wicker, and wood accents, such as the bamboo shade and wicker tray, enhanced the room’s connection to natural coastal beauty.
Color Palette: The consistent use of a soft, neutral palette with pops of rich blue tied together the various design elements. The blue vanity paired beautifully with white walls and accents, creating a crisp, clean look.
Additional Features for a Seamless Experience
Soundproofing: Given the presence of laundry appliances, soundproofing measures were implemented to minimize noise. Acoustic panels were discreetly installed, ensuring the space remains peaceful.
Ventilation: Proper ventilation was a key consideration to prevent moisture buildup. A high-quality exhaust fan was installed, and the space was designed with adequate airflow in mind.
Compact Drying Rack: A retractable wall-mounted drying rack was added for delicate items, blending functionality with convenience.
Reflecting on the Transformation
This bathroom-laundry-room combination is more than just a functional space—it’s a testament to the power of thoughtful design. From DIY details to carefully curated finishes, the transformation showcases how creativity and planning can elevate even the most utilitarian areas of a home.
If you’re considering a similar project, remember that small updates can make a big impact. Whether it’s fresh paint, a new mirror, or improved storage, each detail contributes to a cohesive and inviting space. And when functionality meets style, you’ll create a room that works as beautifully as it
