Old Room, New Use

Yes, you can transform a little-used space into a dream bath without adding on.

Before you take on any major remodeling, look around. You may find an underused area to convert into a wonderful space. This is especially likely in some older homes that contain many small rooms. Harry and Martha Bell transformed a rarely used study/bedroom into a beautiful master bath in their Pensacola, Florida, home.

Making the Switch

To make the conversion work, the Bells had to reconfigure the new bath's doorway so it would open to the master bedroom. An old bath inside the master suite that Martha describes as a long narrow closet indeed became one, outfitted with shelves and hanging space.

Choosing the Layout

Fortunately, the old room did possess features worth keeping. Hardwood floors and windows with the original shutters work great in the new bath. Bath designer Gail Ackerman helped the Bells make the most of their space. The vanities sit on separate walls to allow more storage around Martha's vanity and for the heights of the cabinets to vary. The couple also wanted a walk-in shower that didn't need a door and a large tub. Gail accommodated both requests on one wall.

Selecting Design Details

With her budget in mind, Martha made some smart choices that combine for a beautiful space. "My biggest splurge was custom cabinets," she says. "I chose painted cabinets because they go well with this house."

The Bells used inexpensive ceramic tile in the shower and for the countertops. White and khaki tiles were laid in an argyle pattern around the tub and as a border in the shower.

Martha fell for some designer wallpaper in a leopard print; its subtle design and colors add flair without taking away from the room's soothing feel. The paper was pricey, but because she didn't have to buy much, Martha thought it was a good investment.

An old tin ceiling tile and a stone architectural piece hang over the tub area. Other accents include sconces, old white-and-gold ceramic pieces, and a seagrass rug-chic touches that give this bedroom-turned-bath all the style it needs. ALICE WELSH DOYLE

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Mar 2005
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