Creating a Spacious Ensuite Bathroom in Blackburn South, Victoria

When Paul Cree of Refresh Renovations in Kew, Melbourne was invited to help transform a 30-year-old ensuite bathroom in a home in the suburb of Blackburn South he was keen to accept the challenge.
The existing ensuite was short of space, which meant more room would have to be found from adjacent areas. It was dark too, so the renovation needed to draw in more natural light as well as incorporating new LED lighting.
Paul worked through Refresh Renovations’ tailored concept design phase with homeowners Anna and Toby to help identify several potential layout options.
‘We went into this with a pretty vague idea and found it challenging translating it into a workable idea, but Paul’s expertise and layout software helped us to see what was possible within the space,’ says Toby.
Once the design was agreed, Paul and his Construction Manager, Tas, could start work.

Paul’s expertise and layout software helped us to see what was possible within the space
The first step was reclaiming space from an adjoining walk-in wardrobe in order to create a significantly bigger footprint for the bathroom. A new taller window was also installed to maximise the amount of natural light.
With the new bathroom space created, Paul and Tas could begin working on the next phase of the project. The new bathroom layout meant the shower would be in a different place and would require additional plumbing.
‘We had to cut into the concrete slab and create new channels for the pipes that would allow the wastewater from the walk-in shower to drain away,’ explains Paul.

While Paul managed this aspect of the project, Anna and Toby could enjoy fine-tuning their colour palette (a contemporary mix of charcoal grey and white with timber accents) and choosing finishes, fittings and fixtures.
With four different types of tile in the final bathroom concept, a visit to Beaumont Tiles was a priority. Anna and Toby chose a white hexagonal mosaic tile for the splashback, oversize rectangular white tiles for the main bathroom walls, large charcoal grey tiles for the shower and oversize dark grey tiles for the floor.
With the tiles chosen, it was time to focus on other elements including cabinetry and bathroom ware.

Anna and Toby chose a deep drawered wall hung timber effect vanity that would help keep the floor clear and enhance the feeling of spaciousness in the room.
The contrasting white vanity top is custom made from Corian, an engineered stone composite that’s durable, easy to clean and can be used to create a seamless surface.
A large mirrored cabinet, with specially installed under lighting, hangs over the vanity, providing even more storage and reflecting light back into the room.
Paul says it helps brighten the space.

‘We included more LED lights than you might typically have in a bathroom because Anna and Toby wanted to create a really bright space. The underlit vanity is now a feature in the room and adds a nice ambience.’
A generously sized shower occupies the rear of the bathroom. The chrome showerhead and tapware help create a classic, modern look, while four towel rails, a pair on each side of the shower, ensure there’s no excuse for leaving towels on the floor.
Toby and Anna say the new bathroom exceeded their expectations:
‘We had a 30-year-old bathroom in dire need of an upgrade. Now it’s an open, bright space with clean lines and a touch of warmth from the timber.’
Paul is happy too.
‘The new bathroom is so much lighter and more spacious than Anna and Toby’s old one. It’s a space they can enjoy for years to come and will add value if they decide to sell their property in the future,’ he says.

You may also be interested in reading Bathroom and Ensuite Update in Melbourne

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