
Melanie Merz
December 24, 2023
How a Bathroom Refresh Transformed These Spaces—Without a Full Renovation
Not every home project needs to be a total gut job to make a big impact. In this three-bathroom refresh, the homeowners opted for thoughtful, surface-level updates that breathed new life into each space—while preserving the charm and character of the original design.
Rather than tearing everything down to the studs, this renovation focused on keeping existing architectural elements—like the original wood paneling—and pairing them with fresh materials and finishes. The result? A warm, inviting update that feels brand-new without the timeline, mess, or cost of a full remodel.



Why a Bathroom Refresh Makes Sense
Refreshing a bathroom instead of completely rebuilding it is a great way to save both time and money. By updating key components—like vanities, countertops, tile, and fixtures—you can dramatically change the look and feel of the space without the need for major construction. This type of project is especially ideal for older homes where you want to retain some of the original character, like wood detailing or vintage layouts, while still bringing things up to date.
Bathroom #1: Clean, Calm, and Functional
In the first bathroom, the updates started with a white porcelain floor tile and a SynMar Desert Carrara shower surround that includes a built-in bench for comfort. The new WoodPro shaker-style vanity in Maple Beachside adds warmth and natural wood tones, paired with durable quartz countertops in Charlestown.
Brushed nickel finishes were chosen for all the hardware and plumbing fixtures, striking the right balance between classic and contemporary. A sleek Halo mirror adds both light and modern flair, enhancing the refreshed look without overwhelming the original design elements.
Key Features
- Vanity: WoodPro Shaker in Maple Beachside
- Shower surround: SynMar in Desert Carrara
- Countertop: Quartz in Charlestown
- Finishes: Brushed Nickel
- Mirror: Halo
- Paint: C2 Paints
First-Floor Bathroom: Natural Materials Meet Modern Function
The main floor bathroom carries through the same design language, creating a cohesive feel across the home. Once again, the warm Maple Beachside vanity and brushed nickel finishes keep things visually unified. But this space features a bold twist: a Dekton Keyla shower surround that adds rich texture and a bit of drama to the palette.
For extra functionality, a fold-down teak shower bench was installed—perfect for comfort, accessibility, or just a relaxing moment.


Takeaway: You Don’t Need to Start from Scratch to See Big Results
This project is proof that a well-planned bathroom refresh can deliver a stunning transformation. By choosing natural materials, updated finishes, and preserving original features, you can achieve a modern look that’s both timeless and budget-friendly.
Whether you’re planning your own renovation or just daydreaming, remember: sometimes the best updates are the ones that work with your home—not against it.
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