A finalist in the 2009 Georgie competition for “Renovation under $100,000,” the refurbishing of this Burnaby home included the makeover of two bathrooms, with the master ensuite shown here.
The project reveals that overall costs can be kept reasonable while creating a sophisticated and more efficient space through smart design and the use of disparate materials. The room was first opened up visually by removing oversized and misplaced fixtures, such as the cumbersome bathtub, which was replaced with a contemporary freestanding tub.
The custom millwork, in a dark natural rift-cut walnut, was designed to frame the room and add a style element but also to dramatically increase storage, which now extends to a ceiling-height, yet unobtrusive, linen cabinet, and extra shelves and drawers beneath the counters.
The flooring is finished in affordable and long-wearing ceramic tile, while the countertops are high-quality Travertine marble. The raised rectangular sink is from Duravit, equipped with high-tech Toto faucets, creating a “wow” factor.
What could have been a basic shower stall is livened with a ribbon of recycled glass tiles, which are also used for the countertop backsplash.
“The goal was to upgrade an existing space and to elevate the overall design and feel of the room,” explained John Friswell of North Vancouver-based CCI Renovations Ltd., which handled the project.
The ceramic tile floor, for example, is set with alternating accent tiles, and the colour palettes are carefully co-ordinated to complement the dark stained wood, brushed nickel and chrome fixtures.
Sustainable features include low-flow toilets, the use of halogen and other low-voltage lighting and the upgrading of in-floor radiant heating.