It’s always a pleasure to work for clients to help them make their idea for a space come together. However, some clients stand out like my folks from Pleasant Valley, NY. I miss chatting with them. I enjoyed the beautiful scenery of their yard. We talked about life and birds. We appreciated the simple moments together. These folks have a special place in my heart and I can only hope to work with them again.

My client was a very busy supermom of triplet boys. It was a treat to help her create a space that allowed her some peace and quiet. The boys may be grown now – but she’s still working hard to keep everyone going. I couldn’t wait to help her create a place to unwind. She’s earned it! Her husband would attest that the remodel was mainly for her. But, dad also deserved a place to refresh after a long commute back from the city.

This design removed a dated jetted tub with tub deck and added room for a linen cabinet to the right. The Homeowner wanted a freestanding and decided to go with a smaller deep soaking tub in volcanic limestone. Volcanic limestone provides a great strength to weight ratio. It also lacks the flex and creaks that may be present in its acrylic competition.

We initially discussed wainscot paneling as pictured in the rendering. However, the Homeowners decided later in our process to go with tile behind the tub. Ultimately, the choice is dictated by both cost and preference. Sometimes, it’s worth the upgrade for peace of mind. In this case, the homeowner was thinking of the ease of cleaning in the long term.

We stayed with the same layout of the bathroom for this design. However, we removed the soffit over the shower to create more headroom. The Homeowners wanted a solid surface wall system and pan with a shower door. There are several products to choose from and these wall systems can range in cost.

Often, the project end result is very different from the initial design. This happens because the project evolves as final selections are made. The goal of the rendering is to create a clear vision of the potential of the space. These above renderings allowed us to discuss options and review likes and dislikes. It also helps me identify the Homeowner’s pain points with their current bathroom. Additionally, it draws out any fears around the new design.

The jetted tub and tub deck were once very popular. Now, they are a common item we are removing from bathrooms. Homeowners often complain that they are hard to get into and take up too much space. My clients felt they never used it and often just stacked items on the tub deck. They needed more storage and felt that the tub just became a catch – all.

With soffits, there’s always a chance that mechanicals are hidden inside and will need to be relocated. There was a time when soffits were purely cosmetic and desirable. However, they often are a way to conceal pipes, vent stacks, or even ductwork. My clients were fortunate. The original soffit was just a design choice to fit the acrylic one-piece shower unit at the time. The space instantly felt larger and less cave-like when lifting the ceiling in this area of the room. Yet, because of the alcove, the shower still feels tucked away and cozy.

The best part of a project is seeing the space begin to transform. My clients expressed that the room was very cold and difficult to heat in the winter. We were able to update insulation at the exterior wall. In fact, during demo the Lead Carpenter noticed that the medicine cabinets were not insulated properly. This was probably where some of the draft in the room originated. These updates made a tremendous difference and just in time for the cold to roll in.

The champagne bronze finishes add a touch of glamour to the neutral palette of tile. My clients were surprised at how much larger the room felt at the removal of the jetted tub. I just adore how the window enhances its presence in the room. It beckons you to the tranquil view outside.

Glass doors usually have some wait time as we’ll measure once the shower walls are complete. It’s important to get a measurement from the top, middle, and bottom to capture any imperfections in the wall. With glass there’s little “wiggle room” and it’s important to get it just right. We set up a temporary shower curtain rod. This allows clients to use the space. They can do so until the glass order arrives and installation is complete.

This project is finally complete and even better than we planned for. The Homeowners ended up having an antique piece refinished for the space rather than purchase a linen cabinet. They unfortunately had a loss in the family shortly before we began working together. This special piece fits as if it were meant to be in the space.

It’s wonderful to see this space round out. It has become the peaceful retreat for relaxation and reflection that my clients requested.

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If you live in the Hudson Valley and are considering a project, click here to learn more about DBS Remodel.