How One Couple Turned A Water Damage Problem Into A Chic, New Space

What started as a bathroom makeover quickly became a renovation of necessity, when new homeowners Katie and Lance discovered a leak in the tub, which resulted in water damage in their bedroom closet. To remedy the situation and breathe new life into the space, the couple turned to the free renovation matchmaker Sweeten, which pairs clients with general contractors to create the perfect space for their needs.

High on the couple’s wishlist? A new tub, toilet, and vanity. Writing that the space was “functional… but not [our] style”, Katie and Lance were hoping to update their outdated Park Slope master bathroom.

Balancing their desired aesthetic with a newfound need for functional fixtures, the couple worked with a Sweeten contractor to create a bathroom that met all their design requirements and stayed within their budget. While this meant sacrificing certain elements they had originally envisioned in the new bathroom —such as giving up intricate floor tiles in favor of some simple yet chic white hexagon porcelain tiles— by and large, Katie and Lance were able to check everything off their list and get a bathroom that’s every bit as stylish and modern as they’d hoped.

To achieve this, they swapped out bulky storage vanities and a standalone sink for a sleeker all-inclusive white double sink vanity. They took out the dated saloon-style doors covering a built-in storage niche by the window which, when coupled with the bright new tiles, took on a whole new look.

Finally, they tackled the accent pieces. Katie wanted round bathroom mirrors for “a look that was brighter and more fun than rectangle ones,” so the team added some elegant black ones above the new sinks to match the matte black finish on the lighting fixtures, faucets, and partition separating the tub and toilet. Black accent pieces added an edge to the minimalist, whitewashed bathroom and instantly elevated the decor of the space.

Despite being ultimately pleased with the outcome of the bathroom renovation, Katie does have one piece of advice for anyone looking to purchase a new place. “I would say to anyone buying, to keep an eye out for water damage on your inspection, even if you have to move some shoes out of the closet to do it,” she cautions. Future homeowners, take note.

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