This bathroom renovation in Algester focused on transforming a dark, outdated space into one that feels fresh, functional, and architecturally refined. The original bathroom featured old brickwork, busy patterns, and yellow-toned cabinetry, which made the space feel tired and dated. By replacing dated textures with a clean, minimalist layout and sleek finishes, we created an open, stylish, modern bathroom, perfect for everyday comfort and long-lasting appeal.
Before: The Problem with the Old Bathroom
When we first had a look at the original bathroom in this home in Algester, we immediately saw the potential but also its challenges. While the space itself was generous, the design was impractical and outdated. The exposed red brick, patterned wallpaper, and yellow-toned cabinetry gave the room a dark and heavy feel. There were clashing textures and colours that made the space visually overwhelming.
Functionally, the bathroom wasn’t working for the homeowners. The oversized vanity, which featured two sinks, took up too much space and made the whole layout feel unbalanced. The combined bath and shower was outdated, with a basic wall-mounted shower head that didn’t offer the versatility of modern wall-mounted and handheld combo shower heads. There was also an underutilised space beside it, making the room feel awkward rather than well-planned. The fixtures had an old-fashioned style that no longer suited the homeowners’ vision for a modern bathroom. Paired with the inefficient lighting, the space felt tired and in need of a refresh.
The homeowners wanted a bathroom that’s bright, open, and timeless. They wanted a modern space that’s also practical for everyday use. A more balanced layout, updated materials, and a calming aesthetic were key priorities in their renovation plans.
Project Details: How We Transformed the Bathroom
Layout Optimised for Comfort and Style
The bathroom’s layout was reworked to create a more open and balanced space. The old built-in tub and tiled surround were removed to make way for a freestanding bathtub that added a modern touch. The shower area was given its own dedicated space, featuring a frameless fixed glass panel that enhances the openness and sightlines across the room. The old double vanity was swapped for a floating design with a wide basin, creating a more streamlined and modern look. A larger mirror was also installed, reflecting more light and making the bathroom feel even more open.
Material Palette
To achieve a refined and welcoming aesthetic, the material choices focused on clean lines and subtle texture. Matte grey large-format tiles were used across the floor and lower walls. One feature of the old bathroom that remained was the brickwork, which was painted white to soften its look, preserve its natural texture, and brighten the space. The patterned wallpaper was removed in favour of a crisp white painted finish, keeping the room bright and airy. To keep warmth in the space, we replaced the old yellow-toned wood vanity with a timber-look floating design, paired with a sleek white countertop for a modern touch.
Modern Fixtures & Industrial Touches
All new fixtures were sourced from Highgrove Bathrooms, ensuring a sleek and cohesive design. Wall-mounted brushed nickel tapware provided a clean and modern touch, complementing the neutral colour scheme. The freestanding bathtub served as a centrepiece, positioned strategically under a pendant light to enhance ambience. The old showerhead was replaced with a more modern design, featuring both an overhead rainfall shower and a separate handheld option for added convenience. Choosing the right showerhead can make a big difference in functionality and style. Lighting was kept simple yet effective with a mix of pendant and flush-mounted fixtures that added personality without cluttering the design.
Overcoming Design Challenges
One of the biggest challenges in this renovation was transforming the layout to create a more open and functional space. The original bathroom felt cramped because of the oversized double vanity, which took up too much room. By replacing it with a floating vanity, we freed up space to relocate the shower, creating a more balanced design. However, this meant reworking the plumbing to suit the new layout while ensuring everything remained efficient and up to standard. As part of these upgrades, we also installed a linear drain in the shower, improving both drainage efficiency and the bathroom’s clean, modern aesthetic.
At the same time, the homeowners wanted to keep the exposed brickwork as a tribute to the home’s original character. The challenge was finding a way to retain this feature without overwhelming the fresh new design. We found a solution to keep the brick without making the space feel too heavy. Painting it white softened its look while preserving its texture, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the modern elements.
Get a Free Renovation Quote
Want to modernise your outdated bathroom while keeping a touch of character? We specialise in transforming bathrooms across Brisbane’s southside. Whether you’re in Algester or planning a bathroom makeover in Browns Plains, we’re here to create a stylish and functional bathroom for you. Call us today and get a free onsite consultation!
