This bathroom renovation in Tarragindi was all about turning a tired, outdated space into a clean, modern, minimalist bathroom. Like many older Brisbane homes, this bathroom had solid bones but was showing its age. The original design no longer met the needs of the homeowners and the style felt stuck in a different era. The homeowners wanted more than just a cosmetic update that made the space fresher and more open. They were after a layout that worked better for multi-generational living and would be easily accessible for their elderly parents.
Before: The Problem with the Old Bathroom
The original Tarragindi bathroom was tired and outdated, with ageing built-in cabinetry that was far too excessive for a bathroom, a narrow bathtub-shower combo, and fittings that no longer met modern tastes. The bold yellow patterned tiles and retro design choices added to the dated look, while years of moisture near the window frames highlighted the need for better waterproofing.
The timber floors already showed visible signs of water damage. Dark spots near the edge of the bathtub hinted at long-term moisture exposure, making it clear that a more durable flooring solution was needed. There was ample storage in the room, but the size and placement interrupted the flow of space and weren’t aligned with the homeowners’ idea of an open feel. The old vanity and framed mirror also added to the visual clutter, with their bulky design weighing down the room.
Although the room had a decent footprint, the layout and finishes didn’t make the most of it, particularly when it came to accessibility and ease of use for elderly parents. The homeowners were ready for something low-maintenance, minimalist and designed for easy accessibility for their aging parents.
Project Details: How We Transformed the Bathroom
Improving Layout and Functionality
To enhance spatial flow and everyday usability, we completely reworked the bathroom layout. The old bathtub was removed and replaced with a walk-in shower, framed by a fixed glass panel to create a more open, modern feel. This made the space feel larger and also improved accessibility for the long term.
The tall built-in cabinetry was also removed to declutter the space, unlock extra floor space and streamline the design. While it offered storage, its size and placement made the space feel more enclosed. Removing it allowed for better circulation and supported the minimalist aesthetic the homeowners were aiming for.
Elevating the Look with Modern Finishes
A floating timber-look vanity was installed, pairing with a sleek, rectangular basin and chrome mixer tap. The frameless mirror above added a clean, modern finish and helped reflect light throughout the space. Together, the new vanity and mirror created a lighter, more refined focal point while keeping the floor area open and easy to clean. A dual shower head was installed, combining a fixed rainfall head with a separate handheld unit. This setup enhances accessibility and flexibility, which is ideal for everyday convenience, rinsing down the shower, or future-proofing the space for all users. A herringbone feature wall in glossy white subway tiles added a subtle layer of interest and contrast against the large-format matte grey tiles, giving the room a balanced, contemporary feel.
Lighting, Ventilation, and Privacy
Recessed LED ceiling lights were added to ensure bright, even lighting throughout the room. The existing window was replaced with a frosted sliding version, allowing natural light to filter in while offering improved privacy and insulation.
Durable, Stylish Flooring
The original timber floorboards were tiled over with soft, natural-toned tiles, offering better durability and moisture resistance. This change also tied the room together visually, with the new floor seamlessly complementing the updated walls and fittings. A square tile insert drain completed the look for a clean and cohesive finish.
Overcoming Design Challenges
One of the challenges that was uncovered during this bathroom renovation was the extent of the damage to the structural timber flooring underneath the bathtub due to a crack in the old tub allowing water to make its way to the subfloor and slowly rot the timber way. However, such surprises are commonplace in bathroom renovations and we were quickly able to rectify the problem and replace all damaged sections of flooring. Our team worked closely with trusted trades to carry out the works safely and in full compliance with building and waterproofing standards.
With smart design choices and a clear vision, we were able to deliver a bathroom that feels open, functional, and built to last, perfectly suited to the homeowners’ needs of having an easily accessible bathroom for their aging parents. If you’re thinking about how you can better design your bathroom renovation for multigenerational living, check out our guide on designing accessible bathrooms.
Get a Free Bathroom Renovation Quote
If you’re planning a bathroom renovation in Tarragindi or a nearby suburb like Coorparoo and in need of expert bathroom renovation services, our team is here to help. We manage the entire process from design to construction, delivering a seamless experience and a high-quality result every time.
Reach out to us and get a free bathroom renovation quote!
