Bathrooms in older Astoria apartments are known for solid construction, but many haven’t been updated in decades. This particular bathroom, located in a pre-war
building near Ditmars Boulevard, had cracked wall tiles, poor ventilation, and a bulky vanity that made the space feel tight and outdated.
Before the renovation, the room struggled with moisture buildup, especially during winter. The original tub was stained beyond repair, and the lighting was limited to a single ceiling fixture that cast harsh shadows. Storage was another issue, with no practical space for toiletries or towels.
The renovation focused on improving both function and comfort while keeping the layout mostly intact. The old tiles were removed and replaced with large-format porcelain tiles, which helped reduce grout lines and made cleaning easier. A frameless glass tub screen was installed to open up the room visually, a common solution in many Queens apartments where space is limited.
A wall-mounted vanity with soft-close drawers replaced the old cabinet, instantly making the bathroom feel more spacious. The contractor also added recessed LED lighting and a humidity-sensing exhaust fan to address the long-standing ventilation problems common in older New York buildings. Matte black fixtures were chosen to give the bathroom a modern look without feeling over-designed.
After the renovation, the bathroom feels brighter, cleaner, and far more practical for daily use. The upgrade not only improved comfort but also added real value to the apartment, which is especially important in competitive neighborhoods like Astoria. For homeowners in Queens, targeted bathroom renovations like this can make a noticeable difference without requiring major structural changes.
