The bathroom renovation was born out of embarrassment. Guests would ask to use it, and I’d quietly hope they wouldn’t notice the peeling caulk, outdated tiles, and faucet that never quite stopped dripping.
We started by admitting what wasn’t working: zero storage, bad lighting, and fixtures that belonged in another decade.
We replaced the vanity with one that had drawers (game changer), added a mirrored cabinet, and chose large, light-colored tiles that bounced light around. Instead of overcomplicating it, we focused on clean lines, a good showerhead, and better ventilation.
The “after” moment really hit when I took the first shower there.
The space felt brighter, quieter, and somehow larger even though the footprint hadn’t changed at all.
Now, instead of apologizing when someone asks to use the bathroom, I point them down the hallway with a smile. That’s a satisfying shift.