After 20 years of living with tile we didn’t choose, a small leak forced our hand—and turned into a complete bathroom transformation. What started as a simple shower repair became our dream cottage spa bathroom, and I’m so excited to walk you through every detail.
The Challenge: Working With What We Had
Let’s be honest about the challenges we faced. This bathroom had:
- 7-foot ceilings (yes, really!)
- A former closet space we converted
- Heating and cooling ducts limiting our options
- A tight budget that required creative solutions
But here’s what I learned: you don’t need a huge budget or perfect spaces to create something that feels luxurious and beautiful.
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The Door That Started It All
Our barn door was actually something Rob had already made, and we kept it. We still need to add the lock (yes, you can lock barn doors!), but since this is our primary bathroom that no one else uses, it hasn’t been a priority.
The Towel Station & Bath Essentials
Right by the door, I created a little towel and bath salts station with some of my favorite thrifted finds. You might recognize that candelabra I recently picked up at the flea market. I’m waiting on battery-operated candles that I’ll put on a timer—perfect for a soft nightlight when we need to navigate this rather long bathroom in the middle of the night.
The star of this corner is our big bath salts jar. I looked everywhere for the perfect one, and Rob actually found this beauty. It has a really thick, substantial top that seals properly to keep moisture out.
And can I tell you about my obsession? These adorable little cottage-style scoops. They’re actually sold as food-safe coffee cups, but we’re using them to scoop bath salts. Just grab a couple of scoops for your bath and you’re set for the perfect Epsom salt soak. Don’t be surprised if you see these show up in my kitchen soon!
The towels here are amazing bath sheets, and that bamboo tray underneath? Thrifted, of course.
The Vanity: IKEA Magic
Here’s where we saved serious money. Both vanities came from IKEA—and that includes the porcelain tops and faucets. When people think luxury bathroom, they often assume expensive custom cabinetry, but you really don’t need it.
I added gorgeous glass knobs for that touch of luxury. They’re so pretty against the dark finish of this thrifted piece I almost painted but decided to keep original. It looks perfect against the “marble,” which is actually porcelain tile. Major budget win right there.
We went with brass fixtures throughout, and with the marble look, it gives that unlacquered brass feel that’s so popular right now—very old estate vibes.
His & Hers Details
Rob is a bar soap kind of guy, so I found him a cute little marble soap holder. He installed a niche for me where I keep jars of cotton balls, witch hazel astringent for my nighttime routine, and other essentials. Those little personalized touches make such a difference.
The Splurge: Our Freestanding Tub
This is the one real splurge we made, though it’s still reasonable compared to what some tubs cost. We were inspired by a setup we saw at Restoration Hardware—a gorgeous vintage freestanding tub. I specifically didn’t want clawfoot; I wanted something a bit more modern cottage.
The Kingston brass fixtures are incredible quality with that beautiful antique look. I absolutely adore them.
The Tile Story
Those handmade-look tiles? Key word: handmade-LOOK. They’re made to appear handmade, which saved us a bundle while still giving us that artisan feel. Rob installed everything himself, though we did hire a plumber to move the water line from where it used to be (this was our old closet—not a good closet, and I hated having it in the bathroom).
Lighting That Changes Everything
These vintage-style lights have individual switches, so you can control your lighting even more. I can’t emphasize enough how much difference this makes in a bathroom or any space. Being able to have different lighting in different areas completely transforms the mood.
I added a magnifying mirror for close-up work—hair, makeup, skincare, all of that.
Solving the Ceiling Challenge
Remember those 7-foot ceilings I mentioned? Rob built faux beams to make the low ceiling look intentional. This space was a closet, and we didn’t want it screaming “converted closet!” We couldn’t raise the ceiling without major expense because of all the HVAC ducts up there, so we worked with what we had.
Those beams really frame out the different spaces. When you see the before and afters, the difference is shocking.
The Privacy Curtain Solution
I added curtains that can completely close off the shower and toilet area. This gives us options—if one of us is taking a bath and someone needs to shower or use the bathroom, there’s privacy. At night, it’s lovely to close everything off for a more intimate bathing experience. During the day, I can frame the space differently by positioning the curtains various ways.
We’re still getting blinds for the windows (they’re high, but you never know, especially in summer when people are in the backyard), but the curtains add that extra layer.
Bringing the Outdoors In
I don’t like going to the restroom in the woods, but I don’t mind if it feels a bit like the woods in here! I love adding plants to this space. They get the steam and humidity they love, and I’m sure I’ll be adding more.
The Step-Down Shower
Unfortunately, we couldn’t make the shower level with the rest of the bathroom because of that 7-foot ceiling issue. Making it work without major contractor expense meant working with what we had.
Creating Spa Luxury on a Cottage Budget
The secret to this whole remodel? Strategic splurges and smart saves.
Where we splurged:
- The freestanding tub
- Kingston brass fixtures
- Quality bath sheets
Where we saved:
- IKEA vanities and tops
- Porcelain tile instead of marble
- Handmade-look tiles instead of actual handmade
- Rob’s DIY installation work
- Thrifted accessories
The result? A bathroom that feels like a luxurious spa retreat with vintage cottage charm, created on a budget that won’t break the bank.
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