As the only bath in the downstairs of this historic 100+ year old house, many challenges were presented to the designers from the start. The bath had to meet dual purposes. First and foremost, durability to withstand daily activities of three active teenagers and their friends was a must. Second, it needed to exhibit the elegance of an entertaining “powder room”. In addition, the material selections reflecting the eclectic nature of their Bayou heritage was essential to keep the homeowners personal stamp vivid.

With conceptual designs complete, the execution challenges began. Demolition revealed cast iron pipes interfering with the placement of the wall mount faucets, which were integral to the design. The wall was furred 6” to accommodate the valves. The changes in this wall afforded the ability to recess the extra-deep medicine half in the new wall, half extending out. Thus, providing the base structure for the fly-out shelves. Completing this feature, glass mosaic tiles wrap the furred wall, floor to ceiling, finishing off nicely into the full wall of travertine tile.

A built-in closet was removed to make way for a linen cabinet. Translucent resin panels used in lieu of glass doors shield daily items from total exposure. Cherry cabinets and weathered copper fixtures tie this bath to the traditional styling of the old home. Yet, a granite vessel sink, mosaic tiles and contemporary light fixtures add eclectic flair into the space.

Plumbing and stud location were potential pitfalls to the location of the mosaic-backed niches in the shower as well. Therefore the surrounding walls were furred to fit the new tub perfectly, and allow the niches to be centered on the space. A romantic glow of candles in the lower niche transforms this fast-paced teen bath into a calming retreat in an instant.

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