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waltham_kara

Design ideas for this half bath

5 years ago

Hi everyone, I have a second home in a beach town and rent it out on Air BNB during the summer. I did well with rentals this summer and want to use some of the $ to update the half bath. A few things I need to work around- I assume the way the door opens into the room is what caused the vanity cabinet and counter top to be an unusual shape. I would prefer to have some counter space here (vs a pedestal sink) but it doesn't have to be as much as is currently there. On the other side of the bathroom is a cabinet the full length - I am not sure it needs to be this large when replaced but I don't have any ideas of what to put there nor can I picture what it would look like with less of a cabinet. SInce it is a second home/ rental I don't need a ton of storage space but I am also aware of the fact that someday it could be sold and not be a vacation rental. This started out by my thinking I would change just a cabinet and then it became both and the counters etc. I would like to do a nice update but also can't spend tens and tens of thousands of $$. I envision I would be changing the counters to granite or quartz.

Thank you in advance for all ideas- I am not a creative person and need to have it spelled out for me so this forum is so helpful.







Comments (51)

  • PRO
    5 years ago

    For some reason I feel like removing the vanity and replacing it with a more practical shape could actually help you with storage space. You would now have a corner, were you could put a standup shelf unit.

    Kara D thanked Altair
  • 5 years ago

    Have you looked into changing the door to a pocket door? What's on the wall next to the door (not the angled side) - if there's a blank wall the width of the door - I'd pocket the door or do a barn door style. then there's no swing problem.

    Kara D thanked Hunzi
  • 5 years ago
    last modified: 5 years ago

    Can you swing the door the other direction and change the vanity for a pedestal sink with a shallow cabinet right beside it to give a little bit of counter top.


    Kara D thanked suzanne_m
  • 5 years ago

    I don’t know if the door can go the other way but I’ll check it out next weekend when o go back up. I like the idea of a little cabinet to give some counter space - the lack of which is the reason I’ve avoided a pedestal sink. I’ll do some research on both- thank you.

  • 5 years ago

    I would leave the built-in cabinets on the left side -- even if you don't need the storage, the counter space is super-valuable for families with toiletries and toothbrushes and all the rest. Never enough space for everybody's bags in most places!

    Kara D thanked acm
  • 5 years ago

    New door fronts? instead of all new units.

    The mirror frame could be altered/dolled up, and wouldn't stick out like medicine cabinet [I hate bumping into it].

    New lighting over vanity? and is there a ceiling light?

    Plastic storage bins/ baskets - top of long counter you could place a few pretty ones.

    Kara D thanked everdebz
  • 5 years ago

    I would rip out the entire cabinet where the sink is and replace with a pedestal sink. Leave the cabinets on the other wall for storage, make up, etc...if you want replace the top then just paint base a nice color.

    Kara D thanked lisarobert
  • 5 years ago

    Idk that I'd put blankets or something valuable in the long unit, but if they're vacuum-sealed for protection from humidity, maybe.

    Kara D thanked everdebz
  • 5 years ago

    A bit of flair over a rounded mirror ? textured glass shades, up or down - contemporary, shabby chic or industrial style. 23.5 W x 5.5 D / 9 H


    3-Bulb Vanity Light Bright Satin Nickel and Textured Glass Sconce Shades · More Info


    Kara D thanked everdebz
  • 5 years ago

    People mention function first - instead of removing storage, I'd spend on quality window coverings. Probably a blackout shade with up/ down... so you sit there and it's private totally.

    Over that you can add something you like.

    Kara D thanked everdebz
  • 5 years ago

    If sink and faucet are "gently used" maybe spend on unusual counter that suits your locale - maybe recycled glass...

    Kara D thanked everdebz
  • 5 years ago

    Are your renters using it as a overflow bathroom for everything except bathing? And how many people could be using this bathroom in the AM/PM. More of a kids bathroom? Just trying to get an idea of how it is used by how many people so that storage and counter needs are taken into consideration for functionality rather than just being pretty.

    Kara D thanked tedbixby1981
  • 5 years ago

    I like Beverly's mirror that doesn't chop up "the visual," but fills it, neat and trim.

    Kara D thanked everdebz
  • 5 years ago

    Or updated newness of these kinds of mirrors? and an ok geometric-shaped vanity makes "cool" sometimes.... ?


    Kara D thanked everdebz
  • 5 years ago

    I have a rental property and in one bath I have the exact set up suggested above - a nice pedestal sink with generous edges, and I have a freestanding storage piece on an opposite wall. I have never had any negative feedback on this arrangement.

    Kara D thanked lwfromny
  • 5 years ago

    wow so many great idea that never occurred to me, thank you to everyone! how is it used? This is a half bath and there are 2 full baths so I would say the use by tenants is overflow, closer to bedrooms to use at night.

    I have been looking at it for so long (and not too creative) that I didn't consider the window, mirror and lights and door as someone earlier suggested- I was just focusing on the Formica counter tops. The window is a quick and easy fix, the lighting more involved but something that will certainly pay off in the end. I was assuming going with a tiny vanity or pedestal sink would be a pain when trying to wash your face or brush your teeth but those of you who pointed out that this is more of an overflow bathroom and there is a counter behind so larger vanity top isn't as important are right. Finally you are sooo right about the mirror- that was one that I put up temporarily when I moved in as there wasn't one there and over the years I didn't even notice how shabby and dated it was. Thank you all!

  • 5 years ago

    The angled cabinet fits the space and allows the door to operate easily. The long cabinet is below an angled ceiling and is useful for storing supplies you provide to renters. You could replace the vanity but then you would need to redo at least the top of the storage cabinet to match. You don’t need two layers of shades on the window. Remove the bamboo and keep the shutters. The renter can adjust the shutters as needed. All the window needs is light control and privacy.

    Kara D thanked felizlady
  • 5 years ago

    Could you take the fronts off of the long cabinet and put baskets on the shelves? I think if someone is assigned a basket that it would make it easier for a renter to take that basket out of the cabinet and to the sink rather than having their personal items loosely on the shelf and mixing in with others. You could line each basket and change it out each time which would make it more welcoming to a renter than putting their stuff on something where the past renters did.

    Take a look at Formica again. I think it would be something for you to consider and something that you wouldn't have to worry about if for some reason it got damaged. And if you go to sell down the road, you can upgrade it then. And if you still prefer something other than Formica, you may be able to find a remnant to fit at a stone yard.


    Generous edge pedestal sink as lwfromny mentions.



    wide edge pedestal sink - Google Search · More Info



    Kara D thanked tedbixby1981
  • 5 years ago

    I hadn't thought of the flooring [but I forget sometimes] -- if vanity is removed what about new?

    Kara D thanked everdebz
  • 5 years ago
    last modified: 5 years ago

    I don't think it takes much at times. Vanity's lines, and another 'geo' shape, etc... could be cool.

    Not with the nice, but natural window shades, etc....

    https://www.houzz.com/products/progress-lighting-p300064-30-volo-2-light-16w-integrated-led-nickel-prvw-vr~142691832


    •5.5" H x 16" W Made of durable steel and etched opal glass shades
    •Integrated 9 watt LED lighting capable of being dimmed
    •Rated for damp locations
    •Energy star certified
    •Mounts to either a 4" square or octagonal recessed electrical outlet box
    •Mounting strap for outlet box included

    Kara D thanked everdebz
  • 5 years ago

    W 15" / D 2.75" / H 5.25" / wavy sculptural transitional. Free shipping $ 51.


    https://www.houzz.com/products/frosted-two-light-ambient-lighting-15in-wide-bathroom-fixture-prvw-vr~14689333

    Kara D thanked everdebz
  • 5 years ago

    Just read again you're near the beach - why not make room a bit local looking?

    Kara D thanked everdebz
  • 5 years ago

    If done well, beachy vanity color for one of a kind -

    "lacquer coat of Benjamin Moore’s Lafayette Green, which pairs well with the brass hardware...."

    Playful Powder Room · More Info


    Kara D thanked everdebz
  • 5 years ago

    This is a Benjamin Moore 1567 Night Train, Fletcher Rhodes 6 months ago


    Sonoma Family Home · More Info


    Kara D thanked everdebz
  • 5 years ago
    last modified: 5 years ago

    Here are some inspirations for this tiny powder room. They are fun, quirky and will amuse guests. I have managed vacation rental properties from Vegas to the Jersey Shore for 16 years and would do one of these in a heartbeat if dealing with a little room like that.

    https://duckduckgo.com/?t=ffab&q=toilet+sink+combo+unit&atb=v181-1&iax=images&iai=http%3A%2F%2Fi.ebayimg.com%2F00%2Fs%2FMTYwMFgxNjAw%2Fz%2F3P0AAOSw-7RVESjG%2F%24_35.JPG&ia=images

    Kara D thanked decoenthusiaste
  • 5 years ago

    $20. I'd try on the top of the long unit....open to a size of 10.9" W x 10" D x 9" H


    https://www.houzz.com/products/capri-set-of-4-foldable-beige-fabric-baskets-prvw-vr~160671395

    Kara D thanked everdebz
  • 5 years ago

    Good Lucky

    Kara D thanked Sheila Santos
  • 5 years ago

    I’m late to the conversation but here goes...Swap out the sink and it’s cabinetry for a separate shallow pedestal sink...the largest one that has the most generous lip for toiletries that will fit in that space. Swap out the counter/hardware on the opposite cabinetry and possibly the cabinets’ doors if necessary. A full set of plantation shutters on the windows will provide total privacy/quick & easy light control as well as a more upscale, streamlined look. Top the pedestal sink with a beautiful coastal mirror and hang towel bars in the open space next to the sink. Biggest pet peeve when traveling is no towel bars to hang bath towels. And about those space-saving toilet/sink combos...please don’t go there...literally!! It’s just gross. Too close for comfort or cleanliness!

    Kara D thanked Susan
  • 5 years ago

    Oh forgot that this is just a half bath...so just one towel bar to the right of the sink is all that is needed. And, yes, update the light fixtures. You’re welcome! 😊

  • 5 years ago
    last modified: 5 years ago

    I love the color. I think for a 1/2 bath beach place I would replace the window coverings, fixtures/hardware, and MIRROR. I would extend the mirror so that it matches the length of the sink counter or is a fun shape to match a beachy vibe. Maybe trim it in roping or shells for instance. Maybe a few prints on the wall as well to create a theme. It just needs the feeling of 1/2 bath in attic of grandma/aunt's house to turn to cute, fun beach house.

    Found a cute beach mirror photo for example

    Kara D thanked hollywaterfall
  • 5 years ago


    I love keeping quirky things too, so I would keep the angled counter. I'd put a very big round mirror behind it and, unless it really clashes with the rest of the mood of that house, I'd hand a fun pendant.


    Artistry Pendant, Matte Black/Satin Brass · More Info

    I'd put some kind of shelving over the toilet and paint the shutters a color that really popped and get rid of the fabric shade. Wherever it made sense, I'd switch out hardware to something fun.


    I'd keep staring at that slanted wall/ceiling in hopes of having a creative idea to sneak in some feature to make it useful (a drying rack? toilet paper or hair dryer storage?) or have fun with wallpaper.



    Kara D thanked User
  • 5 years ago

    wallpaper a fun idea - thanks

  • PRO
    5 years ago

    I second the wallpaper.. actually have been on a wallpaper love spree.. here's one I saw this morning! Have an entire board on Pin dedicated to wallpaper!


  • 5 years ago

    I wonder if maybe you could find something like this photo where the sink extends from the shallow-depth vanity and that vanity/counter extends to the right towards the door straight with no angle. This photo (minus the black line) is a screen grab from "NY Duplex Bathroom" at https://www.houzz.com/pro/ayhanozan/chelsea-atelier-architect-pc




    Kara D thanked elenahbrooks
  • 5 years ago

    Definitely go with the barn door if possible and if not maybe the pocket door idea. Do not get rid of the cabinet on the other side as the counter top is invaluable.

    Kara D thanked whamilt
  • 5 years ago

    What an idea to have the sink extend out!! I’m going to measure and see what I hav

  • 5 years ago

    What I can do (sorry)

  • 5 years ago

    I would reverse the way the door opens into the bathroom if possible. Easier than pocket doors IMO. As for barn doors ... yeek.


    For having lived with a pedestal sink in our ground floor powder room for 30+ years I'd say forget pedestal sinks, they are pretty useless. For the same footprint you can have a nice vanity with a granite or quartz top which provides counter space and drawers which I'd value a lot more.

    Kara D thanked Webado Webada
  • 5 years ago

    I don’t know how much storage you have in the house, but if you need more you might consider replacing the long counter with a custom cabinet that goes all the way up to the angled ceiling. A local cabinet person may be able to do that pretty inexpensively. Sounds like the main use of the bathroom is for the toilet and you have plenty of countertop for that. If the long cabinet went to the ceiling you would not have to replace that countertop.

    Kara D thanked shivece
  • 5 years ago

    I really don't want to down the sink idea, but ones I've seen remind me of pregnant appearance and for a sink, funny looking.

    Kara D thanked everdebz
  • 5 years ago

    I like what Bev said, the odd angled cabinet gives it vintage charm.

    Kara D thanked mercurygirl
  • 5 years ago

    I like the quirky shapes of the cabinet. I would remove the fabric window covering, perhaps use plantation shutters.You need a larger statement mirror . Paint the existing cabinets and replace the door pulls, replace the sink with white and replace countertops. The Formica they have now is much better looking and would be a less expensive option. I can’t see the current lighting. I would suggest sconces on either side of the mirror and a pendant/chandelier in the center of the room. What is the flooring?

  • 5 years ago

    I have rented a lot of Air BnB apartments, and I have always hated when they had pedestal sinks with no flat surface nearby. I love the color of the walls!


    What is the view outside the window? Is the bamboo shade there because of the heat or light coming in? Is this on the lower level where someone can see in? Is it close to another home so someone can see inside? If not much of a view, you could etch the glass or put a film on it to stop accidental peeping Tom's.


    If you do choose a pedestal sink, I think Suzanne_M's picture is best, but I think the cabinet is fine as it is.


    Since it is a rental, I would keep the cabinet doors on to keep dust out. It may go through times when no one is renting, but might not due to it being a beach town. I love the basket idea on the back countertop. I would leave some empty for renters to use. You may want to leave instructions on how to clean the new countertop, and leave the cleaner in the basket. It might help.


    I would remove the bamboo shade, choose a new countertop, install a white sink, find a larger mirror, and choose a quartzite countertop that is one of the bullet proof ones like Sea Pearl. The countertop will be your largest expense. There are several others like Taj Mahal, Madre Perla, etc. Karen_MT is our rock guru on Houzz, and the following picture is hers. Try to find some of her posts. The Robust sandstone is not bullet proof. The Intermediate quartzite (grainy quartzite) is better than the Robust list, but still not bullet proof. The Crystalline quartzite is the one that is pretty much bulletproof. Most stains will come out with a poultice. Read the descriptions of the Crystalline quartzite so you will know what to look for when you shop for stone. You may find remnants that will work so you won't need to buy a full slab. I found 4 quartzite remnants at a small town stone yard a half hour away. $40 s.f. instead of $100-120.00 s.f. You might find enough for a backsplash, too. Then find a paint color that works with your countertop.


    The only other countertop to choose is a man-made top which can be fixed if something happens to it. I love leathered and honed slabs because they don't show every mark. However, leathered in a bathroom could be full of toothpaste.






    My leathered Sea Pearl... I roll out dough on it, and I just use a scrubby to clean out the crevices. Toothpaste is a different beast.


    Grays and whites





    Whites and beige



    Madre Perla whites and beige




    Cristallo is probably the prettiest stone I have ever seen. You can really see the crystal grains, and some slabs look almost translucent. Beautiful when backlit.



    I don't know much about Allure. It looks like one of the Crystalline stones, but you can't tell from a picture. Mostly gray and white with a touch of beige/gold.





    I have never seen Crystal White in person. I don't know which category it fits in, but it looks very white.



    Almost all stones that look like marble will act like marble (Intermediate quartzite?). You don't want that for a rental.


    Since this is a rental, I assume you are paying for electric. In Scotland and England, they use receptacles that have an on/off switch. When anything is plugged in, including TVs, blow dryers, toasters, coffee pots, etc. they are still using electricity. The off switch acts like the TV is unplugged so it doesn't use electricity. This would really help your electric bill, especially during times when the unit is not being rented. Just a thought. My next house will have them in every room assuming I can find them in the U.S.


    You have a lovely bathroom as is, but I understand if you think it needs an upgrade. I can't wait to see what you decide.

    Kara D thanked Peke
  • 5 years ago

    I also find pedastal sinks difficult to live with and would wish for something more functional in a rental.


    Wavy wallpaper might be nice, but I would probably limit it to the slant as an accent


    Prudence Slate Wave 2809-IH18006 Brewster Wallpaper · More Info



    Schumacher Waves Printed Wallpaper, Black & White · More Info


    or a bit ropey, maybe especially if you hang a round mirror of shelves from a rope


    Novia Blue Geometric Swirl Wallpaper Bolt · More Info


    WELLAND Jackson 3-Tier Rope Hanging Shelves · More Info



    I like a coastal accent on the counter but think that basket is too big


    Lake Fish, School of Fish Long Narrow Oval Platter · More Info


    Kara D thanked User
  • 5 years ago

    this is nice and beachy. It's only 18 inches but you can get it in 24. Not that expensive either.

    Kara D thanked BananaBread
  • 5 years ago

    Hi banana bread- were you referring to the fish platter above or did you forget to include a pic?

  • 5 years ago

    How much do you want to spend on this beach house? It’s a powder room with a huge storage piece along the back wall, so I think a pedestal sink with a wider edge could be useful to your renters. Find new hardware for the storage unit and change the mirror to something beach-y and fun. Then call it a day. The door will open perfectly and you have another bathroom for your renters to use. If you need to change the floor after removing the existing counter, then consider vinyl plank flooring that will repel water and give an updated look.

    Kara D thanked RedRyder
  • 5 years ago
    last modified: 5 years ago

    Change up the hardware, lighting, mirror and keep the quirky counter shape. I would replace the countertops with something nicer but keep that shape and maybe add a bowl or square sink on top? I hate pedestal sinks, I don't like my toothbrush sitting on top of a sink, someone just washed their hands in after using the toilet (even if it's me). Water splashes, holds germs, I like a bit of counterspace. The quirky shape works, keep it

    Kara D thanked Lynne
  • 5 years ago

    Rope shelves nice too.... hi to y'all today!

    Kara D thanked everdebz