
How to renovate your 80s bathroom?
Do you own a condo with a tiny shower and a large bath worthy of an Olympic swimming pool? Don't panic, I have some tips for you!
Many condos in Quebec, built in the last 20 or 30 years, have a similar configuration: a small acrylic shower of about 30" x 30" behind the door, a vanity, a toilet, and a "huge" podium bath that is often little used. So, how do you integrate a large shower and a bath into this space without moving the walls? And above all, how do you manage the positioning of the drains, often embedded in the concrete slab? This is where my idea and my knowledge come into play!
Why not opt for a 2025 version of a shower-bath? Here is the plan I propose to you
- Close off the existing small shower to free up space and add storage.
- Replace the podium bath with a modern acrylic shower bath. The new models are aesthetic, comfortable and perfect for relaxation.
- Add a contemporary shower set : handheld shower on bar, rain head, stylish bath spout and why not in black or white tones? The RUN collection, available at the La Salle D'eau boutique, would be an alternative combining style, simplicity and functionality. You can discover the different colors as well as the entire range of possible configurations for this magnificent series directly in the boutique's showroom which is connected to Plancher 2000 Longueuil. An experienced advisor is always available to guide you!
Now, let's talk about drains! In older condos, podium baths are often 42" wide, but current models vary between 30", 32" and 36". By using the existing drain, you can install the new bath and use the remaining space, between the new bath and the current bathroom wall, to build a small wall about 42" high. This wall will create a beautiful quartz shelf that is both practical and aesthetic, to store shampoos and soaps.
For the finish, I offer you a sober and elegant ceramic floor, the SOCIAL GRIS 24 x 24 matt ! A timeless and practical concrete effect!
For the top… Let your creativity run wild! Why not opt for a colorful tile, like the JUBILLE NAVY 2.5 x 8 Glossy Enameled Porcelain
These 2 magnificent ceramics are available in the Plancher 2000 & étage2000.ca branches, to bring character to the whole? Some might find it bold, but why not dare a herringbone pattern with a small ultra-glossy ceramic and a slight antique relief? The key is to find the right balance! We have a large neutral ceramic on the floor, on the front of the bathtub and for the rest of the shower, why not add a touch of shine above the shelf, without visual overload. But why stop there? Imagine backlighting this ceramic! Three small LED recessed lights, designed specifically for bathrooms, positioned about 3" from the featured wall, will create a soft and warm beam of light, bringing even more depth to the room and an ambiance worthy of the most beautiful hotels.
If you are struggling with a room that is difficult to arrange, do not hesitate to call a professional, why not me! With my expertise, I have more than one trick up my sleeve to help you transform your space into a functional and beautiful place, I guarantee it!
Jean-Marc Juteau Interior designer / Building designer