Timeless Ensuite Transformation

Case study

Project Overview

In this project, we transformed a tired, run-down master bedroom and created an epic ensuite for a young couple in their Balham home. The original space featured wooden floorboards, crumbling plaster, artex walls, and poorly installed wiring—a room desperately in need of a full overhaul. The couple’s goal was to create a luxurious, spacious ensuite that would replace an unused spare bedroom, making it more practical for everyday use. The alternative bathroom was a cramped, split space located down the corridor with a separate WC and bath, which was far from convenient.

Initially, the couple considered including a walk-in wardrobe and a utility room in the design, but after seeing the layout on paper, they opted for a more spacious ensuite to avoid cramming too much into one room. This decision allowed for a more functional and enjoyable space, aligning perfectly with their lifestyle needs. The overall renovation of the bathroom came in at £30k.

Design & Restoration

The inspiration behind this renovation was a blend of traditional British design with modern elements. The goal was to preserve as many of the original period features of the property as possible. This included restoring picture rails, cornicing, and ceiling roses to maintain the character of the home. One of the key elements of the renovation was embracing the quirks of the property—such as the slightly gappy original floorboards and mismatched door handles—which the client loved for their charm and authenticity.

The ensuite became a showpiece of the renovation, featuring stunning honed marble checkerboard tiles, a bespoke double vanity sourced through an Etsy supplier, and elegant brass hardware throughout. The wavy upholstered headboard in the master bedroom was another standout feature, complemented by soft linens and brass accents on the switches and sockets, creating a seamless flow between the ensuite and bedroom.

Key Materials & Bespoke Elements

In the bathroom, we combined a mix of timeless and luxurious materials, including:

Marble checkerboard floor tiles
A quartz vanity worktop
Brass hardware
Linen café curtains

The bedroom was designed with a focus on softness and warmth, using:

Linen fabrics for the headboard and curtains
Brass hardware for handles, switches, and sockets, echoing the bathroom design

A key bespoke element was the stunning double vanity in the ensuite. Rather than opting for a typical off-the-shelf product, we collaborated with a supplier who customised an antique piece of furniture with a vanity worktop, upstand, sinks, and taps. This was not only more affordable but added a unique charm to the space.

Additionally, we included bespoke joinery in both the ensuite and the bedroom. The bathroom featured custom storage solutions for towels and other necessities, while the bedroom boasted a bespoke wardrobe designed with period-style shaker doors to complement the overall aesthetic.

Before Pictures & Planning

We began working with the client in December 2023, and the planning process took around six months due to going over several iterations of the layout. Initially, we explored incorporating a utility cupboard and walk-in wardrobe into the ensuite space upon the clients request, but after reviewing costs and practicality, the client opted for a the route of a more open, luxurious bathroom.

Design Stages

The design stages are where we always need the clients input and attention the most. It can be quite time consuming for clients as it requires rounds of revisions, meetings on site, discussions & so forth.

First port of call is always layout. As you can we wanted to create a spacious 3 piece ensuite with a good flow. One of our favourite elements was the shower ledge for toilettries, rather than a niche, as the placement of the shower was wide enough to accommodate this.

Next up, you can see we created 3D photorealistic renders of the space to help the client visualise our designs before committing to them. These are really crucial in helping the client imagine the space and give them the confidence to bring our ideas to life.

Renovation Process

The build itself took approximately three months, covering not only the ensuite and master bedroom but also a light refresh of the other seven rooms, including a full repaint, floorboard restoration, and updates to the switches, sockets, and lighting. During the renovation, we faced minor delays with the vanities and shower taps, but these were resolved without significant impact on the overall timeline.

Our weekly site visits ensured seamless communication with contractors and tradespeople, allowing us to address any issues quickly and stay on top of the project’s progress.

Designs & Client Satisfaction

The transformation of the ensuite and master bedroom exceeded all expectations. What was once an underutilised space became a stunning ensuite that offers both luxury and functionality. The client now enjoys the convenience of an ensuite directly connected to the master bedroom, complete with ample storage and the ultimate luxury of both a separate bath and shower.

The client was thrilled with the outcome, particularly enamoured by the checkerboard floor tiles, bespoke vanity, and the overall aesthetic of the space. To top it all off, she even gifted us a bottle of fizz to celebrate the success of the renovation!