From a tired ensuite to a day spa style bathroom, this before and after is sure to leave you feeling like you’ve just come back from a resort getaway. Featuring arches, soft textures, and the bold pave flooring, this ensuite has a fresh new look that’s to die for!
We chat with Alex Hutchinson from Our Cactus Abode about her stunning coastal ensuite makeover.
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As an ensuite renovation that was put on the back burner, it was well worth the wait when Alex finally got the chance to transform this space.
“This was our first home renovation. Being a fashion designer, I have always loved being creative. This came in handy when choosing all the styling elements.
“We have been wanting to renovate our ensuite for the longest time. Unfortunately, we had so many other areas of the house that needed to get done first. It was totally worth the wait though!
“This bathroom was a complete gut and rebuild. Everything is new! We absolutely love all the products from Highgrove Bathrooms, especially their gorgeous brushed brass tapware and vanities. The tiles from Tile Cloud were a must have too!”
We love the fresh, clean palette but can’t deny our eyes are immediately drawn to the paved flooring.
“We’re planning to stay in the home for years, so we wanted the space to feel special. After not being able to travel during lockdown, we wanted the space to feel like a holiday. Our design was inspired by Santorini’s cobble stone roads with loads of light, fresh white finishings and soft textures. I mean, why not feel like you are on holiday in your own home? You could definitely say the room is a mix of Mediterranean and coastal.
“Most people said we were crazy for going with the pave flooring for the bathroom. I absolutely love it! I love the texture and how it has turned out so I’m glad I went with my gut feeling.
“We were really blessed with the space we had. Double vanities were a must so we could have our own little areas. The arched wall has also really opened up the ensuite. A must have was the skylight in the shower area to help eliminate mould and give us loads of natural light.
“We did have a couple of little changes along the way. We added venetian plaster to our archway. Changed the vanity tops from timber to stone. All the while, I had a vision for the bathroom in my head the whole time.”
As a first-time renovator, we ask Alex to share her advice for anyone tackling the same process.
“I’d say keep it simple. Pick one feature tile and incorporate natural textures for any other features so you don’t overload the space.
“Keep an eye out for sales, do your research and create a space that makes your heart sing. And don’t be afraid to ask for help! There are some great reno pages on Facebook. If you are ever unsure or need help, there are loads of people on there who are happy to help.”
Build — Bridgland Builders
Tapware and vanity — Highgrove Bathrooms
Thank you Alex for showing us around your dreamy ensuite. To see more from Alex and her renovation, you can follow her Instagram, or check out her website for leather goods. Do you like this coastal ensuite makeover? What do you think of the pave flooring? Let us know all your thoughts in the comment section below!
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