Green Herringbone Tile Shines in a Bath Remodel

Yearning for a bathroom oasis that feels as refreshing as a summer breeze? This Ditmas Park, Brooklyn, home proves it’s possible! With a little green magic and a touch of Sweeten’s matchmaking, this dated bathroom was transformed into a serene sanctuary. Join us as we uncover the secrets behind this eco-friendly renovation and discover how you can create your own slice of paradise.

Project: Build a relaxing and refreshing bathroom

Before: Gus, a public health researcher, and Katherine, a chef, bought their Ditmas Park, Brooklyn, co-op over five years ago with every intention to renovate—just not right away. When they and their dog Miles, were ready, they came to Sweeten and posted their project. They were matched with a general contractor to facilitate a full remodel of their dated bathroom—a standard white-tiled space with a built-in metal hamper from the ‘50s, impractical storage niches above the pedestal sink, and layers of old tiles on the walls. “The previous owners’ attempts at updating involved putting tile on top of existing tile,” Gus shared.

After: Gus and Katherine’s philosophy for picking out fixtures and materials was to focus on cost and functionality. They were willing to put more money toward things that would be used and touched regularly, like the shower and sink handles. 

They created a cohesive and cool look with a clever mix of tiles: a herringbone ceramic for a statement wall, classic white ceramic for the remaining walls, and dark porcelain on the floor. The combined bathtub and shower is lined with marble, which their contractor also used to build floating shelves. Matte black fixtures for the sink and shower tie it all together.

In lieu of a traditional vanity,  Gus and Katherine chose a wall-hung sink that saves on floor space. The basin is offset giving more counter space on one side. Plus, the double-mirrors with storage ledges provide another storage option.

The couple stayed in communication with Sweeten, who answered questions that came up throughout the process. “[They] were accessible and checked in to make sure everything was going well,” Gus shared. 

As first-time renovators, they were also happy to have hired a design-build firm who not only handled the construction but the design, too. “Having a designer as a part of our renovation team was hands down one of the best decisions we made,” he said.

Bonus: One of their biggest pieces of advice? ”Be prepared to have lots of feelings as you go through this process.”

Style finds: Floor in Strada Porcelain Collection wall tile in Cold; accent wall tile in Jadite glazed herringbone from the Mosaic Collection; remaining walls in Metro Ultra White 6’x’6 tile: Nemo Tile. Odin Collection shower fixtures: Brizo. Scarabeo 24” sink: Nameeks. Toilet: Kohler. Mirror/medicine cabinet: Signature Hardware. Oswego 9” Clear Dom lighting: Rejuvenation.

Check out Amy’s bathroom renovation in Kensington, Brooklyn.

Ready to Renovate Your Bathroom?

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