Riverhead Bathroom Remodel Turns a Closet into an Ensuite

Nestled amidst the verdant landscapes of Long Island, a charming 1990s home has become the canvas for a creative couple’s vision. Michelle and Nate, escaping the urban bustle of Brooklyn, found their tranquil retreat in Riverhead. Their first act of domestic artistry involved a clever spatial alchemy: an overlooked hallway closet, ripe with untapped potential, was reborn as a chic and practical ensuite bathroom, demonstrating the transformative power of thoughtful design in even the most unexpected corners of a home.

A bathroom renovation in Riverhead, Long Island turns a closet into an ensuite bath

• Homeowners: New homeowners Michelle and Nate posted their Riverhead bathroom remodel on Sweeten
• Where: Long Island, New York
• Primary renovation: Transforming an alcove closet into a guest bathroom
• Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering advice, support, and secure payments—for free.

Written in partnership with homeowner Nate. “After” photos by Lena Yaremenko.

A new home becomes a passion project

Escaping the creative hustle of Brooklyn, freelance advertising duo Michelle and Nate discovered a 2,010-square-foot haven in Long Island, New York. Built in 1994, the house, as Nate noted, was move-in ready. Yet, envisioning a personal sanctuary amidst the surrounding woods, local farms, wineries, and nearby beaches, they saw it as an exciting long-term project. Topping their initial wish list? The addition of a much-needed extra bathroom.

Post your project on Sweeten for free and make your dream renovation a reality. Sweeten simplifies home renovation by connecting homeowners with top-rated general contractors, handling the vetting process and project management. To learn more about how we can help, check out our home renovation services.

A closet repurposed

To make it easier to accommodate guests, the couple wanted each bedroom to have its own bath. There was a large alcove in the upstairs hallway that they thought would be the perfect ensuite guest bathroom. It was conveniently located above the downstairs bathroom and plumbing so they hoped it wouldn’t be too difficult to transform. “Our main question was really just how difficult would it be to add a bathroom where one hadn’t existed before,” said Nate. He posted their Riverhead bathroom remodel on Sweeten and was matched with a Sweeten general contractor.

We had to be out of town a lot during the work, but our contractor was really good about sending work-in-progress pictures.

At Sweeten, we’re experts in connecting homeowners with top-tier general contractors. We meticulously screen contractors, handpick the best for your project, and collaborate closely with hundreds of them daily.

A modern farmhouse bathroom

Before getting started, Michelle and Nate nailed down the look and feel of the bath, opting for a modern country vibe that was clean and simple. Because the angled roof affected one of the walls, they got creative with the layout, choosing to build a triangular storage nook in the uniquely-shaped space.

Shiplap was added to the slanted wall, giving the room the desired farmhouse style the couple hoped to achieve. They also incorporated some personal touches, including handmade shelves that Nate built from reclaimed wood. A pull-out drawer was repurposed from an old door to hold cleaning supplies and extra toilet paper. For the entry, the couple took a style cue from the neighboring farms. “We especially like the look and function of the sliding barn door,” Nate said.

Managing the Riverhead bathroom remodel from afar

Michelle and Nate searched a variety of brands to outfit their bath but always found themselves coming back to one retailer. “The nice thing about getting fixtures from one place is that you know the metals will match. Oil-rubbed bronze, for example, can look very different from one brand to the next,” said Nate.

“We had to be out of town a lot during the work but our contractor was really good about sending work-in-progress photos,” he said. “The pictures helped make sure things came together the way we imagined them.”

Renovation materials

Sliding barn door: Rustica Hardware. Santa Rosa Kohler Toilet: Home Depot. Manhattan Series 6” x 24” subway tile and Ardesie “Black Reef” floor tile: Forever Floors & Design Center. Vanity, medicine cabinet, faucets, fixtures, sconces, and hooks: Restoration Hardware.

Thanks for sharing your clever new bathroom, Michelle and Nate!

We can help plan your renovation

Find endless home renovation inspiration, detailed guides, and practical cost breakdowns from our blogs. You can also post your project on Sweeten today and get matched with our vetted general contractors and get estimates for free!