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Brighten Up a Windowless Bathroom: A Modern Makeover

Lacking a window doesn’t have to mean lacking in style! This inspiring bathroom renovation proves that even a windowless space can be transformed into a modern oasis. By implementing clever design strategies and maximizing light sources, the renovation creates a bright and airy atmosphere that feels anything but cramped. Dive into this blog post to discover how this windowless bathroom received a modern makeover, complete with tips and tricks to brighten up your own space.

A city dweller overhauls his windowless bathroom with a sliding barn door, glass walk-in shower, & creamy tile

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Project: Rip and replace a bland windowless bathroom on the Upper West Side

Before: Credit a steady diet of renovation TV shows with inspiring this 22nd-floor bathroom makeover. Owner Charlie Wintczak occupied the apartment for the better part of a decade, relishing its central location—between the Hudson River and Central Park. But he came to see the boring, under-40-square-foot bathroom as ho-hum. “I wanted it to look bigger,” he recalls.

After: He interviewed three Sweeten contractors and chose his contractor based partly on his shopping advice. One of those suggestions led to a Long Island City showroom for the vanity and tiles used throughout.

The previous owner’s amateurish tiling got swapped out for new large-format tiles behind the vanity and toilet. That same tile continues into the shower stall, which replaced an old tub. Upgrades include frameless glass shower partitions and a low stone curb that allows the mosaic tile shower floor inside to slope, for drainage.

The replacement toilet has buttons for a water-conserving half-flush, a prized green-design feature. The contractor also suggested the website that yielded Charlie’s hardware and accessories. A final recommendation supplied the metal barn door hardware fitted on-site with a new white-painted panel door that matches others in the apartment.

Bonus: Welcome energy is delivered by the owner’s idea of a pop of color: soft green paint for one bathroom wall.

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Style finds: Inspiration and accessories sourced through Build.com, thermostatic shower control from Hansgrohe.

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Light up the space:

The key to a successful windowless bathroom renovation is maximizing light. This project incorporated several strategies to create a bright and airy feel. Here are some key takeaways:

  • Skylight Installation (if possible): If your roof structure allows, a skylight is a game-changer. It brings in natural light and creates a sense of openness.
  • Strategic Lighting Placement: Layering different lighting sources ensures a well-lit space. Consider recessed ceiling lights, wall sconces flanking the mirror, and task lighting over the vanity for optimal illumination.
  • Light-Reflecting Materials: Utilizing light-reflective surfaces amplifies the available light. Opt for white, light grey, or beige tiles and bathroom fixtures. Glossy finishes on countertops and vanities further enhance the reflection.
  • Large Mirrors: A strategically placed large mirror reflects light and creates the illusion of a bigger space. Consider mounting it behind the vanity or on a wall adjacent to the light source for maximum impact.

Creating a modern oasis:

Beyond maximizing light, the renovation incorporated modern design elements to elevate the space. Here are some details to inspire you:

  • Sleek Vanity Design: A clean-lined, wall-mounted vanity offers a contemporary look and helps visually expand the bathroom. Choose a style with drawers for storage to minimize clutter.
  • Minimalist Shower Design: A walk-in shower with a frameless glass enclosure creates a seamless, modern look and contributes to a more spacious feel.
  • Bold Accents: Injecting pops of color or statement tiles can add personality to the bathroom while staying true to a modern aesthetic. Consider incorporating these elements in the shower niche, backsplash, or flooring pattern.

This windowless bathroom renovation demonstrates that even without natural light, a space can be transformed into a stylish and functional haven. By incorporating thoughtful design strategies and modern elements, you can create a bright, airy, and aesthetically pleasing bathroom.

Feeling inspired? Get in touch with Sweeten to connect with experienced contractors and designers who can help you achieve your dream bathroom, regardless of the layout.

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Post your project on Sweeten for free and make your dream bathroom a reality. Sweeten puts you in control of your renovation, from finding the perfect contractor and gathering design inspiration, to using cost guides  to plan your budget wisely.

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