FARMHOUSE GUEST BATHROOM: RENOVATION & REVEAL + What I want in a new toilet

If you’re looking for more Valentine’s Day inspiration, you’ve come to the wrong place!

But if you want to see how we turned our “charming” 80s bathroom into a sleek, elegant but FUN 21st Century charmer, I’m happy to show you.

So many months ago (back in July!), we started our guest bathroom renovation. You may have missed that post (or, more likely, you need a refresher!), so go ahead and read it now. Don’t worry. . . I’ll wait right here.

This was my inspiration board . . .

And this is where we were headed . . .  Stretching the space to provide more function.

Ready?

Real estate listing – Fall 2018

Penny tile (like hexagon tile) was around in the early 1900s when our house was built, so it was a great option—with a modern update, of course! (I couldn’t find exactly what I was looking for, so I mixed and matched several penny tiles to get what I wanted. Create layout . remove tiles . replace tiles using hot glue. Voila!

Some people love to grout, but not me. What a messy job!

But I do love seeing it come together!

Kohler’s Bancroft tub draws its inspiration from the simple elegance of early American architecture. Although it’s a tub/shower combo, it’s anything but “standard” with its 15″ depth for long soaks after long days of renovation!

Once the floors were done, it was time for the walls—and the tub ceiling.

Renaissance Man was really glad when this day ended!

The wide chair rail tile adds some elegance to this small bathroom, don’t you think?

The sink was previously in the still-to-be-restored Master Bathroom, but it’s just the right size and function for this space, so it found a new home.

Never underestimate the power of white tile! It’s why they call it a “classic”!

In addition to the obvious plumbing and electrical, we restored the window, painted the trim, and restored the door.

And then we looked . . . and looked . . . for someone to hang wallpaper. For months.

Until finally . . .

Oh, happy day! I loved Galerie’s Dandelion Trail wallpaper the minute I laid eyes on it. (Then I watched for sales!)

And this is NOW!

The solid brass 3-arm light above the mirror was an Asheville, NC barn find that was already restored when I purchased it on eBay. It’s from the late 1800s/early 1900s and just authentic/quirky enough to make me love it!

We found this century-old cabinet with original glass on Marketplace. I originally thought about painting it, but I’m really liking the natural wood.

The early 1900s leaded glass transom was another Marketplace find. The size couldn’t be more perfect! The chandelier is one we already had—but now we have the right place to hang it.

As with all old houses, the projects never end, so (although virtually “finished”), this room still has a to-do list:

1. Install hand towel ring
2. Make shower curtain
3. Make window curtain
4. Add crystals to chandelier?

We’re loving the new space. The only thing it’s missing is guests!

Soon, hopefully. . . Go away, Covid!

Before I go—just in case you’re in the market for a new toilet . . .

Since we have three toilets to replace in this house (and a whole house to renovate!), I couldn’t afford to spend a fortune on toilets. But, like many of you, I have high-dollar demands.

My toilet criteria wish list:

• Sleek design
• Easy height for sitting/standing (ADA compliant)
• Comfortable
• Single flush
• Eco-friendly
• Easy to clean

I looked at big box stores, consulted with bath experts, and looked at toilets online until one day I just had to stop the research and make a decision.

And I made a good one! Meet the Kohler Cimarron

This is a public service announcement. I receive nothing for this review.

Not only is it sleek and comfortable, but it has two features I didn’t even know were available! And all for under $300.

1. Quiet-Close Technology lets me slightly close the lid (or someone else can put down the seat!), and it slowly goes down on its own. I almost took a video for you, but I thought that might be more than you bargained for when you stopped by here today. 😂 Trust me when I tell you the center pic below shows the seat and lid on their way down!
2. Quick-Attach Hinges let me easily remove the seat for cleaning. No more impossible chore trying to clean around the hinges but never really succeeding. No excuses now!

Sorry it took so long to share these pictures with you! If you’re not already following @smalltownvictorian on Instagram, do it! I try to let you know what we’re working on as we go, but I know it’s always nice to see the progression in one post. I like having that documentation, too!

I’ll plan to post Master Bedroom pics soon. There’s new wallpaper in that space, too. Until then, I hope you have a great Valentine’s weekend. You are loved!

Related posts:

GUEST BATHROOM RENOVATION: Preparing for the day when house guests return! Upstairs Bathroom: Old House Renovation Story Old House Master Bathroom Renovation: DIAMONDS AND SWIRLS Upstairs Bedrooms: Old House Renovation Story