This early 1930s Westside Vancouver home still retained some of its beautiful original architectural features, but the homeowners wanted to bring back more of the historic look into the principal bathroom. It had already been through a renovation that included the oak floors, quartz countertops and vanity. However, the busy professional couple with three young children wanted to include a few more heritage details to evoke that 1930s glamour, not by simply reproducing the iconic style, but by freely reimagining it in contemporary terms.
While staying true to the home’s character, Kerr Construction’s interior designer, Nisha MacNeil, came up with a design that transformed the bathroom.
A classic colour scheme
Stunning in its simplicity, a statement black and white classic colour scheme was extremely popular in the ‘30s. It is one colour combination that has survived many centuries while remaining impressive, elegant and striking. It is also supremely versatile when it comes to accessorizing.
MacNeil opted for a gorgeous gold light fixture above the bathtub and the scones above the vanity mirror to insert a touch of class and luxe. “Choose one or two key features to highlight in the bathroom and allow the chic backdrop to simply do the rest,” she says.
“I went with very classic, timeless white subway tiles on the walls, and then attached modern black faucets to the period-appropriate round sinks for extra visual interest,” says MacNeil. “We also installed rounded black mirrors and articulated scones... again, details that you would find if you did any historical research for that period.”
MacNeil was also inspired to further enhance classic detailing by creating an archway wrapped in shiplap around the bathtub. Although traditionally the windows would have been encased in wood trim, the couple wanted the windows in black casings. The archway adds depth and architectural interest, while the casings add warmth and texture. Both pay homage to that refined black and white scheme. “It’s the subtle details that make a huge impact,” says MacNeil.
A cased opening inset with shiplap panelling for towels was also added onto one of the walls by the bathtub.
“Our clients wanted the renovation to capture their needs, function well for them and their family and reflect their personalities,” explains MacNeil. “Initially, the bathroom lacked a defined style. We sprinkled the bathroom with classic and fun elements that work well for them.”
Smooth sailing
The bathroom project had very few roadblocks, and the only real one was a difficult tub filler install, which required Kerr to reroute the plumbing through the existing tiles, all the while attempting to save the floors.
In the end, the bathroom celebrates the heritage elements of the residence with a contemporary twist. The space functions better and thanks to improved natural and artificial lighting, also looks brighter, bigger and more welcoming. The result? An idyllic and timeless oasis.