This project was completed for clients who wanted a comfortable, accessible 1ST floor bathroom for their grown daughter to use during visits to their home as well as a nicely-appointed space for any guest. Their daughter has some accessibility challenges so the bathroom was also designed with that in mind. The original space worked fairly well in some ways, but we were able to tweak a few features to make the space even easier to maneuver through. We started by making the entry to the shower flush so that there is no curb to step over. In addition, although there was an existing oversized seat in the shower, it was way too deep and not comfortable to sit on and just wasted space. We made the shower a little smaller and then provided a fold down teak seat that is slip resistant, warm and comfortable to sit on and can flip down only when needed. Thus we were able to create some additional storage by way of open shelving to the left of the shower area. The open shelving matches the wood vanity and allows a spot for the homeowners to display heirlooms as well as practical storage for things like towels and other bath necessities. We carefully measured all the existing heights and locations of countertops, toilet seat, and grab bars to make sure that we did not undo the things that were already working well. We added some additional hidden grab bars or “grabcessories” at the toilet paper holder and shower shelf for an extra layer of assurance. Large format, slip-resistant floor tile was added eliminating as many grout lines as possible making the surface less prone to tripping. We used a wood look tile as an accent on the walls, and open storage in the vanity allowing for easy access for clean towels. Bronze fixtures and frameless glass shower doors add an elegant yet homey feel that was important for the homeowner. A pivot mirror allows adjustability for different users. If you are interested in designing a bathroom featuring “Living In Place” or accessibility features, give us a call to find out more. Susan Klimala, CKBD, is a Certified Aging In Place Specialist (CAPS) and particularly enjoys helping her clients with unique needs in the context of beautifully designed spaces. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Alan Kaskel

Wing Wong/ Memories TTL

Whole house remodel. Karan Thompson Photography

The custom vanity includes a sitting area and two medicine cabinets.

New spa-like bathroom with claw foot tub and heated floors

This 2 bed 1 bath home was remodeled from top to bottom! We updated the floors, painted the whole interior a rich warm gray color and installed rustic wood tile flooring throughout. We worked on the kitchen layout quiet a lot because of it's small size, we opted for a large island but left enough room for a small dining table in the kitchen. We installed 36" upper cabinets with 3" crown molding to give the kitchen some height. We also wanted to bring in some of the Farmhouse style, so we installed subway backsplash with black grout. The only bathroom in the house is very small, but we made the most of the space by installing some cool tile all of the way to the ceiling. We then gave the space as much storage as we could with a custom vanity with beautiful granite and a large mirrored medicine cabinet. On the outside, we wanted the home to have some charm so we opted for a nice dark blue exterior color with white trim.

The 2nd floor hall bath is a charming Craftsman showpiece. The attention to detail is highlighted through the white scroll tile backsplash, wood wainscot, chair rail and wood framed mirror. The green subway tile shower tub surround is the focal point of the room, while the white hex tile with black grout is a timeless throwback to the Arts & Crafts period.

Rob Karosis Photography

Photo by Linda Oyama-Bryan

Master Bathroom

Classic master bath with freestanding soaking tub

The footprint of this bathroom remained true to its original form. Our clients wanted to add more storage opportunities so customized cabinetry solutions were added. Finishes were updated with a focus on staying true to the original craftsman aesthetic of this Sears Kit Home. This pull and replace bathroom remodel was designed and built by Meadowlark Design + Build in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Photography by Sean Carter.