From Attic to Awesome Many of the classic Tudor homes in Minneapolis are defined as 1 ½ stories. The ½ story is actually an attic; a space just below the roof and with a rough floor often used for storage and little more. The owners were looking to turn their attic into about 900 sq. ft. of functional living/bedroom space with a big bath, perfect for hosting overnight guests. This was a challenging project, considering the plan called for raising the roof and adding two large shed dormers. A structural engineer was consulted, and the appropriate construction measures were taken to address the support necessary from below, passing the required stringent building codes. The remodeling project took about four months and began with reframing many of the roof support elements and adding closed cell spray foam insulation throughout to make the space warm and watertight during cold Minnesota winters, as well as cool in the summer. You enter the room using a stairway enclosed with a white railing that offers a feeling of openness while providing a high degree of safety. A short hallway leading to the living area features white cabinets with shaker style flat panel doors – a design element repeated in the bath. Four pairs of South facing windows above the cabinets let in lots of South sunlight all year long. The 130 sq. ft. bath features soaking tub and open shower room with floor-to-ceiling 2-inch porcelain tiling. The custom heated floor and one wall is constructed using beautiful natural stone. The shower room floor is also the shower’s drain, giving this room an open feeling while providing the ultimate functionality. The other half of the bath consists of a toilet and pedestal sink flanked by two white shaker style cabinets with Granite countertops. A big skylight over the tub and another north facing window brightens this room and highlights the tiling with a shade of green that’s pleasing to the eye. The rest of the remodeling project is simply a large open living/bedroom space. Perhaps the most interesting feature of the room is the way the roof ties into the ceiling at many angles – a necessity because of the way the home was originally constructed. The before and after photos show how the construction method included the maximum amount of interior space, leaving the room without the “cramped” feeling too often associated with this kind of remodeling project. Another big feature of this space can be found in the use of skylights. A total of six skylights – in addition to eight South-facing windows – make this area warm and bright during the many months of winter when sunlight in Minnesota comes at a premium. The main living area offers several flexible design options, with space that can be used with bedroom and/or living room furniture with cozy areas for reading and entertainment. Recessed lighting on dimmers throughout the space balances daylight with room light for just the right atmosphere. The space is now ready for decorating with original artwork and furnishings. How would you furnish this space?

Custom bathroom vanity cabinet. Photo by BloodfireStudios.com

Master bathroom in Wilmette IL has curbless, doorless shower, gray slate floor and floating vanity.

Leah Welch Photography

Floating double vanity nestled in a stone tile clad alcove. Under cabinet lighting enhances the floating effect and provides gentle night light. Jim Houston Photography

Poulin Design Center

This elegant master bath room a modern mosaic in chevron pattern was selected to keep this traditional looking space fresh. A whimsical mirror for the make up desk and chandelier above the tub add to the charm. Photo credit- Alicia Garcia Staging- one two six design

Master bathroom has a free-standing tub with his & hers vanities and two walk-in closets.

Bill Worley

His and Hers Flat-panel dark wood cabinets contrasts with the neutral tile and deep textured countertop. A skylight draws in light and creates a feeling of spaciousness through the glass shower enclosure and a stunning natural stone full height backsplash brings depth to the entire space. Straight lines, sharp corners, and general minimalism, this masculine bathroom is a cool, intriguing exploration of modern design features.

Master Bath Vanity Detail

St. George's Terrace is our luxurious renovation of a grand, Grade II Listed garden apartment in the centre of Primrose Hill village, North London. Meticulously renovated after 40 years in the same hands, we reinstated the grand salon, kitchen and dining room - added a Crittall style breakfast room, and dug out additional space at basement level to form a third bedroom and second bathroom.

Walk-In Shower with beautiful ceramic wood-style - Aequa Silva 8X32 tiles from floor to ceiling with glass doors. Moen shower fixtures and accessories. Photographer - Peter Lyons Design - Mangiantini Construction Design/Build Build Out - Mangiantini Construction, Inc.

Beautiful White Bathroom with marble counter tops, floors, plus cozy jacuzzi, and corner shower.