Hunter Bathrooms Brisbane recently completed a stunning bathroom renovation in a charming 1920’s workers cottage located in East Brisbane. This project beautifully showcases how to marry traditional features with contemporary design, creating a luxurious yet character-filled space.
Modern Updates with a Nod to the Past
To accommodate the client’s desire for a new layout, we installed a nib wall to relocate the shower and basin plumbing. This wall became a striking feature, adorned with vertically laid kitkat tiles in a soothing green hue, adding a contemporary touch while complementing the home’s character.
The floor received a luxurious upgrade with 600×600 Calacatta Gold Matt tiles. These beautiful tiles, with their subtle gold flecks, create an opulent foundation for the space.
Preserving Historical Charm
The original bathroom boasted high ceilings with VJ (vertical joint) paneling and traditional cornices, typical of the era. Our goal was to retain these classic elements while updating the space for modern living. We carefully preserved the antique light switches and powerpoints, sourced from Paddington Hardware, to maintain the cottage’s historical integrity.
One standout feature we kept was the filigree panel above the door, a hallmark of many Queenslander and workers cottages. This delicate detail received a fresh coat of paint, breathing new life into this traditional element.
Thoughtful Design Elements
A solid timber vanity with a handleless design adds warmth to the room, while copper tapware and a vanity basin with a black edge contribute to the stylish, modern aesthetic. The door, casement window, architraves, and iron bars were painted in a rich Indian Ink colour, adding depth and sophistication to the space.
To maximise functionality without compromising on style, we installed a recessed, timber-encased shaving cabinet. This clever addition not only improves access to the sink but also creates more space in the room. A hidden powerpoint inside the cabinet allows for discreet storage of electrical appliances.
Finishing Touches
The top edge of the green tiled wall features a timber capping painted in Indian Ink, providing a polished finish to the room. For easy maintenance, we installed a back-to-wall rimless toilet.
All tiles and fixtures for this project were sourced from Concept Tiles Rocklea, ensuring high-quality materials throughout the renovation.
This East Brisbane bathroom renovation perfectly demonstrates how to respect a home’s heritage while incorporating modern luxuries and design trends. The result is a functional, beautiful space that honours its 1920’s roots while embracing contemporary living.