The downstairs bathroom was in terrible condition. It had the original blue sink, toilet and cast iron tub. It is a very small bathroom but is perfect for a cottage bath. This small space had two doors to enter from either side and plastic laminate wallboard. There was a huge wooden cabinet behind one door which took up a quarter of the space. The floor was incredibly dirty terrazzo which could not be salvaged. A total renovation was in order. The sink and toilet were replaced, but we kept the original cast iron tub. The floor was covered with tile. Plastic shower stall was removed and tiled with subway tile. The old window was removed in the shower and glass block was installed. The cabinet was removed and new cement board and sheet rock replaced the old wall board. Here are some photos of the space as it was:

Even though it is a small bathroom, it is cozy and functional.

Before we began any renovations, we decided to design in the cottage style to match the architecture of the home.

This used to be a medicine cabinet. We retained the electrical socket to add accent lighting in the way of a lighted mirror.

The new shower.

We took down the plastic laminate shower stall and tiled in a white subway tile.

I found this cast iron coat rack at a thrift store for 8.99. I painted it white to match the cottage decor.

I purchased this antique glass towel rod at a yard sale for 1.00. The linen embroidered towels cost 25 cents a piece at a yard sale.

These glass shelves were purchased at restore for 10.00 for three. I used frosting spray to frost them.

Living my dream…

I chose to keep the vintage cast iron tub and selected the colors to compliment the aqua blue.

Just a little romance…

These little vases were purchased at a thrift store for .99 a piece. They are perfect for the summer rises and winter camellias.

A small bouquet from the garden.

Linen napkins serve as hand towels for the quests.

This space needed crystal to add a touch of glamour.

This small chandelier was the perfect size and mimics the larger chandeliers in the living and dining room.

Vintage accessories add warmth to the cottage style design.

This oil painting was purchased at a thrift store for 1.99 (with the frame).

The perfect door knob for this space (on clearance for 7.00).

This oak sofa table was painted a coordinating color and fit perfectly.

Small touches add elegance to the room. This towel holder was purchased at restore for 2.00 and painted white. There is a matching paper holder and towel rod. They were both used in this space. The towel rod holds the bath mat after use to allow it to dry.

The new sink.

Painted baskets add warmth and are perfect for the cottage style. They can be purchased at garage sales for very little and painted.

Click on each photo for a description of the items and how we did this remodel on a shoestring budget.

Here is a video of the completed project: