On a $50,000 budget, a bathroom becomes an en suite with a calming mix of materials

• Homeowners: Amanda and Bob posted their bathroom remodel on Sweeten
• Where: Hoboken, New Jersey
• Primary renovation: Kitchen and two bathrooms in a 1,090-square-foot condo
• With: Sweeten general contractor
• Homeowner’s quote: “Even though we already had some renovating experience, we reached out to Sweeten for help.”

Written in partnership with homeowner Amanda. “After” photos by Andrew Chui.

Prior to 2016, we’d already been renting in Hoboken, NJ to make sure it was really the place for us before buying. Our home is in uptown Hoboken. It’s in one of the earlier buildings in town–a condo building from around 1920. When we walked into it for the first time, it had an amazing footprint and feel for a condo. 

Over time, we were sure we could make the 1,450-square-foot space perfect for us. That was preferable to paying more for something in Hoboken that still wasn’t ideal, so we bought it. Now, our focus was on our final project: remodeling the bathroom.

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Planning for a lifestyle boost

We are Amanda, Head of Beauty Sales for the US for a french contract manufacturer, Bob, who works for ATP, and our children, Penny (8), Ruby (3). Our renovation project was the bathroom, an ‘80s throwback in desperate need of a decor update–and a working shower. Adding another sink was also on the list. But the biggest change was a walk-in closet build-out that allowed us to add a bathroom door from our bedroom. This upgrade to a jack-and-jill entry was a major improvement, since we now have a primary suite.

With better functionality taken care of, it was time to think about style. I was after something that felt spa-like—a place to escape and have time for myself. It should feel updated, yet traditional and smart in terms of maximizing storage.

A renovation plan moves forward

Even though we already had some renovating experience, we reached out to Sweeten for help. We needed help to determine the feasibility of having dual bathroom entryways, the timing, and the cost of what we wanted to do.

Sweeten matched us with a contractor that was amazing and honest. Our contractor sourced everything, kept us on track with the timeline, and truly made my ideas come to life.

A primary suite comes into view

The new entry from our bedroom was where it got complicated. Breaking through the wall was the only way to add the door that would make it a jack-and-jill. Then, ripping out our two separate bedroom closets gave us space to build one walk-in closet. This also made room to create a small hallway from our bedroom to the closet to the bathroom. It’s so nice to now have an entry to the bathroom straight from our bedroom, while still keeping hall access.

Ditching trendy for timeless

With a contractor chosen and a plan in the works, it was time to choose the actual materials. Given the ‘80s vibe we were getting rid of, I would avoid anything trendy. Each item needed to be elevated and modern to make sense for my lifestyle today—but also classic. I didn’t want to be sick of it in five years. 

My obsession was a countertop that would make a statement. We sourced the dramatic black-and-white stone from a separate fabricator, and our contractor attached it to the vanity we picked out. 

"Our contractor sourced everything, kept us on track with the timeline, and truly made my ideas come to life."

We were more cost-conscious when shopping for tile, so we didn’t completely go overbudget. A peaceful and neutral gray Fordham Grigio tile for the bathroom floor laid the foundation. For the shower walls, a refined 5” x 5” ceramic tile offered the perfect texture and shine without breaking the bank. Gold-tone fixtures with graceful lines add a touch of warmth and elegance.

Looks aside, ample storage space was also essential to make the space work. Built-in shelves were a definite must-have.

Spending more was worth it

The closet addition did increase the overall cost and put us overbudget. We also paid more than we had to for a full-price vanity and the custom countertop, but we’re happy with those choices. The approximately $50,000 we ended up spending was almost double what we had budgeted, but we love the results.

A successful renovation partnership

Sweeten helped pair us up with a few great candidates to meet. What we wanted was someone who was reliable, respectful, and didn’t give any BS. Our contractors were all of this. 

At the end, this was our best and most efficient renovation we’ve done. The serenity when you walk into the updated bathroom still takes my breath away. The countertop is stunning, and the heated floors make it so comfortable. But honestly, the shelves might be my favorite! In an apartment, smart storage is truly everything.

Thank you, Amanda and Bob, for sharing your new bathroom with us!

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

Renovation Materials

• Cloe Collection 5” x 5” ceramic shower wall tile: Bedrosians Tile & Stone
• Moen hardware and shower fixtures: Moen
• Shower glass doors: Glass Warehouse
• Vanity countertop: Stone fabricator via contractor 
• Toto toilet: Toto
• Lighting: Artika
• Medicine cabinets and vanity: Pottery Barn

The post A Jack-and-Jill Bathroom Remodel in Hoboken appeared first on Sweeten.

With guidance from their renovation team, Brooklyn homeowners unveil a dream bathroom

• Homeowners: First-time homeowners Carly and Peter posted their bathroom remodel on Sweeten
• Where: Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, New York
• Primary renovation: Refresh an outdated bathroom
• Sweeten general contractor
• Homeowner’s quote: “[My contractor] answered all of my questions about the bathroom materials we were considering, how to take measurements, and what other things to consider. [He] guided me through the entire renovation.”
• Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches residential renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering know-how, support, and up to $50,000 in renovation financial protection—for free.

Written in partnership with the Sweeten homeowner Carly. “After” photos by Kate Glicksberg for Sweeten.

Begin with a small remodeling project

Our 1,000-square-foot co-op in a building constructed in about 1841 was our first purchased home, after renting for a decade in the West Village. After nearly two years of living in the home, we were ready. 

But we wanted to start small with a bathroom since we had never been through a renovation before. Posting our project to Sweeten made it easy to begin because of their curated list of contractors to choose from.

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Refresh and personalize

Our bathroom is large, with high ceilings and room for a lot of storage, including our stackable washer dryer, shelving, and closet space. For the most part, we just wanted to update all the fixtures and materials, improve lighting and personalize it to our needs. I was open to reimagining the storage areas if it fit within our budget, especially in the vanity area.

"My biggest challenge was keeping all my selections simple so as not to overwhelm our space."

Choosing bathroom materials

Originally, I had really ambitious design choices like using three types of Moroccan tile and wallpaper. However, since this was our first renovation, I felt we should keep it simple. First, I’m no designer, and second, we did this during Covid when getting materials was a real challenge. 

I did a lot of shopping and sourcing ahead of time prior to contacting our contractor. Shopping online or a big box store was overwhelming and confusing for me. I also wanted to use quality materials that were a little higher end.

Our Sweeten contractor introduced me to a local plumbing supply store. The proprietor there had years of experience and knowledge; he helped me source everything except the tile. My contractor was able to coordinate all deliveries without me being there (such a relief!).

Keep choices manageable

The first thing I chose was the vanity. We wanted a unique piece that had a lot of storage space. I found something classic — but not basic. It had rose gold hardware, and I then matched my other fixtures with it. After that, I moved on to choosing a medicine cabinet with built-in LED that has clean, simple lines. For the tile, I went to a specific tile website with a curated collection, rather than the endless options available online or at a big box store.   

My biggest challenge was keeping all my selections simple so as not to overwhelm our space.

A good renovation partner

Our Sweeten contractor also helped me visualize the space. The layout didn’t need to be changed, he said, it was already being used as efficiently as possible. The whole process went smoothly, and my contractor allayed my fears of what a “normal” budget was and what our responsibilities were as the homeowner.

He answered all of my questions about the bathroom materials we were considering, how to take measurements, and what other things to consider. My contractor guided me through the entire renovation.

We really love the clean design, and the new bathroom works exactly the way we want to use it.

Renovation Materials

BATHROOM RESOURCES: Marble Tech Bianco Gioia 12×24; polished porcelain tile: TileBar. Kohler Purist fixtures in gold; Kohler Veil toilet; Otto Home Goods Ashley 36″ white bathroom vanity; Blossom Pillar medicine cabinet: Carroll Gardens Plumbing Supply. Majestic chrome glass shower door: Glasscrafters.

A note on fixtures and appliance deliveries: If you’re on a tight timeline, Appliances Connection has over 50,000 items in stock and ready to ship nationally. If you’re in the NY/NJ metro area, in-stock items typically deliver within 2-3 days.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post My Sweeten Story: A Bathroom Remodel Lands the Right Materials appeared first on Sweeten.

Bathroom design ideas—including the trending neutral color and finishes

(Above) Renovation by Sweeten homeowners Ylia + Andre with unique decorative hooks

Homeowners looking for bathroom design ideas are pulling inspiration from style-forward boutique hotels as well as nature. 

These are two of many trends identified in the latest annual National Kitchen & Bath Association report. Sweeten reports on their in-depth look at the latest trends from a survey of over 700 designers, architects, contractors, and showroom managers.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

2022 bathroom designs

For several years, white and gray have been the central colors to bathroom design. However, homeowners are now leaning towards a more organic style. The colors of natural materials, like wood and stone, play a role.

The second most popular look is the clean lines of contemporary. Transitional style, a mix of contemporary and traditional design, follows as the third most popular.

(Above) Gold and copper finishes in a bathroom renovation by Sweeten homeowner Karun

Bathroom color ideas

About 50 percent of industry professionals surveyed said homeowners are choosing warmer hues. Bathrooms have a warmer look with cream, instead of white, as the go-to neutral color. 

Homeowners contrast these warmer hues with accents in teal, green, and blue to bring a vivid pop of color.

Finshes and decor

Faucets and vanity hardware in metal tones, such as gold and copper, are bringing even more warmth to new bathrooms.

The trend of looking to boutique hotels for bathroom design ideas translates into bolder choices. For example, floor-to-ceiling tiles in a calming teal or a few quirky items like avant-garde towel hooks make an appearance. 

(Above) Sweeten homeowner Allyson’s aqua-tiled shower

Bathroom technology

As the look of bathrooms finds inspiration from nature, the function of bathrooms is increasingly using technology. Millennials entering the housing market in high numbers influence this trend.

For instance, heated floors and showers are controlled through mobile devices. Voice-activated toilets, showers, and lighting are gaining popularity.

Gadgets are new additions in the bathroom. Think scales that synch with wellness apps or mirrors that display the weather and your calendar.

More popular questions

What are new bathroom design ideas?

Use metal tones, like gold and copper, in hardware and faucets to warm up a stark bathroom. Boutique hotel aesthetics lead to a bold touch. Elements—big or small—such as tile in bright colors or unique towel hooks add a touch of personality. 

What are small bathroom design ideas?

Painting a bathroom cream rather than bright white can bring more warmth. Soft cream tones down wall corners and edges visually expanding a small space to feel bigger. Combine this neutral with bright green and blue hues to create a burst of color.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

The post 2022 Bathroom Design Trends: Color, Style, and Technology appeared first on Sweeten.

Decorate in gold accents for a subtle or dramatic look

A gold finish has the potential to lift up any space. It’s most effective when mixed in with a neutral cabinet or natural material like wood. Take the design volume up or down—there are many options. Decorate with gold accents for an understated look of glamour. Likewise, hardware or a minimalist ceiling light fixture is a light touch. Alternatively, graphic wallpaper, a collection of fixtures, or sinks make a bigger statement.

Here, Sweeten homeowners renovate with this finish to add a punch of personality to their spaces. Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering advice, support, and secure deposits—for free.

A bright shimmer against dark kitchen cabinets

(Above) Rachel + Marco’s renovated kitchen with gold barstools, cabinet pulls, and fixtures

(Above) Mixing metals in Tiffany and Chad’s kitchen remodel

Rachel and Marco posted their duplex home renovation project on Sweeten. The changes were most apparent in the kitchen. They chose a professional stove that they loved and matched their kitchen cabinets to the almost-black finish. This made their next choice easy: Offset the black oven with brighter gold accents. They did this by weaving gold through the cabinet hardware. The base of the elongated kitchen table also showcased the hue. 

For Tiffany and Chad, a newly remodeled kitchen lit up their Park Slope condo. It was a combination of each of their favorite styles: traditional/country with an industrial vibe. The black and gold hardware was the small touch of shine it needed. It was also their favorite part of the kitchen. The couple, who project managed their own renovation, encountered a few delivery and quality bumps along the way. Thanks to their contractor’s alternative solution, the installation of their cabinets was completed.

Gold as the focal point in the bathroom

(Above) Allyson’s gold-accented bathroom

(Above) Allyson’s custom floor inlaid with gold-hued accents

(Above) Leah’s bathroom with subtle gold accents

(Above) Gold-trimmed shower door

Allyson, an avid traveler, purchased a circa-1920s home in Brooklyn. She found a Sweeten general contractor who would bring her very unique vision to life. Allyson had collected artwork from around the world which inspired her design. Incorporating rich, gold-bronze hues was one way to do so. She had brass-rod inlays laid into the custom floor. Gold-brass sinks were sourced from Australia with similarly bright sconces just above. 

Leah had already been through a kitchen renovation when she turned to Sweeten for her next project: her bathroom. The frumpy 1970s aesthetic would be replaced with a more contemporary design. The rip-and-replace renovation didn’t take long, and it came out better than she thought. Originally she planned to incorporate white and silver tones. But, at the last minute, she decided to add a touch of warmth by using gold fixtures. 

A bright welcome in an entryway

(Above) Mitzie + Jenifer’s gold-leafed foyer

Jenifer, a media exec, and Mitzie, a product designer, recognized the potential of their new Brooklyn apartment. Despite its need for a remodel, it was located in the desirable DUMBO neighborhood and the right fit for the couple. Their Sweeten contractor overhauled the entire apartment along with a design-forward entryway. The gold hand foil wallpaper was bold but surrounding it with wood elements provided a nice equilibrium.

Adding gold accents to a dining room

(Above) Deanna + Daria’s elegant and grand dining room

When millennial sisters Deanna and Daria found a one-bedroom apartment in Manhattan, they jumped at the chance to buy it. They enlisted a Sweeten contractor to reimagine the space to meet their needs. Their traditional style with a Chinoiserie influence was characterized by bold patterns and color choices. This was on full display in their dining room: wallpaper, chandelier, and doorknobs all in a gold finish.

Mixing metals in the living room

(Above) Tara Benet-designed living room

Interior designer Tara Benet was tasked to update her clients’ three-bedroom apartment in the I.M. Pei-designed Kips Bay tower in Manhattan. The kitchen had been renovated a few years back, so the focus was on the living and dining rooms. Benet chose a white color palette for the living room. It would complement the deep, rich blues and spicier gold tones. Gold hues are reflected throughout the room: chandelier, furniture legs, and decorative accessories.

When you’re ready to get started on your kitchen or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post Decorating with Gold Accents Adds Glamour at Home appeared first on Sweeten.

Project: Update an inefficient bathroom in Queens

Before: Kate and her husband, Daniel, had lived in their two-bedroom co-op in Jackson Heights, Queens, for four years. Redoing the bathroom and kitchen were always on the table, but since Daniel is a food writer who needed to experiment with recipes, he went to Sweeten for the kitchen renovation first. “We didn’t have the funds to do them both at the same time,” explained Daniel. Fast forward a few years and a baby on the way “really forced our hand with the bathroom renovation,” he said. “We are either doing it now or never.”

Adding a bathtub was just the immediate necessity. There was also an issue with the water temperature; the shower would either freeze or scald you. The radiator was installed on a wall above head height, which Daniel thought was odd. (“Doesn’t hot air rise?”  he asked.) The bathroom looked like it had been revamped in the ’70s with plenty of drab beige tiles decorated with floral prints. The couple wanted to bring the lagging aesthetic in-line with the prewar design of the building.

After: One of the most important aspects of the renovation was the timeline. They came back to Sweeten, a free service that connects homeowners with vetted contractors, and found their general contractor. “We have this baby coming. Please, please don’t let there be construction going on when we have a baby,” Daniel recalled saying. Their Sweeten contractor understood the tight timeframe and kept the project moving, finishing a month before baby Adrian arrived.

The radiator dilemma was a key feature that Kate and Daniel’s Sweeten contractor helped to resolve. At one point, there was a complicated plan to rerun the steam pipe so the radiator could be installed on the floor. However, the contractor guided them toward removing the radiator altogether. The risky decision was a winner, with the rest of the apartment generating enough heat to keep the bathroom warm.

Fixing the water temperature issue was another unknown. The problem could have been in the wall of the bathroom or elsewhere in the building. Thankfully, it turned out to be inside the wall. “Our water temperature control is so beautiful, I feel like I am in a hotel,” said Daniel.

As for the aesthetic, the couple spent a lot of time on Pinterest. They went with classic subway tile for the walls and hexagonal tile in a royal blue colorway for the floor. Salvaged redwood planks along the bathtub added some warmth. The gold fixtures were an effort to mimic the brass found throughout the rest of the apartment.

Bonus: While on a trip to Puebla, Mexico, a few years ago, the couple bought a box of hand-painted tiles with no real purpose in mind. When Kate and Daniel’s Sweeten contractor proposed a nook in the shower for soap, they were able to incorporate some of the tiles into the design.

Style finds: Floor tile: American Restoration Tile. Wall tile: Daltile. Shower fixtures and toilet: Kohler. Charlottesville 42″ vanity in light gray: Fairmont Designs. Salvaged wood planks: Sawkill Lumber. Mirror: Restoration Hardware. Brass towel bars and train rack: Rejuvenation. Lighting and coat hooks: Schoolhouse Electric.

Check out Kate and Daniel’s Sweeten kitchen renovation!

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A bright blue waterfall of penny tile sets the tone in Rachel and Michael’s prewar, Jackson Heights bath.

Refer your renovating friends to Sweeten and you’ll both receive a $250 Visa gift card when they sign a contract with a Sweeten general contractor. 

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

The post A Return for a Royal Blue Bath appeared first on Sweeten.