Ep 11. Bathroom Redux

In season 1, episode 11 of Rehab Addict, titled "Bathroom Redux," host and rehabber Nicole Curtis tackles a challenging bathroom renovation in a 1920s bungalow located in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The small bathroom space features original period details, including hexagonal floor tiles and a pedestal sink, both of which Nicole is determined to save and restore. However, the bathroom also suffers from water damage, lack of storage, and a poorly designed layout, making it an ideal candidate for a complete overhaul.

Nicole's plan is to keep as much of the original charm of the space while modernizing it for everyday use. To accomplish this, she needed to reconfigure the layout and add more storage space. She decides to replace the old clawfoot tub with a more modern one that fits better in the space, along with a new toilet, vanity, and medicine cabinet, all designed to match the home's 1920s aesthetic.

As with many of her rehab projects, Nicole begins by demoing the bathroom, gutting it down to the studs. She discovers that the plumbing and electrical need upgrading, which only adds to the scope of the project. In typical Nicole fashion, she rolls up her sleeves and gets to work with the help of her crew, installing all new plumbing and electrical while also rebuilding the framing, repairing the plaster walls, and installing new drywall.

Once the basics are done, Nicole's focus turns to the details. In keeping with the home's vintage style, she chooses a black and white color scheme for the bathroom, opting for black hexagonal floor tiles that mimic the original ones, along with white subway tiles for the shower walls. She also adds glass mosaic tiles as a decorative accent in the shower, giving the space a bit of sparkle and glam.

To maximize storage, Nicole installs a custom-built medicine cabinet with mirrored doors and two shelves, along with a new vanity that features a trough sink and plenty of drawers. The deep sink and ample counter space make the bathroom practical for everyday use, while the vintage-style hardware and lighting fixtures add charm and character.

Throughout the episode, Nicole shares some of her expert tips and tricks for tackling a bathroom renovation, including how to level a floor, how to waterproof a shower, and how to tile a backsplash. She also reminds viewers of the importance of maintaining the original character of older homes, while still updating them for modern living.

At the end of the episode, the bathroom has been completely transformed from a dated and nonfunctional space to a beautiful and practical room that fits seamlessly with the rest of the vintage home. The new bathroom is sure to be a selling point for potential buyers, and it's a testament to Nicole's design talent and renovation expertise.