Bathroom Renovation in Marlborough, MA
Applewood Dr, Marlborough, MA
One of the key phases of this extensive home renovation at 100 Applewood Dr was the complete transformation of the bathroom. The primary goal was to breathe fresh life into the space while significantly improving daily functionality for the family.
Preparation & Code Compliance
- Flooring Substrate: For the flooring, we installed RedGard Uncoupling Mat directly on top of the existing plywood. This specialized mat prevents any natural movement or shifting of the wood substrate from transferring to the tile, which would otherwise cause cracks in the future. Whenever installing tile over wood, this type of preventative measure is critical to avoid long-term structural issues.
- Waterproofing & Walls: We applied a mold-preventative primer over the fresh plaster on the main walls. For the shower enclosure, we utilized heavy-duty cement board sealed with three coats of liquid RedGard waterproofing membrane for maximum protection.
- Mechanical Upgrades: The entire plumbing system was updated to ensure strict code compliance. The existing window was replaced with a new tempered glass window to meet local building codes, which mandate tempered safety glass for any bathroom window sitting below 60 inches from the shower sill. The electrical work was fully updated and brought up to modern standards as well.
Premium Tile Selection
Our project manager accompanied the client to the tile showroom, which is always a fantastic opportunity to align with the client’s vision and offer expert guidance.
After exploring various options, they selected a distinct 7-inch hexagon tile with a contemporary cement look for the bathroom floor. This same tile was extended up two full walls of the shower enclosure to create a clean, seamless flow. For the shower’s accent wall, they chose a stunning mosaic tile featuring elegant gray tones and subtle blue details. This identical mosaic pattern was carried into the custom shower niche. To complete the shower surround, a classic off-white subway tile was selected for the half-wall, giving the entire space a remarkably clean and modern aesthetic. (Note: The kitchen backsplash was also selected during this trip, which we will highlight exclusively in the 100 Applewood Kitchen portfolio section).
The Final Result
The finished design speaks for itself. The curated material palette pairs beautifully with a high-end Delta shower head and a brand-new Kohler bathtub.
To maximize storage and maintain a streamlined profile, we installed a sleek 30-inch vanity complemented by a seamless 30-inch recessed medicine cabinet. Selecting black hardware added a sharp, sophisticated contrast to the space. For illumination, we integrated a modern exhaust fan light combo alongside a striking waterfall LED strip inside the shower niche, creating a luxurious focal point. Finally, a soft gray wall color paired with crisp white trim perfectly wrapped up the entire design concept.
Final Considerations
This project perfectly illustrates how meticulous preparation and thoughtful design can completely redefine a space. By prioritizing crucial underlying details—like proper uncoupling membranes, strict code compliance, and advanced waterproofing—we ensured that this bathroom isn’t just visually stunning, but also built to last for decades to come. The blend of contemporary cement textures, classic subway tile, and striking custom LED niche lighting successfully achieved the clean, highly functional sanctuary this family deserved.
