The last time I checked in with an update on my pink bathroom remodel was just after I finished grouting the wall tile. With all the final details now coming together, there will be a bundle more stories to come — with all the nitty gritty details. But this week — since so much progress has occurred — Pam suggested I make a little video giving everyone the “penultimate” tour. Yes, Pam has expanded my vocabulary with this new-to-me word, which means “next to last” — as in, now it’s time to add the final perceptible particulars to put my pretty pink potty palace perfectly in place.
Can you believe — it has been six months since I started my bathroom remodel, with the demo? And, we checked the archive — my very first story, when this project was a solid twinkle in my eye — was June 2012. Yikes. See how long it takes to make things happen in a thoughtfully planned Retro Renovation?
As the project progressed, I had to push my self-imposed goal end back repeatedly — three times altogether, ack! The first deadline — 4th of July — now seems like a ridiculously impossible one, and my second, though more realistic “done before my birthday” (end of September) was sadly also a pipe dream. Thankfully, with only some caulking, towel bar hanging, a few knobs to put on and a thorough post-construction clean left to complete, I have full conficence that I will meet my third deadline — done before family arrives for Thanksgiving dinner.
This remodel has been a long, hard road, but the satisfaction and excitement I feel now has made it all worth while. Next time you get an update from me — the bathroom will be DONE!
Mary Elizabeth says
Wow, Kate, super job! It was great seeing the vanity, your first cabinetry job. You will be happy with your choice of European-style hinges and full-extension drawer slides. I like the white Formica with flecks and the natural wood color–perfect setting for your rescued sink and Hudee ring and the large mirror and cabinettes. (Don’t remember where you got those, but they’re perfect.)
Just a little caulk around the vanity and the toilet base, and your bathroom will be functioning well enough for day guests on Thanksgiving. Never mind about the shower handles and towel racks. Put a roll of TP on the toilet tank and put some hand towels out on the vanity.
I, too, usually prefer painted walls these days. But like Jeanne’s idea of wallpaper there. The bathroom is large and monochromatic enough that a little wallpaper would look nice. If it’s meant to be, some NOS rolls will fall off a truck in front of your house.
Or, since you have arts training, you could do something with paint–like stripes, random geometric, or some kind of mural–flamingos landing in a lake? 🙂 Vintage wallpaper murals come up on eBay sometimes, and I’m thinking of doing one in my second bathroom with the really tall ceiling.
Kate says
Thanks Mary Elizabeth! Yes, my first carpentry project turned out pretty well. It took A LONG TIME but the result is just as I imagined. 🙂
I’m really digging the walls as they are now, but that being said — I am on the lookout for wall decor to go in this space. There may not be wallpaper or a mural, but at some point, there will be something hanging on the walls. 🙂
Robin, NV says
Kate – what you’ve done is truly amazing. I still can’t believe you tiled it all yourself AND built that beautiful vanity. I was feeling pretty proud for painting the trim on my house this weekend but your bathroom project is astounding.
By the way, you made me realize I’ve been using penultimate incorrectly all these years. I thought it meant the “ultimate ultimate.” Nevertheless, your bathroom IS the “ultimate ultimate” pink retro remodel. Congrats on a job well done!
Kate says
Thanks Robin, I’m pretty proud of myself! It was A LOT of work, but totally worth it. I’m SUPER EXCITED and every time I go in there, I get all giggly and smile until my face hurts. 🙂
Robin, NV says
What makes this truly awesome is that you did it with new materials (aside from the sink). That’s awesome for two reasons: 1) it means that pink materials and fixtures are still available (despite the color’s supposed fall from popularity) and 2) buying new pink stuff sends a message to manufacturers and retailers that there is a market for “retro” colors. You go girl.
db says
Congratulations on a job well done! It looks fantastic!
lynda says
I am sure you saw this….Christmas is coming??
http://www.rejuvenation.com/catalog/products/mid-century-star-toilet-paper-holder
Roundhouse Sarah says
Lookin’ good! Can’t wait for the starburst final touches!
Kim says
Awesome job! It looks beautiful- love it- especially considering you did all of it yourself!
jeanne says
Congratulations! What an accomplishment, Kate! And it’s beautiful to boot. Can’t wait to read about the vanity. That toilet is gorgeous, if I do say so myself. LOL. I have radiant heat envy. 😉
Just one question…any wallpaper in the bathroom’s future?
Kate says
Thanks Jeanne!
At this moment, no wallpaper — however, if I did happen to acquire the right amount of a vintage pattern that I REALLY loved, I would consider it. I’m more of a “less is more” decorator when it comes to the walls (paint is more my speed) but it is not out of the question.
lynda says
You did a fabulous job, Kate. You should be proud. It is amazing how long DIY jobs can take, but they are so rewarding!
Kate says
Thanks Lynda —
Yes, DIY gut remodels take a looooooong time. This one clocked in at 6 months, 6 days.
Jay says
Rats! I have to wait until this evening to view. Blocked at work.
thatmidcenturyfella says
Looks great Kate! I know you’ve been working hard on this and it shows! Put another pink bathroom “saved” on the board, Pam!