Portlaoise Bathroom Design
File Under: Bathroom Design, Virtual Design Service
My client came to me for help selecting tiles for the shower and floor of her main-floor bathroom. She had replaced the shower wall tiles just the year before, but was quite unsatisfied with the result. Determined not to regret her next choice, she hired me to consult and ultimately redesign the bathroom.
She had a clear and gorgeous vision for the space, but wasn’t sure how to bring it to life. The final design drew inspiration from a selection of images she shared with me from Pinterest, along with the stunning exposed brass sink taps already featured in the room.
Because she wasn’t planning to make all the updates at once, the Virtual Design Service was the perfect solution. It provided her with a detailed design and styling plan that she could execute gradually with the help of her local tradespeople.
THE DESIGN
We really wanted to give the bathroom some modern-vintage charm while still making sure it worked well for everyday life. Since it’s the main bathroom on this floor for both the family and their guests, it needed to feel inviting and look beautiful. It also had to stand up to regular use by the kids and still be easy to keep tidy. The goal was to find that sweet spot between pretty and practical.
The Finishes
The partial wall moulding, painted in a berry red hue and paired with a tan and blue striped wallpaper, set the tone for a layered and charming space.
The shower wall tile, with its handmade quality and running bond pattern, looks truly timeless. A key factor in choosing this tile was the coordinating trim piece that finishes the edges beautifully. (I’m not partial to the commonly used Schluter trim unless the design calls for an industrial touch.)
For the floor, I suggested two classic black-and-off-white options: either an off-white penny tile with a black border or a small octagon (off-white) and dot (black) pattern. The client’s final selection will depend on her tradesperson’s confidence and pricing in fitting the tile border versus not.
The Furnishings
Before the redesign, there was no storage in the room. Considering the tight dimensions of the basin area and the budget, I recommended a round pedestal basin and a storage table to hold everyday items for the children who use the bathroom daily.
Other additions included a rechargeable wall light (no rewiring necessary!), a small metal-framed mirror, and a brass shelf for the basin area. The size of the last two pieces allowed the exposed taps to remain the focal point of this area.
Styling pieces I imagine would finish the space include vintage-inspired artwork, an antique wall cupboard (hello, more storage!), and a linen shower curtain (replacing the glass door) to bring softness and texture to the room.
BRINGING IT ALL TOGETHER
I’m really looking forward to seeing this design come to life! I provided a complete shopping list to the client so she knows exactly what to purchase to achieve this look.
Virtural Design Service
This design-only service offers a more comprehensive experience than a consultation, yet remains more accessible and budget-friendly than traditional full-service design. It’s an ideal solution for clients who want to create a space that feels considered and personal, without the constraints of rigid timelines or large upfront costs.
You’ll be guided through every step of the design process so that you are empowered to make thoughtful decisions that align with your lifestyle, values, and aesthetic preferences. I’ll work closely with you to craft a design plan that is as practical as it is beautiful, ensuring that each element—whether it’s the layout, finishes, or furnishings—complements your life and vision.
I love this approach because it allows for a thoughtful, sustainable way to adorn your home. Whether you're updating a single room or redesigning your whole space, you’ll have everything you need to create a home that truly reflects who you are.
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Mood Board: A curated collection of images, colors, and design elements to inspire your project.
Space Plan & Elevations: A detailed floor plan to enhance flow and functionality, plus interior elevations for implementation.
Finishes Selection: A cohesive selection of finishes—from tiles to fixtures—designed to pull your space together.
Furniture Selection: Handpicked furniture that fits your style and budget, with styling touches to complete the look.
Video Walkthrough: Videos to review your design with your builder or as a reference for ordering products.
Shoppable Item List: A list with links for easy purchasing and implementation on your timeline.
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Design-only means that I will provide a detailed design, but you as the client are responsible for purchasing, arranging delivery, and installing all the elements of your design. This approach empowers you to take charge of the entire implementation process, ensuring that all materials and elements align with your vision. You will have the flexibility to source items over time while adhering to the outlined design plan. It is essential to understand that while I provide comprehensive guidance, the execution and realization of the design rest in your hands.
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The investment starts at €600 per room.
