A Dramatic, Hotel-Like Makeover for a Tiny And Old Bathroom

Renovating the bathroom is not as easy as it seems. While you can instantly update the look with new accessories and décor, keeping it safe and functional means having the right tiles and fixtures in place—especially if an elderly person uses it.

Homeowner Thessa Borromeo has been planning to renovate the private space of her parents for quite some time, but due to work and other commitments, the renovation had to take a back seat. To make it as comfortable as possible for them, they had to make do with DIY solutions like adding grab bars in every corner of the bathroom. “Nadulas ang Dad before, kaya pinuno namin ng bars so when they get dizzy, hahawak lang agad. We want to make it senior-friendly kaya lang wala kaming makitang designs,” she shares.

After her Dad’s passing in 2015, Thessa made it her mission to improve the space not only to ensure her Mommy Purita’s safety, but to help her move on from the sad event, as well, since the bathroom is located within her parents’ bedroom. “I asked for her permission first if we can change it kasi all the memories andun, e,” she adds. As fate willed, the bathroom was chosen for a Real Living makeover, an unexpected blessing that they’re more than happy to welcome. To transform the lackluster T&B into a safe, functional, and contemporary space, RL worked with Sanitec and interior designer Nikki Audine.

Sanitec has been providing quality products to consumers since 2003. Aside from making topnotch bath fixtures, fittings, accessories, and bath systems readily available in the market, they’ve also successfully brought trusted and premium brands like Cotto, CAE, Kohler, VRH, Primy, Viglacera, and Lecston, to name a few, to the Philippines.

After visiting the space, Nikki made a list of changes to be made and an initial game plan for the renovation. “Yung existing tiles ay madulas, tapos yung buong ceiling nakita ko may sira na siya. Inisip ko, paano magmumukhang hindi masikip yung space kasi yung itsura nya makintab na masikip. Parang hindi nakakahinga yung naliligo at kulob, hindi lumalabas yung amoy,” the designer relates. Thessa and Mommy Purita gave their complete trust to Nikki, allowing her to make the necessary adjustments to improve the space. Fortunately, the designer didn't have a hard time going around the Sanitec showroom to find the materials she will add to the bathroom. A dedicated sales associate helped her from selection to purchase making the process easier. It also helped that Sanitec's showroom are filled with vignettes that can be used as sources of inspiration.

Main Bathroom