Case Study: A Cosy, Practical Space Full of Character
Martin’s Bathroom Transformation: A Cosy, Practical Space Full of Character
When Martin first began planning his bathroom renovation, the goal was simple; replace the bath. But like many home projects, once ideas started flowing and possibilities opened up, the renovation quickly evolved into a complete transformation.
The result? A warm, homely bathroom that feels beautifully in keeping with the rest of the house while dramatically improving the layout, storage and overall usability of the space.

From Small Changes to a Full Renovation
“It started with needing a new bath and then things just snowballed!”
Martin explained that the previous bathroom felt quite clinical and lacked warmth. One of the biggest frustrations was the layout, particularly how the bath blocked access to the window and made the room feel more closed in.

Creating a better flow within the room quickly became the main priority.
“What mattered most was the change to a better room layout and access to the window.”
By rethinking the layout entirely, the new bathroom now feels brighter, more open and far easier to use day to day.
A Standalone Bath with Smarter Storage
Although the layout changed significantly, there were still key features Martin wanted to keep.
“We kept to a standalone bath which we always loved.” Martin opted for the Viktor Benson Elemi bath.
Alongside keeping the standalone bath, additional storage was incorporated around the sink area to make the room far more practical without compromising on style.
A bespoke vanity piece

One of the standout features in Martin’s new bathroom is the fully bespoke Josef Martin vanity unit, custom made specifically to suit the exact dimensions and style of the room. Designed in Martin’s chosen size and colour, the unit helped maximise storage while fitting seamlessly into the overall layout and traditional feel of the space. Exclusive to Bathshack, the Josef Martin range offers complete flexibility for homeowners looking for something tailored to their home, with custom sizing available to suit any room shape or layout, alongside a wide selection of colourways, finishes and handle options to create a truly personalised bathroom design.
The room was finished with stunning tiles also supplied by bathshack.
The finished space balances functionality with comfort, offering improved accessibility to both the shower and window while maintaining a cosy, traditional feel.
Keeping the Style True to the Home
Rather than opting for a modern ultra-minimal look, Martin wanted the bathroom to feel timeless and in character with the rest of the house.
“We kept the style old fashioned in keeping with the rest of the house.”
The final result is a bathroom that feels welcoming, warm and lived-in, a space that combines practicality with personality.
Martin summed the finished room up perfectly:
“Cosy, homely, workable.”
Renovation Advice from Martin
Having gone through the process himself, Martin shared some practical advice for anyone planning their own bathroom renovation:
“My renovation advice would be include everything you want to start with, when priced look at what you might not really need and work from there.”
It’s a great reminder that starting with the full vision can help prioritise the features that matter most once budgeting comes into play.
Shopping with Bathshack Coleraine

Martin chose to shop with our Coleraine store and praised both the products and the service he received throughout the process.
“We shopped with Bathshack and the service from Rhiannah was first class and very friendly.”
“Bathshack was the best products and value for money.”
We’re delighted to hear Martin had such a positive experience with Rhiannah and the Coleraine team, and we love seeing how this transformation came together into a bathroom that perfectly suits both the home and the homeowner.
Whether it’s a self-build, renovation, or room refresh, our team can help you find tiles and finishes that work everywhere - from bathrooms to bedrooms, kitchens to corridors, and everything in between.
Visit us online at www.bathshack.com or in-store today!
