Monday, June 15, 2020

Bathroom Update

    It's been a while since I've posted anything here.  I'm going to blame it on the corona virus because that's what I'm using as my 2020 scapegoat.  The fact of the matter is, we've been super busy as a family.  Sometimes with scouting activities, sometimes with our jobs and sometimes with the work that's going on in the house.
     One of the things that we've been working on diligently since the Covid 19 outbreak is the downstairs bathroom.  This bathroom has been gutted for quite some time, but with the stimulus check and the cancellation of all our other extra curricular activities, we were able to get started on it again.  So Big E, my dad and I hit the Lowe's for supplies to get things rolling.

     Yes, they were less than thrilled at the photo op (but hey, we need to record history) and yes, masks are excellent at hiding extra chins (This is the only good thing about masks).  Armed with a list, we purchased drywall, cement board and floor tile.  I am especially excited about the floor tile.  While this bathroom is getting an overhaul and a 21st century upgrade, I am doing my best to keep as many elements close to the style of the early 1900's as possible.  I had chosen a floor tile that was all white with hexagons and small diamonds.  I was not super crazy about it. Mostly I disliked the diamond shapes. I wanted just a small hexagon pattern.  So, when we went to get the floor tile, I pointed out to Big E the tile I REALLY wanted to get.  It's a hexagon marble tile, and it was about $4 more per square foot. Big E and I typically disagree on things- we just have different tastes and visions (but really, we all know who's right). Surprisingly, he liked the tile too.  Then we showed my dad who also liked the tile (I mean really, there was no shrugging of shoulders or anything).  After much discussion, we ended up getting the more expensive and nicer tile.  After all, this is it. There won't be any remodeling of this bathroom once it's done.  And thanks to the virus stimulus check, we were able to do it.
     I won't be sharing a photo of the tile just yet.  I want to save that for the big reveal that I believe is actually going to happen this year.  But here is a sneak peek at the bathroom in its current state.

   This weekend we found an antique washstand to use for storing some towels and supplies (since the linen closet is upstairs) and we found the perfect bench for the little alcove behind the shower. The washstand will be stripped and refinished in a darker stain to match the bench top, and the bench legs are going to be painted a different color to match the wall color (an aqua blue).  The shower stall has the cement board installed except for the shampoo shelf (thanks to my dad), and Big E did the first coat of joint compound on the drywall.  The pedestal sink will go on the right next to the ladder (where the pipes are coming out of the wall), and I'm working on choosing a mirror for above the sink.
     So that's it for the bathroom update so far! Check back for updates!