Striking Ensuite Renovation with Fluted Glass in Seatoun

Project Overview

This ensuite renovation in Seatoun, managed by Lia and her team at Refresh Renovations Wellington. The design was led by Design Consultant Tina Daisley showcasing how thoughtful design, smart spatial reconfiguration, and standout materials can transform an outdated space into a showstopping retreat.

Previously, the ensuite and WC were separate, with the toilet accessed from the hallway and the shower accessible only through the bedroom. The homeowners sought to improve functionality and natural light while creating a seamless, modern aesthetic. The redesign included opening the layout, integrating the WC into the ensuite, widening the bathroom window, and incorporating bold design elements like dark walls and custom fluted glass.

Minor Issues

Although relatively compact, the space presented structural and logistical hurdles that required clever solutions:

• Ceiling Alignment: The WC and shower areas originally had differing ceiling heights. Rather than creating a disjointed nook, the Refresh team decided to run a continuous ceiling line. This decision simplified the construction and created a more open, cohesive look.
• Hidden Pipework: Two pipes were discovered within the wall cavity during the recessed mirror cabinet installation. The plumber successfully rerouted a live water pipe and removed the redundant line, allowing the design to proceed without visible compromise.
  
  

These minor issues were managed without disrupting the broader timeline and were a testament to meticulous planning and skilled execution.

Design Highlights

The ensuite now feels sleek, striking, and intentionally luxurious. The room's centrepiece is the custom fluted shower glass, which creates both a tactile and visual statement. Paired with the dark "Resene Baltic Sea" wall colour and offset by crisp "Resene Alabaster" trims and ceiling, the shower area commands attention while maintaining a sense of elegance.

The black velvet Dante mirror cabinet and Athena Sirocco Soltero vanity from Mico introduce a modern contrast and texture. Placing the bidet toilet behind a partial privacy wall enhanced functionality and allowed for better spatial flow.

Every design decision from colour scheme to hardware was guided by the client’s clear vision, which the Refresh team translated into a beautifully executed space.

Project Execution

The project required council consent, particularly for structural work including a new lintel for the widened window, bracing walls, drainage modifications, and waterproofing adjustments. With approvals secured, the team completed the full scope of work, including demolition, construction, plumbing, electrical, glazing installation, and decoration.

Refresh Renovations handled every detail from start to finish, ensuring a stress-free experience while the homeowners were on holiday. Thanks to expert coordination and open communication, the project was only delayed by one week due to lead times on the fluted glass.

To further customise the design, the client opted for a 40mm polished hole in the glass rather than a standard handle, another example of how personal touches were integrated.

Client Feedback

The client was thrilled with the outcome and particularly impressed by how the new layout improved usability and light. The ensuite now feels like a completely different modern, well-lit, thoughtfully designed space. The decision to proceed with a cohesive ceiling line and incorporate the fluted glass helped elevate the project beyond a standard update.

Final Thoughts

This Seatoun ensuite is an excellent example of how even renovations of small spaces can deliver bold transformations when paired with expert design, planning and execution. From clever layout reconfiguration to dramatic material choices, the result is a stunning and practical space tailored to modern living.

Contact Refresh Renovations consultant Lia and her team in Wellington for ensuite transformations that blend function with design excellence to begin your renovation journey.