A Blooming Ensuite Retreat: An Award Winning Primary Bathroom Transformation

Edina, MN

This award-winning primary bathroom renovation is a study in thoughtful problem solving, timeless design, and quiet luxury. What was once a disjointed, dated space left over from a 1970s addition has been transformed into a true ensuite retreat that feels intentional, elegant, and deeply functional.

The homeowners’ goal was clear. They wanted their primary bathroom fully connected to the bedroom for privacy and ease, enhanced storage for everyday use, and a design that honored traditional architectural details without sacrificing modern comfort. At the same time, the space presented several fixed constraints that required careful planning and creativity.

From Detached to True Ensuite

One of the most significant challenges was the bathroom’s original layout. The bathroom was right outside the primary bedroom. By reorienting the entry to the bedroom on the other side of the bathroom door, and creating a proper ensuite connection, the bathroom now flows naturally from the bedroom, improving both function and privacy.

A pocket door was introduced to resolve a long-standing issue where the entry door collided with the toilet. This simple but impactful change eliminated awkward circulation and reclaimed valuable usable space without altering the existing doorway or toilet location.

Maximizing Space Without Moving Walls

While the entry and toilet placement could not be changed and the vanity depth was fixed, the design team identified an opportunity to enlarge the shower by eliminating a hall closet. This strategic move allowed the shower to grow significantly, creating a more open and comfortable showering experience while maintaining the home’s original footprint.

Inside the shower, an unavoidable vent pipe bump was carefully integrated into the design so it feels intentional rather than intrusive. A built-in bench paired with a hand shower provides a practical place to sit, especially useful for rinsing off after gardening or simply enjoying a more relaxed shower experience.

Classic Design with Modern Comfort

Traditional detailing was a priority for the homeowners, and those elements are woven throughout the space. Crown molding, chair rail detailing, and baseboard tile add architectural depth and reinforce the home’s classic character.

The shampoo niche becomes a design feature rather than an afterthought, framed with chair rail molding to echo the rest of the room. This elevated detail transforms a purely functional element into a focal point within the shower.

Solving the Marble Dilemma

The homeowners loved the elegance of marble and wanted its timeless beauty reflected in the space. However, they were concerned about long term maintenance, particularly in the shower floor where durability and slip resistance are essential.

The solution was a thoughtful material pairing. Marble look hexagon porcelain tiles were used on the shower floor to visually mirror the natural stone flooring in the main bath area. This approach delivers the aesthetic continuity of marble while providing superior durability and easier maintenance in high moisture zones.

Warmth Where It Matters Most

Cold floors were another concern, especially in a Minnesota home. Radiant in floor heat was added to ensure year round comfort, making the bathroom feel welcoming even on the coldest mornings.

An outdated and visually intrusive heat register was relocated to a concealed toe kick beneath the vanity. This preserves clean sightlines while maintaining efficient heating throughout the space.

Storage Designed for Real Life

Storage was carefully planned to support daily routines without clutter. The vanity incorporates counterwall cabinets that provide dedicated space for toiletries, including electric toothbrushes, keeping countertops clean and organized.

Above the toilet, a classic train rack offers accessible towel storage while reinforcing the room’s traditional aesthetic. Additional robe hooks allow bath towels to be stored efficiently without taking up valuable wall space.

Beauty with Safety in Mind

Safety enhancements were seamlessly integrated into the design. Grab bars were strategically placed in the shower and near the toilet to provide support without drawing attention away from the overall aesthetic. These features ensure the bathroom is not only beautiful, but also supportive and comfortable for long term use.

A Statement That Blooms

The finishing touch is the statement wallpaper that gives this bathroom its distinctive personality. Delicately outlined Jacobean floral vines in crisp white silhouettes dance across a rich blue background, adding depth, elegance, and a subtle pop of color. The wallpaper brings warmth and charm to the space, softening the marble inspired surfaces and creating a room that feels both refined and inviting.

A Space That Balances Form and Function

This primary bathroom is a testament to how thoughtful design can transform limitations into opportunities. By blending traditional detailing with modern solutions, addressing practical concerns without sacrificing beauty, and designing for how homeowners truly live, the space now functions as a serene and sophisticated ensuite retreat.

It is not just a bathroom. It is a space designed to be lived in, enjoyed, and admired for years to come.