Project 2
About The Project
Located in central St Albans, this project involved transforming a small, awkwardly shaped bathroom within a traditional Victorian house into a contemporary master bedroom ensuite. The existing space was limited and difficult to work with, requiring a thoughtful approach to the layout to ensure every element had its place.
The client wanted a beautiful, restful and fully functional space that combined modern convenience with a calm, sophisticated feel. The challenge was to maximise the available room while accommodating a shower, toilet, bidet and vanity unit, creating a balanced design that felt comfortable and cohesive without compromising on practicality.
Location: Central St Albans
Project type: Bathroom conversion and ensuite design
Design Shaped Around You
The Design Approach
Making the most of the available space was essential. A sliding pocket door was introduced to improve access and create more usable room inside the ensuite. The layout was carefully planned around the shower, toilet, bidet and vanity unit, ensuring each element fitted comfortably while maintaining sufficient circulation space.
I also coordinated the builder and plumber, managed the project and assisted with sourcing the required materials and fittings.
Bringing The Design Together
The design combines contemporary finishes with the character of the original Victorian property. A soft green vanity unit introduces a calming touch of colour, while carefully selected porcelain tiles bring warmth and cooler tones together to complement the different metal finishes.
Chrome fittings were a key preference for the client, while the original sash windows featured polished brass hardware. Rather than allowing these finishes to clash, the tile selection helped create a cohesive and balanced scheme.
Overcoming The Challenges
The existing hot water system was insufficient for a modern shower, requiring a new plumbing solution to be installed discreetly. This work also needed to preserve original period features across two floors.
The narrow layout presented further challenges, with the positioning and dimensions of the toilet, bidet, shower and vanity unit all requiring careful consideration to maximise comfort and functionality.
The Result
The finished ensuite transforms a previously dysfunctional bathroom into a contemporary, practical and restful space. Through thoughtful space planning, considered material choices and careful coordination, the design balances modern convenience with the character of the original Victorian home.
Kind Words From Clients
I met Viktoryia through my friends and immediately I felt at ease with her. I had some rough ideas how to improve my living room, but due to the lack of time and creativity, all those ideas couldn’t materialise. I have spoken to Viktoryia on how I like my living room to change as at the past it was mainly used by my husband and there were lots of cables, devices and gadgets. I wanted to create tasteful and used by all family living room, so all members of my family could enjoy the space. Victoria scheduled initial visit free of charge and we spent at least 2 hours planning on improvements. In a couple of days I received an email with rough ideas, drawings and collages on possible solutions. After some thinking the design was chosen and Viktoryia directed me to the places I can order or buy furniture and other items. She always responded on my calls/ emails/watsups even during weekends and evenings and gave me all the attention I needed. She also accompanied me to some of the shops to help me choosing items. In general, I am very happy with the service I received and would recommend Viktoryia as an interior designer to everyone. My family and I enjoying our new, colourful and multifunctional living room and I have received lots of compliments from my visitors.
