Bathroom Renovation Brings New Life to Elwood Townhouse

Project Overview

This Elwood renovation, led by Renovation Consultant Leigh McDonald and delivered by Refresh Renovations Australia, breathed new life into a pair of dated upstairs bathrooms in a charming 3-bedroom townhouse. The homeowner had experienced a common renovation frustration: being left limbo by a previous builder who abruptly stopped communication. With tiles, fixtures, and fittings already purchased, she needed a trustworthy team to pull everything together professionally and precisely.

Refresh Renovations was brought into the project via a neighbourly connection; the designer working with the Refresh team was also the homeowner’s next-door neighbour. This not only built trust but also streamlined the design process. With an overseas holiday planned during the project period, the client asked that the work be completed while she was away to avoid any inconvenience.

The result? A complete bathroom upgrade was delivered precisely on time.

Major Challenges

Unlike many bathroom renovations, this project did not involve significant structural or logistical challenges. The design was largely set, the materials had been sourced, and the client was clear on her goals: functional improvements and stylish updates to improve future resale value.

That said, managing a project with pre-purchased materials still required careful coordination. Fixtures needed to be incorporated seamlessly into the final layout, and the team needed to work within the constraints of the existing decisions, ensuring everything aligned with the homeowner’s aesthetic vision.

Design Highlights

The renovation focused on refreshing two key spaces: a 10m² main bathroom built in the early 1900s, and a compact ensuite.

One of the standout functional upgrades was relocating the toilet in the main bathroom. By shifting it to an external wall, the team was able to open up the layout, creating a much more spacious and user-friendly environment. This single change significantly improved the overall functionality of the space, while retaining the home's period character.

With no need for a complete redesign, the emphasis was on meticulous execution. The tiles and fittings the client had selected were integrated with care, and the final result felt cohesive, elegant, and well-planned.

Soft tones and clean finishes gave both bathrooms a timeless appeal, while thoughtful detailing, such as sleek tiling and updated fixtures, ensured a modern touch. The refreshed layout maximised usability without adding unnecessary complexity.

Project Execution

Refresh Renovations managed the end-to-end construction process, from demolition to final painting. Trades involved included electricians, plumbers, plasterers, waterproofers, tilers, painters, glaziers, and carpenters, coordinated under a tight timeline that aligned with the client’s travel schedule.

Having a clear window for the build helped the team maintain momentum and avoid disruption. All work was completed within the original 35-day forecast, ensuring the project wrapped up in time for the client’s return from overseas.

Though the renovation didn’t require council consent, the team’s sequencing and project management expertise ensured smooth execution, with all trades aligned and accountable.

Client Feedback

The client appreciated the professionalism and structure that Refresh Renovations brought to the project, especially after her prior experience with a non-communicative builder. With decisions already made and finishes pre-ordered, her primary concern was finding a team capable of delivering the vision on time.

By referencing past case studies and clearly outlining the cost expectations, Renovation Consultant Leigh McDonald helped the homeowner confidently through the process. The result was a stress-free renovation that aligned with her travel plans and met her design goals.

Final Thoughts

This Elwood bathroom upgrade shows the value of trusted project management, especially when stepping in to rescue a half-started renovation. With design integrity, deadline discipline, and a homeowner-first approach, Refresh Renovations turned a stalled plan into a beautifully finished space.

If you’re seeking a dependable team to bring your renovation vision to life, contact Renovation Consultant Leigh McDonald and the Refresh Renovations Australia team to get started.