Contemporary Bathroom & Ensuite Transformation in Highgate

Project Overview

The homeowners wanted to modernise their outdated bathrooms and improve the overall functionality of the home. Along with upgrading the existing bathroom, the project also included building two new en-suites to help transform the property into a more practical three-bedroom, three-bathroom home.

The house had undergone termite treatment around 10 years earlier, but the clients were still concerned about damaged timber hidden within the walls. At the same time, they wanted the renovated spaces to feel modern, high-quality, and comfortable for everyday living. They were looking for bathrooms that not only looked beautiful but also added long-term value and practicality to the home.

Timeline was one of the biggest priorities for the clients. The renovation needed to start within a very specific window and be fully completed before overseas visitors arrived. This meant the entire project had to be carefully planned and delivered within a strict seven-week timeframe. The homeowners also needed enough time after handover to move furniture back into place and prepare the rest of the home before their guests arrived.

Design & Planning

Refresh Renovation Consultant Natalie Zeni and her team handled both the design and build process for the renovation.

The design focused on creating bathrooms that felt clean, modern, and relaxing while also improving practicality. Lighting became a major feature throughout the spaces, helping create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The clients selected several modern bathroom products, including Amelie Lumi mirrors and Otti Newport shaving cabinets. These mirrors included motion-sensor lighting and adjustable light colours, allowing the ambience of each bathroom to change depending on the mood or time of day.

The project also involved upgrading electrical systems, including rewiring older wiring where required, to improve safety and functionality throughout the bathrooms. Plumbing systems were also upgraded beneath the bathroom floors to support the new layouts and improve long-term performance.

Project Execution

The renovation included:

• Construction of two new ensuites
• Renovation of the existing bathroom
• Full plumbing upgrades
• Excavation of bathroom floors for new plumbing systems
• Electrical rewiring and upgrades
• Installation of shaving cabinets and illuminated mirrors
• Tiling works throughout all wet areas
• Timber repairs
• Glazing and plastering works

A wide range of trades worked together during the build, including plumbers, electricians, tilers, carpenters, plasterers, glaziers, pest control specialists, and concreters.

Because of the tight timeline, the team carefully coordinated every stage of the renovation. Contractors also worked weekends to help ensure the project stayed on track and could be handed over on time.

Challenges Overcome

One of the biggest challenges appeared after construction preparations began. Although the home had previously undergone termite treatment, further termite-damaged timber was discovered inside the walls.

Before the bathroom work could continue, the damaged timber needed to be repaired properly. This added pressure to an already tight schedule.

Rather than allowing delays to affect the handover date, Natalie and her team quickly organised the required repairs and carefully managed the updated schedule. Through detailed project coordination and the commitment of all contractors involved, the project was still completed within the planned timeframe.

Client Experience

The clients were highly focused on both quality and timing from the beginning of the project. They needed confidence that the work would be completed before their overseas guests arrived, while still achieving a high-end finish.

Working with Refresh Renovation Consultant Natalie Zeni and her team helped make the process organised and efficient, even when unexpected structural issues were discovered.

The final bathrooms delivered exactly what the homeowners hoped for, modern, stylish spaces with improved comfort and functionality.

One of the standout features was the illuminated mirror system. The surrounding lighting creates a soft ambience within each bathroom, while the adjustable light settings allow the atmosphere to change throughout the day.

Final Thoughts

This project successfully transformed outdated bathrooms into modern and functional spaces while also improving the overall layout of the home.

Despite unexpected termite damage and a strict seven-week timeline, the renovation was delivered on schedule through strong project management and teamwork.

By combining practical upgrades with modern finishes and feature lighting, Natalie Zeni and her team created bathrooms that feel both luxurious and highly functional for everyday living.

If you are considering a renovation for your Adelaide South home, Natalie is here to help. Contact Natalie today!