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Bathroom Remodel Tips

Bathroom Renovation Secrets From an A-List Designer

December 25, 2013 by Angela Elias

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Bathroom Renovation Secrets From an A-List Designer

If you've got a case of bathroom blues, then consider Kishani Perera your resident design doctor. Aside from being the interiors guru for some of Hollywood's most stylish stars (case in point: clients Rachel Bilson and Molly Sims), the LA-based designer is an ace at working with all types of budgets. Inspired by one of her latest bathroom remodels, we asked her to share some tricks of the trade for transforming a lackluster bathroom.

Source: Kishani Perera

POPSUGAR: This floor makes such a statement! What are some other good options for people who might want to go with bold flooring?

Kishani Perera: I'm obsessed with this floor! It's a laser-cut marble chevron pattern that was custom made by our favorite tile and marble shop in LA, Royal Stone. In every room, there should always be one special feature to give it that pop. People tend to shy away from bold choices that are permanent, but the risks, if thought out properly, always pay off!

If marble is out of your budget, then try a hand-painted cement tile instead. These tiles are one of my favorite bathroom flooring options, because they provide a unique and graphic touch while also adding warmth and a hint of vintage charm. These beautiful tiles can be custom designed into almost any color combination and range from modern patterns to old-world Cuban designs. Two of my favorite cement tile companies that I frequently purchase from are Villa Lagoon and Granada Tile.

PS: I couldn't help but notice the modern floating tub in the bathroom – it's beautiful! What should people keep in mind if they're considering one for their own remodel?
KP: Lately, I've been implementing many clean-lined, freestanding tubs, because they capture the romance of a claw-foot tub for a modern setting. I advise clients who are considering a freestanding tub to think of several things: the desired view (which direction would you want to sit and face when soaking?), whether or not a shower will be included (rectangular tubs work best for shower combinations, because they minimize shower overspray on the floor), and your plumbing (you'll want to orient your plumbing on the opposite side — and possibly the drain, as well).

PS: The chandelier above the tub adds such a polished touch to the space. Do you have any tips for choosing pendants, chandeliers, or flush lighting that's functional but stylish?

KP: When it comes to lighting, I view the bathroom as if it were any other room in the house, one where you would add fixtures with flair, interest, and character. It's really easy to get stuck in the typical bathroom lighting rut — I think this comes out of fear that bath-specific lights need to be purchased because of the damp atmosphere. Although there is something to be said for taking moisture into consideration, proper air circulation will solve this issue.

The most important consideration when choosing bathroom lighting is functionality. For example, if you have a single sconce above your mirror, be sure to choose a downward-facing sconce to maximize your lighting. Or if you only have one pendant light centered in the space, go for a hanging fixture, or semiflush, that includes two or three lights to brighten up the space. You'll want as much light near the vanity mirror as possible!

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