Gothic-Aquatic Makeover Transforms Tiny Powder Room

DIYers Joe Bergantino and Ricky Gonzalez embarked on a historic drama of a renovation in their 1800s Chicago home. The tiny powder room, under the house's stairs, had textured peach walls, no light switch, and a pedestal sink that took up half of the already-tiny space. 'A masterclass in claustrophobia,' Joe described it.

The couple initially planned to strip the wall texture but soon discovered that the original lath and plaster walls were failing. This led to a full-blown gut job, with over 600 pounds of debris hauled away.

After two months of demolition, they had a blank slate. Adding new drywall was relatively easy, despite the tight, sloped ceiling. However, designing the new bathroom presented challenges. Joe had three nonnegotiables: a sleek and low-maintenance sink, protection for the bold wallpaper, and preservation of the original tile flooring.

The couple used Sherwin-Williams' 'Tricorn Black' paint on the ceiling and trim to blend with the neon-bright jellyfish wallpaper. The design 'transformed the room into a moody, immersive experience,' Joe said.