Project Overview

This Seattle bathroom remodel was a transformative project focused on converting an outdated and underutilized bathtub into a modern, spacious, and highly functional walk-in shower. The homeowners wanted to create a more open and luxurious feel in their bathroom, while also improving safety and accessibility. Their primary goal was to replace the bulky tub with a sleek, low-threshold shower that would be easier to use and maintain. They envisioned a clean, contemporary design with high-end finishes that would not only elevate the aesthetics of the space but also add long-term value to their home.

The existing layout presented some challenges, including the need to reconfigure the plumbing to accommodate the new, larger shower drain and fixtures. Our team at Grand Building Construction carefully planned the demolition and reconstruction to minimize disruption to the rest of the home. The transformation was dramatic: the new walk-in shower, complete with full-height tile, a custom shampoo niche, and a stunning fluted accent wall, instantly made the bathroom feel larger and more inviting. The choice of matte black finishes and a frameless glass door added a touch of modern elegance, while the fresh coat of paint provided a crisp, clean backdrop for the new design. The result is a beautiful and practical bathroom that perfectly aligns with the homeowners’ vision and lifestyle.

Project Details

Materials & Finishes Used

• Shower Walls: Full-height porcelain tile in a “Calacatta Gold” finish for a marble look.
• Accent Wall: Fluted porcelain tile in a matching “Calacatta Gold” finish to create a textured, high-end feature wall.
• Shower Floor: Non-slip hexagonal porcelain mosaic tile in a complementary neutral tone.
• Fixtures: Delta Trinsic series in Matte Black finish, including shower head, valve trim, and handle.
• Shampoo Niche: Custom-built, fully waterproofed recessed niche with a solid quartz shelf.
• Glass Door: 3/8-inch thick frameless tempered glass shower door with matte black hardware.
• Paint: Sherwin-Williams “Pure White” (SW 7005) in a moisture-resistant satin finish for the walls and ceiling.

Our Process

Step 1: Initial Consultation & Design

The project began with a thorough consultation to understand the homeowners’ goals and vision. We discussed their frustrations with the existing bathtub and their desire for a modern, walk-in shower. Our design team then created a detailed 3D rendering to help them visualize the final space, including the tile layout, fixture placement, and the fluted accent wall. See our work in our before & after gallery.

Step 2: Demolition and Plumbing Rough-In

Once the design was approved, our crew carefully demolished the old bathtub and surrounding tile. We protected the rest of the bathroom and adjacent areas to contain dust and debris. Our licensed plumbers then reconfigured the plumbing, replacing the old 1.5-inch tub drain with a new 2-inch shower drain to meet current building codes and ensure proper drainage.

Step 3: Installation & Tile Work

With the plumbing in place, we installed the new shower pan and applied a comprehensive waterproofing system to the walls and floor. Our expert tile setters then meticulously installed the full-height porcelain tiles, the intricate fluted accent wall, and the custom shampoo niche. This phase requires precision and artistry to ensure a beautiful and long-lasting result.

Step 4: Fixtures, Glass, and Final Touches

In the final stage, we installed the matte black fixtures, the frameless glass door, and gave the entire bathroom a fresh coat of paint. We conducted a final walkthrough with the homeowners to ensure every detail was perfect and that they were completely thrilled with their new bathroom. For more on project costs, see our remodeling cost guide.

Permitting & Code Compliance

For a tub-to-shower conversion in Seattle, both a plumbing permit and a building permit are typically required. The plumbing permit is necessary because the drain size needs to be increased from 1.5 inches to 2 inches to comply with Washington state building codes for showers. Grand Building Construction handled the entire permitting process for the homeowner, from application to final inspection. We ensure that all our work is fully compliant with local codes and regulations, giving our clients peace of mind that their project is built to the highest standards of safety and quality.

Why Choose Grand Building Construction?

At Grand Building Construction, we are committed to delivering exceptional quality and value to our clients in the greater Seattle/Tacoma area. We believe in honest work, transparent communication, and competitive pricing. Our team of skilled professionals is flexible and dedicated to bringing your vision to life, whether it’s a simple update or a complete remodel. We pride ourselves on our craftsmanship and our ability to complete projects on time and on budget, ensuring a smooth and stress-free remodeling experience for every homeowner.