We started with the bathroom!
When Cami and I first took over ownership of this cabin in the fall of 2024, we knew right away that we wanted to take a simple property built in 1995 and modernize it! We've both always had a passion for midcentury design that can meet modern technology and interior design. It was our goal to bring a blend of both to this property! So, with the help of our dear friend Susie Willink, we got started. She said the best place to start is the bathroom, so we did! It was a lot of trips to HomeDepot, shopping online, measuring, getting estimates, and more. I always knew I could get Susie's opinions in the mornings because she loved shopping online on the weekend mornings! Easy peasy. Cami was always a moving target but could definitely bring us back down to reality, which helped a lot. At first, the bathroom had an oversized vanity which was the wrong size for the small bathroom. We wanted to open it up and make it feel roomy!
Reimagining the Space
The first big decision we made was to scale down the vanity. A bulky, outdated cabinet had been overwhelming the small space, so we opted for a sleek, modern vanity in a deep teal tone. This instantly gave the bathroom breathing room, while the clean lines provided the modern simplicity we were aiming for. Pairing it with a crisp white sink helped keep the look fresh and airy.
Above it, we installed a round, gold-framed mirror. The circular shape broke up the sharp lines of the room, adding balance and softness while reinforcing that midcentury feel. Good lighting was a must, so we updated the fixture to a warm, diffused glow that bounces beautifully off the wallpaper.
Playing with Pattern and Texture
One of the most daring choices was the wallpaper. We fell in love with a bold floral-and-dragonfly print that felt nostalgic, whimsical, and just a little bit unexpected. Against the navy blue metal roof, yes I said metal roof material (from Menards) and trim, the wallpaper makes a statement without being overwhelming. It ties into the cabin’s lakeside charm—nature-inspired, yet polished. We wanted it to appeal to anyone!
By carrying the navy blue metal around the room, we anchored the space and gave it structure. This contrast makes the wallpaper pop while adding depth to the room. It’s a bold design move that instantly transformed the bathroom from “generic cabin” to something with personality and story. We didn't want our cabin to feel old, with inherited furniture from the 70s!
A Cohesive Color Story
Gold became our accent color of choice, showing up in the faucet, shower fixtures, mirror frame, towel hooks, and even the toilet lever. The brushed gold finish feels warm, timeless, and elegant without being too flashy. To carry this through, we layered in plush mustard-yellow towels. The towels not only tie into the gold hardware but also bring a burst of color that brightens the space against the darker wallpaper.
Every piece feels intentional: the stacked rolled towels on the wall shelf look both functional and hotel-inspired, while the neatly hung hand towels keep things cozy and inviting.
The Shower Update
The shower was another key area we wanted to modernize. We chose simple white tiles with soft gray veining, classic and timeless then elevated the look with gold fixtures. The handheld shower head gives flexibility and function, while the clean lines of the trim and handle keep everything sleek. The glass shower door allows light to flow through, making the whole bathroom feel more open and airy.
Balancing Form and Function
For us, design is never just about looks, it has to be practical. We made sure there was plenty of storage for towels, mounted hooks and racks in convenient spots, and even considered the little details like tissue box placement and keeping toiletries minimal. Everything has a purpose, and everything contributes to the overall design.
The Result
In the end, the bathroom turned out to be the perfect blend of modern sophistication and playful charm. It feels fresh and functional, yet it still has the character and coziness that fits the cabin’s personality. By mixing bold wallpaper, warm gold accents, and rich colors, we transformed a dated 90s bathroom into a space that feels curated, intentional, and full of life.
And best of all, it sets the tone for the rest of the cabin renovations to come. Come see it for yourself and let us know what you think!
We'd love to have you as our guests,
Tony & Cami
