1. Recessed Wall Cabinets The shapely pedestal sink gets a storage boost from the medicine cabinet and a small shelf. A recessed cabinet to the left of the sink keeps a hair dryer and curling iron hidden, reducing clutter. Extra-wide molding around both the cabinets is true to classic 1920s form.

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2. Vertical Expansion The owners of the 1924 home discovered that cabinets flanking the bathroom window were shorter than shown on the original blueprints. Extending the units to their intended height increased storage capacity and enhanced architectural character. Glass knobs on the cabinet doors add more period flavor.

3. Lighted Display Instead of repeating the look of the lower cabinets, each extension includes two display niches -- one open and one behind a semiopaque glass door -- lit by small halogen spotlights. The lights bring an aura of drama and mystery to the storage.

4. Marble Mini Counters Marble slabs salvaged from the kitchen's original counters top the tall cabinets, tying the bath to the home's history. The marble adds color and pattern and makes a durable shelf surface for small items.

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5. Tub-Surround Shelves Well-placed shelves also offer display and storage space in the tub area, where three coats of enamel paint and an acrylic sealer protect the beaded-board walls from water. The tub, like the sink, is original but was resurfaced for a fresh, clean look.

Better Baths 1-2-3

 

6. Seating with Storage A new window seat just above baseboard heat offers towel bins with drop-down doors. With the bins right above the heat, towels come out toasty warm on cold days. Vintage honeycomb floor tiles generate visual warmth underfoot.

 

7. Window Topper A long shelf near the ceiling frames the window, bridges the cabinets, and offers high storage and display for less-used and decorative items. The shelf parallels the lines of the blinds that replaced shutters.