Space-Saving Bathroom Remodel – South Philly Row House
JHN Contractor LLC recently completed a compact yet highly efficient bathroom remodel in a classic South Philadelphia row house. The homeowners were dealing with a very tight footprint, common in many historic Philly homes, and needed a complete transformation that maximized every inch of space without compromising on comfort or style.
Challenges of Remodeling in a Row House
Row houses, especially older ones in South Philly, often present unique challenges: narrow layouts, outdated plumbing, and little to no natural light. In this case, the original bathroom was cramped and lacked functionality, with aging fixtures and limited storage. Our mission was to create a smart, modern, and welcoming space that felt larger than it actually was.
Optimized Layout and Custom Fixtures
To enhance usability, we reconfigured the layout to make better use of the available area. The bulky old bathtub was replaced with a sleek corner shower enclosure featuring frameless glass doors, instantly opening up the room and improving light flow. We also installed a wall-hung vanity, which created the illusion of more floor space and allowed for easier cleaning.
The new toilet was relocated to a more practical position, improving both comfort and circulation. We added recessed wall niches inside the shower and next to the vanity for functional, space-saving storage that doesn’t interrupt the design flow.
Modern Finishes with a Vintage Touch
The clients wanted to retain a bit of Old Philly charm, so we incorporated vintage-style ceramic tiles on the floor, laid in a modern herringbone pattern for visual interest. The shower walls were tiled in crisp white subway tile with dark grout for a clean, urban look that references the home’s original character.
Chrome fixtures and minimalist lighting kept the room bright and fresh, while a pivot mirror above the vanity added a traditional accent. A custom frosted glass window was also installed to enhance privacy while still letting in daylight.
Practical Upgrades That Make a Difference
Despite the bathroom’s small size, we packed in modern upgrades, including:
- Moisture-resistant paint to protect walls in a humid environment
- Energy-efficient LED lighting to improve visibility and lower electricity use
- High-efficiency plumbing fixtures that conserve water without compromising performance
- Quiet, compact exhaust fan to manage ventilation and reduce humidity buildup
Smart Design in Small Spaces
This remodel is proof that limited space doesn’t mean limited potential. By choosing the right materials, layout, and design elements, we created a bathroom that feels airy, contemporary, and built to last. The South Philly homeowners were thrilled with the outcome — a fresh, modern bathroom that enhances their daily life and adds real value to their property.