Primary Bathroom Remodel | St Paul, MN - Ben Quie & Sons

Primary Bathroom Remodel in Macalester-Groveland

For this primary bathroom remodel in a 1939 Colonial Revival in Macalester-Groveland, the goal was to turn an outdated layout into a bright, spa-like retreat for mom and dad. With twin boys keeping the household lively, they needed a space that felt calm and restorative—and a tub to escape to. The original bathroom lacked one entirely, so adding a soaking tub (along with a separate shower) was a top priority. They also wanted better lighting, updated finishes, and—most importantly—a clean, all-white palette.

Before: Awkward & Cramped

Over time, homes evolve—sometimes in unexpected ways. In this case, an earlier addition places a closet awkwardly within the primary bathroom. To create a more functional space, we removed the closet. But even with that change, we were still working with a long, narrow footprint.

In Progress

Move the slider to see the transformation.

Down to the Studs

As with every project, we took this bathroom down to the studs. Starting with a clean slate allowed us to rework the layout, address any hidden issues, and build a space that’s as functional as it is beautiful. This isn’t just a remodel—it’s a lasting investment in how they live, feel, and unwind at home.

Solution: Soaking Tub & Shower

We used the former closet space to create an open-concept tub and shower area. A frameless glass panel separates the two, keeping the layout open and easy to move through. To keep the space comfortable year-round, we installed a bath fan with an integrated heater.

Classic Style

This primary bathroom embraces the quiet luxury of white—crisp, clean, and effortlessly timeless. The beauty of an all-white palette is its versatility: it creates a calm foundation that can evolve over time with personal touches like artwork, linens, or seasonal decor.