Modern Heritage: A Bathroom, Powder Room & Playroom Transformation in Talbot Park, Norfolk, VA
May 2nd, 2025Andrea Picardi, Marketing Director
In the historic Talbot Park neighborhood of Norfolk, we had the pleasure of transforming a 1940s home into a timeless and functional retreat for a modern family. With a focus on refined materials and thoughtful design, we brought new life to the upstairs bathroom, first-floor powder room, and second-floor playroom — each space blending modern convenience with a relaxed, coastal-inspired aesthetic.
Upstairs Bathroom: A Modern Classic in a Unique Footprint
Working with the original layout of the upstairs bathroom, we leaned into the room’s unique footprint and created a serene, light-filled space with a timeless finish. The flooring and shower feature polished Bianco Carrara honeycomb tile, while the wainscoting and shower walls are finished in vertical offset Blanco Carrara tile, giving a soft architectural feel.
Before
Before
After
After
A compact Kohler Cimarron toilet—round front for space efficiency—proves that smaller rooms can be just as elegant as larger ones. The lighting, a Visual Comfort Ellis bath light, casts a warm glow over this balanced blend of modern, traditional, and transitional elements. Walls were painted in Sherwin Williams Pure White for a clean, airy finish.
Bathroom Remodel Details
Though compact, this bathroom is full of thoughtful details and luxury finishes. Small spaces offer the perfect opportunity to elevate design with high-quality materials and fixtures.
- Pedestal Sink: Kohler Memoirs Stately
- Toilet: Kohler Cimarron (compact round front for space-saving)
- Shower Fixtures: Brizo Odin and Litze Collections
- Faucet & Accessories: Brizo Litze
- Medicine Cabinet: Kohler Verdera, surface mount with mirrored edges
- Lighting: Visual Comfort Ellis bath light
- Paint: Sherwin Williams Pure White
Second-Floor Playroom: Fresh, Functional, and Family-Friendly
For the second-floor playroom (often called the FROG—Finished Room Over Garage), we created a playful yet polished space that balances design with durability. We removed old carpet and wallpaper, replacing it with Grandview Layland LVP by Eastern Flooring Products, a resilient and stylish flooring choice ideal for active kids.
Before
After
Walls were dressed in Thibaut grasscloth wallpaper, lending subtle texture and coastal character, while the trim was painted Sherwin Williams Shiitake for warmth and contrast. Overhead, the Visual Comfort Helios Semi-Flush Mount light fixture adds a clean, modern look with just the right amount of charm. It’s now a cheerful and cozy space where the children can play, grow, and make memories for years to come.
Playroom Renovation Details
This space now balances playfulness and polish—perfect for making memories and hosting everything from LEGO towers to cozy movie nights.
- Flooring: Grandview Layland LVP by Eastern Flooring Products
- Walls: Thibaut grasscloth wallpaper
- Trim: Sherwin Williams Shiitake
- Ceiling Light Fixture: Visual Comfort Helios Semi-Flush Mount
Powder Room: Bold Personality in a Small Package
The first-floor powder room is a standout example of how small spaces can shine with the right materials and details. Just because a room is compact doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be luxurious — in fact, these are the perfect places to invest in a few elevated finishes that make a big impact.
Before
After
We installed Carrara marble herringbone tile on the floor for an elegant, timeless foundation. The client crafted a stunning custom walnut vanity, topped with ISG’s Calacatta Oro quartz. A showstopping Kohler Artist Editions Derring sink in Bluestone Rutile adds texture and artistry, paired with a Signature Hardware Greyfield faucet in chrome.
The finishing touches include Visual Comfort Camille sconces, a Pottery Barn Louise Rectangular Wall Mirror, and Thibaut grasscloth wallpaper that adds warmth and dimension. The powder room beautifully marries traditional materials, transitional lighting, and modern fixtures — a perfect example of thoughtful layering in design.
Powder Room Details
With a blend of traditional materials, transitional lighting, and modern plumbing fixtures, the result is a space that feels elevated, layered, and cohesive.
- Flooring: Carrara marble in a herringbone pattern
- Vanity: Custom-built by the homeowner in walnut wood
- Countertops: ISG Calacatta Oro quartz
- Sink: Kohler Artist Editions Derring – Bluestone Rutile
- Faucet: Signature Hardware Greyfield in chrome
- Toilet: Kohler Memoirs Stately skirted
- Sconces: Visual Comfort Camille
- Mirror: Pottery Barn Louise Rectangular Wall Mirror
- Wallpaper: Thibaut Grasscloth
Honoring History While Embracing Modern Living
This Norfolk, VA home remodel is the perfect example of how McDrake Remodeling combines thoughtful design, timeless materials, and expert craftsmanship to elevate every room—no matter the size. By working closely with our clients, we made their vision a reality while preserving the integrity of the home’s architectural roots.
If you’re dreaming of a bathroom remodel, powder room update, or full-home renovation, let this transformation inspire your next step.
Ready to Remodel?
📞 Contact us today for your complimentary estimate and start your remodeling journey with confidence.
Make Your Dream Remodel Happen with Ease
Explore Our Latest Work
Visit our blog for the latest on-trend home remodeling inspiration and a look at our award-winning work that’s transforming homes across Hampton Roads!
Airy, Warm & Timeless: A Kitchen, Laundry Room & Living Space Remodel in Norfolk
From Screen Room to Sunroom: A Betterliving by McDrake Transformation
Transforming a Master Bathroom: A Stunning Overhaul by McDrake Remodeling
Maximize Your Outdoor Space: The Best Shade Solutions for Hampton Roads Businesses
