Bathroom Remodeling in Menlo Park | Case Study | Oria Builders
| Project Type | Bathroom Remodeling |
|---|---|
| Location | Menlo Park, CA (Sharon Heights) |
| Investment | $50,000 - $70,000 |
| Duration | 8 weeks |
| Completed | 2023-08-15 |
The Challenge
The homeowners in Sharon Heights approached us with a dated master bathroom that lacked both functionality and aesthetic appeal. The space was dominated by an oversized, rarely-used tub, leaving little room for practical storage or a comfortable shower. The existing finishes—aging tiles, worn countertops, and outdated fixtures—didn't reflect the sleek, modern aesthetic the family envisioned for their home. Adding another layer of complexity, the home’s plumbing system was original to the house, built in the late 1970s, which raised concerns about potential leaks and inefficiencies. Additionally, local Menlo Park building codes required specific updates to meet current energy efficiency and water conservation standards. The homeowners were also keen to ensure the design complemented the mid-century modern character of their neighborhood while elevating their home’s overall value.
Our Approach
Our team at Oria Builders began with a detailed consultation to understand the homeowners’ vision and pain points. We conducted a complete assessment of the existing plumbing and structural conditions to anticipate any underlying issues. Once the design vision was clear, we crafted a layout that replaced the unused tub with a spacious walk-in shower featuring frameless glass and premium fixtures. Ample storage was incorporated with custom-made floating vanities and recessed shelving. Material selection was a collaborative process. We guided the homeowners in choosing high-quality, durable materials that balanced their modern aesthetic with practical considerations. Porcelain tiles in a large format were selected for the floors and shower walls, creating a clean, seamless look. To meet Menlo Park’s energy and water efficiency requirements, we incorporated low-flow fixtures and LED lighting throughout the space. Permits were secured early in the process to avoid delays, and our team’s familiarity with local regulations ensured a smooth approval process.
Build Process
The project began with a full demo of the existing bathroom, down to the studs. Our team carefully removed the old tub, vanities, and flooring while addressing hidden plumbing issues that surfaced during demo—something we anticipated based on the home’s age. Next came the rough plumbing and electrical work, where we upgraded the system to handle the new fixtures and lighting plan. The custom floating vanities were fabricated offsite to ensure precision and installed along with quartz countertops, which were templated immediately after the demo to minimize delays. The frameless glass shower was carefully measured and installed toward the end of the project to ensure a perfect fit. Throughout the process, we maintained clear communication with the homeowners, providing weekly updates and walkthroughs. The project was completed on time, and the final walkthrough confirmed every detail exceeded expectations.
Scope of Work
- Demolition and removal of existing bathroom features
- Plumbing and electrical system upgrades
- Installation of custom floating vanities with quartz countertops
- Construction of a spacious walk-in shower with frameless glass enclosure
- Porcelain tile installation for flooring and shower walls
- Installation of energy-efficient LED lighting and low-flow fixtures
Materials & Features
- Quartz countertops (Calacatta Gold)
- Porcelain tile flooring and shower walls in a 24x24 format
- Frameless glass shower enclosure with brushed nickel hardware
- Custom floating vanities with soft-close drawers
- LED recessed lighting and backlit vanity mirrors
- Low-flow showerhead and faucets in a matte black finish
Results
- Replaced an unused tub with a 50% larger shower area
- Increased storage capacity by 30% with custom vanities and shelving
- Reduced water usage by 20% with low-flow fixtures
- Boosted home value by approximately $85,000 based on local market analysis
Project Highlights
- Completed two days ahead of schedule
- Zero unexpected delays despite plumbing challenges
- All materials sourced and installed without substitutions
- Exceeding Menlo Park’s water efficiency and energy code standards
Client Testimonial
"Oria Builders transformed our outdated bathroom into a sleek, modern space that we absolutely love. Their attention to detail and communication throughout the process made the experience stress-free. Highly recommend!"
— Emily T., Homeowner in Menlo Park
Frequently Asked Questions
How long did this bathroom remodeling project take?
This project was completed in 8 weeks, including permits, demo, and final walkthroughs. Our team ensured every phase stayed on schedule without cutting corners.
What was the total investment for this project?
The investment for this project ranged between $50,000 and $70,000, depending on the specific customizations and premium materials chosen by the homeowners.
Did the homeowner need to move out during construction?
No, the homeowners were able to stay in their house during construction. We scheduled work during daytime hours and sealed off the bathroom to minimize dust and disruption.
What permits were required for this project in Menlo Park?
We secured permits for plumbing, electrical, and structural updates, as well as compliance with Menlo Park’s energy efficiency and water conservation regulations.