Family Bathroom Upgrade with a New Bathtub

Project Overview

The client wanted to change an existing shower box into a full bathtub to better suit family use. The goal was simple: create a safer, more comfortable bathing space without overhauling the whole bathroom. 

Because the children would be away during the school holidays, the client hoped the work could be completed in that two-week window. Quality, clean finishing, and smart coordination across trades were key priorities.

Design & Planning

The scope was defined around a practical upgrade rather than a full redesign. The plan covered:

• Removing the shower enclosure and preparing the wall and floor substrates
• Modifying plumbing to suit a new bathtub position and fixtures
• Installing a new bathtub and fittings, plus vanity and toilet upgrades as required
• Waterproofing, tiling, painting, and fixture upgrades (heated towel rail and LED mirror)

Because the project had to be completed quickly, planning the work order was essential. We started with carpentry and wall preparation, then moved on to plumbing changes. 

Next came waterproofing and tiling, followed by the electrician completing the lighting and fittings. Finally, the team did the painting and finishing touches. This step-by-step plan helped us save time and maintain high-quality work.

Project Execution

The Nicolas team managed all trades and quality checks throughout the build:

• Demolition & Substrate Prep (Carpentry):

Removed the shower box, replaced aged wall linings with new plasterboard, added insulation where needed, and packed out the wall to achieve plumb, tile-ready surfaces.

• Plumbing (Rough-in & Fit-off):

Re-routed services, installed the new bathtub and shower set, and fitted the vanity and toilet to suit the refreshed layout.

• Waterproofing & Tiling:

Applied membrane to wet areas per best practice, then laid and grouted wall and floor tiles for a durable, easy-clean finish.

• Electrical Upgrades:

Replaced the old towel rail with a waterproof heated towel rail, upgraded the switchboard to a new unit, and installed an LED mirror for better light and usability.

• Painting & Finishing:

Completed careful preparation, painting, and silicone sealing for a clean, modern look with long-term durability.

Challenges Overcome

Material delays: A supplier delay pushed the timeline beyond the original 14-day school-holiday window. The team mitigated impact by resequencing tasks, advancing what could be completed while waiting on deliveries, and keeping the bathroom protected and tidy between stages.

High finish standard in a compact space: Achieving perfect junctions around the bath, tiles, trims, and fixtures in a small room required extra care in substrate prep and setting out. Close trade coordination ensured straight lines, even tile reveals, and watertight detailing.

Client Experience

From the first discussion, the client’s main worry was time. They wanted the work done during the school holidays with minimal disruption. The Nicolas team provided a clear plan, daily communication, and transparent updates when materials were delayed. 

Even with the extended timeline, the client appreciated the steady progress, neat site management, and consistent quality checks. The final space matched the brief: comfortable, family-friendly, and easy to maintain.

Final Results

The new bathtub has completely changed how the family uses the bathroom. It’s now much more comfortable and convenient, especially for the younger family members who enjoy having a proper bath space.

The updated plumbing, heated towel rail, and LED mirror have also made the bathroom more functional and easy to use. These minor upgrades added a touch of modern comfort to everyday routines.

Thanks to the waterproofing, tiling, and sealing, the bathroom is now strong and built to last. The surfaces are smooth, durable, and easy to maintain.

Fresh paint and neatly aligned tiles have given the room a bright, clean, and modern look. Overall, the bathroom now feels warm, practical, and relaxing, a significant improvement over the old shower box setup.

Final Thoughts

This project shows how a focused bathroom upgrade can deliver real lifestyle benefits without a complete renovation. 

With careful sequencing, tight quality control, and transparent client communication, the Nicolas team turned a compact unit bathroom into a safer, more comfortable family space.