SLHL BEFORE & AFTER
Ranch-Style REFRESH By Jeanne Delathouder Photography by James Faught/Wild Story Productions
A 1950s ranch-style dwelling gets a dramatic master-bathroom makeover using classic finishes, beautiful tile, and multi-functional custom features. Interior Designer: Barbara Collins Interior Design Contractor: Collins Construction & Remodeling
BEFORE
Home renovations are seldom described as fun, but this one seemed to take on a positive vibe from the get-go. When St. Louis homeowners Tom and Alice Nunnelee wanted to breathe new life into their outdated master bathroom, they didn’t hesitate to call on designer Barbara Collins, owner of Barbara Collins Interior Design, and a specialist in bathroom and kitchen remodels. “We knew Barbara as well as her husband, Blake, who is a contractor,” says Tom. “They had designed and renovated for our friends, and they had such a good reputation,” he notes. The Nunnelees’ rejuvenated 1950s ranch-style dwelling, located in a beautiful St. Louis area neighborhood and nestled under 100-yearold oak trees, embodies a classic traditional style sprinkled with just a few contemporary elements. After living with their original master bathroom for some time, they decided this small and impractical space was next on the list for a complete transformation. “Our old
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bathroom had a tub, toilet, two sinks, a large linen closet and a shower stall smaller than a phone booth,” laughs Alice. “We never used the tub and we needed to fix the small shower,” she adds. After meeting with the homeowners, Barbara decided she wanted to create a new energy for their dated master bathroom. Architecturally, she wanted to create a more sophisticated yet traditional space that functioned well. She also wanted to use classic finishes, beautiful tile and custom features that would befit the rest of the house. “The master bathroom is such a personal space and should be custom to the homeowners’ needs and lifestyle,” says Barbara. “I envisioned the space to be an elegant reflection of this couple, and I really wanted to create a look that felt timeless while addressing their needs. Everything is custom-made for them, and their new bathroom is traditional and classic — just like them,” she notes.