Project Overview: A Reddit Discovery
This Aurora basement bathroom transformation showcases what happens when thoughtful design meets professional tile installation. The homeowners of this 1980s home reached out after discovering South Denver Tile Experts through a Reddit post in the Aurora Colorado local community group. Their basement bathroom featured an outdated bathtub that no longer served their lifestyle, and they wanted something modern, functional, and visually striking.
The project involved complete demolition of the existing bathroom elements and construction of a custom walk-in shower with a contemporary design twist. The clients came prepared with their own vision combining marble elegance with bold accent colors, proving that basement bathrooms deserve the same design attention as any other space in the home.
Before: Dated 1980s Basement Bathroom
Outdated bathtub with glass doors, laminate flooring, and fixtures that had seen better days
The Challenge
Basement bathrooms in homes built during the 1980s often reflect the design priorities of that era: functional but uninspired. This Aurora home was no exception. The existing space featured a dated bathtub with glass doors, laminate flooring, and fixtures that had seen better days. The homeowners wanted to transform this neglected basement bath into a space the whole family would actually enjoy using.
Basement-Specific Considerations:
- Ceiling height constraints typical of below-grade spaces
- Need for proper waterproofing in below-grade environment
- Specific client design requirements demanding careful material selection
- Precise installation needed for sophisticated two-tone aesthetic
Our Solution: Complete Transformation
Complete Demolition and Preparation
The transformation began with removing every outdated element from the bathroom. The old bathtub, glass enclosure, toilet, laminate flooring, and vanity were completely demolished and hauled away. This clean-slate approach allowed us to reimagine the space without being constrained by existing conditions.
- Complete removal of bathtub and glass enclosure
- Laminate flooring removed
- Old toilet and vanity demolished
- All debris hauled away for clean workspace
Custom Shower Pan Construction
Rather than installing a prefabricated shower base, we built a custom mortar bed shower pan that accommodated the client's specific design request: relocating the drain to the left side of the shower.
Why a Linear Drain?
This strategic placement allowed for installation of a linear drain, one of the most sought-after features in contemporary bathroom design:
- Single-direction floor slope (vs. traditional four-way pitch)
- Enables use of larger format tiles
- Creates cleaner, more modern aesthetic
- Handles water more efficiently, reducing slip hazards
The shower pan construction follows TCNA Handbook guidelines for mortar bed installations, ensuring proper slope toward the linear drain for complete water evacuation.
Distinctive Two-Tone Tile Design
The shower interior showcases the homeowners' creative vision executed with professional precision:
- Left and right walls: Elegant marble tile bringing natural stone sophistication
- Back wall: Blue subway tile as dramatic accent creating visual depth
- Combination of warm marble tones with cool blue for spa-like atmosphere
All tile installation adheres to ANSI A108.1 standards for thin-set application and proper coverage.
Schluter Niche with Gold Trim
A built-in shower niche provides practical storage for bath products while serving as a design focal point:
- Framed with Schluter trim in gold finish
- Adds warmth complementing both marble walls and blue accent tile
- Includes dividing shelf for organizing shampoo, soap, and essentials
- Integrated waterproofing at all edges
Modern Fixtures and Glass Enclosure
New plumbing fixtures replaced all the dated hardware:
- New faucet valve for reliable temperature control
- Frameless glass partition containing water while maintaining open feel
- Glass enclosure allows beautiful tilework to remain visible
Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring
For the bathroom floor outside the shower, the clients selected LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) in a large 36x24 inch format that mimics the appearance of natural tile:
- 100% waterproof - ideal for basement environments
- Durability and easy maintenance
- Sophisticated large-tile look at accessible price point
- Comfortable underfoot and simple to clean
Finishing Touches
The renovation included coordinated upgrades ensuring the entire bathroom presents as a cohesive, intentionally designed space:
- New toilet installation
- Replacement vanity mirror
- Updated light fixtures
- Waterproofing membranes applied per manufacturer specifications
After: Stunning Walk-In Shower with Designer Tile
Complete transformation featuring marble walls, blue subway accent tile, linear drain, gold Schluter trim, and frameless glass enclosure
Materials & Methods
Results: Designer Basement Bathroom
The completed basement bathroom bears no resemblance to its former self. Where an unused, outdated tub once collected dust, a stunning walk-in shower now invites daily use. The marriage of marble and blue subway tile creates a designer aesthetic that rivals any main-floor bathroom.
Design Excellence
- Spa-like atmosphere with two-tone tile design
- Linear drain delivers clean, modern functionality
- Frameless glass maintains open, spacious feel
- Gold Schluter trim adds designer accent
Long-Term Value
- Basement bathroom now a genuine asset
- Proper waterproofing prevents future issues
- Quality materials require minimal maintenance
- Timeless design that won't feel dated
This project demonstrates that basement bathrooms need not be afterthoughts. With proper planning, quality materials, and skilled installation, below-grade spaces can become some of the most impressive rooms in the home. Interested in similar work? Explore our complete bathroom renovation services, or see more of our work in our project portfolio.
Bathtub to Shower Conversion FAQ
How much does it cost to convert a basement bathtub to a walk-in shower?
Basement bathtub to shower conversions typically range from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on materials, custom features, and scope of work. Projects with custom tile designs, linear drains, and premium fixtures like this Aurora renovation fall in the mid-to-upper range. We provide detailed estimates after assessing your specific bathroom and design preferences.
Why choose a linear drain instead of a traditional center drain?
Linear drains offer several advantages over traditional round drains. They require only a single-direction floor slope, allowing use of larger format tiles without complex cutting patterns. Linear drains handle higher water volumes more efficiently, reducing pooling and slip hazards. Their sleek profile creates a modern, spa-like aesthetic increasingly popular in contemporary bathroom design.
Can marble tile be used in basement showers?
Yes, marble tile performs beautifully in basement showers when properly installed with appropriate waterproofing. Natural stone requires sealing to protect against moisture absorption and staining, but with proper maintenance, marble delivers timeless elegance that synthetic materials cannot replicate. We follow all manufacturer guidelines for natural stone installation in wet environments.
What is LVP flooring and why use it in a bathroom?
LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) is a waterproof flooring material that realistically mimics the appearance of tile, stone, or wood. For basement bathrooms, LVP offers excellent moisture resistance, durability, and easier installation than ceramic tile. The 36x24 inch format used in this project provides a sophisticated large-tile look while remaining comfortable underfoot and simple to maintain.
How long does a basement bathroom remodel take?
A complete basement bathroom renovation including bathtub to shower conversion typically requires two weeks for demolition, construction, tile installation, and finishing work. Timeline can vary based on custom features, material availability, and any unforeseen conditions discovered during demolition. We provide realistic schedules during the estimation process.
Do I need a permit for a bathtub to shower conversion?
Most bathtub to shower conversions require permits, especially when plumbing modifications are involved. Relocating drains, adding new fixtures, or altering plumbing connections typically triggers permit requirements. We handle permit acquisition as part of our service and ensure all work meets local building codes.
What makes Schluter trim worth the investment?
Schluter profiles provide clean, finished edges for tile installations while protecting vulnerable corners and transitions from damage. The gold finish option adds a designer touch that coordinates with modern fixture trends. Beyond aesthetics, Schluter trim systems integrate with waterproofing membranes to create watertight transitions at niches, corners, and floor connections.
Can you match my existing bathroom design preferences?
Absolutely. This Aurora project demonstrates our ability to execute client-specified designs combining multiple materials and finishes. Whether you prefer classic subway tile, modern large-format porcelain, natural stone, or creative combinations, we work with your vision to create a bathroom that reflects your personal style.
Ready to Transform Your Basement Bathroom?
Whether you have an outdated bathtub taking up space or a cramped shower that needs updating, we can help you create a beautiful, functional bathroom you'll actually want to use. South Denver Tile Experts specializes in bathtub to shower conversions and complete bathroom renovations throughout the Denver metro area.
Serving Aurora, Denver, Littleton, Highlands Ranch, Centennial, Lone Tree, Parker, and surrounding Colorado communities
Request Your Aurora Bathroom Quote
Professional assessment, transparent pricing, and quality craftsmanship for your bathtub to shower conversion