Arkansas' Best Bathroom: Anita and Brent Sipe, Camden

The Goal:

Transform their outdated master bathroom into a functional and relaxing retreat. “It had a small shower, country blue whirlpool tub and the original plush carpet,” Anita says. “Our goal was to make it not only a sanctuary for evenings, but also an enjoyable place for getting ready in the morning.”

What they did:

Reconfigured the bathroom with form and function in mind.

The couple began by making better use of wasted space. They added a large enclosed shower with tiled walls plus benches and shelves in place of the original shower and the narrow walkway that was adjacent to it. They also removed a built-in makeup counter and intrusive closet door that swung into the room, making space for a second sink and vanity, as well as much-needed storage. Next, they replaced the old carpet with tile, and used recessed lighting to brighten the formerly dim room.

For a spa-like touch, the Sipes upgraded the original tub with a whirlpool bath featuring chromotherapy lighting for relaxation. A flat screen television was also installed. “My husband insisted on the flat screen,” laughs Anita, “but I actually use it more than he does.” Adding a cultured stone wall made the spa area the focal point of the room.

The biggest challenge:

Starting from scratch. “It was completely outdated,” Anita remembers. “As a master bath, the functionality just was not there.”

Their favorite part:

Working together to achieve a unified look that suits both of their styles, and then seeing the design come to life. “It was fun inserting our personalities,” Anita explains. “The floating vanities and tile are Brent; the beachy look of the glass shower door and art is me; and the stone wall reflects both of us,” Anita explains.

What the judges loved:

Sandy Sutton liked the natural feel of the textured stone wall, as well as the cabinetry. Tobi Fairley was drawn to the choice of countertops and flooring. For Beth Davis, it was the overall cohesiveness of the design in creating a soothing, spa-like look.

Design Resources

Builder, remodeler, custom cabinetry Burroughs Construction, Camden

Countertops The Design Center, Camden

Cultured stone El Dorado Rock and Brick, El Dorado

Faucets, hardware, lighting, paint, sinks, tub Blann Hardware, Camden

Tile Elder Distributing, North Little Rock