Date: March 1, 2022 | Story: Tiffany Adams | Photography: Rett Peek | Styling: Steph Smith |
A primary bath receives a timeless makeover at the hands of designer Holly Udouj Trotter
Fort Smith native Holly Udouj Trotter has always had a knack for interiors. “I hoarded design magazines as a child and painted my walls at least 10 times,” she recalls. Working in her grandmother’s floral shop from an early age, she had the opportunity to try on all the hats of a design business, from going to market and bookkeeping to eventually becoming the lead florist.
Inspired by this experience, she soon after opened Holly Udouj Home & Garden. It was here that her talent for interior design became apparent as customers—including the owners of this bath, Audra and Trey Jackson—saw the shop and began requesting her help with their own spaces. “They have four children, so life is very busy for them,” Holly says, noting this primary bath, in particular, needed to operate as a retreat.
Playing off of the home’s traditional style and color palette of gray and white, Holly designed a space with all the amenities the couple wanted. “I like to create a timeless and classic foundation and then add in a few fun pieces,” she says. “I want a project to be as beautiful in 15 years as it is the day I finish it.”
Working within the existing floor plan, the cabinetry was updated with paint as well as new countertops and hardware. A deck-style tub was traded for a standalone option and a dark, enclosed shower area was replaced with a glass surround. Heated floors, a warming drawer for towels, and a zero-threshold shower entry also checked boxes on the couple’s wishlist.
Vanity Flair
His-and-hers vanities in a custom paint color sit opposite the tub and shower. Geometric chrome hardware coordinates with the shower floor, while a leather-topped swivel stool provides a comfortable perch for applying makeup.
Sophisticated Sconces
Classic large-scale sconces provide additional task lighting at the mirrors and also adhere to the room’s overall timeless appearance. Their chrome finish is repeated throughout the space.
Polished Pattern
In the shower, what Holly refers to as a “variation of a braided pattern” brings interest underfoot while coordinating with the shower walls and the rest of the bath’s marble-look porcelain tile.
Sleek Shower
The previous shower was enlarged and enclosed with glass for a more open feel. A floating infinity-style bench and dual showerheads are practical additions that also add elegance.
Design Resources
Contractor Denton Branson, 1-2-3 Shower & Bath Interior design Holly Udouj Trotter, Holly Udouj Interiors Accessories, lighting, and mirrors Holly Udouj Interiors Countertops Joshua Granite Fixtures Fort Smith Winsupply Flooring and tile Allison Sales Co. Flooring & Glass
