Renovation, How to - Dec 10, 2025

Revitalizing Etobicoke’s Classic Bungalow Bathrooms

One of the most rewarding aspects of our bathroom renovations in Etobicoke is breathing new life into the area’s classic post-war bungalows. Etobicoke is famous for its charming neighbourhoods like The Queensway, Sunnylea, and Alderwood, which are filled with sturdy brick homes. While these houses have great bones, their original bathrooms often leave much to be desired. Typically measuring just 5 feet by 8 feet, these spaces can feel cramped and outdated by today’s standards.

Overcoming the “5×8” Challenge

The standard 5×8 bathroom layout was efficient in the 1950s, but it struggles to meet the needs of modern families. The good news is that you do not necessarily need to knock down walls to make the space work better.

Smart design is the key. Replacing a large vanity with a custom unit tailored to the specific dimensions can free up inches of valuable clearance. Installing a pocket door is another excellent strategy. By removing the door swing, you gain usable floor space that can be used for towel bars or storage hooks.

Updating Aging Infrastructure

If your Etobicoke bungalow has not been renovated in decades, there is a good chance you are dealing with outdated plumbing. Galvanized steel pipes, which were common in the mid-20th century, are prone to corrosion and reduced water pressure.

A bathroom renovation is the perfect time to address these invisible issues. Replacing old pipes with modern PEX or copper plumbing ensures your new shower has excellent pressure and protects your investment from future leaks. We also recommend upgrading electrical wiring during the renovation to support modern conveniences like brighter LED lighting and proper ventilation fans, which are crucial for preventing mould in older homes.

Storage Solutions for Small Spaces

Storage is almost always lacking in original bungalow bathrooms. To combat this, we often recommend utilizing vertical space.

Recessed medicine cabinets are a classic feature that we have reinvented with modern designs. They provide storage for daily essentials without protruding into the room. We can also build custom niches directly into your shower walls to hold shampoos and soaps, eliminating the need for hanging racks. Above the toilet, custom cabinetry can provide a home for extra towels and toiletries, ensuring every square inch of the room is working hard for you.

Modern Finishes for a Timeless Look

You want your new bathroom to respect the character of your home while offering modern comfort. Classic materials like marble, subway tile, and hexagonal floor mosaics bridge the gap perfectly. They look right at home in a mid-century house but offer the durability and cleanliness of new materials. By pairing these timeless finishes with modern fixtures in chrome or matte black, you can create a space that feels fresh yet appropriate for the era of your home.