In Calgary’s historic Elbow Park neighborhood, a 1990s-era master ensuite stood frozen in time—complete with emerald green marble countertops, gold fixtures, wrap-around mirrors, expansive skylights, and wall-to-wall carpeting. While it held a certain retro charm, the space needed a modern refresh that would reflect the home's mid-century modern aesthetic.
Project details
In Calgary’s historic Elbow Park neighborhood, a 1990s-era master ensuite stood frozen in time—complete with emerald green marble countertops, gold fixtures, wrap-around mirrors, expansive skylights, and wall-to-wall carpeting. While it held a certain retro charm, the space needed a modern refresh that would reflect the home's mid-century modern aesthetic.
The goal was to update the ensuite without stripping away its personality. The room’s unconventional layout—marked by sharp angles and an oversized toilet room—posed a design challenge. The client also wanted to preserve as much of the original marble as possible, calling for a refresh-over-replace approach. Structurally sound but visually dated cabinetry needed a facelift to align with the rest of the home.
Inspired by the warmth and simplicity of mid-century design, the concept focused on integrating natural materials and clean lines. Walnut wood—used throughout the home—became a unifying element. Fluted tile added texture, while framed side-by-side mirrors brought symmetry and increased light reflection. A bold wallpaper and statement pendant transformed the toilet room from overlooked to unforgettable.
Key design elements brought warmth, cohesion, and function to the space. Existing cabinetry structures were retained but refreshed with new maple fronts, aligning with the home’s overall design language. Leftover marble was cleverly repurposed into a custom tabletop for a fluted side table, creating a thoughtful blend of old and new. Fluted tile and wood ceilings added texture and visual interest, reinforcing the mid-century aesthetic. In the toilet room, bold wallpaper, a sculptural pendant light, and lush greenery transformed a purely functional space into a standout design moment. Finally, framed side-by-side mirrors enhanced symmetry and reflected natural light, making the room feel both brighter and more expansive.
The project came to life through a close partnership with HNDL Homes, a Calgary-based custom builder known for high-quality new builds and major renovations. Fixtures were sourced from Royal Flush Kitchen & Bath Boutique—a local, family-owned business and - fun fact - former owners of the home—ensuring the perfect blend of form and function.
The updated ensuite now strikes a balance between modern luxury and mid-century charm. The design ties seamlessly into the rest of the home, while spatial efficiency and upgraded fixtures improve everyday functionality.
“We absolutely love the finished space. Working with Danielle and Alex, along with the team at HNDL, was seamless and enjoyable. They came up with clever solutions to some tricky challenges, and we couldn’t be happier with the result. Our ensuite looks incredible, functions beautifully, and blends perfectly with the rest of our home.”
Ali Mair, Client & home owner.
