The journey to transform our master bathroom from a bland, builder-basic space into a vibrant and personalized sanctuary officially began last Monday. Following the exciting announcement of our mini-update plans for our master bathroom, Sherry and I found ourselves on an evening expedition, determined to hunt down the captivating blue light fixture that had stolen our hearts from her meticulously crafted mood board. This seemingly small decorative element promised to be the perfect pop of color, breathing new life into our often-overlooked and understated bathroom.
The Quest for the Perfect Pendant: Unearthing a Gem at the Decorating Outlet
Our destination was a local treasure trove for lighting enthusiasts: The Decorating Outlet. This wasn’t our first rodeo with this fantastic store; it’s practically become a second home for us when it comes to finding unique and affordable lighting solutions. Over the years, we’ve sourced many beloved pieces here, including the elegant glass pendants that grace our kitchen peninsula, Clara’s enchanting capiz chandelier, and even the stylish shade that revitalized the chandelier in our office. The specific fixture we were after this time was a beautiful creation from Shades of Light, renowned for their distinctive designs and quality craftsmanship.
As we drove, Sherry confessed her anxieties, fearing that our usual stroke of luck might finally run out. What if they didn’t have it in stock? What if it was gone? To our immense relief and utter delight, her worries were unfounded. Not only did they have the fixture, but they had two to choose from! The thrill of the find was compounded by the price tag: a staggering half-off the original $159. For a mere $80, we were soon heading home with the captivating blue pendant light, ready to banish the formerly uninspired, builder-grade “boob light” that had long cast its dull glow upon our bathroom. A quick mental comparison with a similar version from Ballard Designs, retailing at $189, solidified our excitement over this incredible outlet score. While $80 might not make it the cheapest pendant light we’ve ever acquired, the unique appeal of its seeded blue glass—truly breathtaking in person—made it a worthwhile investment for the distinctive effect it promised to deliver. This wasn’t just a light fixture; it was a statement piece, a touch of artistic flair we were eager to integrate into our humble bathroom.
Designing for a Diminutive Space: Why a Pendant Was the Perfect Choice
One of the primary motivations behind replacing the old flush-mount fixture with a pendant was to create a less cluttered, more spacious feel in our notoriously tiny bathroom. It’s a challenge many homeowners face: how do you maximize style and functionality in a compact area? Our previous fixture, with its extra-wide diameter, felt like it was practically encroaching on the shower bar, making an already small room feel even more cramped. We instinctively knew that something with a smaller footprint against the ceiling would be a significant improvement. Furthermore, a fixture featuring translucent glass and a much smaller diameter would visually lighten the space, allowing more perceived openness and less visual weight. The delicate, ethereal quality of the seeded blue glass was not just aesthetically pleasing but also a strategic design choice for our small bathroom renovation.
Beyond the practical considerations, the allure of the blue pendant was undeniable. While I might have jokingly harbored ambitions of discovering a new solar system within the old light’s swirly glass, the truth was that our “builder basic” bathroom desperately craved a shot of color. The new blue pendant promised to be just that—a vibrant, yet soothing, injection of personality that would elevate the room from merely functional to genuinely inviting. It was a simple change with profound aesthetic implications, setting the stage for future decorative enhancements.
Unexpected Obstacles: The Ceiling Surprise That Halted Progress
Installing new light fixtures has become somewhat of an “old hat” for us. We recently tackled three in the kitchen with relative ease, so we anticipated this bathroom project would be a quick, few-hour job. Perhaps we forgot to knock on wood, or overlooked some other DIY superstition, because what we uncovered next was anything but straightforward. After carefully removing the existing fixture, we were greeted by an unsightly mess:
Can’t quite see it? Let’s try turning off the power and fully removing the old fixture. The issue then becomes abundantly, glaringly clear: a giant, gaping hole in the ceiling.
This was obviously not going to “jive” with the new fixture’s significantly smaller base. Unless, of course, we were aiming for an industrial “exposed rafters” aesthetic in our master bathroom – which we most certainly were not. Just like that, our “install new light fixture” task plummeted down the priority list, replaced by the more daunting “patch ceiling” on our DIY to-do roster. Ah, the unpredictable joys of home improvement! Every DIY enthusiast knows this feeling: the moment a simple task spirals into a multi-day project due to unforeseen complications. It’s a rite of passage, a test of patience, and ultimately, a source of immense satisfaction when overcome.
Mastering the Patch Job: From Hole to Seamless Ceiling
On the bright side, our previous kitchen renovation had left us with some leftover drywall in the basement from patching a new opening. This meant we didn’t have to make an immediate trip to the hardware store, saving us valuable time. I grabbed a box cutter and precisely sliced a piece of drywall to the correct size, ensuring it would neatly cover the cavernous opening. Accurate measurements are key here; a good fit saves a lot of hassle later on.
Next, I meticulously measured and marked the spot for the fixture box, then broke out a drywall saw to cut the corresponding hole. While my cut might not have been a picture of perfection, it was perfectly functional, and I knew the top of the pendant light’s canopy would ultimately conceal any minor imperfections, resulting in a beautifully seamless finish.
To secure the patch firmly to the ceiling, I employed a tried-and-true method: screwing scrap wood into the ceiling to provide a sturdy backing. One piece of wood was strategically placed against an existing beam, offering solid anchorage, while another was screwed directly into the surrounding drywall, creating a robust framework for the new patch. This crucial step ensures that the repair is not only stable but also long-lasting, preventing future sagging or cracking.
With the new piece of drywall attached, it looked surprisingly flush and fantastic – almost. Of course, the reality of drywalling involves addressing cracks and ensuring all screw heads are properly sunk (a vital tip for any DIYer to avoid future bumps!). This meant embarking on the classic drywall finishing sequence: sand, spackle, sand, spackle, sand, prime, and finally, paint. Each step is critical for achieving that flawless, professional-looking repair.
I took the initiative to sand the edges meticulously, ensuring every surface was perfectly smooth and free of any lumps or bumps that might compromise Sherry’s upcoming spackling artistry. Prep work truly makes all the difference in these kinds of projects.
The Art of Spackling: A Collaborative DIY Effort
It’s funny how certain tasks in our household naturally fall into “mine” or “Sherry’s” categories. For instance, when painting, I’m typically the roller while she masters the precise art of cutting in. Similarly, I usually handle the sanding, leaving the detailed spackling to Sherry. This division of labor isn’t arbitrary; it often comes down to individual skill sets and preferences. Sherry, for example, possesses a remarkably steadier hand, which is invaluable for intricate cutting-in and achieving perfectly smooth spackled surfaces. We’ve learned that her touch yields superior results in these areas. Conversely, I find immense satisfaction in using my Kreg Jig for woodworking projects, while Sherry is developing a growing camaraderie with her sewing machine. While these roles are often defined, there’s always room for crossover – I wouldn’t put it past her to build something intricate (perhaps a charming dollhouse for Clara), and who knows, I might just try my hand at sewing someday!
Here’s a glimpse of Sherry’s first meticulous round of spackle drying:
She completed two full rounds of spackling, each session involving application, allowing it to dry, and then carefully sanding it smooth with a sanding block. Both rounds were diligently performed on consecutive evenings after our little “bean” was tucked into bed. The wisdom behind multiple rounds of spackle is multifaceted: it allows you to gradually build up material, effectively bridging any gaps and ensuring a perfectly flush surface. After each application, sanding removes excess material and smooths imperfections. A second round then addresses any lingering cavities or raised portions, guaranteeing an impeccably smooth, professional-looking finish. The use of a sanding block is particularly advantageous in this process, as its flat surface mimics the wall, providing even pressure and preventing the uneven results that a floppy piece of sandpaper might produce. It’s these small details that truly elevate a DIY repair to a flawless outcome.
The Final Touches: Priming, Painting, and the Big Reveal
After two nights dedicated to the painstaking process of spackling and sanding, our next step was to set aside time for priming and painting. Oh, and of course, finally installing the light fixture that we had naively anticipated would be a mere ten-minute job. The following night, after priming our patched area (always remember to prime raw drywall before painting!), we applied two swift coats of paint. We used “Rockport Gray,” a color you might recall from this post, which perfectly complements the serene aesthetic we’re cultivating. We utilized a roller to ensure even coverage, extending well beyond the patched area to “feather” the paint seamlessly into the existing ceiling, creating an imperceptible repair. By this point, it was far too late to capture any decent photographs, given the lack of a working light in the room. However, the transformation by morning was remarkable. Notice how much further the fixture box now appears from the shower bar, no longer overshadowed by the extra-wide light fixture that once encroached upon the shower space?
The ceiling was finally ready for its new light fixture, a testament to our perseverance. The slightly rough area immediately around the fixture box would soon be discreetly covered by the light’s canopy, ensuring a perfectly clean and polished look.
Installing Your Dream Light: Trimming, Connecting, and Code Considerations
Nearly four days had passed since we initially embarked on this “quick” project, so it’s safe to say we were more than ready to, in Sherry’s memorable words, “get on that already!” And here it is, the moment we’ve all been waiting for: the fixture in all its blue, glassy glory. In these photos, the blue might appear quite bright and intense, but in real life, it emanates a softer, more subtle sea-glass hue, perfectly mirroring the shade in our initial mood board. This gentle blue beautifully harmonizes with the crisp whites, soothing grays, and warm sand tones we’ve thoughtfully integrated into the room’s palette.
The cord, as is often the case with pendant lights, was excessively long for our bathroom’s ceiling height, necessitating a careful trim before installation. Initially, I used scissors to make shallow slices in the outer white cord at the desired length, taking care not to cut completely through. This allowed the inner wires to protrude slightly. Then, I gently folded the cord back and forth until the plastic-y casing tore completely, enabling me to remove the excess. Update: We’ve since learned that a much safer and more efficient approach is to use a dedicated wire stripper. This inexpensive tool prevents unnecessary stress on the delicate wires inside, which can occur when bending and tearing the casing. Good to know for future projects and a valuable tip for anyone tackling similar installations!
Once the outer casing was removed, the inner wires were exposed. I then carefully trimmed these to a length slightly longer than the newly shortened white cord, preparing them for connection.
With a pair of pliers, I delicately stripped the rubber coating from the very tip of each wire, ensuring I didn’t nick or damage the conductive strands themselves. This exposed the copper, ready for secure connection to the house’s electrical wires within the fixture box. When it comes to connecting wires and covering them with wire nuts, especially inside a confined fixture box, proper technique is crucial for safety. For those new to this, we highly recommend consulting instructional videos on YouTube; there are many excellent resources that visually demonstrate the correct procedures. We rarely manage to capture photos of this specific step ourselves, as it typically requires both of us to manage the fixture and connections simultaneously – making it a genuine two-person job in our house!
Why is it a two-person job for us? Sherry usually takes on the crucial role of supporting the fixture, bearing its weight to prevent any undue tugging or strain on the wires while I concentrate on making the electrical connections. While it’s certainly possible for one person to hang a fixture independently, we’ve found that our collaborative, two-person method is not only incredibly helpful but also significantly faster and safer. Thankfully, with the ceiling beautifully patched, this final installation step was a relatively quick and smooth process, bringing an end to a project that had, admittedly, stretched out a bit longer than either of us had initially anticipated.
The Finished Look: Impact, Code, and Future Visions
Speaking of things dragging out, let’s get to the good stuff – the long-awaited reveal! Here it is, finally hung and absolutely adored by us. The difference is palpable. The new pendant light dramatically reduces the “on-top-of-the-shower-bar” feel that plagued our previous fixture, instantly making the space feel more open and refined. Critically, it’s still hung high enough to avoid interfering with taller individuals like myself; our local code dictates that the bottom of the fixture must be at least 6’8″ from the ground, and ours comfortably sits at 6’10”.
And speaking of code, it’s a vital consideration for any homeowner undertaking lighting projects, especially in bathrooms. In our area, hanging a pendant light at this height outside of the direct shower area poses no issues. However, it’s absolutely crucial to note that hanging fixtures directly over a tub or inside a shower enclosure is generally not permitted by code. Those lavish bathrooms often featured on HGTV or in glossy magazines, showcasing giant chandeliers suspended over freestanding tubs? More often than not, they are not up to standard building codes. This serves as a general reminder to always consult your local building codes and regulations before embarking on any similar projects to ensure safety and compliance.
Again, the camera tends to intensify the blue hue, making it appear more vibrant than it is in person. In reality, the blue is soft and utterly captivating against the soothing gray paint and pristine white curtain. It’s a definite “check mark” for our goal of injecting cheer and personality into our tiny, neutral box of a bathroom. This fixture undeniably adds a “not-builder-basic” touch, elevating the room’s character. The chrome trim and ceiling cover of the light seamlessly integrate with all our existing bathroom hardware, including the shower fixtures and doorknob, creating a cohesive and polished look that ties the entire space together beautifully.
In an ideal world, we might have centered the fixture more precisely in the toilet half of the bathroom, directly in front of the window. However, given that this is intended as a fairly quick-and-dirty makeover, we’re consciously trying to avoid anything too heavy-duty at this stage. After months of intensive kitchen renovations, we’re more than content to ease into a few simpler bathroom updates for the time being. Perhaps a Phase Two down the road, where we’d love to redo the floor tile, might also include the repositioning of this charming light. It’s all part of the evolving journey of home ownership and renovation.
Initially, we did harbor two minor worries: 1) whether a single 60-watt bulb would provide sufficient illumination for the room, and 2) if the blue glass would cast an overpowering, “Smurf-like” blue tint throughout the space. Happily, both concerns proved unfounded. The light casts more than enough illumination to brightly light our small room, and there’s absolutely no strange blue tint. We even proactively inquired about this potential issue at the showroom, given our apprehension. It seems that because the bulb itself is clear, the light it casts down and around the room remains clear and true. Furthermore, the ceiling is adorned with a mesmerizing, soft reflection from the seeded glass, creating a subtle, starburst-like effect that is incredibly flattering and unique. Definitely not Smurfy! Whew, what a relief!
Future Plans and Reflecting on Our DIY Journey
So, despite the unexpected detour and the extra effort the ceiling demanded (a true testament to the unpredictable nature of DIY), we are absolutely thrilled with this update. It has ignited a fresh wave of excitement to continue introducing more changes and pops of color into this room. We envision some carefully curated blue, green, white, and gray artwork to beautifully tie everything together. Sherry, in particular, is eager to tackle the off-white trim, transforming it with a crisp, bright white paint. It’s subtle in photos, but in person, the contrast between the existing cream door trim and the brilliant white light switch is jarringly obvious and mismatched, a detail she’s keen to rectify for a truly cohesive finish.
Our evolving master bathroom to-do list now looks a little something like this:
Paint the walls so they have some contrastReplace the boob light- Paint the cream trim white <– it looks white in the pics, but the bright white light switch next to the cream door trim makes it painfully obvious in person
- Hang some bathroom-friendly art
- Craigslist the toilet and replace it with a classic white one
- Do something to add privacy to the window
- Remove the door so we can shave the bottom to allow for a rug/bathmat (and so it actually opens past the floor heating register instead of catching on it)
- Replace the border tile around the room (maybe in Phase 2?)
- Replace the floor tile down the road (just to break things up since there’s so much of it)
This project, though extended, underscores the fulfilling nature of DIY. Overcoming challenges like the unexpected ceiling hole not only builds skills but also deepens our appreciation for the final outcome. It transforms a house into a home, imbued with personal effort and cherished memories.
What about you, our wonderful readers? What exciting projects did you tackle this past weekend? Did anyone infuse new color into their bathroom or another space in their home? Or perhaps, like us, did you uncover some hidden ceiling hole that had been cleverly concealed by an old light fixture? Share your DIY adventures and discoveries in the comments below!
Psst- To follow our quick little bathroom reno from the very beginning, make sure to check out this initial planning post, and then dive into this post detailing our painting journey. There, now you’re all caught up and ready for the next exciting update!
Pssst- On a completely serendipitous and heartening note, we just realized that our choice of a blue light aligns perfectly with “Light It Up Blue” day for Autism Awareness! What a wonderful, accidental timing. Let’s all spread the word and shine a light on such an important cause.