Case Study

The Serene Steam Ensuite Renovation in Ottawa

Custom Ensuite & Steam Shower Renovation

Location: Ottawa

Style: Spa-inspired, Warm, layered neutrals, Wellness-focused design.

Scope: Full layout reconfiguration, steam shower installation, custom millwork, lighting, and electrical upgrades.

Standout Features:

Custom steam shower
Sloped steam-rated ceiling
Schluter Kerdi waterproofing system
Heated bench and floors
High-CFM exterior venting
Custom vanity with powered drawer
Motion-sensor night lighting
17+ cubic feet of added storage

This project transformed a dated and underperforming ensuite into a fully customized steam retreat designed for daily restoration.

If you’re considering a bathroom renovation in Ottawa, this project is a good example of what’s possible when design and technical execution work together from the beginning.

Concept rendering of spa-inspired steam shower layout for Ottawa ensuite renovation project.

The Challenge

The original ensuite had good square footage and natural light, but it didn’t feel good to use.
The oversized bathtub took up valuable space and was rarely used. The shower felt cramped and closed in. Storage was limited. Lighting didn’t support the way the homeowners actually moved through the space.

Beyond aesthetics, converting a standard bathroom into a steam environment introduces serious moisture and electrical demands. Steam is not just a feature. It changes how the entire room needs to be built.

During our pre-construction trade review, we discovered the home’s electrical panel and pony panel were already at capacity. Supporting a steam generator, heated floors, heated bench, and layered lighting required reworking circuits and upgrading the panel safely.

This renovation required both thoughtful design and careful engineering.

The Solution

We began by reworking the floor plan completely.

The unused bathtub was removed, and in its place we built a spacious custom steam shower. This immediately changed the feel of the room. The new shower is larger, more open, and no longer feels confined or claustrophobic.

Where the old shower once stood, we created a dedicated makeup vanity with custom drawer storage and a built-in electrical docking system. A central linen tower was added between the two sinks, increasing closed storage by over 17 cubic feet. Floating shelves added approximately 6 cubic feet more.

To properly support the steam environment, we installed:

Schluter Kerdi waterproofing system, which acts as both a waterproofing membrane and vapor barrier
A sloped tiled ceiling framed at a minimum 1/4 inch per 12 inches to direct condensation toward the wall and floor drain
A high-CFM exhaust fan vented to the exterior
A custom pivot glass panel to allow steam to escape efficiently after use

This level of coordination is part of our integrated design-build approach across all home renovation projects in Ottawa.

The Design Details

Every material choice was made with heat, humidity, and long-term durability in mind.

Large-format porcelain tile was selected for the shower walls because it is dense, non-porous, and resistant to moisture absorption. The pebble mosaic floor adds natural traction and comfort underfoot.

The steam shower ceiling was carefully framed and tiled on an angle to prevent condensation from dripping directly onto the user. Lightweight tiles and strong adhesive were required to prevent shifting while curing.

The custom makeup vanity includes a powered docking drawer with a safety kill-switch. Power activates only when the drawer is open and shuts off automatically when closed. No visible cords. No clutter.

Lighting was layered intentionally:

Motion-sensor toe-kick lighting for middle-of-the-night visits
LED-integrated mirrors
Integrated lighting in the smart toilet
Subtle lighting within the shower

The heated bench and heated floors add comfort, especially during Ottawa winters.

If you’re dreaming of upgrading your own space, we’ve shared additional insights in our article on dreaming of a new ensuite.

The Result

What was once a basic ensuite is now a daily wellness space. The homeowners use their steam shower every day.

In the morning, it helps them start calm.

In the evening, it helps them unwind.

The larger shower eliminated the cramped feeling of the original space. Storage works. Lighting supports real routines.

Behind the tile is careful engineering. In front of it is a calm, warm, restorative retreat that fits seamlessly into their everyday life.

To see more transformations like this, you can explore our full renovation portfolio or view another custom project like the Ocean Blue Ensuite renovation.

If you’re planning a renovation and have questions about layout, steam systems, or technical requirements, our team is always happy to talk.