This hostel’s bathroom in Galway was failing on every level. What should have been a quick and functional space for travelers had become a maintenance nightmare and a poor guest experience. The owners were facing endless upkeep battles.

• Maintenance nightmare - Untiled walls around the toilet meant constant cleaning and repainting.

• Zero functionality - No counter space for cosmetics or bags (essential for travelers always on the move).

• Terrible lighting - Single ceiling spot made the space look dull and unwelcoming.

• No visual interest - Boring, institutional feel that reflected poorly on the hostel.

• Tiny space that felt even smaller due to poor design choices.

We transformed this challenging commercial space using durable, beautiful materials and smart design principles:

Walls & Durability:

• Microcement application on key walls - primed to be nearly indestructible, perfect for high-traffic commercial use.

• Wood-effect tiles on feature walls create a stunning contrast and are easy to maintain

• Full tiling around the toilet - eliminating the cleaning and painting battles.

Maximizing Visual Impact:

• Ceiling as the 5th wall - Added decorative beams to create interest in the tiny space.

• Stunning black and white patterned floor tiles - No space is finished without a pattern.

• Warm, layered lighting replaced the harsh single spot.

Functionality for Travelers:

• Strategic counter space for cosmetics and bags.

• Practical layout designed for people constantly on the move.

Every surface now serves both beauty and function. The microcement and tiles can withstand heavy commercial use while looking absolutely stunning.

"Now this bathroom is a pleasure to be in - it's beautiful, it wows visitors, has beautiful warm lighting and is practical as well as easy to manage and clean."

From maintenance headache to guest wow-factor - this bathroom now enhances the hostel's reputation instead of detracting from it.