A Spa-Like Retreat: Transforming a Bathroom with a Custom Sauna
In the picturesque town of Camas, Washington, we recently took on a bathroom renovation that tested our creativity, problem-solving, and craftsmanship. The homeowners wanted to transform their dated bathroom into a spa-like retreat—complete with a custom cedar sauna—while keeping the natural charm of the existing space. This project, completed in July, was a true labor of love, bringing together the skill and vision of the Flying W Construction father-and-son team, Doug and Turner Wyckoff.
The Vision: Spa Luxury Meets Everyday Comfort
From the start, the homeowners had a clear vision: they wanted to turn their master bathroom into a serene escape, where they could unwind after long days. A custom-built cedar sauna was at the top of their wishlist, along with maintaining the original travertine floors that gave the bathroom its classic, timeless feel. But this was no small feat. Incorporating a sauna into the space while preserving the original flooring posed both logistical and aesthetic challenges.
Challenge 1: Maximizing Space Without Sacrificing Style
The biggest challenge we faced was space. The bathroom had an open feel, but the layout didn’t leave much room for a sizable addition like a sauna. That’s where Doug Wyckoff’s expertise in construction & design came into play. Doug reimagined and designed a layout that ensured every inch was used efficiently, while still maintaining the luxurious feel the homeowners desired.
Doug's solution was a brilliant layout redesign that seamlessly integrated the sauna without making the bathroom feel cramped. By tucking the sauna into the corner, he managed to create a focal point without overwhelming the space, and its placement near the large windows allowed natural light to fill the room, enhancing that sought-after spa ambiance.
Challenge 2: Balancing Old and New
Preserving the original travertine floors was essential to maintaining the room’s character, but integrating new features without disrupting the existing structure required precision. Father-and-son duo Doug and Turner Wyckoff—both experts in tile work and carpentry—worked meticulously to make the new elements blend effortlessly with the old. Their attention to detail ensured that the new tile work around the sauna and shower area complemented the warm tones of the travertine floors.
Custom Craftsmanship and Thoughtful Choices
The project featured several bespoke elements, including a custom-built vanity from Dewills Design Center. This stunning piece not only provided ample storage but also added a layer of elegance to the overall design. With its warm wood tones and sleek lines, the vanity became the perfect bridge between the modern touches of the sauna and the traditional feel of the floors.
The final design elements were rounded out by Cerisse Wilson-Bansefay., who brought her design expertise to the finishing touches. From lighting choices to the soft pastel wallpaper that added a hint of whimsical luxury, Cerisse’s keen eye for detail ensured that every part of the bathroom felt cohesive and inviting.
The Sauna: A Daily Delight
For the homeowners, the custom cedar sauna wasn’t just a luxury add-on—it became the highlight of their new space. The cedar wood offers that comforting, natural warmth, and the sauna is perfectly positioned to take advantage of the bathroom’s beautiful views of the surrounding greenery. Since the remodel was completed, the homeowners have shared with us that they use the sauna daily, turning it into their personal retreat for unwinding at the end of each day. They’ve mentioned it’s become their favorite part of the house—a quiet place to de-stress and rejuvenate, both mentally and physically.
Overcoming Challenges with Teamwork and Skill
This project exemplifies what can happen when vision, craftsmanship, and dedication come together. Doug and Turner Wyckoff’s teamwork was key to overcoming the unique challenges of this renovation. As a father-and-son team, they brought a strong sense of collaboration to the project. Their combined experience in tile and carpentry ensured that every aspect of the remodel was handled with care, precision, and a shared commitment to excellence.
The challenges we faced in integrating the sauna into the space, preserving the original flooring, and creating a balanced, cohesive design all required innovative solutions and meticulous execution. In the end, the homeowners were thrilled with the result—a tranquil bathroom that feels both luxurious and inviting, with the sauna now an essential part of their daily routine.
Licensed, Insured, and Bonded in Washington and Oregon
At Flying W Construction, we take pride in providing high-quality craftsmanship and innovative design. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded in Washington and Oregon, ensuring that every project we undertake is completed to the highest standards of quality and safety. Our goal is always to bring your vision to life while ensuring that the process is seamless and stress-free.
Ready to Transform Your Space?
This Camas bathroom remodel is just one example of how we can turn your dream space into a reality. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious spa retreat or a functional upgrade to your home, we’re here to help. Contact us today to discuss how we can bring your vision to life.
All project details are shared with the homeowners' permission. Special thanks to Doug Wyckoff for layout design, and Doug and Turner Wyckoff for tile and carpentry expertise.