"It was literally concrete floors and bare walls," said Leonardo's senior estimator Chrissy Quillen.

Leonardo's owner Michele Monti said she knew the costs would exceed her plan, but she wanted perfection. "If this sucker's going to have my name on it, I don't give a darn," she said.

Designer Debbie Nowaczyk with Advanced Concepts in Kitchens and Baths in Tempe donated her time to work with the Caldwells on choosing colors and materials. Hickman Plumbing installed the new toilet and shower controls, and Straight Edge Electric in Mesa donated some labor on the new wiring.

The cost of supplies came in at around $7,000. Monti figures if the Caldwells had to pay retail for everything plus labor, they'd have paid about $14,000.

However, they used top-of-the-line fixtures, cabinetry, tile and granite. Homeowners considering a remodel can do it for much less if they prioritize and scale down on some of the extras.

But if you're flush with cash and want the best, this project shows how pretty a potty can be.
 

After: Undermount Kohler sinks in biscuit were used with granite countertops, fabricated and installed by Leonardo's. A biscuit-colored toilet (not shown) matches the sinks. Advanced Concepts in Kitchens and Baths added a center console cabinet as well as cabinetry over the toilet to expand the storage space in the small bathroom.

Thoroughly enjoyed by even the
youngest family member!
 

After: Schrock cabinetry in maple with a briarwood stain replaced the old, broken oak cabinets. Linda Caldwell bought the rug from Kohl's and towels from Robinsons-May, and hung an existing framed photograph.