680 Lake Shore Tub to Shower Conversion — Streeterville Bathroom Remodel Under $35K Chicago 2026
This 680 N Lake Shore Drive tub-to-shower conversion transformed a dark, dated primary bathroom into a vibrant modern retreat — at a lakefront Streeterville address that deserved better finishes. I'm Viktor Aharon with Assembly Squad Remodeling LLC — we've completed 500+ renovations since 2013 (IL License #TGC098779, A+ BBB), with extensive experience in Streeterville bathroom remodeling and high-rise condo renovations throughout Chicago's Near North Side.
The client wanted a complete transformation — not just cosmetic work on top of aging infrastructure, but a bathroom rebuilt to modern standards with a design identity that matched her vision for the space. The teal-forward color palette was the key decision: it brings energy and personality to a bathroom that had been defined by heavy dark tiles for years.
Tub-to-Shower Conversion Streeterville Chicago — Leaky Shower Drain Repair + Full Waterproofing
The tub-to-shower conversion at 680 Lake Shore Drive began with full demolition of the existing shower enclosure — at which point we uncovered a leaky drain beneath the concrete that needed immediate repair. This is exactly why a thorough remodel pays dividends: a drain leak left unaddressed would continue causing subsurface water damage, eventually affecting the unit below in a Streeterville high-rise. We repaired the drain properly before proceeding, then applied comprehensive shower waterproofing throughout the reconstructed enclosure. Every layer was correct before the first tile went in.
New Floor Tiles, Shower Wall Tiles, Teal Design Palette
The original black floor tiles — the source of the cramped, dated feeling throughout the bathroom — were completely removed. New floor tiles and new shower wall tiles were selected to anchor the teal design palette that defines this bathroom. The teal accent approach creates visual interest and modernity without requiring a full gut of every surface: it's a high-impact design decision that delivers a spa-like atmosphere on a realistic budget. The result photographs dramatically differently from the before — and lives differently too.
Vanity Painting, New Mirror + Light Fixture, Electrical Upgrade
Professional painting of the existing vanity and cabinets was the right call here — the boxes were structurally sound, and paint updated the look completely without the cost of full replacement. New mirror and contemporary light fixture were selected to complement the teal palette and improve the vanity area's functionality. The full electrical upgrade throughout the bathroom — new wiring, updated circuits — was done because it's non-negotiable in a Chicago condo bathroom renovation at a building that conducts inspections at resale. See our Streeterville bathroom remodeling service page → and our tub-to-shower conversion Chicago guide →
Complete Scope of Work
- Complete removal of original black floor tiles
- Full demolition and rebuild of walk-in shower — tub-to-shower conversion
- Repair of leaky drain beneath concrete
- Comprehensive shower waterproofing throughout
- New shower wall tile installation — teal accent design
- New floor tile installation throughout bathroom
- All new plumbing fixtures — shower, vanity, accessories
- Replacement of damaged drywall throughout
- Professional painting of existing vanity and cabinets
- New mirror and contemporary light fixture installation
- Complete electrical system upgrade — new wiring, circuits
- All Chicago permits and building coordination handled
- Completed under $35,000 in 3 weeks
Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost Streeterville 2026 — Under $35K Bathroom Remodel
The 680 Lake Shore Drive bathroom remodel came in under $35,000 including drain repair, full waterproofing, all new tile, vanity painting, new fixtures, new mirror and lighting, and a complete electrical upgrade. That's the realistic benchmark for a comprehensive Streeterville high-rise primary bathroom remodel with tub-to-shower conversion when infrastructure work is included. Cosmetic-only bathroom refreshes run $15,000–$25,000; full gut renovations with structural repairs run $30,000–$60,000+ depending on size and finish level. See our Chicago bathroom remodel cost guide →
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