Designer Spotlight: Francois-Yves Auger

Francois-Yves Auger is a French home remodel and interior design content creator based in Frisco, Texas. After ten years in the United States and a recent move from New York, he is now renovating a North Texas suburban home full of regional charm—red brick, Texas limestone, and arched windows.

Through his platform, Francois-Yves shares his renovation journey with honesty and practical detail, documenting real costs, material selections, and the learning curve behind each project. His approach is thoughtful yet approachable, offering a clear perspective on how to create spaces that feel both personal and elevated.

Currently, he is remodeling the guest bathroom using Bedrosians subway tile, with plans to take on the laundry room next.

A 25-Year Bathroom, Reimagined

For this primary bathroom, the goal wasn’t to reinvent the layout—but to completely transform the experience of the space.

The room had remained untouched for over 25 years. While time alone doesn’t define a space (“as a French person, 25 years doesn’t feel old”), the bathroom itself felt distinctly builder-grade—lacking warmth, intention, and character.

Rather than moving walls or reworking plumbing, Francois-Yves focused on elevating what was already there—removing what didn’t serve the space and refining every detail.

Editing the Architecture

The first step was simplification.

The oversized hydro-jet corner tub—once a focal point—was removed in favor of a more practical and hygienic solution. Above the closet and toilet doors, decorative niches were eliminated, clearing away visual clutter and unnecessary architectural details.

In the shower, a more intentional feature was introduced: a pony wall that offers privacy without closing off the space. Within it, a hidden niche keeps everyday items out of sight, reinforcing a clean and considered aesthetic from the moment you enter.

Material as the Moment

The transformation is ultimately defined by material choice.

Francois-Yves selected Marin 2.5" x 10" Ceramic Wall Tile in Sand Dollar, installed in a vertical soldier pattern—a subtle shift that brings a modern sensibility to a classic format.

The tone is key: warmer than traditional white subway tile, the Sand Dollar color softens the space and enhances the natural light. Its slightly irregular edges introduce a handcrafted, organic quality, while the glossy finish reflects light throughout the room—making the bathroom feel brighter, more open, and more inviting.

The Finished Space

The result is a space that feels quietly elevated.

A rich wood vanity paired with marble countertops introduces contrast and depth, while brass fixtures add warmth and refinement. The darker flooring grounds the space, balancing the lightness of the walls and amplifying the overall sense of cohesion.

What was once purely functional now feels intentional—designed not just for today, but with longevity in mind. The palette remains versatile enough for resale, yet distinct enough to feel personal.

Designed for Real Life

Francois-Yves’ work is a reminder that good design doesn’t require a complete overhaul—it requires clarity.

By working within the existing footprint and focusing on materiality, proportion, and thoughtful details, this renovation transforms a dated bathroom into a space that feels both timeless and lived-in.

Follow along with Francois-Yves Auger’s renovation journey:
https://www.upperhouseny.com/pages/interior-design
https://www.instagram.com/francoisinthesuburbs/