All in the detail

Master suites are commanding a lot of respect these days. Though they are increasingly designed as private retreats, they are likely to be just as richly decorated as the main living spaces in a home.

This master suite in a Tuscan-style desert house typifies this trend. Its design reflects the home's key architectural focus the heavy-beamed ceiling and arched windows were inspired by traditional Mediterranean houses.

The master bathroom reinforces this theme, introducing travertine marble flooring, a bow window and a distinctive, vaulted ceiling.

Architect Ron Robinette says the owners wanted the suite to have a sense of drama a look that would be in keeping with the style of the house. On a more practical note, they also wanted separate his-and-hers vanities, toilet rooms and closets, plus a double shower and tub.

"The bathroom needed to be large enough to accommodate all these elements," he says. "By positioning the vanities, closets and toilets at opposite ends, we were able to devote the space in the middle to the bathing area, introducing a formal symmetry to the room."

The tub is positioned beside the bow window, its oval shape echoing the curve of the window. The curve is repeated in the marble and glass wall that separates the shower room.

However, it is the material palette that helps define these spaces. Interior designer Lawrence Lake chose to limit the surfacing materials to mainly desert-colored travertine and granite, but introduced variety through the use of tiles of differing sizes. The flooring, for example, incorporates travertine mosaics and larger border tiles, which have been laid to create a rug pattern. Small rectangular copper tiles add further visual interest.

Tiled wall panels in the shower room are also patterned the design highlighting the Kohler custom tower double shower and body jets.

"Travertine marble has a lot of dramatic impact the veining produces a wonderful textured look," says Lake. "The challenge was to ensure that the detailing was neither too little, nor too much."

With this in mind, Lake ensured the cabinetry has a more subdued look. Distressed maple cabinets enhance the toning of the granite countertops and tub surround. They also complement the Tuscan-style architecture.

"The cabinetry is designed to look like stand-alone furniture pieces," says Lake. "The vanities have legs, and the his-and-hers areas are slightly different. For example, her vanity incorporates a dressing table with a small cabinet on top for jewelry and make-up."

Lake says it was important to balance the masculine look of the travertine walls and flooring. Austrian blinds, in a slightly iridescent fabric with beaded fringing, help to soften the space visually.

A metallic paint on the vaulted ceiling also provides sparkle and glamour.

"Painting this feature in a dark accent color was a way to bring it to life," says Robinette. "It also increases the perceived height of the room, helping to create a spacious, yet inviting retreat."

Story by: Trendsideas