All-round view

The overall impact of a space is likely to be a result of using a variety of subtle and hidden details, as well in the choice of the materials, textures and colors.

In this bathroom, spectacular views of the city and sea are emphasized by the limited palette of materials and colors, and a wealth of subtle detailing combines to create an overall impression of refinement.

Interior designer Garret Cord Werner remodeled two adjoining condominiums in downtown Seattle to create a single, large unit for a retired couple.

To make the most of the panoramic views, the interior of the entire condominium, including the master suite, is designed to be simple and understated, with refinement expressed in the subtle detailing.

The master suite comprises a large bedroom with a window seat from which views toward the city can be enjoyed, and a bathroom with a tub, glass shower and a vanity with an extra-large trough basin.

The tub, built into a stone surround and filled by a large, polished nickel waterfall head, is below two sliding windows that open onto a balcony. Roller blinds, concealed in a recess in the ceiling, can be pulled down for privacy.

Mood lighting is provided by recessed lamps set into a nickel-plated, pop-up panel above the tub. This panel mirrors the dimensions of the tub surround.

On the opposite wall, a steam shower is inside a glass enclosure. Niches chiseled into the stone on the back wall of the shower create shelves for toiletries such as soap and shampoo. The shower is drained by a long, narrow trough along the base of an obsidian bench seat in the glass enclosure. In order to conceal plumbing, stainless steel shower heads and faucets are mounted onto a polished stainless steel column at one end of the shower. The nickel detailing on the ceiling above the tub is echoed in the frame around the glass shower box.

Matching stone is also used for the floating vanity top and the drawer faces below it. Towel rails are neatly mounted beneath the outer edge of the vanity so the towels can hang out of the way in the void beneath it. The long, trough-shaped stone basin is sculpted into the vanity top, and water runs away through a narrow drain around the base of the sink. The vanity mirror is set into a nickel-plated frame.

To keep the space clean and uncluttered, the designer has concealed storage in the columns at each end of the vanity. These cabinets, fitted with electrical outlets, provide storage for hair dryers, shavers and other toiletries, and are opened by tiny, hidden handles.

Blue limestone tiles contrast subtly with the stone, while a red carpet runner provides an unexpected splash of color.

Story by: Mary Webb

Photography by: Jamie Cobeldick