Barefoot paradise

Resort bathrooms are all about laid-back luxury and going barefoot in paradise. But it's a look that works just as well at home, especially in a subtropical climate.

The remodeling of this master suite was part of a major whole house renovation designed by architect Erik Rudolfsson of Rudolfsson Alliker Associates Architects.

"The original structure on this level was an insignificant pop-top with a large deck on a very large masonry building. It needed more presence on the outside, as well as a completely new suite inside."

Rudolfsson chose to extend the hardwood decking through into the suite, which integrates the bedroom and bathroom.

"The decking right through the bathroom is exactly the same as the decking outside. It is designed so water drains away between the boards. These are far enough apart to allow air movement, which prevents the boards from going black with the damp."

In the bedroom area, the flooring features tongue-and-groove boards, routed to mimic the look of the decking. This ensures the entire floor has a flush appearance. The two rooms can be separated if required by a sliding door.

A freestanding tub is the piéce de resistance in the room. This was designed as a stand-alone, sculptural object the tub filler is on the ceiling, and the tap on the wall. Similarly, the vanity resembles an item of furniture in engineered stone and blackbutt hardwood.

The toilet and shower area, behind frosted glass doors, is illuminated by skylights.

Story by: Colleen Hawkes