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A sculptured bathtub takes pride of place in this master bedroom

The view of a bathroom featuring a wall bathroom, bathroom accessory, bathroom cabinet, floor, interior design, plumbing fixture, room, sink, gray — The view of a bathroom featuring a wall hung vanity unit and shelving

The detail of a wall hung vanity unit bathroom, bathroom accessory, bathroom cabinet, floor, interior design, plumbing fixture, room, sink, tile, window, gray

The view of a bath tub on a ceramic, furniture, interior design, product design, purple, room, table, gray

If a bathtub is more akin to a work of art than a piece of utility furniture, why hide it away in a master ensuite?

This ivory bathtub for instance, is made from crushed almond shells. Rather than sitting in the bathroom, it has taken up residence in the master bedroom of a house designed by Glenn Holmes, of Design Department.

"The homeowners are parents to three lively children and their master suite is their sanctuary. Enjoying a bath at the end of the day is one of those indulgences that they couldn't bear to consign to a small ensuite bathroom," he says.

Elevated on a teak platform, the bath is positioned directly opposite the bed. From its curvaceous form, the bather has a view out the window that takes in Sydney's middle harbour.

The teak platform serves a number of purposes. Practically, it ensures the carpet isn't destroyed by bath water there is a stainless steel tray beneath the tub to collect water that is easily accessible for cleaning. Aesthetically, the teak platform evokes a nautical theme that is prevalent throughout the home's interior design.

Behind the tub, the walls are painted white to provide a blank canvas for artwork and to offer a light backdrop for the bathtub during the day.

"It's about providing a bathing experience that includes a stunning view a comfortable place to soak where you can either relax or converse with your partner without interruption," Holmes says.

To complete the picture, the bedroom is fitted with a state-of-the-art sound system.

The separate ensuite is reserved for daily cleansing rituals and includes a shower and toilet. Twin basins are separated by a central pedestal, which houses linen and toiletries.

The porcelain bowl and timber vanities echo the bathtub and platform in the bedroom. The tumbled marble floor has the same depth and variety as the bedroom carpet, but is a more practical surface for a bathroom floor.