Be my guest

In days gone by, bathrooms were often positioned on the south side of the house, and as a consequence were dark and unwelcoming.

Contrast this with the more common scenario today bathrooms are bright, sunny spaces, frequently designed to maximise a great view.

The guest bathroom shown on these pages is all of these things, and more. Designed by Julian O'Sullivan of Blue Print Architectural Services the bathroom opens out to a large, landscaped pool area. As well as serving the guest bedrooms on either side, the bathroom can double as a changing room and poolside bathroom.

O'Sullivan says the design of the bathroom echoes the contemporary architecture of the house and its natural material palette. The owners, Kevin and Robyn O'Gorman, had previously milled several large macrocarpa trees that grew on the site. This wood features throughout the house, appearing in the door and window joinery in the bathroom, as well as the custom, furniture-style vanity unit.

Tiled surfaces and designer fittings, including a freestanding Escale tub and Kohler Bateau Vessel basin, enhance the bathroom's resort feel. The tub's sleek styling also works to complement the wedge shape of the room.

"The house has a Y shape, which creates a number of interesting angles inside," says O'Sullivan. "Because the two guest rooms are at a 30° angle, the bathroom between is also angled. But the space is not compromised, thanks to the wide entry."

Story by: Colleen Hawkes