Blending old with new

Older homes have a character and sense of history that modern houses simply can't compare with. But maintaining that character often comes at the expense of convenience.

The challenge of providing modern comforts while retaining this Edwardian home's heritage appeal intrigued designer Royston Wilson, who was asked to redesign the bathroom in the master bedroom suite.

He first set about ensuring a more efficient flow removing a faux fireplace and door to the hallway, and creating a wardrobe which has a doorway through its center between the bedroom and bath.

"This effectively closed off the space and allowed the ensuite to be accessed solely through the bedroom, which freed up space for bathroomware," he says.

One of the new amenities is a large frameless glass shower stall. An adjacent heated towel rail is attached to the wall below a leadlight window, which was created to match a similar configuration at the other end of the shower stall. In front of the shower is a toilet with in-wall cistern, and a freestanding vanity unit on the other side.

"Maintaining the symmetry and historical integrity of the bathroom proved a time-consuming exercise. Matching the red pine of the window frame, creating a period piece wardrobe and vanity unit from scratch and attempting to repair the pressed metal ceiling were obstacles which needed a little creativity to overcome."

Further challenges included adding an underfloor heating system and a ducted ventilation unit, as well as a steam sensor and sound system. Finer details such the wooden toilet seat, repair and reproduction of cornices, and the matching of texture and color on the exterior help ensure the bathroom is seamlessly integrated into the home.

Story by: Trendsideas