Cloud nine new master suite retreat

A master suite is frequently designed as a private retreat, but it becomes even more of a sanctuary when it is in a rooftop addition reached by a flight of stairs.

This suite was the second phase of a major remodeling project, says designer Mark Lind, who worked with CG&S Design-Build on the house.

"The new owners wanted to capture the downtown view from the roof, so they chose to build their master suite as a second-floor addition," he says. "The addition is in keeping with the era of the 1950s home, and the earlier remodel."

Visual continuity is assured through the use of similar materials, including sleek walnut cabinetry with horizontal graining, which also features in another bathroom and the remodeled kitchen.

"The wall-hung cabinets in the suite were intended to be light, to maintain the feeling of openness and weightlessness that defines the second-floor addition," says the designer.

For added interest, Lind introduced a deep quartz vanity top that interlocks with the walnut. The top is extra deep to accommodate not only the twin undermounted sinks and faucets, but also the two wall-mounted mirrors, which project out into the room so they appear to float in front of the tiled wall.

"I first saw these mosaic glass tiles in a magazine, and although it took me a while to track them down, they became a central part of the overall design and one of the first materials chosen for the bathroom," says Lind. "Because the color blend of the tiles is fairly subtle, we decided to keep the rest of the materials relatively neutral. This helps to accentuate the tile."

Another key feature in the center of the room is the large double shower, which partially screens the toilet. The shower incorporates a half-wall clad in 12 x 24in white glass tiles, and a recessed black slate pebble floor.

"The pebble floor feels great underfoot and enhances the tranquil aesthetic, as do the quartz top and tub surround," says Lind. "The style of the tub, which is reminiscent of a Japanese bath, also reinforces the sense of retreat."

While the room has plenty of natural light, the designer says he wanted to ensure it would also be well lit by night. Consequently, there are two fluorescent light fixtures on either side of the twin vanity mirrors. The lights stand away from the wall and can rotate for optimal illumination.

Lind says sustainable design was another consideration rainwater is harvested from the butterfly roof of the addition and recycled for garden irrigation.

Story by: Colleen Hawkes