Down the garden path

Forging a close connection between the indoors and outdoors is a priority for most new homes today. But the design team behind this new Georgian house took the idea a step further, bringing the garden into the house.

Architect Anne Adams of Stuart Silk Architects says the house is very focused on a beautiful, private garden, which is enclosed by walls and trees.

"They wanted to carry the garden motif inside," she says. "This influenced the design and colors of the master suite."

One of the most noticeable features is a floral tile pattern on the bathroom floor, designed by interior designer Kylee Shintaffer. Swirling stems, sprigs and dragonflies are created by different colored mosaic tiles, including Calacatta Gold, onyx and other marble types.

The tiled pattern encircles a large round tub, which forms the focal point.

"The tub is tucked beside the windows in its own niche," says Adams. "With paneling wrapping around the walls on three sides, it feels enclosed and protected."

The visual drama is reinforced by the vaulted ceiling that soars to a point above the tub, and by a large pendant light.

"The room has a very glamorous look, and this is enhanced by traditional hardware on the cabinets, which includes crystal knobs," says Adams.

A furniture-style vanity cabinet and framed mirrors mounted on a mirrored wall are another traditional note.

"The mirror treatment, designed by Kylee Shintaffer, provides the best of both worlds," says the architect. "The wall mirror is large enough to reflect the view of the garden and the trees, yet the smaller framed mirrors retain a traditional scale and define the his-and-hers sinks."

Two toilet rooms are provided, one to the right of the vanity, and one off the passageway leading to the bedroom.

There is also an extra-large walk-in closet, which has similar painted cabinets with recessed panel doors.

"This is more of a dressing room than a closet," says Adams. "With silver nickel Nanz fittings, the cabinets have the most beautiful hardware in the house. The room is laid out around the center island, which has drawers for her on one side, and for him on the other. These include custom drawers with velvet lining for accessories and jewelry."

Other key features of the dressing room include a ventilated shoe cabinet, an antique bench seat and chandelier.

Story by: Trendsideas