Eastern promise

Feature archways, a wealth of natural stone, and a symmetrical design give this bathroom a distinctive Middle Eastern flavor

view of the bathroom featuring acid etched marble bathroom, ceiling, floor, flooring, interior design, lobby, room, tile, wall, brown — view of the bathroom featuring acid etched marble twin vanity , and large bath

view of the bathroom leading into themaster bedroom bathroom, floor, flooring, interior design, plumbing fixture, room, sink, brown

view of the timber vanity, reccessed circular basin bathroom, bathroom sink, ceramic, countertop, plumbing fixture, product design, sink, tap, black, brown

view of the ensuite which combines strict ceiling, flooring, hearth, home, interior design, light fixture, lighting, room, wall, orange

Not all bathrooms are designed as monuments to practicality. A good designer works first to realize their own or a client's vision, then brings ergonomic issues into line with the aesthetic overview.

Royston Wilson Design created this bathroom suite as part of an upmarket townhouse development. Well-travelled, Wilson drew on his visits to North Africa and Spain to create a space that would provide a strong visual presence for a bedroom area otherwise lacking in views.

"Moorish-style archways, natural stone and a strict sense of symmetry were all important to the design," says Wilson. "A play between light and dark tones also contributed to the bathroom's look."

Standing in the center of the room, all three arches are in visual balance. Created in black granite, the arches also provide a tonal balance with the greater areas of honed marble.

"The restrained use of black granite means this doesn't overshadow the design and make the space seem smaller," says Wilson. "At the same time, the tendency for black to leap forward visually provided a sense of depth for the two blind archways. In reality, these are only 2in proud of the wall, but have the appearance of much deeper alcoves."

The bathroom is roomy in size, which Wilson's design accentuates.

"Floating vanities and a freestanding bath both add to the sense of space, as you can literally see more floor," the designer says. "Mirrors above the vanities also float they are set on a board backing that is edged in black, rendering the backing almost invisible."

Looking in from the bedroom, the space has a shrine-like quality.

"The entry is unframed on the bedroom side," says Wilson. "The profile offers intrigue, without dominating the space."