Fantasy land

Inspiration often comes from the most unlikely sources. The owner of this bathroom found a bronze bathtub that she really wanted to have in her home, even though she had no specific place in mind where it could be used.

She consulted interior architect Nicolas Sauzier and interior designer Alia Meyer, both of Jessica Hall Associates, who had been involved in remodeling and redecorating the rest of her home.

"Outside the house, close to the master suite, was a shed. Because no other space in the house was available, we upgraded the shed and joined it to the master suite, with a secret door from the closet to link the two areas," says Meyer.

A second door opens from the bathroom onto a small, private garden, which can also be seen through a large window covering one wall.

The bathroom is designed to be an oasis for the owner a complete retreat from the rest of the house and because the large, solid bronze Sultan's tub in the center of the room is such a significant feature, the interior design of the room is based around it. Apart from two small shagreen tables on wheels that can be moved around as required, the room is free of furniture.

Venetian plastered walls are painted in a light lavender tone, which provides a successful complement to the rich, bright copper tub. To complete the fantasy, Meyer found an Italian artist who designed the Grotesque-style mural painted onto the ceiling.

"The ceiling tells a story; its aim is to provide visual stimulation to aid the creative flow of the mind. In addition, the mural counterbalances the dominance of the tub," says the interior designer.

The only other decorative features are the copper floor-mounted faucet, an ornate gold-framed mirror flanked by two bejewelled wall sconces, and a crystal light fitting mounted onto the ceiling to complement the mural.

"In fact, the whole room provides a background for acting out a romantic fantasy," she says.

Story by: Mary Webb