Flowing interior

Most interior designers embrace the concept of continuity. Rooms that flow easily are usually spaces where the decorating follows a similar theme. And there's no reason why the bathroom should be treated differently.

The owners of this master bathroom wanted the space to look like a regular room one that continued the traditional look of the rest of the house. But at the same time, the remodeling project needed to provide every modern convenience.

The new bathroom was the final part of an extensive remodeling project that doubled the size of the house. The refurbishment also transformed the formerly contemporary-style house into a more traditional home with a French country influence.

Architect Stuart Cohen says the new bathroom was designed around existing services. The position of the shower and toilet rooms, and the tub were already established and needed to be accommodated within the plan.

"There was also a high vaulted ceiling over the main part of the room," he says. "This shape was repeated in a smaller vaulted ceiling in an alcove."

A large, arched transom window above the tub is also mimicked in the shape of mirrored panels, both in the alcove and above the vanity.

Mouldings and casings in the bathroom have the same profiles as those used elsewhere in the house. Polished wood floors also flow from the bedroom.

"The sense of continuity is very strong," says Cohen. "But, while the room has these traditional features, the painted cabinetry is quite simple. We wanted the focus of attention to be the space itself."

To best suit the needs of the owners, and provide easy access to the sinks, the marble vanity countertops are elevated. However, the dressing table in the alcove is at desk height.

"This is a particularly useful addition to the bathroom," say the owners. "As the countertop very deep, it provides plenty of room for cosmetics. There is even enough space for a small television that allows us to watch the breakfast news."

Glass shelving either side of the alcove displays perfume bottles and ensures other items are close at hand.

As with the toilet and bidet, the shower is enclosed in a separate 4ft x 8ft room. Here, modern luxury is readily apparent. The steam shower incorporates a bench seat, rainhead fitting and multiple body sprays. Dark green lava stone lines the interior, contrasting the white, streaked look of the Statuary Carrara marble tub surround and countertops.

Story by: Trendsideas