Gilded grove

Designed by Steffie Meyer, Source

From the designer:

This primary bath, affectionately dubbed Gilded Grove, is a true celebration of materiality, movement, and mindfulness – a spa-like retreat that blends craftsmanship with intentional design. 

While its elegance is immediately visible in photos, the true beauty of this space lies in the behind-the-scenes orchestration that brought it to life.

At the heart of the project is a custom-designed, hand-clipped glass mosaic featuring over 45,000 individual pieces, each meticulously shaped, placed, and colour-matched to evoke the subtle rhythm of tree branches and leaves. 

This bold organic pattern wraps fluidly around the shower, and although it carries strong visual weight, its muted, soothing colour palette was chosen to create a sense of serenity rather than overstimulation – the mosaic is immersive, not overwhelming.

To achieve this seamless wraparound, we developed a 3-D diagram, allowing both the artist and our team to visualise how the branches would flow across curved and flat surfaces. 

Each sheet of tile was laid out, taped from the front, numbered, and dry-fitted. 

We created overages in every tile colour, ensuring that elements like floor vents, shower valves, or unforeseen architectural nuances could be addressed piece by piece, maintaining consistency without compromise.

The installation sequence was as demanding as the craftsmanship. 

The floor tile had to be installed first, setting the foundation for all other finishes. 

From there, the shower – including the intricate mosaic arch – was built out. 

Next came the cabinetry, after which each stone drawer front was templated and installed individually. 

This same process extended to the wainscot, the tub surround, and the countertops, requiring close co-ordination and absolute precision. 

Nothing could be rushed, yet the entire timeline was compressed – every phase had to be perfectly timed to keep the project on track.

Among the most understated but meaningful details are the slab-cut floor vents – not purchased as prefabricated inserts, but rather carved directly from the stone slabs themselves. 

These invisible luxuries speak to the commitment to material continuity and attention to even the smallest design elements. 

Every line, edge, and transition was carefully considered and executed.

While the technical challenges were numerous, our goal was always to create a space that felt soft, quiet, and timeless. 

In contrast to the boldness of the mosaic’s form, we leaned into natural textures and finishes to foster a sense of calm. 

The walls are finished in hand-applied plaster, giving the room a warm, organic quality. Art rails were introduced to support a rotating selection of fine art pieces, turning the room into more than a bath – it's an intimate gallery. 

Every product and accessory was chosen not just for beauty, but for how it would feel to use: luxurious yet grounding, elevated yet liveable.

This project is also a story of trust and collaboration – between designer, artisan, builder, and homeowner. 

It’s not just about making something beautiful; it’s about building something that will remain beautiful, functional, and calming for years to come. 

It’s a reflection of how luxury doesn't have to shout – sometimes, it whispers in the details, the decisions, and the things you don’t notice until you live with them.

In the end, this bathroom became not just a primary bath, but a bespoke experience – a luxurious escape within the home that evokes both wonder and rest.

Story by: Trendsideas