In the mood - Tranquil bathroom by Craig Webster

For a bathroom to be a private sanctuary sometimes it is necessary to turn away from bright sunlight and reflective surfaces. As this granite-walled bathroom shows, a dark palette of natural materials goes a long way towards creating a Zen-like retreat.

Architect Craig Webster of Monster Ideas Architects says owner Matthew Hilan wanted this second bathroom to be a complete contrast to the bright, sunlit living areas and master suite on the upper level of the new house.

"He also liked the idea of a very open, meditative retreat with a private courtyard."

To this end, Webster lined the bathroom in charcoal granite, which creates a cool, cave-like space that works well in the hot climate. Large bifolding doors open the room up to a private courtyard and tranquil water feature.

The sense of permanence and solidity is reinforced by deep niches that appear to be carved into the walls. The wall above the vanity turns at right angles to contain the cabinetry.

"The return brings the solid wall out into the room. But the cutout ensures it doesn't compromise the view out to the courtyard," says Webster. "We also mitered the corners of the granite to provide a more finished look.

"We wanted to offset the cabinetry so it wouldn't be typically symmetrical. A mirror above the basin goes right to the floor, which enhances the sense that the vanity is floating, an effect reinforced by an LED lighting strip between the top and the cabinets."

Rather that provide contrasting colors for visual interest, Webster used a narrow granite tiled strip to define the water zone. The strip runs beneath the freestanding tub and up a recessed niche in the shower.

Designed as a wet room, the shower also features a pebbled drain. The pebbles extend beneath the threshold to the courtyard, further reinforcing the Zen look.