Invitation to linger

Designed by Mark de Rozario, CSA Craig Steere Architects

From the architect:

For this home, the upper-level ensuite was conceived as more than a bathroom. 

The owner sought a retreat that could stand alone as an elevated, apartment-like sanctuary combining bedroom, robe and ensuite into a cohesive experience with a luxurious feel.

Central to the design was the inclusion of a generous bench seat, positioned at the rear of the space, inviting moments of pause and reflection. 

Overhead, a large recessed skylight allows natural light to filter in through the day, creating a shifting wash across surfaces and drawing attention to a wall intentionally left open for artwork. 

These gestures lend the space a quiet intimacy, positioning it as a room to linger in.

Key spatial interventions address both form and function. 

A steam shower was integrated seamlessly into the plan, avoiding the visual interruption of a standard framed enclosure. 

The freestanding bath sits on a raised podium, aligned to capture a framed ocean view. 

This stepped approach lends a sense of ceremony to the bathing ritual. 

A custom, oversized basin accommodates hand-washing of garments, adding a layer of considered utility to the scheme.

Material selections were driven by both tactile richness and tonal control. 

Green marble was introduced to the vanity surface, offering depth and visual interest. 

This was paired with dark cabinetry to anchor the space, providing a moody contrast to the skylight-lit interior. 

The balance of dark and light creates a spatial rhythm that is both grounded and refined. 

Tile and flooring selections carry through from the wider home, reinforcing a sense of continuity and quiet luxury.

Within the bathroom, a wide vanity and mirrored overhead cabinetry provide ample storage, concealed within clean lines. 

The result is a retreat that feels immersive and resolved, complete with architectural detailing. 

The homeowner say they now spend more time in the bathroom than they had expected – using it not only for daily routines but as a place to unwind, reflect and enjoy.

Story by: Trendsideas