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Luxe meets low key

It's a balancing act – a stand out powder room that, being near the front door, is also hidden away – a secret door and feature wall with mystique are just two high points

Designed by Alina Cuchiliuc, Cube Dentro

From the designer:

Design brief

The homeowner, the owner of New Zealand's largest commercial property and construction company, sought a striking powder room design for their new holiday home. 

The powder room was to embody an industrial aesthetic, reflecting the owner's expertise in modern architecture. 

It needed to have a wow factor while maintaining cohesion with the overall design of the house, which was described as moody, modern, and luxurious.

Given its location by the entrance, the powder room was also to have a hidden door for intrigue and privacy.


Functionality and practicality were essential, ensuring that the powder room not only looked impressive but also served its purpose effectively. 

The goal was to create a private oasis that surprises and delights guests while seamlessly fitting into the overall design narrative of the home.

Meeting the brief

The design of the powder room successfully met the requirements of the brief in several key ways:

  • The room features a concealed, handcrafted cavity sliding door that blends seamlessly into the interior – it is panelled in Melamine on the exterior to match the surrounding interior, while inside, it is tiled to mimic the walls and floor, creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing look.
  • A standout design element is the feature wall where the vanity is located – this is finished in Archi+Concrete in Black and illuminated by LED lights recessed into a full-height mirror. Additionally, powder-coated mesh adds mystique shade effects, enhancing the overall drama of the room.
  • Warmth is infused into the space through brass details, including the pendant finish, tapware, and display unit. These elements add a touch of luxury and distinctive vibe, aligning with the owner's desire for a wow factor.
  • The use of oversized floor tiles extending to the ceiling creates an ambiance reminiscent of a luxurious hotel, enhancing the overall feel of the powder room.

Challenges resolved

I addressed the challenge of designing the powder room by using innovative solutions and paying close attention to detail to meet the owner's brief and the site parameters.

To ensure a seamless and intriguing entrance, a concealed, handcrafted cavity sliding door was installed.

Height constraints were managed by utilising a full-size mirror and strategic lighting to visually elevate the ceiling, enhancing the room's sense of spaciousness. Painting the ceiling in the same black as the walls further contributed to the illusion of expanded space, effectively hiding the room's boundaries.

Early involvement

My early involvement allowed for seamless integration of individual features such as a concealed sliding door, the niche for the display unit, and a packed-out wall with a recessed lighting track. 

These details enhance the room's industrial luxe vibe, aligning perfectly with the owner's vision for a moody, modern, and luxurious space.

Credit list

Cabinetry hardware
Blum Tandembox box system
Basin
Oli Round Stainless Steel Vessel, by Progetti
Toilet
Tornado V.2, by Mico
Ventilation
Manrose
Feature wall finish details
Metal sheet, by Meshstore
Awards
Trends International Design Awards (TIDA) Bathrooms – Winner
Vanity cabinetry
Laminex /Woodgrain collection/ Shade
Benchtop
Dekton/Sirius
Taps
Anello by Gessi
Lighting
Brightlight LED strip
Wall coverings
Mineral plaster coat by NovaColor
Floor tiles
Ferrocemento Grigio, from Tile Depot
Photography
Kallan MacLeod

Helpful links

Windows and doors
Hardware
Pools and spas
Home builder
Roofing
Heating
Taps and Sinks

Story by: Trendsideas

03 Apr, 2025

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