Marble-look tiles give this master ensuite a luxurious aesthetic

Already generous sized, this restful, opulent bathroom with coastal views maximises a sense of spaciousness in several ways

Smoked oak vanity joinery connects with wall cabinet

To balance the environment of cool white stone

A freestanding tub adds a sculptural element to

A freestanding tub not only looks elegant, it

The master bedroom is in quiet, natural tones

Eclectic furniture, mirror and pendant choices provide interest

This walk-in wardrobe features built-in joinery in smoked

Finely crafted built-in cabinetry in this walk-in wardrobe

This master suite has many features to draw the eye, but one of its greatest charms is less visual and more atmospheric – a sense of peace and sheer relaxation.

Securing an Auckland clifftop site looking to Mt Rangitoto began a three year journey for the owners to design and build a luxury, one-level contemporary home in the spectacular location, says designer Jennie Dunlop.

“Their brief to us for the master bathroom was to let the views of the sea and Rangitoto take centre stage – including from the shower. The bathroom was also to have a luxurious, light and airy feel and include hidden storage, a double vanity and a freestanding bath.”

The bathroom was already generous in size and received plenty of natural light.

To build on this – and create a luxurious aesthetic – Dunlop went for a uniform use of veined marble-look tiles on the floors and walls.

Selecting large format tiles minimised grout lines, making for a cleaner aesthetic.

“To balance the environment of cool white stone and to make a feature statement, we designed a wall-length vanity with rich dark smoked oak cabinetry.”

The proportions of the long, deep vanity add to the grandness of the open space. In addition, cantilevering the sizeable element off the wall provides more visible floor space and further adds to the sense of spaciousness and lightness.

“The marble vanity benchtop – matching the veined white tiling – steps up to a ledge,” she says. “This provides the base for two over-sized inset wall cabinets behind large mirror-fronted sliding doors that reflect and enhance the room.”

The wood-lined cabinets provide extensive storage, and include power points.

Of course the mirrors reflect the bathroom, again accentuating the room’s spaciousness.

The walk-in shower is located in a corner of the room that takes in views of Rangitoto. This includes a rainhead and slide shower, providing for an indulgent bathing experience.

Behind the ensuite, the walk-in wardrobe’s oak joinery matches the bathroom cabinetry.