Master bathroom opens up to master bedroom to optimise light and space

Large format tiles, cantilevered elements and a large operable wall all give this bathroom an upmarket hotel-like ambience

Large-format wall and floor tiles add to the architecture, bathroom, interior design, window, gray, black — Large-format wall and floor tiles add to the spa-like feel in this open-plan master bathroom.

Subtle door lines are the only hint that architecture, bedroom, ceiling, interior design, real estate, room, gray, black

Silk-linen drapes and a velvet chair bring balance architecture, estate, interior design, property, real estate, room, window, gray

A feature circular mirror conceals storage and reinforces architecture, bathroom, countertop, floor, flooring, interior design, kitchen, product design, sink, tap, tile, gray

Bathrooms often have to meet a variety of owner demands beyond being an easy place to bathe and freshen up. And this dual-use master suite is an excellent case in point. It forms part of a brand new high-end apartment by architect Rob Nerlich.

"The brief from the owners was to create an urban oasis which would be their home during the week and leased for corporate short stays in the weekend," says Nerlich. "The main challenge was to arrange storage and circulation to seamlessly integrate secure areas for owner storage when the apartment was let."

In the master suite this was achieved by having walk-in robe joinery doors that can be completely secured hiding their presence. Guests instead use the wall robe, unaware of the secret room behind them.

The suite was to have a resort-like feel, including a feature operable wall which opens the ensuite to the bedroom and views through to the balcony beyond.

"In terms of materials and colour, the bathroom has a natural grey-brown palette seen in the large-format stone floor and wall tiles, the Kimberly Brown granite benchtop and prominent grout lines."

As well as the luxurious look of stone, the bathroom has flush thresholds, mitred corners and a slot-drain at the wall line all adding to the resort-like feel. Adding to the bathroom's seamless design, the plumbing for the shower, toilet and basin is concealed in the built-out wall that runs behind the shower and vanity.