Mosaic tiles and blackened steel give this master suite bathroom a singular presence

Designed by Eva-Marie Prineas, Studio Prineas

From the architect:

This master suite evolved from the refurbishment of an apartment within an iconic 1960s modernist apartment building in Sydney. 

Afforded 270 degree views of Sydney Harbour, the apartment invited a site specific response that sought to draw the iconic harbour setting into the interior, while extending the sense of space beyond its confines.

The scope of works included a reconfiguration of the apartment interior. Operating within the constraints of stringent Strata requirements, the key design move involved raising the level of the balcony floor to eliminate the divisive hob between the main living area and the external space. In doing so, the balcony has been extended into the interior of the apartment by way of a timber step.

This timber step forms a border that defines the perimeter of the apartment. Its depth and height changes throughout the space to take on multiple functions – a platform for the display of objects and artworks, a bench seat for pause, as well as a visual and material cue to establish the threshold between the primary and service spaces/wet areas – the kitchen & bathrooms.

The original bathroom and laundry were reconfigured to create a dressing room and ensuite adjacent to a former secondary bedroom. This reconfiguration afforded this bedroom with a view of the Sydney Harbour to become the main bedroom, creating a master suite. The challenge was to address the limitations of existing plumbing and service risers.

The new plan celebrates the ritual of bathing – a generous shower benefits from an aspect and outlook, while a tiled bench seat has been carved into the space.

The monolithic use of Carrara mosaics, applied to the floor, walls and ceilings bounces soft light into the bathroom, creating a luxurious and tactile space. 

The use of blackened steel in the frames to the shower screen and mirrors, as well as the recessed shelf, extends the bespoke detail incorporated throughout the apartment into the bathroom. Bronze tapware introduces a level of luxe and warmth to the palette.

There is a reverence for the potential of materials which have been used in a limited and deliberate way. 

Leather panelling with bespoke steel detailing provides a luxurious finish to complement the deep timber hues and provides a luxurious tactility. 

The floor materials throughout the apartment were restricted to a single concept. In this case, executed in mosaic tiles and carpet. The choice of material for each of these was highly considered for the relationship between the two and the tactile experience of each.

Designed by: Studio Prineas

Story by: Trendsideas

Photography by: Chris Warnes