Oasis-themed bathroom

Introducing a design theme is one way to bring cohesion to a bathroom, and a good place to find inspiration is in the rest of the interior.

The owners of this residence have a passion for modern art, sculpture and glass and tranquil spaces. For their master bathroom remodel they asked designer Roberta Kravette to replace the existing 60s pink and black laminate scheme with a room with a more spa-like appeal.

A walk through the house revealed the owners' love of water and glass, which combined with the prominent use of rich woods on neutral backgrounds, led to the concept of a desert oasis theme. Several elements further this effect, says Kravette.

"A single row of water-colored glass tiles seem to form a stream around the perimeter of the room and empty onto the walls of the shower, or oasis. Sandy-toned porcelain wall tiles provide a backdrop."

In addition, the filler for the bathtub was specified for its waterfall-like qualities.

"One of the most dramatic pieces in the space is the sculptural vanity unit. Glass bowls float on a glass shelf that in turn hovers over the base cabinet, creating more watery elements."

"Environmentally responsible finishes were also part of the design agenda, so for the vanity front, cabinet interiors, a ceiling element over the vanity and a ceiling border, we selected a composite veneer that mimics wenge, a rare African hardwood that the owners both loved," says Kravette. "The composite is processed, dyed and sliced to replicate quarter-sawn wenge. And while it boasts the richness of this now-protected wood, the composite is hardier."

In line with the green approach, the designer specified water-efficient plumbing throughout.

The glass-tiled spa-in-a-shower replicates a similar luxury the owners had experienced and fallen in love with while traveling.

Occasional tiles in other tones break up the wall surfaces. There are seven tiles in each accent color a lucky number in the Chinese culture and of significance to the owners.

"The natural materials and colors, and the spa-shower, work together to create a resort feel in a look that won't date. I think we achieved everything the owners asked for," says Kravette.

Story by: Charles Moxham