Open-plan master suite with freestanding bathtub, sapele wood wall, pocket doors

Open-plan living isn't limited to the reception areas of this new home it's also a key feature of the master suite.

The suite occupies one of two cantilevered wings that project out at the sides of the house their elevated position maximizes views and also provides a high level of privacy.

Both of these aspects are enhanced by the open, flowing layout of the suite. The bedroom and bathroom areas are separated only by a semi-freestanding sapele wood wall that supports the vanities on one side and forms a headboard for the bed on the other.

"The bed is on a direct axis with the lap pool, which extends the length of the house and beyond, bisecting the second cantilevered form," the architect says. "It is possible for the owners to step onto a little bridge, dive into the pool and literally swim in and out of the house."

Floor-to-ceiling glazing at the end of the bedroom wing is another key feature. It allows sweeping views down over the landscape, which features many mature trees.

A freestanding sculptural Agape bathtub is placed at an angle in front of these windows, so the owners can enjoy the view while bathing.

"Because the central dividing wall in the suite stops well short of the expansive glazing, both rooms enjoy the same view," Dziewulski says. "If the suite was split into two separate rooms, the views would be compromised."

One wall is lined with large bookmatched slabs of Calacatta marble, chosen by the owners for the color and veining. The wall extends through to the glass-walled shower, which functions more as a wet area than a separate room.

The large-format porcelain floor tiles are also continuous right through the entire suite, reinforcing the seamless look.

The contemporary aesthetic is enhanced by the modern design of the twin Rifra vanities that sit forward of the full-length mirror on the sapele wood diving wall. These lacquered units have integral wading sinks and sleek chrome pedestal-mounted faucets. With flush drawers, and matching seamless medicine cabinets, the look is simple, yet refined.

Curtains provide privacy at night. There are also large pocket doors in the wood wall that can close off the bedroom from the bathroom these are used mainly to block light if one person is sleeping.

Story by: Colleen Hawkes