Personal treatments

Visiting a spa for a day of pampering is one of life's luxuries, but enjoying the treatment in your own home must take the whole experience a step further.

Indulgence is certainly a key feature in every area of this spacious apartment designed by Tan Peng Geok of Park & Associates.

"The simple, contemporary design emphasizes clean lines, open spaces and natural materials, but the detailing lifts it to another level," says Tan.

The large, open, L-shaped master suite epitomizes this theme. Both the bedroom and bathroom look onto the swimming pool and terrace outside, and frameless glass sliding doors can be opened up between the bedroom and bathroom, and the bathroom and pool. These doors can be closed for privacy if required.

Interior designer Hilary Loh of 2nd Edition says the design creates an easy flow between indoor and outdoor spaces.

To enhance the connection, the whirlpool tub is located beside the sliding door that opens onto the pool. With the cover folded flat, the bathtub, which is actually designed for outdoor use, can double as a massage bed or be used for sunbathing. Alternatively, the cover can be folded back to form headrests at each end of the bath.

"The owners can retreat to their own private spa and if they wish, a masseur can come to the house," says Loh.

A dramatic interior design scheme helps create a rich, opulent atmosphere throughout the master suite. In the bedroom, Indian rosewood floors, gold-flecked wallpaper and shag pile rugs set the scene, and this color palette continues into the bathroom. The floor, shower enclosure and wall behind the vanity are covered in high-gloss, quartz-veined, black granite tiles, while the vanity is topped with a single slab of the same material.

A large mirror above the vanity, lit from a concealed pelmet, creates another reflective surface in the bathroom. Hinged sections at either end of the mirror swivel to change the viewing angle.

To keep the bathroom looking airy and spacious, the vanity cantilevers so it appears to float off the wall. High-gloss, black laminate drawers provide storage. In contrast, the bathtub is anchored in the space by a dark wenge surround that matches timber architraves and skirtings.

A fully enclosed shower has all the elements of a luxurious spa, with a rain head and separate hand shower.

The separate toilet includes a number of automated functions.

Story by: Mary Webb