Room with a view

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Modern and classic features merge in this renovated ensuite, designed to relate to the 1930s home

A view of the ensuite area before it cabinetry, cupboard, door, floor, flooring, hardwood, home, interior design, molding, product, room, wall, wardrobe, wood, wood stain, red, brown — A view of the ensuite area before it was renovated.

A view of the master ensuite, tiled floors bathroom, door, estate, floor, flooring, home, house, interior design, real estate, room, window, brown

A view of the master ensuite, tiled floors bathroom, bathroom accessory, bathroom cabinet, floor, home, interior design, plumbing fixture, product design, real estate, room, sink, orange, gray

A view of the master ensuite, tiled floors architecture, bathroom, countertop, home, interior design, room, sink, brown, orange

A view of the ensuite area before it door, estate, floor, flooring, hardwood, home, house, interior design, laminate flooring, living room, property, real estate, room, window, wood, wood flooring, wood stain, brown, red

Modern homes are usually designed with practicality in mind hence the prevalence of ensuite bathrooms.

The ensuite shown here was previously a dressing room adjoining the master bedroom but convenience called for change. The 1930s architecture of the two-storey home is rich in detail, with curved archways, a stately staircase and a herringbone-patterned external feature wall. Designer Chris Tullett of Zimmermann Bathrooms presented the homeowners with a proposal that combined contemporary style with Art Deco elements of the existing house.

The square room is divided by a curved wall that separates the shower and vanity areas. Tullett says this and other curved features provide strong links to the Art Deco style.

"A circular basin echoes the curved wall. And an alcove above the vanity borrows its shape and detail from a window that is prominent in the staircase area."

Another alcove provides a decorative space above the toilet. Tiles on the back wall of these nooks are laid in a herringbone pattern, providing a connection to an exterior wall. The balcony further enhances this relationship between indoors and out.

"Even before renovating, the most prominent feature of the room was the balcony and a view of leafy trees. Using curves and understated colours, the eye is led outdoors," says Tullett.

Modern and contemporary materials also feature. For the cabinetry, Tullett specified jarrah Shaker-style panel drawers and doors. The wide drawers accommodate modern needs, while the design harmonises with the antique furniture in the bedroom.

A ledge wall houses plumbing pipes and the toilet cistern. The wall and the vanity benchtop are finished in Calacutta marble. A cantilevered bench seat, down-lit for visual effect, provides a modern feature and a resting spot.