Rough with the smooth

Specifying similar materials both inside and out has long been a good way to provide a visual link between these two areas. But the architect of this house took the idea a step further he had the tub and vanities carved from large pieces of rock.

Architect Winn Wittman says the organic form of the granite tub and vanities, which are rough on the outside and polished inside, is a direct visual link to the boulders in the courtyard. Other links are provided by the pebble floor beneath the tub, which extends outdoors.

"These pebbles are so much like the tub they almost seem to be remnants of the carving," says Wittman.

The rough, organic look of the fixtures is balanced by sleek black-granite floor tiles and the glass mosaic-tiled walls and ceiling in the shower enclosure.

"The tub is a very sculptural piece in this setting," says Wittman. "It evokes a sense of ceremony associated with the bathing ritual. The whole master suite was created to provide a very tranquil, relaxing retreat."

For this reason also, there is no separation between the bathroom and bedroom. The spaces are open to each other, just as the bathroom is open to the courtyard beyond.

Symmetrical vanity units enhance the harmonious feel of the bathroom. These units feature vertical-grain fir cabinets with CaesarStone tops that have waterfall sides.

A vaulted, plastered ceiling reinforces the bathroom's cave-like intimacy.

Story by: Colleen Hawkes

Photography by: Casey Clayton Dunn and Thomas McConnell Rough with