Sculptural retreat

Designed by Melanie Craig Design

From the designer:

The owner’s brief called for a contemporary ensuite in their new-build home. 

The ensuite is designed as a personalised retreat, featuring a large entry-level shower and ample storage, with the homeowner’s top priority being an immersive bath experience.

Spatial planning was considered to ensure both flow and function. 

The large, walk-in shower and a separate WC are discreetly positioned behind the bath area – hidden from direct view to maximise privacy and wider visual impact. 

This zoned layout allows the ensuite to feel open yet structured.

The freestanding sculptural bath takes centre stage, both functionally and visually, within a layout that offers privacy, cohesion, and strong materiality. 

It is anchored against a vertical wall of warm umber-toned fluted tiles, with a flat tile insert through the centre offering a precise and elegant solution to accommodate plumbing while maintaining visual continuity.

Umber tiles on the floor beneath the bath create a grounding, visually defined platform that accentuates the freestanding tub as the ensuite's centrepiece. 

These tiles, with their rich, earthy tone, contrast beautifully with the surrounding marble-look porcelain flooring.

Above, a sculptural David Trubridge pendant – selected for its natural form and cultural connection to Aotearoa – floats overhead, casting layered shadows and further reinforcing the tub as the focal point.

Surface and material selections were curated to balance warmth, contrast, and low-maintenance refinement. 

Large-format, marble-look porcelain tiles with soft grey tones and copper veining were chosen to complement the umber feature wall, delivering a cohesive finish underfoot and across the shower zones.

The custom vanity unit features a fluted Corian basin with organic curved edges, paired with soft-touch Fenix cabinetry in a muted grey. 

The finish was selected for its anti-fingerprint, ultra-matte properties, providing both function and refined tactility. 

Nero detailing in the negative pulls adds depth and contrast, while tall cabinetry provides generous storage without visual bulk.

A large, organic-shaped mirror creates a dramatic statement, reflecting the pendant and ribbed tile texture behind the bath to enhance spatial depth and visual layering. 

Warm brushed bronze tapware and detailing are used consistently throughout, echoing the warm undertones in the tile palette and enhancing the overall sense of cohesion.

Access to the outdoor deck and spa is achieved through a large sliding door, which enhances daylight penetration. 

Privacy is managed via screening and thoughtful spatial orientation.

Story by: Trendsideas