Space to spread out

The footprint of a house provides an architect with an interesting mixture of opportunities and compromises that will impact on the final layout.

Faced with designing a building for a narrow city site, developer Jay Metzler and architect Chris Gauer concluded that a three-story house would be the most appropriate solution. Their plan was to clearly divide the levels by function all the living space would be on the ground level, with three bedroom suites located on the second level. This left the top floor completely available to be an expansive, private master suite.

"Although an entire level may seem an overly generous space to devote to this purpose, it suited the proportions of a house of this size and shape. Each room in the suite may be large, but because the overall space is compartmentalized into smaller areas, it flows well," says Metzler.

The third level is accessed by a staircase and elevator that arrive in a vestibule in the center of the master suite. Because the home is very close to neighboring houses, the bedroom and bathroom were positioned at either end of the floor for the best light and views. The bedroom, at the back of the house, is protected from street noise. It is separated from the bathroom by the vestibule and dressing room, so if the owners have different schedules, one can use the bathroom and dressing room without disturbing the sleeping partner.

In the bathroom, a freestanding soaking tub in a white-painted bay window is a central feature, framed by two vanities and a customized make-up area.

"As natural light streams in from the window, the white tub and bay stand out from the darker finishes used in the rest of the suite," says Metzler.

A steam shower is in a separate room off the bathroom.

A study is positioned off the vestibule close to the elevator, together with a wet bar and separate powder room. Metzler says this layout means the owners can use the study for entertaining or business meetings without guests venturing into private areas of the suite.

Story by: Mary Webb

Photography by: Eric Hausman Space to spread out The entire top level of this home is devoted to a master suite that comprises