Transformation complete

Designers are renowned for their ability to think outside the box, which is a particularly useful skill when it comes to apartment remodeling.

For this project, interior designer Derek MacKenzie of Designphase took the concept literally, removing all the walls between the master bedroom, dressing room and bathroom to create one large space.

"As well as making the suite appear larger, removing the walls meant we could maximize the light coming in on three sides," says MacKenzie.

The master suite makeover was part of an entire apartment remodel designed to provide a more glamorous, sophisticated interior. Key themes from the redesign of the living area are echoed in the suite.

"The living area is defined by flowing, organic curves," says the designer. "These forms reappear in the suite, notably in the suspended ceilings and the canopy over the bed."

A sculptural, freestanding Michael Graves tub reinforces the sensuous shapes. The tub is recessed into the floor to reduce its height, and is set within a bed of pebbles.

The Zen-like ambiance and sense of luxury is enhanced by a rain showerhead, and by the refined material palette, which contrasts strong textural elements with sleek, smooth surfaces. The natural textures of the tub and pebbles are complemented by a wall of honed granite, inset with curved polished stainless steel strips.

Stainless steel strips add a glint of urbanity to the bathroom cabinetry and wall panels, where they are inset in an exotic tigerwood veneer with a contrasting light and dark grain. A mobile manicure cabinet is stored beneath a window between sculptural his-and-hers basins. There is also a separate make-up area with Hollywood-style lighting.

The visual warmth of the wood veneers is contrasted by sleek marble flooring in the bathroom. This repeats the organic, curved shapes seen elsewhere in the suite.

Other key materials include leather on the headboard and an elaborate champagne and gold metallic wallpaper, which covers the canopy.

In keeping with the owners' desire for a completely open space, the dressing room is open to both the bedroom and the bathroom.

Story by: Colleen Hawkes

Photography by: Peter Mealin