Winning ways
The innovative use of materials and distinctive vanity units are features of the winning bathrooms in this year's NKBA awards
Just when you thought you had seen it all, along comes a bathroom designer with a fresh approach to an age-old challenge. The designers featured on these pages, found new ways to create a dramatic bathroom aesthetic, even though, in terms of functionality, their clients' needs were relatively standard.
Morgan Cronin of Cronin Kitchens, Remuera, won the best bathroom award in this year's National Kitchen & Bathroom Association (NKBA) awards, with the guest ensuite featured above.
In announcing the award, the judges said the Zen-like simplicity of the design and the use of white-washed American white ash timber is particularly well suited to the beach house setting. The harmonious design creates a comfortable atmosphere for guests.
The white ash timber features on floors and walls, and is complemented by a seamless Corian countertop and washbasin, which makes it easy to keep clean. A medicine cabinet is concealed behind the full width wall mirror.
To reinforce the spacious, streamlined aesthetic, the shower walls are lined with colour-backed Diamante glass. A wall-hung toilet with concealed cistern also enhances the sense of space.
Designer Peter Young of Waikanae Kitchen & Joinery was Runner-Up in the best bathroom award, with the project featured on this page.
This apartment bathroom overlooks the beach, and the design influence reflects the clients' wish to incorporate both marine and semi-industrial elements.
To provide continuity, the bathroom features materials used elsewhere in the apartment, including stainless steel, granite and jarrah timber. The tile patterns on the walls and floor are reminiscent of yacht sails, yet the grey tones reinforce the semi-industrial, warehouse feel.
Although the floor area was inherited from the architect of the complex, the space has been personalised to accommodate a large Kohler bath, positioned so the owners can enjoy sunsets over the water.
The bathroom also incorporates a large, double shower with separate controls.
To contact Cronin Kitchens, phone (09) 836 6192. To contact Waikanae Kitchen & Joinery, phone (04) 902 5442. For association details, contact the NKBA, PO Box 11-183, Papamoa, Bay of Plenty, phone (07) 575 9240, fax (07) 574 2561. Email: info@nkba.org.nz. Website: www.nkba.org.nz.
Story by: Trendsideas
Home kitchen bathroom commercial design
