Bathing Al Fresco

This breathtaking master bath was based on a new space plan that created more functionality and harmony with nature. The existing exterior walls were removed to extend the bath to the outdoors, resulting in a large, open space. Designer Luz Marina Selles created two luxury master shower areas: one indoor shower and one private outdoor shower with a seating area. 

Every custom home is personal, and nowhere more so than in the kitchen and bath. All of the projects featured here are as individual as the homeowners themselves, but the ideas and details could energize your next home design. Among this collection of kitchens and baths are winners of the 2015 National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) Design Competition.

The indoor areas feature a new custom vanity with a makeup area as well as a linen closet and a dresser with clean, sleek lines. Frameless glass shower panels and the shower door add to the contemporary feel of the space, and all bathroom fixtures contain a chrome finish with a stylish modern design. The master walk-in closet has direct access from the master bath, facilitating a more private entrance to the bath that’s out of view of the living room.

Designer/remodeler: Allure Designs, Gilbert, Ariz.

Photos: Mike Small

Seaside Experience

A powder room created for ardent scuba divers creates the illusion of flowing water through the use of tile with an aquatic pattern. Complementing the light, flowing feel and effect of the tiles is a recycled, ocean-blue glass countertop with a visual effect resembling a reflecting pool. A clear vessel sink allows the beauty of the countertop to shine through without overpowering the vanity. A motion sensor enables the countertop to automatically light up, welcoming guests into the powder room with a soft blue glow. Anchoring all of this is a dark-stained, cherry slab panel door cabinet that conceals the plumbing.

Designer: NW Home Designs, Seattle

Remodeler: Chermak Construction, Edmonds, Wash.

Photos: Sam Van Fleet

Color Courage

This master bath blends elements of a daring modern style with mid-century touches that bring bright energy and character to the space. The clients wanted a luxurious and inspiring room that was also safe and comfortable for their toddler’s bath time. Living in a home with an emphasis on bold hues, they hoped to stay away from neutrals and embrace powerful color combinations. 

A periwinkle blue vanity is illuminated by sparkling pendants made of textured, hand-blown glass. Shoji-style doors provide privacy without diminishing the open and airy feeling of the room. A walk-in closet allows for ample, organized storage. 

The light in the room is accentuated by a wall of windows and the bright lemon yellow of the oversize wall tiles. The tile arrangement alternates between a glossy and matte finish, creating an intriguing sensation of depth. The wood flooring in the sink area transitions to a sloped floor to accommodate the open shower, while a textured wall and a series of niches delight the eye while providing practical functionality. The shower’s sensuous wall of texture is reminiscent of mid-century patterns.

The smooth edges of the freestanding tub enable a safe bathing environment for the toddler, while the generous size, thoughtfully placed shelf, and orientation toward the light-filled wall of windows make it a luxurious retreat for the parents. Since each of the bathroom’s areas can be used independently or together, this layout is ideal for a young, multitasking family.

Designer/remodeler: Jackson Design and Remodeling, San Diego

Photos: Previewfirst.com

Inspired by Wright

Working from the architectural plans for a yet-to-be-constructed new home, designers Erica Westeroth and Sheena Hammond allocated space for the bedroom and a large walk-in closet, and also created the footprint for the en suite bathroom. In addition to the entrance from the closet from the bedroom, the designers created a second entrance from the bathroom so that the clients can carry on with their daily routines without disturbing one another. 

Creating a symmetrical plan, Westeroth and Hammond oriented the shower and tub to face windows and a view of the trees. A compartmentalized water closet features an all-in-one bidet function toilet. Stacked wall storage units are arranged to emulate Frank Lloyd Wright’s stacked repetition detail, while the waterfall bench connecting the makeup console and its supporting end embraces the idea of flowing water expressed in Wright’s Fallingwater residence near Pittsburgh, Pa. Moreover, the wall-mounted faucets enhance the cascading effect of water, mimicking the stream that runs through Fallingwater. 

Flush shower ceiling tile and the wood ceiling alignment create an uninterrupted clean look. The wood-clad tray ceiling detail disguises a roof angle on only one side of the room, making it appear symmetrical. Porcelain floor and wall tiles with a subtle stone appearance; green/brown mosaic glass feature tiles; teak wood veneer; and metal details enhance the natural, organic look.

Designer: XTC Design, Toronto, Ontario

Builder: Rossini Homes, Mississauga, Ontario

Photos: Arnal Photography