There’s something uniquely special about a master bathroom. The ultimate safe place, it’s a room of reflection, rejuvenation and relaxation.
“A bathroom is where you come home and unwind and find your peace,” says Cristie Schlosser of Schlosser Design Group LLC.
It’s no surprise homeowners are transforming this essential room into a haven of tranquility.
“It has to do with the crazy pace of life today. Our homes are our sanctuary. Everybody has become a nester,” says Barbara Owens of Barbara Owens Interiors.
A master bathroom can be as luxurious as it is functional. A few simple updates can achieve that coveted spa-like atmosphere.
It’s never fun to step out of a warm bed or shower and onto a cold bathroom floor. Radiant floor heating warms the body from the feet up, taking the chill out of early mornings and late nights.
“An electric tile warmer is a must. Floor heating adds a luxurious touch to a bathroom,” Schlosser says.
A programmable thermostat ensures tile will be warm when needed. Even better, floor heating works well with laminate, wood, tile and stone.
Also essential are heated towel bars. Sleek and visually appealing, they warm and dry damp towels.
“I get lots of requests for heated towel racks. They add a sense of comfort and luxury,” Owens says.
Custom toilets are all the rage, and for good reason. Technology has entered this space and brought luxury to this most basic of bathroom elements. Smart toilets have heated seats, cleaning functions, night lights for safety, and automated sensors to open and close the lid.
“I like the Washlet toilet from Toto. It’s programmed to change with the season. You can heat the water. It’s a pleasure to have it,” says Schlosser.
Homeowners seeking discretion will enjoy the quiet flush feature and warm air dryer. Styles are contemporary, yet comfortable.
“Some of the commodes almost look like hat boxes. Aesthetically, they’re really pretty,” says Owens.
Options for design creativity abound in a master bathroom. Fashion-forward homeowners can personalize their retreat with different textures, sizes and colors of tile and stone.
“You must have textured finishes and have balance among light and dark. The sensation of the tile is really important,” Schlosser says.
A mix of texture on flooring and walls creates visual interest and pleasurable, tactile feelings. Three-dimensional wall tiles, whether smooth or textured, are a great way to make a bathroom feel more luxurious, unique and original.
“Texture has come on really strong. It’s another element to add. We’re seeing a lot of matte finishes on porcelain. They add another layer,” Owens says.
After a long day, nothing is better than relaxing in a deep soaker tub. Tucked away in a corner or nook under a window, these tubs are a private retreat ready for an ultimate pamper session.
“A tub should feel secluded and intimate, a large, lovely tub you can soak in. Therapeutic tubs are wonderful,” says Schlosser.
The tub should also feel cohesive yet distinct in the space. Surroundings, walls, lighting and windows contribute to the aesthetic of the bathtub retreat.
Whether sunken or placed on a platform, it is a cozy spot to unwind from the day.
The main focus of a bathroom, the shower is a place of warmth and repose. Luxury shower designs focus on comfort and functionality.
“A walk-in shower is essential. It’s important not to have a curb, so there is no barrier,” Schlosser says.
Features such as body sprays, a handheld showerhead and floating seat provide a luxurious and soothing experience.
A larger shower suitable for two maximizes the spa experience. Two luxury shower heads offer each occupant a dedicated water source.
“I’m getting requests for multiple shower heads, LED lights and body sprays,” says Owens. Luxury design features make a bathroom a dream place to relax and energize. Today’s designs dramatically change the bathroom aesthetic and offer features to suit any lifestyle.
Nancy Baldwin is a Dallas-based freelance writer and editor. Contact her at baldwinwriter@gmail.com.
