Drama in interior design is best created by the color — black. This beautifully finished master bath illustrates how strong black elements were used to create high drama without sacrificing function and usability. Black in a master bath may feel counter intuitive because it adds obvious darkness. But when provided a large amount of space, vaulted ceilings and the ability to add multiple sources of lighting, black adds an unexpected note of glamour. High contrast between light and dark becomes a dramatic theme.
This master bath started as a spacious, traditionally themed bath of the ’80s. Design decisions 40 years ago were not what the homeowners wanted for today. It was time to revamp the small shower. The corner garden tub occupied square footage that could be redesigned for better function. Dated bathroom finishes did not suit the rest of the newly remodeled home. (See the beautiful new kitchen in the February issue of FRANK. Magazine). This now completed master bath remodel features an improved layout, high end fixtures and finishes and — drama. With black as the dominate color, these homeowners now have an elegantly styled, modern bath.
The interior design was by Terri Bennett of Terri Bennett Interior Design; and the contractor was Ben Harp of Harp Design and Construction.
- Space. Utilizing the existing footprint, minus the reconfiguration of the toilet area, this master bath remodel feels spacious. The relocation of the toilet into what was formerly a linen closet allowed for the creation of a new powder room adjacent to the master bathroom. (The square footage of the bathroom was actually reduced.) Replacing a corner garden tub with a smaller, freestanding tub allowed vanities to be expanded. The shower was enlarged to create a luxurious bathing experience.
- Aesthetic. High contrast drama was created with black cabinetry and highly detailed tile floors composed of black and white mosaic tiles in a geometry pattern. Both vanities feature tall, hutch storage units with cabinetry framed mirrors. A makeup station was built into one of the vanities for optimum function. The black cabinetry visually recedes into the background to direct focus to the dramatic stone used throughout.
- Stone. Complex, highly patterned black and white porcelain tile mimics marble and runs throughout the room and into the shower floor. A heavily veined quartzite was used for vanity tops, with full stone slabs of the same stone used for two shower walls. The black, white and beige tones of the stone and tile tie all the elements together.
- Warmth. Brizo Invari Collection plumbing fixtures were used for the shower controls, tub filler and sink faucets in the brushed brass finish of champagne bronze. The neutral beige walls match the background color of the stone and wraps the room in additional warmth. The bath sconces on the vanities feature fabric shades to soften harsh light being reflected in the mirrors.
- Lighting. Three different sources of light were incorporated. Task lighting in the form of double sconces from Visual Comfort mounted on the cabinetry on each side of the framed mirrors provides up close lighting for faces. Overhead can lights precisely placed in the vaulted area of the ceiling and over the shower area provide general lighting throughout the room. A pendant light from Hubbardton Forge provides light over the tub and adds character and a bit of whimsy with its delicate folds.
