Bathing Beauties—Ultimate Bathrooms

Winter is the perfect time to fill a tub to the rim and soak in its sudsy warmth. But in order for it to be a complete sensory experience, the room should be beautiful. Fortunately today, the bathroom is no longer a neglected water closet beneath the stairs. Instead, the lowly loo has evolved into a luxuriant temple, a retreat worthy of being called the spa. We think the attention is long overdue, and the results can be astounding. After all, couldn’t we all use a little pampering these days?

This master bathroom was part of a large addition we designed for a lovely, Monterey style home. Cosseted by a graciously arched ceiling and warm, flaxon-colored tile, the room positively glows. Not only did we design the room’s architecture from the ground up, but we also designed the pair of vanities that flank a stunning yet subtle tile “rug”.

While this Manhattan powder room is short on space, it’s long on panache. We started by designing the cabinet and then lacquered everything in a brilliant red. Gold-plated fixtures buffed to a subtle matte finish, and an assortment of Venetian glass objects are complimented by a series of 17th century Italian engravings, giving this small space a luxurious yet theatrical feel.

Designed in conjunction with SPG Architects, this Park Avenue bathroom is the quintessential spa retreat. A blend of beveled subway tiles and Botticino marble creates a dreamy backdrop for this hedonistic haven from the clamor of the city. Walls of floor-to-ceiling frosted glass hide the toilet and shower, while an indulgent Jacuzzi tub claims pride of place. For the ultimate escape, one can soak in the tub while listening to the integrated music system or catching a favorite show on the flat-screen TV.

For the latest and greatest in designer bathrooms, we encourage you to pick up a copy of The Luxury Bathroom by Samantha Nestor, Special Projects Editor for Metropolitan Home magazine. Having canvassed the country, Samantha has curated a breathtakingly beautiful collection of some of the most sumptuous bathrooms in existence. Get the book, turn the page and start to dream.