Open-suite bath should complement bedroom decor
Q. We are renovating our master bath and want it designed to be partially open to the bedroom. Do the bed and bath colors and decorating styles have to match? Thanks for your help. I love getting a sneak peek into the hotels you have stayed in — very inspiring.
A. I get some of my best ideas from the clever designs I see on my travels.
One of the luxurious suites at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Paris has the answer to your decorating dilemma: A frosted glass partition has been installed between the bath and bedroom. The glass panel can be open or closed as you prefer, but the translucent quality of the glass connects the rooms and allows light to shine through.
Stand-alone tubs are very popular now, and they can be treated almost like a piece of furniture, as their design allows you to position the tub in ways other than up against a wall. A clever decorating trick, the mosaic tile pattern on the far wall continues as a runner under the tub. These tiles frame the tub and accentuate its place in the room.
To be consistent, the styles in both rooms should complement each other. Here, the regal purple and gold in the bedroom is a lush, classic combination that suits the timeless white and black bath. The tiny tiles, in shades of black, gray and silver, have a subtle sparkle. Both rooms invite luxurious lounging.
The bathroom plays a different role than the bedroom. This calls for a variety of materials and solid surfaces versus soft sheets and fabrics. Carry a touch of color through each space, with towels or accessories, and you will have a great oasis of calm.
Stand-alone tubs are very popular now, and they can be treated almost like a piece of furniture, as their design allows you to position the tub in ways other than up against a wall.”
Q. I live in a home built in the mid-70s. The kitchen has original Formica countertops that I plan to replace with new composite-type countertops. Formica panels also run along the walls under the cupboards and behind the sink and stove. A contractor suggested covering the Formica rather than pulling it out and redoing the walls. What do you suggest for my active kitchen?
A. Since you are going to the trouble and expense of replacing the countertops, I would suggest that you rip out all the Formica. There will be some patching to do on the walls, but you will then be able to design a new backsplash that complements your counters. However, if you decide to simply cover the Formica, then you can put adhesive tiles over the Formica.
Q. We have ceiling tiles, which have a white embossed pattern, on a large area of the ceiling. Unfortunately, soon after we installed them (ourselves), the ceiling leaked and two separate areas are now water-stained. We would like to rectify this very noticeable problem with the least amount of hard work possible. The tile pattern is no longer available. Looking at this ceiling is heartbreaking after all the effort. Thank you for any help.
A. There are paint primers designed to cover stains. Apply two coats of high-hide primer, allowing to dry between coats, then paint. However, water damage can change the integrity of the tiles, which won’t be covered by a fresh coat of paint.
Another option is to mix and match with replacement tiles in a pattern that looks planned.
Debbie Travis’ House to Home column is produced by Debbie Travis and Barbara Dingle. Email questions to house2home@debbietravis.com. Follow Debbie on Twitter at www.twitter.com/debbie_travis, or visit her website, www.debbietravis.com.