NEXT LEVEL

AN OUTDATED ENSUITE GETS THE SPA-STYLE TREATMENT FOR A MODERN REFRESH CELEBRATING STYLE AND PRACTICALITY

Inspired by the opulence of the hotel interiors discovered during their frequent travels to China and Japan, Gold Coast couple Daniel and Monica had intentions for a modern, functional master ensuite that offered all the style of hotel living. “Why not have a nice bathroom at home we can enjoy everyday?” asks Daniel. The happy homeowners had recently finished a renovation to the rest of their home with the help of interior designer Darren James of Darren James Interiors, and finally it was their ensuite’s time to shine. Modern luxury, a feeling of zen and easy cleaning were all on the wish list, just beneath optimum storage. “It’s now a perfect bathroom and we’re extremely happy,” says Daniel of the final result.

Original room: An old and underwhelming twin ensuite.

Time frame: Five months.

Why the makeover? The old bathroom was not only dated, but lacking in aesthetic appeal, functionality, space and storage. “In general, the room was tired and could handle improved layout changes and the use of the latest materials and technology,” explains interior designer Darren.

The works: A unused, built-in corner spa bath was removed, and the shower and vanity were replaced. Surfaces, lighting and the layout were all given a refresh too.

Major changes: The construction of the new feature platform, floor heating and the new layout were the biggest improvements.

Lessons learned: “Leaving it to the professionals and trusting the experienced team at Darren James Interiors to implement the bathroom design,” says Daniel. The result is a remarkable master ensuite full of clever design ideas and practical components.

“DESIGNING THE PLATFORM GAVE THE BATHROOM SOME VISUAL INTEREST” ~ DARREN JAMES, INTERIOR DESIGNER

An elevated platform in Chambord Grey honed limestone from SNB Stone showcases the sleek curves of the ‘Kado Lussi’ freestanding bathtub from Reece – equipped with Brushed Nickel tapware from Brodware for a touch of luxe. Recessed LED lighting from Lightcore is cleverly positioned between the platform and floor tile for a subtle glow against a backdrop of Urbanature cement tiles from Metro Tiles on the wall. The space is finished off in style with a crafted timber stool from Design Nation. > SET THE STAGE

DOUBLE TIME American walnut veneer was used to create a custom wall-hung vanity for two, with a benchtop crafted from Chambord Grey limestone. Matching Brodware wall mixers in Brushed Nickel are a sophisticated choice and the brass wall sconce from Articolo takes the ensuite to a new glam level.

FLAWLESS FINISH A seamless flow of wall and floor tiles (Urbanature from Metro Tiles) in the walk-in shower looks impeccably smooth and is complemented by modern fixture choices from Brodware, including the ‘City Plus’ rail shower and a flush-mount ceiling shower in Brushed Nickel to match the vanity. A shower niche is another clever design option for storage.

LIGHT ON The original windows in the bathroom were updated with crisp white timber shutters from Trojan Timbers – an easy and effective solution for bringing dated windows back on trend.