THE CHANDELIER ROOM

At first glance, this bathroom looks like it belongs in a luxury hotel but it’s a much loved space in a grand old home in Remuera. And the main person who gets to enjoy its sumptuousness is the family’s teenage daughter.

Designer Leonie von Sturmer (vonsturmers.com) created this five-star feeling by emphasising the architecture of the 1920s home. The crucial element in creating the wow factor was running a double vanity unit the length of the wall, with the window as a centrepiece. “It’s the first thing you see as you enter the room,” says Leonie, “and it gives the space wonderful symmetry.”

Black tapware was the starting point for the material choices that also included glossy black paint on the window frame, darkstained drawer fronts and a pair of mirrors that were painted black. A delicious slab of honed black granite on the vanity top was an inspired choice. The matt finish of the granite contrasts nicely with the shine of the paintwork.

Although the eye-catching chandelier is opulent, Leonie says it will still appeal to a teenager. Rather than classic teardrop beads, this one has long crystals that are more contemporary, combining with all the elements to create something “a bit special” in a home that has been loved for decades.

DETAILS

Vanity top and upstand: Honed Notte Cielo granite from Absola Stone

Vanity bowls: Progetto Tondo vessel basin in black from Plumbline

Tapware: Fantini Mare from Plumbline

Vanity: Custom designed with dark stained oak veneer drawers Floor and walls tiles: Santoka light grey matt tiles and black listello from Tile Trends

Paint: Resene ‘Half Truffle’ walls and ‘Quarter Villa White’ trim

Chandelier: Waldorf two-tier by French Country Collections

Wall lights: Elstead Crystal Skye by Coombes & Gabbie

GO FOR GLAMOUR

• Bring the bling into the bathroom with high-gloss surfaces and shiny metallic accents (at the moment, we’re loving brass).

• Floor to ceiling mirrors lend an indulgent feeling of space.

• If you can handle the drama, black has immense impact. Sparkly black mosaics give a stunning effect.

• Lighting that is beyond utilitarian is a must. Chandeliers are a natural choice or try a candelabrum on the vanity if there’s space.

• When it comes to cabinetry fronts, explore indulgent options: leather studded or mirrored door fronts are some high-glam alternatives.

THIS PAGE Despite the monochromatic scheme, a mixture of sheens and textures adds interest; the central window was the starting point for the symmetrical layout.