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2005
Honorable Mention
Large Master Baths
NKBA Design Contest
A fresh, inviting small guest bath in Bellevue.
Design Problem:
The existing space in this 1980's bath was underutilized and lacking the spa amenities that the clients desired. Upon entering this visually uninspired space, the first view was of a toilet centered in the space directly beyond the entry. Outmoded cabinets failed to furnish the storage options desired while a small tub and shower offered only a routine bathing experience where
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"A spa retreat in
Bellevue" was what was required.
Client Requests:
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Incorporate bathing options for two that refresh and revitalize:
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Multiple shower options
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A steam unit
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A jetted tub
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Contemporary design in tranquil hues of gray and blue..
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Maximum storage solutions.
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Minimal maintenance.
Design Solution:
Inspiration was taken from the Japanese bathing experience to meet the challenge of elevating 130 square feet from the mundane to the transcendent. The space was first reconfigured to create a more appealing viewpoint upon entering. An enclosed wet area was then designed to combine the bath and multi-faceted steam shower.
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Adjacent attic space was reclaimed to house the steam unit and supplementary water heater.
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A profusion of shower and bathing options include:
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Hand held personal shower
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Rain Shower Dome
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6 Body Jets
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A two-person air bath releases thousands of warm air bubbles for a "hot springs" experience while the bathers enjoy the tranquility of running water from an integral waterfall spout, shiatsu back jetting, a pulsating neck pillow, and chromatherapy mood lighting.
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A minimalist design, inspired by nature, evokes the feeling of being in a spa retreat. Natural elements, water, stone, wood, and metal harmonize with the blazing colors of artwork to create a Zen-like ambiance. The element of water was emphasized throughout: Water flows from a faucet mounted in a curved granite backsplash, as from a mountain stream, to splash into a metal basin. A stream of smoke colored tile emphasizes the cathedral ceiling of the wet area while flowing down and across the shower bench onto the tile shower floor. The effect prepares one for the soothing sound of a waterfall filling the air bath or the benign downpour of a rain shower. Sparkling aquamarine glass and stainless steel accent tiles reflect the aftermath of a summer rain. A sense of balance is achieved through the repetition of geometric shapes. The curve of the backsplash is reflected in the spherical metal basin, the gentle curve of the granite countertop and the dome-like shapes of the faucet and shower fittings. Rhythmic graduations of pattern in the mosaic tiles occur again in the use of color. Granite scattered with sparkling quartz flows from pale blue-gray to smoke as the tiles of the wet area graduate from warm gray to rich smoke. Ebony painted cabinetry and a smoke accent wall contrast with pale blue-gray walls.
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After bathing, the clients luxuriate in soft, comforting towels heated by a towel radiator.
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The lighting solution: General, task (wall sconces) and ambient up and accent lighting.
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Designed for aging in place, grab bars emphasize safety in wet areas (although declined by clients elsewhere). Ample space for T-turns was incorporated into the design.
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The custom modular cabinetry contains innovative storage solutions. A pullout tower rests on the countertop to house grooming aids and supplies. Adjustable stainless steel drawer inserts organize makeup and medications.
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Durable, low maintenance porcelain tile with the look of stone was used throughout.
The result:
A personal sanctuary that stimulates the senses and soothes the body, mind and spirit.
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