Trends New Zealand Volume 34 No 1 | Page 13

The traditional-meets-modern bathroom is part of an entire new downstairs floor created by carving out portions of the villa, addressing major retaining work and adding masonry walls. “Everything about this bathroom furthers its pampering aesthetic,” says Smith. “The first room encountered at the base of the stairs, the bathroom has high windows in opaque glass that offer natural warmth, privacy, and light.” Further in, the room becomes subterranean, adding to the sense of privacy, cosiness, and sanctuary, while the heated concrete floors bring added warmth and a solid, grounded feeling. Playing a key part in the spa-like aesthetic, new-to-the-market Statuario Florim oversized panels provide the dramatic wall finishes to the bathroom’s perimeter walls. “The panels’ generous proportions evoke the feeling that the space is carved out of solid marble,” he says. “The soft-toned porcelain panels work well with the vanity’s waterfall marble benchtop and mosaic tile blade wall.” The marble mosaic blade wall partly conceals the wall-hung toilet behind it on one side and the walk-in shower, complete with an invigorating rainhead, behind it on the other side. These pages: This spa-like bathroom designed by Matter Architects forms part of a new excavated lower floor in a 110-year-old heritage villa. The design combines modern function with a classic feel. The marble-topped vanity offers plenty of storage, while large wall mirrors add to the sense of spaciousness. Recessed LED strips in the ceiling create a soft, diffused light in the space, as do the high-set frosted glass windows. search | save | share at