Trends New Zealand Volume 35 No 2 | Page 18

Bathrooms today have to tick several boxes and, for this project, designer Darren Genner, of Minosa, had to address every- thing from the modest available space and a lack of natural light to a need for privacy. The owners also wanted a two-tone look that offered warmth. As is often the case, a master design stroke made the difference. “Essentially, there had to be a complete change and from the outset it was clear the bathroom’s small window had to greatly increase in size,” says Genner. “Luckily, with a disused garden bed beyond the search | save | share at exterior wall, we were able to add a full height window in a metal box extrusion to cantilever out over the disused garden. “This move made the bathroom space feel twice as large – given the added floor area within the cantilever – and also helped bring in a wealth of natural light.” To provide privacy and further an out- side connection, Genner designed external steel screens for the cantilevered element. They feature an organic motif, while the steel’s developing patina adds natural warmth to the bathroom. For the layout, the owners’ requests for a large shower, a freestanding bath and a vanity that was easy to access all had to be met in what was still quite a small space. “To maximise space, we positioned the tub centrally within the cantilever. This enabled a large shower and toilet to be introduced on the opposite wall.” With this arrangement the vanity could sit between the two areas with a large round mirror above, and be the fea- ture upon entering the bathing space. To add storage – another owner request