For this master bath renovation in downtown Bethesda, absolutely nothing from the original bath needed to be retained.  The spacious area was dated, the layout was uninteresting, and soffits, cabinetry, plumbing— all begged for a thoughtful and creative design approach.

 

The well-traveled homeowners envisioned a master bathroom with spa-like serenity and luxury; elements of the design were inspired by their world-wide adventures. First, their desire for a shapely, free-standing bathtub with classic fixtures was prompted by a tour of the Moulin de la Tuilerie, the former Duke and Duchess of Windsor’s post-abdication retreat outside of Paris.   The layout for the washstand area of the master bath was inspired by the couple’s travels to Bora Bora, where the homeowners had enjoyed a suite with a dramatic blend of earthy woods and metals, along with pendant accent lighting.

Reflecting these sources of inspiration, the designers included a rich array of luxurious elements, achieving a soothing, spa-like atmosphere. The rich and varied shadings of Hebron Gold limestone, utilized for all walls and floor surfaces, provides an ideal backdrop for the space. The Bain Ultra bathtub and Perrin & Rowe Edwardian style bath and shower fittings precisely capture the aesthetic from the French retreat which had captured the homeowners’ imagination.  Beaded glass and the antique bronze patina in accent lighting and accessories complements the ageless quality of various selected materials. This ageless quality is further reflected in the custom wood mirror frames, as well as the antiqued mirror and burnished dark wood of the bespoke chiffonier, which was designed to serve in lieu of medicine cabinets or other drawers in the unusual space.

This master bathroom was designed in collaboration with Gilday Renovations Design Build in Bethesda, Maryland. The “after” photos were shot by Anice Hoachlander of Hoachlander Davis Photography.