Splish Splash!
Whether it's a powder room or a master sanctuary, a beautiful bath is all about the details. So after sifting through more than 50 submissions from our 3009 Bath Contest–and revisiting a few of our features from the past year–we turned the spotlight on some favorites. Here, we take an up-close look at elements that can take a lavatory to the next level.
Creative installation can give even the most simplistic spaces major depth and dimension. This limestone tile, set in a classic herringbone pattern, runs behind the vanity, across the floor and up the shower wall on the opposite side of the room, providing a striking backdrop for the bathroom’s minimalist fixtures and accessories. Beth Kooby Design, (404) 831-4560
Warm woods can beautifully balance the cool tones that often come with natural stone. Dark South American Ipei wood, milled into custom horizontal bands, complements the light neutrals in this bath, including sparkling chrome fixtures and expanses of Venetino marble. Terracotta Properties LLC, (404) 377-0906
Designing a child’s bath doesn’t have to involve dinosaurs or pink ponies. Case in point: This charming girl’s bathroom at the home of Bonneau and Jennifer Ansley was inspired by the playful yet sophisticated floral fabric. An inviting window seat—with storage below—gives the young occupant a place to stash bath toys now; later, it will hold just as much appeal, providing the perfect place to sit down to slip on a pair of heels. Gwyn Duggan Design Associates, (912) 341-0440
There’s no need to leave a windowless powder room in the dark. If installing a skylight isn’t an option, color is key. Buttery yellow subway tiles give this small space a sunny disposition. The shallow display niche cleverly maximizes the space that a protruding shelf would have eaten up.The Haralson Group, (404) 320-0481
The most intriguing designs are often the result of unexpected touches. Mosaic tiles in the spacious shower create theillusion of three-dimensional architectural details. Meanwhile, rectangular leather tiles mounted on the walls of this bathroom exude an appropriately clean look, especially against the room’s dark cabinetry. Summerour Interiors, (404) 603-8585
The most intriguing designs are often the result of unexpected touches. Mosaic tiles in the spacious shower create theillusion of three-dimensional architectural details. Meanwhile, rectangular leather tiles mounted on the walls of this bathroom exude an appropriately clean look, especially against the room’s dark cabinetry. Summerour Interiors, (404) 603-8585
A harmonious union of contemporary and traditional styles all but guarantees a truly timeless space. In this case, a chic travertine bowl sink is set upon a classic cherry vanity while the modern stand-up shower is framed by traditional white molding. Even the grand gilt-frame mirror is right at home between a pair of more clean-lined sconces. Robert Brown Interior Design, (404) 917-1333
Nothing is more pleasing to the architecturally purist eye than clean lines. To that end, flush-mounted cabinets, sleek hardware and a flawlessly finished limestone countertop add up to a simple and seamless aesthetic. To keep the space from looking institutional, glass tile in a rust hue provides a subtle touch of color against the demure palate. Mark Williams Design Associates, (678) 539-6886
The ultimate fixture can simultaneously provide flair and functionality. This elongated sink adds a dramatic punch to the powder room, while effortlessly blending in with the classic style of the period home. A unique mirror treatment—set into the bathroom’s original wood paneling—looks artful and reflects the impression of a larger room, while the dark finish of the sink’s underside echoes the color of the wood floor. Home Rebuilders, (404) 876-3000