Light & Luxe

A GLAMOROUS OVERHAUL TRANSFORMS A DATED ENSUITE INTO A BRIGHT, FIVE-STAR RETREAT

- Kylie Jackes

The only things homeowners John and Kaye liked about their ensuite in their home on the Mornington Peninsula were its pane-glass doors and high-set windows. During renovations, they were happy to see everything else go, including an unused spa and the bland beige-on-beige color scheme. The couple enlisted interior designer Kia Howat of GIA Bathrooms And Kitchens, who presented fresh ideas to improve functionality and appeal. “The first thing I addressed was reconfiguring the floor plan to create an open-plan feel, which maximized the space,” explains Kia. “Removing the extra-large spa that sat at the end of the room freed up space for a walk-in shower and the opportunity to upgrade the tiny sink into a generous double vanity with plentiful storage.” Developing the palette of finishes, Kia drew inspiration from the owners’ desire to create a space worthy of a high-end hotel. “French doors connect the master bedroom with the ensuite, so we used marble along the entire back wall, so the sense of luxury could be appreciated from the bedroom,” she says. Post overhaul, the windows are now just one of many aspects the owners love about their all-class bathroom.

layout

Removing a space-devouring built-in bath and boxy shower screen dramatically enhanced the sense of space and made the room far more functional. Now, a glass panel subtly shields the wet area (above), where a central Hansgrohe ‘Raindance Select S’ showerhead from Reece was chosen for its cocooning, almost splash-free spray. Another great inclusion is a marble-clad seat, which is both decorative and handy when showering, offering a place to sit and a shelf for products.