Bathed In Light

THE ADDITION OF A LUXURIOUSLY APPOINTED ENSUITE RAISED THIS MID-CENTURY HOME TO NEW HEIGHTS OF SOPHISTICATION

- Kylie Jackes

These days, an ensuite is standard in many homes, but Canadian couple Megan and Neil’s mid-century Toronto property lacked the convenience. Their remedy was to extend the second story outwards to create space for an indulgent ensuite that complemented their property’s transitional style, which melds modern and traditional features “to create a space which is unique, interesting and functional”, says interior designer Alyssa Young, owner of Harper Gray Design. At the drawing board stage, she aimed to capture the feel-good effects of abundant sunlight. “A key feature was a large bank of windows, which were installed above a focal freestanding bath, and a light and serene palette that reflected the sun’s changing hues,” explains Alyssa. Yet, constructing the dream space presented challenges. “Because the extension was built above the home’s back porch, we needed to build out and deepen the splashback to accommodate insulation behind the wall-mounted vanity fixtures, and also rethink the original location of the floor-mounted bath spout to overcome plumbing constraints,” she says. However, the results justified the effort, as the homeowners love unwinding in their beautiful new ensuite. “A favorite feature is the mirrored double vanity, which allows them to start and end their day at the same time,” says Alyssa, “but at their own pace.”

finishes

The homeowners wanted their luxurious shower to double as a steam room (below). To contain the steam, a shower door was a must, with a clear pivot door and a fixed panel of glass to keep the space feeling spacious. The walls, floor, and ceiling also had to be enveloped by tiles. “On the walls we used larger-format marble tiles, contrasted with mosaic tiles on the floor and ceiling, to add interest and detail to the area,” says Alyssa.floor plan sourcebook