Photograph courtesy of Wade Works Creative
When designing a master suite, builders usually prioritize the bedroom, restricting the bathroom’s square footage, function, and layout in order to make the sleeping area larger and more prominent. But if you step back and think practically, the bedroom only contains the bed—while the bathroom and closet hold everything else. So the traditional floorplan is not always the most efficient. A lobby-style setup, which combines the two rooms, may be more effective and luxurious.
One of our recent projects in Avondale Estates benefited greatly from this approach. The open-concept bathroom contains two custom, steel-framed walnut vanities. One vanity features dual sinks and floating mirrors that face a full-height exterior window. The opposite vanity has a solid countertop and a glass partition that both defines the dressing area and provides a mist barrier from the adjoining walk-through shower.
Photograph courtesy of Wade Works Creative
The generous space between the vanities is reminiscent less of a bathroom and more of a finished living space, easily accommodating two individuals during the morning rush. This level of comfort, sophistication, and space planning creates a resort-style feel that can revolutionize how you experience your master suite.
Focusing on fewer elements also affords a higher level of luxury and function. The interiors of these vanity cabinets, for example, offer many specialty features. Eliminating the dividing wall to create an open shower has a dramatic visual impact.
Transforming your home is possible without additional square footage. For some residences, one of the best options is simply swapping bedroom and bathroom locations. Escaping the confinement of the standard layout can be pivotal in turning your master suite into a retreat that works for you.
Chip Wade, an Emmy-winning television host/producer, Georgia Tech engineer, HGTV designer, and third-generation craftsman, helps people make home purchasing or improvement decisions. His firm, Wade Works Creative, offers services in residential and commercial design, architecture, realty, and creative construction.
This article originally appeared in our Fall 2017 issue of Atlanta Magazine’s HOME.
