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49 bathroom bliss Bathrooms may be one of the most private spaces of a home, but that certainly doesn't mean they cannot thrill with captivating design elements or the relaxing cadence of a spa-inspired haven. Right after kitchens, bathrooms are at the top of the priority list for many homeowners who are remodeling or building a new property. I love focusing on this smaller but significant area of the home and working through the design challenges that demand the space to be at once comfortable and aesthetically pleasing, but also highly functional. Splurging on the bathroom and creating a true oasis of comfort is paramount for many clients. That's one of the main reasons why a spa-style aesthetic continues to evolve and escalate in popularity, as it so seamlessly unifies the tenets of peacefulness and practicality. Soothing shades of grey along with white, cream, and taupe are ideal for evoking serenity. I like to use accessories to deliver moderated but effective pops of color to a more neutral palette. As with kitchen design, an endless variety of new and innovative materials and products for the bathroom continues to flood the market, making it fun and easy to create the ultimate retreat. Of course, there's also a limitless selection of natural materials, and I love to blend different tones and textures of stone to create a stunning—and less expected—effect. While master bathrooms may offer a larger footprint for a sanctuary of bliss, more petite powder rooms and guest bathrooms can still pack a dramatic punch, too. For example, in one award-winning powder room, a polished natural agate slab served as my inspiration for the desert contemporary design. The addition of glossy handmade tile— crafted from rich, European gold-leaf fired between sheets of glass—brought a touch of elegance to the innate beauty of the agate, creating a beautiful juxtaposition of nature and glamour. Good things really do come in small packages!

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