Faulty plumbing, badly worn surfaces and the new physical challenges
imminent with one of the homeowners Parkinson's diagnosis
inspired the homeowners to update their master bath of 26
years. The main challenge with this remodel was to create a layout
to fit the individual homeowners’ needs, address the ability to
age gracefully with future accommodations, provide efficient
storage and create an atmosphere of serenity and therapy.

To address the seldom used bathtub and awkward layout, the
master bath was completely gutted to the studs. A new universal
design based on the needs of accessibility, dual occupancy and
concept of retreat was created. The glass-paneled walk-in shower
anchors the new design for an open feel within the confines of
the existing footprint. The existing floor joists had to be completely
restructured to provide for a zero threshold entrance and
reinforced for a stone bench seat for relaxation. A Mr. Steam
steamer unit with aroma therapy was introduced to contribute to
therapy for the homeowner’s muscles and nerves that have increasing
bouts of inflammation and irritation. Custom curved tile
and glass accessory shelves place products within reach and
without bruise causing sharp corners. A Delta Dryden handheld
showerhead anchored securely into structure provides for support
and flexibility of use with a 60” metal hose. A secondary Delta
Arzo Raincan showerhead affords versatility of cleaning based
on a standing or seated position.

Functional needs are met with three sturdy grab bars to aid with
balance within the shower and additional structural supports located
throughout the shower and toilet areas for future required
accommodations and transferring needs. A Kohler Tresham toilet
was selected in comfort height, and a Delta Dryden sink faucet
and Schlage door handle selected with levers for ease of
use. The vanity location with ample countertop surface for dual
use contributes to a direct path to the shower and toilet area in
the new layout. Painted maple cabinetry emulates the home’s
elegant woodwork detailing with beautiful crown molding extending
over the vanity mirror, durable finish and included roll-out
shelving for needed towel and toiletry storage efficiency.

An oversized vanity mirror incorporates switch and vanity light
cut-outs to allow for an easy to clean surface with greater light
reflection to reinforce a bright and airy master bathroom. Shower
and vanity recessed lights, two Savoy House vanity wall sconces
and low sone exhaust fan/light combined with natural daylight
and a new operable shower casement window provides necessary
increased light and color contrast, with versatility in illumination
needs based on use.

To reinforce flow, provide low maintenance durability and meet
the homeowner’s timeless taste, the shower walls and bathroom
wainscot are adorned with an oversized ceramic subway tile and
classic cap. Travertine floor tile and curved shower mosaic ceiling
compliment the painted cabinetry and tranquil wall color. The
decorative glass mosaic wainscot banding tile, shower feature
wall and accessory corner lends itself to the calming waters of
their childhood homes in Puerto Rico, close to the homeowners’
hearts.

Use of semi-custom cabinetry and ceramic wall tile provide for
the functional and aesthetic requirements while keeping with a
budget for the therapeutic steamer unit. The design exceeds the
homeowners’ goal to create a master bath for dual use that accommodates
their present and future physical needs, improved maneuverability, efficient storage and an aesthetic with custom detailing and furniture-style cabinetry to create a timeless and soothing elegance.