2011 Remodeling Excellence Award
Master Bathroom to Luxury Spa
Sometimes the best solution to an under designed space is to start over with a fresh layout and a fresh perspective. That’s what these Naperville homeowners and Normandy Designer Jennifer Runner, AKBD decided to do when converting their outdated master bathroom into a modern, luxury spa inspired retreat.
The existing floor plan included some unusual angles and focused on a rarely used oversized soaking tub. The small shower was placed by the only window in the room, which compromised the homeowner’s privacy. Flooring and shower walls were covered in white tile, which created an institutional feel, and the narrow vanity area lacked storage and proper lighting.
The first step to creating a soothing, modern master bathroom was to adjust the layout of the room. One of the two closets was moved to an adjoining open attic space, which opened up the entry to the master bedroom. In place of the moved closet, a large shower with multiple shower heads and recessed niche was added. The once dominant bathtub was shifted to align with the shower, which also allowed for a bench to be added to the shower area. 
The toilet room was relocated to the footprint of the old shower and an electric towel warmer was installed on the adjoining wall. The vanity was designed for his and hers function with ample storage, and large mirrors and additional lighting were added. A custom make-up vanity was placed next to the shower for additional storage and counter space.
The old, outdated cabinetry and fixtures were replaced with ebony stained cherry cabinetry and white marble countertops. The slab style doors and drawers showed off the modern style of the homeowners. The chrome faucets, shower heads and cabinetry hardware contributed to a sleek and stylish look. The floor, tub deck and shower walls were covered with honed limestone tile to create visual texture and a spa like feel. 
“The unique stone tile insert along the tub and shower walls was installed to create a unique focal point while also introducing the same white marble used on the vanity countertops,” says Jennifer. Three pendant lights were hung from the cathedral ceiling to introduce additional lighting. “The combination of calming blues and grays helps to make the new space a relaxing retreat,” says Jennifer. “The use of these subdued tones along with the use of striking ebony and white reflected the contemporary taste of the homeowners.”
This spa inspired master bathroom transformation has attracted industry recognition as well, recently taking a First Place “Remodeling Excellence Award” from NARI Greater Chicagoland. This is Jennifer Runner’s second award in as many years, and Jennifer will be presenting a bathroom remodeling seminar this Saturday January 28 entitled “A New Kind of Bathroom: The At-Home Spa Experience.” The seminar is free to attend, but spaces are limited. Further details and registration can be found by clicking here.
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