Making a Splash
Wet rooms are becoming increasingly more popular in the world of bathroom design, and while homeowners are tempted by their convenience and aesthetic appeal, they are not without their quirks. Citydeskstudio is familiar with both the pros and cons of this concept, having mastered the art of wet room design in its own work. According to Principal Ben Awes, AIA, “Wet rooms tend to be more costly because [they’re] waterproof, which impacts how they’re built.” But he also notes their luxurious aspects, stating, “It’s nice to be able to move from area to area without being concerned about splashing water.” Boasting design fluidity, wet rooms are not limited by defined edges or boundaries in a bathroom, he explains. “This is evident in the lack of thresholds and curbs, continuous tile, reduced requirements for enclosure, [and] even the way light is interrupted by fewer edges.” –Elizabeth Roubik
In the Vein of Vanities
Designers are moving on from boring, basic ceramic sinks in primary and powder bathrooms. Instead, these functional pieces are starting to feel more like custom furniture with unique detailing, warm underlighting, ornate hardware, and more. The vanity set in this primary bath in a 1929 French Provincial house by Rehkamp Larson Architects, Alecia Stevens Interiors, and Welch Forsman Associates, for instance, features a Breccia Capraia marble top and apron supported by custom brass legs and flanked by tall, figured red birch veneer storage cabinets. Aiming for a more rustic look? Skip the vanity altogether and try a trough-style sink. –Katelyn Bloomquist
The Staying Power of the Spa Aesthetic
In a departure from the clean whites and jewel tones of years’ past, spa-inspired bathrooms are darkening up with earthy tones, statement patterns, drapery, and more. But the affinity for freestanding tubs remains, as seen in this European-inspired primary suite by Codie Donahue Interior Design. The en suite bathroom offers a personalized spa experience within the home, complete with a walk-in rain shower, dedicated water closet, and multitude of marble surfaces. –Elizabeth Roubik
Product Pick: Tech-y Toilets
Toto USA’s newest wall-hung toilet models, the NEOREST WX1 and WX2, will impress even the techiest of homeowners. The award-winning, minimalist smart bidet toilet prioritizes sustainability and personal hygiene with a high-efficiency dual flush system, energy-saving features, advanced cleaning technologies, adjustable settings, and a seamless heated seat—all managed by an elegant stick-style remote that recalls preferences for up to four users. totousa.com –Katelyn Bloomquist
Power of the Powder
Powder room trends continue to embrace dramatic, statement-making features that pack a punch. This small, yet mighty powder room by Milton House Design Collective and Kenzo Construction, for instance, teems with colorful character—boasting a midcentury floral wall covering, vintage-inspired fixtures, and a smokey blue beadboard. –Elizabeth Roubik
Culinary Excellence
When it comes to creating a custom kitchen that exudes sophistication, functionality, and cutting-edge design, choosing the right appliances is key. Invest in these deluxe, off-the-beaten-path brands on the cusp of culinary excellence.
- AGA, agarangeusa.com
- Bertazzoni, bertazzoni.com
- Gaggenau, gaggenau.com
- Hallman Industries, hallmanindustries.com
- ILVE, ilve.com
- La Cornue, lacornueusa.com
- Miele, mieleusa.com
- Molteni, molteni.com
- Monogram, monogram.com
- Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove, subzero-wolf.com
- Thermador, thermador.com
- Viking, vikingrange.com