Embarking on the design journey of Wabi Sabi Refuge, I immersed myself in the profound quest for tranquility and harmony. This project became a testament to the pursuit of a tranquil haven that stirs a deep sense of calm within. Guided by the essence of wabi-sabi, my intention was to curate Wabi Sabi Refuge as a sacred space that nurtures an ethereal atmosphere, summoning a sincere connection with the surrounding world. Deliberate choices of muted hues and minimalist elements foster an environment of uncluttered serenity, encouraging introspection and contemplation. Embracing the innate imperfections and distinctive qualities of the carefully selected materials and objects added an exquisite touch of organic allure, instilling an authentic reverence for the beauty inherent in nature's creations. Wabi Sabi Refuge serves as a sanctuary, an evocative invitation for visitors to embrace the sublime simplicity, find solace in the imperfect, and uncover the profound and tranquil beauty that wabi-sabi unveils.

The design of this remodel of a small two-level residence in Noe Valley reflects the owner's passion for Japanese architecture. Having decided to completely gut the interior partitions, we devised a better-arranged floor plan with traditional Japanese features, including a sunken floor pit for dining and a vocabulary of natural wood trim and casework. Vertical grain Douglas Fir takes the place of Hinoki wood traditionally used in Japan. Natural wood flooring, soft green granite and green glass backsplashes in the kitchen further develop the desired Zen aesthetic. A wall to wall window above the sunken bath/shower creates a connection to the outdoors. Privacy is provided through the use of switchable glass, which goes from opaque to clear with a flick of a switch. We used in-floor heating to eliminate the noise associated with forced-air systems.

The vanity and mirror were made in China per our specifications. I chose light fixtures that were interesting and definitely not typical bathroom fixtures! There is a mix of many materials in this room, yet it is so peaceful. Photos by Mike Kaskel

Custom cherry cabinets and tub surround. Limestone slab countertops and limestone tile floor. Tub by BainUltra.

India inspired powder room with stone mosaic tile on vanity wall, copper faucet & sink, and cinnabar red & saffron yellow accents. Photography by Bernard Andre

This client has a number of lovely Asian pieces collected while living abroad in China. We selected an Asian scene wallpaper with colors to tie in all the existing finishes for this compact Powder Room. . Please leave a comment for information on any items seen in our photographs.

Donna Karan's Zen Spa-Bath in East Hampton New York. Antique Biblical Stone covers all surfaces. Stone by Ancient Surfaces.

Photography Birte Reimer

Bisazza glass mosaic tiles accent the controls wall in the custom corner shower. The shower wall are manmade slab goods thus eliminating the visual division of tiles giving the shower a serene feeling. An added bonus is no worry with the grout over time.

Asian design with a coastal feel is what inspired this bathroom.

To allow the closet and bathroom some privacy without feeling cut off, custom doors with bamboo infused 3M panels of acrylic were used for texture, interest and light transference. The client found a wonderful old wooden screen we used as an inset to the custom door hiding the linen closet behind.

Floor and wall tile are both limestone, but different colors and patterns. The darker, 4 piece pattern floor, grounds the room and allows the carved panels to draw you in and capture your attention. They become a focal point with just the right amount of attention.

Donna Griffith Photography

This luxurious master bath has a stunning, backlit almost translucent stone bathtub. The corner shower is enclosed by clear glass. An elegant bathroom vanity is created with rich, intricately inlayed cabinetry, and a vertical mirror flanked by wall sconces.

This powder room won best of Houzz for a powder room.This Asisn antique chest was retrofit for a powder room.The bronze vessel bowl is hammered design on the outside of the bowlThe sconces are onyx. The walls have an Asian design encaustic' wall coverings - Venetian Plaster

The guest bathroom feels like a "zen" spa with the neutral palette of exotic hardwood and natural stone combined with soft diffused lighting.