These first-time parents wanted to create a sanctuary in their home, a place to retreat and enjoy some self-care after a long day. They were inspired by the simplicity and natural elements found in wabi-sabi design so we took those basic elements and created a spa-like getaway.

From what was once a humble early 90’s decor space, the contrast that has occurred in this ensuite is vast. On return from a holiday in Japan, our clients desired the same bath house cultural experience, that is known to the land of onsens, for their own ensuite. The transition in this space is truly exceptional, with the new layout all designed within the same four walls, still maintaining a vanity, shower, bath and toilet. Our designer, Eugene Lombard put much careful consideration into the fittings and finishes to ensure all the elements were pulled together beautifully. The wet room setting is enhanced by a bench seat which allows the user a moment of transition between the shower and hot, deep soaker style bath. The owners now wake up to a captivating “day-spa like experience” that most would aspire to on a holiday, let alone an everyday occasion. Key features like the underfloor heating in the entrance are added appeal to beautiful large format tiles along with the wood grain finishes which add a sense of warmth and balance to the room.

A traditional Japanese soaking tub made from Hinoki wood was selected as the focal point of the bathroom. It not only adds visual warmth to the space, but it infuses a cedar aroma into the air.

The homeowners' dreamed of an Ofuro style soaking tub. We worked together to make that a reality. Our employees custom milled a surround of Ofuro cedar for the soaking tub. The steps are removable for cleaning and to lessen the occurrence of trapped moisture. The shelves are also custom cedar with a "fish scale" tile backing.

Japanese soaking tub from Victoria & Albert is featured with Brizo faucet. The large shower features dual shower heads with recessed niches and large seat.

This pretty remodel of a Century Home Bathroom is a little jewel. The space houses a Custom Vanity with Cambria quartz Counter Top, white under mount Kohler Sink, Grohe single handle Faucet, Standing Shower with custom Tile & Stone detail, Japanese soaker Tub, Classic finishes and great spcial layout. Photography by the talented Nicole Aubrey Photography

Photo by: Haris Kenjar

Japanese Soaking tub, Large Walk in Shower, Custom Vanity with make up bench, contemporary styling

Geri cruickshank Eaker

Master Bath with stainless steel soaking tub and wooden tub filler, steam shower with fold down bench, Black Lace Slate wall tile, Slate floor tile, Earth plaster ceiling and upper walls Photo: Michael R. Timmer

Beyond Virtual Tours

For our full portfolio, see https://blackandmilk.co.uk/interior-design-portfolio/

A new window was added above the mirror for natural light. To bring this light deeper into the space, the walls were covered with large glassy porcelain tile from floor to ceiling and oversized mirrors were placed to help bounce the light in every direction.

On the exterior, the desire was to weave the home into the fabric of the community, all while paying special attention to meld the footprint of the house into a workable clean, open, and spacious interior free of clutter and saturated in natural light to meet the owner’s simple but yet tasteful lifestyle. The utilization of natural light all while bringing nature’s canvas into the spaces provides a sense of harmony. Light, shadow and texture bathe each space creating atmosphere, always changing, and blurring the boundaries between the indoor and outdoor space. Color abounds as nature paints the walls. Though they are all white hues of the spectrum, the natural light saturates and glows, all while being reflected off of the beautiful forms and surfaces. Total emersion of the senses engulf the user, greeting them with an ever changing environment. Style gives way to natural beauty and the home is neither of the past or future, rather it lives in the moment. Stable, grounded and unpretentious the home is understated yet powerful. The environment encourages exploration and an awakening of inner being dispelling convention and accepted norms. The home encourages mediation embracing principals associated with silent illumination. If there was one factor above all that guided the design it would be found in a word, truth. Experience the delight of the creator and enjoy these photos.

Luke Wesson