Pam Singleton/Image Photography

Dark paint can be sensational; however the drywall needs to be as close to flawless as possible to avoid seeing imperfections. Even the slightest bump in the wall can look magnified if painted a dark color.

Rick Bethem Photography

Amber Frederiksen, www.amberfederiksen.com; Houchen Construction; infor@houchen.com

Gillian Jackson

Sliding Shower Doors System – two stationary shower glass panels & one sliding door

Designer: Ayeshah Toorani Morin, CMKBD Cabinets: WoodMode Jeri Koegel photography

Thompson Photographic

Vista del baño. Lavabos Roca Urbi. Aparador de madera de mindi de Santiago Pons.

The 1987 home's master bathroom reflected that era, with a huge whirlpool tub, a laminate dual vanity, and mirrored walls. The clients wanted a renovation that captured an Old World style that reminded them of their time in Italy. We gave it a modern sensibility that made the space both practical and beautiful. We removed the mirrors, tub and glass shower and created a spacious shower where the tub used to be. Inside the shower, we added two stone-covered benches and bronze- finished grab bars for safety; his/her niches for bath products; and a rainfall shower head, body sprays and a handheld massage shower on a slide. A copper air tub with traditional lines gives the room a focal point. Rearranging the space allowed us to fulfill the clients' request for separate his/her vanities. The remote-controlled tub and shower functions are hidden by cabinetry. Inadequate fluorescent lights were replaced by LEDs and sconces with independent controls. Large porcelain tiles are accented with glass, stone and porcelain mosaic. A faux-iron grille above the shower allows air circulation while adding to the Italian feel. Neutral quartz countertops with textured, reflective glass lavatories set off dark, custom hickory cabinetry that gives the clients the storage they wanted, up to the ceiling, including pull- out drawers, a robe closet and outlet-equipped cabinets. And a David statue looks on from a lighted, recessed display space.

The Scarlet vignette is a stunning display of pattern and drama without overwhelming your senses. It features our new Noir Travertine Polished Arabesque Mosaic and the Legno Luce Travertine in a herringbone pattern beautifully brought together with the decorative Fulton Listello. We framed the Listello with coordinating Legno Somerset finishing pieces to add dimension and make for an easy transition between materials.