Master bathroom renovation in a 4,000 sqf ranch style home.
Location: San Luis Obispo County, CA
Completed: 2009
Size: 215sqf
At the center of the center of the center...
Situated amongst 5000 walnut trees dotting a farm in California's rural Central Coast, this master bathroom renovation is conceptualized as the literal, concentrated heart of the orchard. Here, walnut and stone — crop and soil — are played off of each other as two wrapping surfaces that form the interior space of the bathroom.
A floor of natural black slate folds up to create a walk-in shower which then gives way to a curving wall of book-matched Walnut veneer to form the toilet room, closet, and a seating nook. At the center of the room stands a solid walnut island. The basin itself is milled from the wood to form the sink. A large storage area opens like a car-hood to reveal easy access to daily hygiene items while hiding the clutter when not in use.
Island
This renovation opened up a cluster of four small spaces to create an airy room organized around a peculiar invention: the island sink. By pulling the sink away from the wall to let it stand in the center of the room, the sensory aspects of the hygiene ritual are emphasized by taking focus away from the dominating visual presence of the vanity. A small mirror is provided for shaving and makeup but the standard mirror behind the sink is absent in hopes that the owners, who are approaching retirement, may use this new found freedom to focus on enjoying life rather than fussing with daily primping. While this approach would not be perfect for everyone, it suited these clients and allows for a completely unique and lighthearted bathroom.
Credits
Woodwork & Cabinetry: Casagrande Woodworks
Leather details: Vintage Vaquero