A luxe bathroom with a chic, intense palette

Top-to-toe marble may be a daring decorating decision, but in this sumptuous Sydney bathroom, it works perfectly, creating a warmer look than that afforded by the usual stark white tiles. Designer Darren Genner of Minosa has create a space that is both striking and practical. A centre wall conceals the functional elements of the bathroom like the shower and toilet, while serving as a brilliant backdrop to the bath and basin. 

The dark colour palette works because the room receives light from a north-facing window. “We knew that the sun would shine in during the day, and by night the bathroom would become a darker, soothing place to relax after a busy day,” explains Darren. Mirrors are another device utilised to make the dark space look brighter – as well as the vanity mirror, two floor-to-ceiling mirrors are positioned on the wall opposite the vanity to break up the expanse of marble and reflect light around this naturally darker side of the room.

A slice of Pietra Grey marble (Minosa’s ‘Milana’) was selected in place of a traditional vanity, blending in with the walls and freeing up space underneath. The striking slimline ‘Scoop’ basin is set above the shelf to give the illusion that it’s floating, an effect that is further enhanced by the darkness of the stone surround. The basin and freestanding ‘Solar’ bath (both Minosa) are welcome splashes of bright white against the dark stone. “When you open the door the natural light plays with the darkness, and the bath and washbasin jump out at you,” says Darren. “The overall impact is dramatic, yet balanced.” 

At first glance, it seems this space lacks storage. A closer inspection of the mirror above the vanity reveals otherwise, for the panel opens up to expose hidden shelves recessed into the tiled wall. This clever design trick frees up space, and provides a handy nook for storing toothbrushes and other toiletries.

The dazzling centre wall is tiled with Bisazza mosaics, introducing a hint of shimmer to the otherwise monochromatic scheme, and their intensity of colour shifts in the light to create an ever changing display. The feature wall also has a practical purpose, creating a discreet enclosure for a wall-hung loo.

Polished Pietra Grey marble from Marble & Ceramic Corp lines the floor and walls, creating a moody retreat. The marble has the added advantage of being surprisingly easy to maintain, a must for any family bathroom. Its dark colour and variegated pattern hide a multitude of sins, and all it needs is water to keep it sparkling clean.

Clean lines and modern fixtures feature throughout. The Parisi shower rail from Domayne can be raised and lowered effortlessly, and a D20 ceiling mounted soaker from Minosa makes for an indulgent shower experience.

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