Designs are now emerging that were once held only in homeowner’s dreams. Arches of ornate decorative tile invite you to enter an oversized steam shower built for two. A deep whirlpool tub sits encased in stone while an enormous hand-carved fireplace casts a warm glow throughout the room. Today’s master suite bathroom is no longer the oversized standard bath of the past, it is now an architecturally stunning hideaway that is looked upon with near reverence.

The tub

Truly one of the ultimate escapes into relaxation is the long soaking bubble bath. What can add to that experience except to open your eyes and discover yourself surrounded by nature’s beauty. Once paired with the shower, the bathtub is no longer part of the space saving duo of the past. Earning a rightful place of its own, it now finds itself in various locations throughout the master bath. Standing alone in the middle of the room, set in a corner, resting on the center of a wall, sunken, elevated, or recessed into its own nook, regardless, the tub is always a tempting site at the end of a long stressful day.

Depending on its final destination, there are many options available for dressing up this bathroom feature. When it stands alone in the center of the room, the tub normally functions as the primary focal point. If it is housed in a wooden frame, you can choose to create a neo-classical look by cladding it in stone and adorning each of the four corners with Corinthian columns. If an austere appearance is more your style, simply encase the centrally located tub in monochrome slabs of silky smooth limestone or onyx.

When the bathtub rests against a wall or is situated in a corner, a backsplash is required and offers the perfect space to play with creative tile layouts. For instance, when your stone arrives on the job site, take time to cull through the crates to find very unique pieces. Often times you will discover a group of tiles cut from the block together that when placed side by side, showcase a continuous veining structure (most commonly found in cross-cut travertine). Set these aside and ask the installer to run this veining pattern along the expanse of the splash for an incredible effect. In place of large scale stone tiles, you may want to consider a splash composition of smaller tumbled stones or a field of mosaics. In the center of the field tile, why not add a handsome hand-painted mural bordered by a heavy stone molding or introduce a row of unique etched tiles. Whatever design you choose to incorporate, be sure not to skimp on the height of the splash. Many building contractors suggest a standard four or six inch splash, but the beauty lies in the grand scale, go eighteen inches or more to add significant drama.

The piece de resistance when it comes to bathtub design is undoubtedly the large whirlpool tub recessed into its own private nook. Here you can allow for a generous deck with more than enough space to house candles, scented oils, baskets of soft terry towels or even a glass of chilled Chablis. Glimmering mosaics can be breathtaking as they climb the walls and flow over the arch of the ceiling. Enhance their sparkle and the overall space with the addition of a gilded chandelier. Do not avoid the addition of these “over the top” ideas, as they are what will set your bath above the rest.

Ideas for the tub
When installing a whirlpool tub, attempt to situate it where the access panel can be placed on an exterior wall or in an abutting closet or vanity. This will allow for an uninterrupted tile design on the face of the tub. In the case that the panel must be located on the tub apron, there are several unique products currently on the market that allow for easy access without disturbing your tile design. In addition, a seasoned installer will have a trick or two up his sleeve.

If steps are necessary to access your tub, be sure to choose a slip resistant stone finish for added traction and safety. Treat these features as a focal point and give them a unique shape or curve. Dress the front edge with a decorative bullnose or ogee trim.

When design and budget allows, place a large roof window over your tub to enjoy the moon and stars at night.

Consider the addition of a floating fireplace at the far end of the tub. Carry the stone used for the splash up and around the firebox. Be careful, submerging yourself in the warmth of the water and gazing at the flames may put you in a hypnotic state.