The vanity
Together with the tub and shower, the vanity makes up yet another essential component of the master bath. Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, the vanity can help define the overall style of the room. Clean, reflective metal stands with cool slabs of pale colored marble are reminiscent of the classic bath. Ornate amaretto or cherry colored cabinets topped with dark marble or granite appear elegant. A sleek blonde cabinet capped with a thick slice of slate will beget a Contemporary or Asian feel. A retro-fitted antique dresser crowned with a curvatious slab of limestone will impart a feeling of romance.

When considering which stone to use for the vanity remember the qualities each type possesses. The toll of daily contact with toothpaste, soaps and other acidic substances will cause the surface of a polished marble to etch and dull over time. Granite is the ideal choice if a reflective surface is desired, as chemicals are no threat to its shine. Travertine and limestone are suitable choices, but be aware of possible surface etching. Mosaics and tumbled stone are perfect for the vanity countertop as they will acquire a lovely patina overtime.

Sink options for the vanity range from vessels of stone, glass and metal to porcelain and stainless under-mounts to the standard drop in. Be practical, some decorative sinks are best left to the powder bath where they don’t meet the daily rituals of grooming.

After selecting a vanity base and countertop, you will need to consider the backsplash area. If a decorative trim or mosaic has been chosen for the shower walls and around the tub, it may be introduced here as well. The splash area can be as small as four inches or may span the entire area from the countertop to the ceiling, depending on the desired effect. If you are adhering to a limited budget, consider running the countertop material as your standard 4-inch height splash and then border your mirror in something special, such as an accent trim. The least expensive way to achieve drama with your splash and mirror area is to cut down pieces of field tile (your floor or countertop tile) and border the mirror with it. To liven things up, add a decorative accent in each corner and outline the space between the mirror and field tile with a strip of colorful mosaic.

On the floor
The most important factor to consider when using natural stone for the bathroom floor is surface texture. An antiquated finish, a honed marble or granite, or a natural-faced slate are all great choices for flooring in the bathroom, offering a secure foot hold. On the other hand, a highly polished stone of any kind is not always wise due to the “slippery when wet” dilemma.

When your heart is set on a sleek polished stone for the bath, consider the addition of an inlaid rug design outside each wet area in the selected stone’s honed, tumbled or mosaic counterpart. This not only keeps you from slipping, but will add a distinctive touch to your space as well. If this solution does not appeal to you, placing a tasteful throw rug outside each wet area will suffice.

The powder bath
Comprised of only a sink and commode, the powder bath is a small bathroom capable of making a big statement. Used primarily by visiting friends and family, this modest sized bath offers the ideal setting for expressing your individuality. Somewhat isolated, it lends itself well to bold and daring statements. Its generally private location eliminates conventional concerns regarding tile selections that may clash with surrounding elements. Combine all this with its guest-oriented mission and it becomes possible to create unsurpassed elegance without worry. So be creative, artistic and begin to envision unique ways to impress your guests.

Take a good look at the space you have allotted to function as your powder bath. Ideally it is located in an area that offers a degree of privacy for your visitors and is large enough to move about in comfortably. Because this petite space is generally reserved for guests, it does not suffer from the blatant mistreatment normally associated with the standard bathroom, like wet floors and harsh chemical substances. Because of this, materials typically avoided may be considered, like those wonderfully delectable polished marbles and mosaics.

Let your imagination take flight. What appeals to you as far as design is concerned? Do you prefer the understated simplicity of Contemporary or the classic look of Traditional? Either way color and lighting will play a major role in the mood and ambiance conveyed within the room. Tucked away in some obscure corner, there is little chance that you will be basking in the warmth of natural light, so choose mood-enhancing fixtures to complement and balance the room. Forget the old adage that small rooms should be light in color; select a palette that appeals to your sense of style. A rich warm shade may be just the backdrop to convey that feeling of sophistication you’ve been striving for. There are no hard-set rules for this bath, so here are just a few ideas you may want to consider.