A homeowner wishing to transform her problematic master bath into a spacious, wheelchair-accessible retreat approached the team at Jennifer Gilmer Kitchen & Bath for the job. Designer Paul Bentham began by reconfiguring the space, which no longer suited its owner’s changing needs. “Removing the unused tub in front of the window, the step-in shower and the small toilet room were the first requirements,” he recounts. These features were replaced with a spacious shower enclosure on one side of the window and a WC on the other—both accessible through facing double doors of matching frosted glass. New wing walls conceal the plumbing and create space for tall cabinets.

A long wall boasts double vanities and sinks with custom mirrors above. The cabinetry is equipped with a pull-out hamper and slide-out storage. Between the vanities, a lowered surface with an extra-long mirror allows the owner to easily fix her hair and apply makeup from her chair.

Bentham created wide passageways for easy accessibility. A flush linear drain at the base of the shower entry allows unhindered access, and there’s integrated seating inside. Fixed, sliding and waterfall showerheads in brushed nickel offer options for bathing. A white cabinet below the window conveniently stores towels within reach.

While the rest of the house is traditional in style, a transitional sensibility prevails in the master bath. Bentham accentuated the timeless look of marble-effect gray porcelain floor and wall tiles then added interest and modern flair with porcelain accent tiles in a raised wave pattern. The vanities are painted a complementary gray, topped with Pure White Caesarstone counters; slender cabinet legs and narrow framing contribute to the transitional vibe.

BATH DESIGN: Paul Bentham, Jennifer Gilmer Kitchen & Bath, Chevy Chase, Maryland. BUILDER: Michael Thornton, M.R. Thornton & Sons, Inc., Woodbine, Maryland.

RESOURCES
Cabinetry: qcci.com. Countertops: caesarstoneus.com through stoneandtileworld.com. Cabinetry Hardware: topknobsdecor.com. Sinks & Fixtures: kohler.com. Glass Doors & Mirrors: hutchisonglassandmirror.com. Wall, Floor & Accent Tile: porcelanosa-usa.com.