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Arlington clients contacted Rebecca Penno for an overhaul of their primary bath (above). The designer conjured a bright and airy feel via cabinetry painted a light-neutral hue and pale-gray marble tile, which clads both the floor and shower enclosure. “Our preferred surface material in a primary bath is natural stone,” Penno relates. “It’s the most organic way to create a one-of-a-kind space, because no stone is like the next.” A heated floor imparts a luxurious touch. PHOTO: ANGELA NEWTON ROY

Design Partners

Bath Time

Designers offer tips for realizing a spa experience at home

By HOME & DESIGN

“When designing a luxury bath, we ask a couple of key questions: How do we maximize the space if we cannot change the footprint? And how do we accommodate the clients’ requirements while making the space feel larger than it is? Once we’ve determined the layout, we select colors and materials that will create a relaxing and luxurious experience.”

—Ann Gottlieb, IIDA, LEED AP ID+C, Ann Gottlieb Design PLLC

“Adding heated floors and towel bars is a must. It’s the height of luxury to step onto a warm stone floor in the winter and grab a warm towel from the rack. We also use sophisticated LED-lit mirrors and medicine cabinets with integrated televisions and magnifying mirrors.”

—Kirsten Kaplan, Haus Interior Design

“When designing a luxurious hotel-bath experience, the focus is on ambiance, materials and special amenities. A soothing color palette and dimmable lighting will create a tranquil atmosphere. Use high-quality materials like marble and natural stone. Incorporate textures that sparkle and fixtures with rain features. Wet rooms containing a shower and soaking tub add a layer of luxury. A linear fireplace will further elevate the look.”

—Arelene Critzos, Interior Concepts, Inc.

“Evoking a spa atmosphere in a bathroom design starts with a soft color palette. We like to keep the cabinets and walls light, especially if the windows aren’t large. We often recommend marble that has consistent veining for both the countertop slab and the floor and wall tiles.”

—Rebecca Penno, Penno Interiors

PHOTO: Angela Newton Roy Photography