Dramatic Mix

Charles Walton IV

Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. That includes baths. And this narrow space, full of more slopes than a ski resort, is no exception. Careful planning and cool materials make this long, slender bath perfect from any angle.

Tailor-made Space
As they dreamed up their master bath, David and Marsha Dowler worked from the outside in. They planned their house to fit in with a traditional Highland Park neighborhood in Dallas. One result? "The picturesque roof created interesting and unexpected interior angles," says Marsha.

This sleek room takes maximum advantage of these ceiling angles. An example: The large walk-in shower is a dramatic space with a 30-degree sloped ceiling.

Beautiful Light Day and Night
Architect Scott Merrill let the sun shine in by grouping four windows above the tub. Simple half-curtains afford privacy but don't impede light.

Brushed nickel sconces flank the mirrors above the vanities. Because baths are meant for relaxing, too, layer the light. Recessed and dimmable halogen ceiling lights do the trick here. The painted walls create a luminous atmosphere. "They react with light," says Marsha. "They subtly shift in hue throughout the day. It's fantastic."

Lighten Up Your Bath

Use glass tile to bring sparkle to the room. The reflective properties of the glass add splashes of light.
Consider a skylight, especially above the tub or shower. But take a look outside first. If the skylight doesn't have any shade, you could be in for a steamier shower than you want.
Fluorescent light is not the way to go. Choose thoughtfully placed task lighting, such as sconces and water-resistant can lights, in the shower. Use sconces to flank mirrors; they provide great lighting for getting ready.

"Dramatic Mix" is from the September 2007 issue of Southern Living.

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