“This project is an addition to an existing home — originally built in the 1950s,” explained Stewart Davis, AIA of CG&S Design-Build in Austin, TX. “We designed and built an earlier phase, which was a complete renovation of the ground floor. This project represents phase two. The client wanted a second floor master suite for privacy and to take advantage of downtown Austin views. The wife was very involved in the selection process. There was not a lot of indecision.”
A striking statement is made in the 200-square-foot space with colorful strips of glass mosaic tile, which clad the vanity backsplash and tub wall. The tiles are from the “Serenade Gloss Harmonic Lines Mosaic Blend” Collection from Artistic Tile.
The mosaics provide a textured feel and provide contrast with the more subdued large-format floor tiles. The 12- x 24-inch tiles — part of the Daltile’s “Vibe” Collection — are in “Techno Gray” with a light polished finish. Texture is further added in the shower with a floor comprised of Solistone “Pebble” Bali Black River Rock with a matte finish. Additionally, the vanity and tub surround are made from Caesarstone in “Dusty Stones.”
While the variety of tile and stone brings a decorative aesthetic to the bathroom, an open layout and glass shower walls contribute to the light airy atmosphere. Not to compete with the vibrant mosaics, the shower wall is built of 6- x 24-inch rectified porcelain tile with a natural finish from the “Minimal” Collection by Fashion Tile. Moreover, the shower features a pony wall in white 12- x 24-inch glass tile from the “Interglass” Collection by Interceramic, which adds a subtle contrast to the dark wall tile.
According to Davis, the most challenging aspect of the project for tile contractor, Douglass Whitaker of Custom Tile Services, was balancing everything out. “He overcame it by experience and careful planning,” he said. “Douglass determined how the materials would interact according to their height and dimensions. Then he worked closely with the plumbing and electrical trades to determine a schedule so that he could do a partial installation after the rough-in plumbing and electrical, and finish up after the fixtures were installed.”
Overall, the mixing of porcelain, stone and glass tile created a visually stimulating design for the luxurious master bath. “It was very detailed and exact work,” explained Davis, adding that much time was spent on the jobsite to supervise the installation. In total, the project was completed in just under a year. “It has won several design awards and has been featured in a popular Austin homes tour,” said the architect.
