With Design in Mind

Little Rock builder Fred Lord began building the home he shares with his wife Karen and their two children with a very specific design plan in mind, and the master bathroom was no exception. “The house has a very timeless, French country style,” Fred says. “I wanted the whole home to stand the test of time and not look dated in a few years, and the bathroom was no exception. I had the entire space planned out in my mind before we even started.”

Of utmost importance was the drama factor—accessed through the master bedroom via double doors, the bathroom feels like a featured space in its own right, rather than an afterthought. “I wanted a space that felt open and expansive, with plenty of room,” Fred says. The space is outfitted in rich, neutral tones, from the travertine flooring to the granite countertops. “The color scheme is very earthy to create the feeling of a tranquil getaway,” says Karen. “I love to unwind in there.”

Luxurious amenities were also key to the space, including Fred's favorite: the heated floors. “I would put heated tile in every house I build! It's even more comfortable than standing on a rug,” he says. Additional touches like the heated towel warmers and the oversized shower with multiple jets were also must-haves for this dream bathroom. He also custom-designed the circular ottoman after fruitlessly searching in antiques stores for more than a year. “Finally, Fred just drew up the plans and sent them to the millwork shop, and I worked with Marshall-Clements to choose the fabric and have it upholstered,” Karen says.

Despite their family's hectic schedule, the Lords have truly come to appreciate the getaway afforded by their master bath. “With two small children, we don't get a lot of chances to relax, but the bathroom has been wonderful for that,” he says.