Date: September 30, 2020 | Story: Tiffany Adams | Photography: Rett Peek | Styling: Lauren Cerrato |
Before & After: In Hot Springs Village, designer Alissa Oates creates a modern master bath that doesn’t skimp on style or amenities
You may be familiar with the saying Necessity is the mother of invention. However, for Kelly and Chad Fowler, necessity was the mother of renovation. After a driver lost control of his car and damaged the exterior of their home—most notably an area near the master bath—they knew it was time to move forward with plans to renovate the space. Fortunately, the Fowlers were already working with Alissa Oates of Restructure Design. “She had just finished re-doing our kitchen, and we were hitting pause for a bit before continuing on to the bath,” Kelly explains.
Inspired by time spent living abroad in Germany, the Fowlers wanted what Kelly describes as a “sleek, clean, and minimalist” look. “We also really love the feel of going to a high-end hotel and having a spa-like bath,” she adds. To achieve this effect, Alissa started with a simplified palette of black and white. Elements such as the high-gloss floating vanities and painted glass doors on the tall cabinetry exemplify the contemporary, cosmopolitan aesthetic, while the steam shower and extra-long soaking tub bring the function the couple desired. “While we were working on this project, I went to the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show and saw a lot of finishes I knew they would love,” Alissa says, noting she found the tub, fixtures, and countertops while there. Large-scale floor tiles that have the look of concrete and backlit LED mirrors add to the modern feel.
Kelly notes this home was her first renovation project, which can be daunting for any homeowner. “It only went smoothly because we have a designer who understands our tastes and really understood the plans from the start. It made all the difference.”
Floating vanities create an airy, open feel on the walkways, while LED-lit mirrors and no additional sconces are an uncluttered approach to the walls.
“Especially during these stressful times, it’s so nice to be able to relax in this room.”
—Kelly Fowler, homeowner
Counter Culture
Cambria’s “Skara Brae” quartz countertop introduces a hint of gray to the space while bringing movement and interest through its natural-look veining.
Open and Airy
Alissa was drawn to the open spout feature on Brizo’s “Vettis” fixtures. “Even though these are matte black, they don’t look too heavy in the space; the opening keeps it airy,” she says.
Tub Trends
“Chad is tall, so we searched to find a tub where he could fully submerge,” Alissa says of the basin, which has a sleek, matte-black finish. The floor-mounted faucet also includes a handheld shower spray.
Up the Wall
Grooved white tile takes the place of traditional drywall and brings texture and visual interest to the all black-and-white palette.
Design Resources
Interior design and contractor Jacob Hastings and Alissa Oates, Restructure Design Cabinetry, hardware, lighting, mirrors, and tile Restructure Design Countertops Countertops of Memphis Fixtures Southern Bath & Kitchen
