When Chambers + Chambers Architects, members of the Remodelista Architect/Designer Directory, won the Remodelista Considered Design Award 2013 for Best Professional Bath Space, we made a note to see more of the 2,800-square-foot house in Mill Valley, California. We were pleased to discover an indoor/outdoor design where space flows freely.
Photography by John Merkl for Chambers + Chambers Architects.
Above: In Marin County (and points beyond), Mill Valley firm Chambers + Chambers is known for creating houses with elegant proportions and classical details. The exterior is painted in White Chocolate by Benjamin Moore and the front door is Hudson Bay by Benjamin Moore. The ceiling pendant is similar to the Carson Rod Pendant by Rejuvenation, and the Hammered Steel House Numbers are by Rejuvenation. A bluestone walkway and steps contribute to the traditional aesthetic.
Above: A similar palette of materials is used throughout, including the kitchen. "We like the architectural finishes to stay consistent to enhance the flow of space throughout the house," Chambers says. "The client can change the wall color and accessories, but we like the architecture to be classic and timeless."
Above: The master bath features a custom Calacatta marble topped vanity and recessed medicine cabinets. Modern globe pendants from Y Lighting provide additional light, and painted solid-board paneling with one-eighth-inch grooves adds texture and warmth.
Above: The Deck-Mounted Sinks are from Duravit and the plumbing fixtures and accessories are by Lefroy Brooks.
Above: In the shower, a built-in bench has a Calacatta slab surface. Handmade wall tiles from Blue Slide of Point Reyes, California, complement the 3/8-by-3/8-inch Calacatta marble floor tiles. "When we design a bathroom, we make sure the space is filled with light (both natural light and beautiful sconces and pendants), gorgeous materials (such as handmade subway tile and polished-nickel plumbing fixtures), and well-proportioned details," says Chambers.
Above: The Japanese soaking tub, a Hinoki Ofuro by Sea Otter Woodworks of Haines, Alaska, was inspired by the clients' travels.
Above: The tub is set in a bed of river stones.
Above: The boys' bathroom features a large, deck-mounted trough sink and the same paneling as the master bath.
Above: "The bathrooms were a favorite part of this project; they're not large but they're beautiful and functional," Chambers says.
Above: The one-story floor plan shows the relationship of the open-living area with the outside.
Interested in incorporating serenity into your bathroom? In 10 Architect-Designed Spa Spaces, we show you our favorite examples of residential baths inspired by a Japanese aesthetic. And to learn more, see How to Bathe Japanese Style.
On Gardenista, we visit Barbara Chambers' garden in At Home in Mill Valley.
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