A New Contemporary Primary Bathroom in Madison, Wis.

Creating a Contemporary Spa-Like Primary Bathroom

We recently completed a primary bathroom renovation for Kevin and Nathan, a Gen-X professional couple in the Sauk Creek Neighborhood.

Kevin and Nathan are returning clients who admire our work. A few years ago, we designed an award-winning basement for them, and they recently invited us back to remodel their primary bathroom. They wanted a luxurious, spa-like retreat with enhanced functionality and a relaxing atmosphere.

View The Project Write-Up and All of the Images of the Bathroom

Kevin and Nathan have an eye for design. Our goal was to create an organic primary bathroom using materials that mimic the elements of nature. We aimed for a timeless bathroom that complemented the rest of their home. By working with our design team, we incorporated Kevin and Nathan’s wish list to improve the flow of their space and reflect their design intent.

See how our creative design gave these homeowners a timeless primary bathroom that meets both their aesthetic and functional needs.

Preparing the Space For Construction

Their previous bathroom featured a built-in jacuzzi tub under three windows, surrounded by tile and connected to the shower. This layout made the room feel cramped and did not meet their aesthetic style or functional needs. The room also featured double swinging doors at the entrance, which were impractical and took up valuable space. In the water closet, a wall and pocket door separated this area from the main bathroom.

To address these issues, we made some key changes. First, we removed the double swinging doors at the entrance and installed a more modern single sliding barn door. This change gave us more usable wall space in the bathroom and freed up space in the adjacent bedroom. We also removed the wall and pocket door from the space.

Creating a More Functional Floor Plan and Design

Removing the water closet wall and pocket door gave us the room needed to install tall maple Hallman Lindsey Subtle Shadow flat-front cabinets on either side of the Onyx Alder vanity. This allowed us to run the vanities along the full length of the wall, significantly increasing storage and countertop space.

Next, we installed two Kohler Verticyl Rectangular undermount sinks with Kohler Parallel Single-hole bathroom faucets in matte black. The contrast between the natural wood vanities and matte fixtures gives the space a warm contemporary style.

Textures to Mimic Nature

Upon entering the bathroom, you’ll find a soaking tub sitting on Happy Floors Nextone dark tile. The tile has a subtle ripple effect that enhances the aesthetic, as its flowing texture is reminiscent of ripples in the sand. On the walls near the tub, we installed natural teak wood boards that extend from the tub surround up the wall and across the ceiling, creating a stunning visual focal point. To the right of the soaking tub is a spacious steam shower, another focal point.

Inside the shower, we created a large stone bench, perfectly suited to accommodate someone lying down to fully enjoy the steam feature. The bench also extends outside the shower, providing a convenient seating area near the tub. The Bati Orient shower floor is a perfect mix of white, black, and beige that mimics river stones, completing the space's natural look and feel.

In the shower, several features enhance its functionality. Along with the steam shower feature, the system includes Bluetooth speakers and a 10-inch screen that controls everything. The shower also features a Kohler Statement 14-inch round rain head in matte black, body sprays, and a Kohler hand-held shower head. Each feature works independently or together to create multiple levels of relaxation!

Every Detail Makes Sense for the Space

After working with Kevin and Nathan during the design process, it became clear that capturing every detail in a way that made sense for the space was important. Every element of the bathroom has a purpose. The Saundara Spa was a major inspiration for the homeowners, and the calm, relaxing atmosphere they felt was something they wanted to recreate in their own home.

Each material was carefully chosen and had a specific purpose. The tile beneath the tub is like ripples in the sand; the pebbles in the shower are like those in a stream; the tile on the bench is like stone. The teak wood on the walls and ceiling brings warmth and interest while incorporating natural wood into the design. Each visible element serves a purpose.

The Result of this Bathroom Remodel

By working closely with Kevin and Nathan throughout the design process, we created a unique contemporary design that perfectly meets their needs. It’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing. With the large soaking tub, steam shower, and dual vanities, it is the perfect space to get ready for work in the morning and unwind after a long day in a warm, inviting setting. Adding natural elements like oiled teak wood and manmade elements that mimic nature gives the space a timeless feel.

The custom-built vanities and tall cabinets provide plenty of storage, and the lighting, which includes overhead lights on dimmers, LED rope lights, and decorative lighting, helps set a relaxing mood. Kevin and Nathan’s modern primary bathroom remodel is sure to provide them with many years of relaxing service, making the result feel complete and rewarding.

Let us help you create a new look and design the perfect finished space to meet your needs! If you live in the Greater Madison area, call the experts at Degnan Design-Build-Remodel at (608) 846-5963. We can take your home to the next level of comfort, design, and function! Are you ready to learn more? We’re always happy to answer your questions.