Photography: Nick Watt
It had been 25 years since this Federation home, which included an attic bathroom, was last renovated. In that time, the owners became empty nesters, with adult children, grandchildren as well as their own parents to host. Their main suite, including this ensuite, was small, constrained and situated in the attic. Low, angled roof lines dictated the placement of fixtures and natural light came from one skylight. In other words, this attic bathroom was dated, dark and dreary.
“This seamlessly combines the charm of federation detailing with contemporary luxuries”
Andrew Waller
How to renovate an attic bathroom
“The brief was to create a luxurious, spa-inspired bathroom that maximises space, enhances natural light, and blends modern elegance with functionality,” says Andrew Waller, founder of interior design practice Mr Waller. “To transform the space, a new dormer roofline with a triangular window was introduced, expanding the room’s size and increasing the usable height”. All of this was done while allowing more natural light.
Light tones draw the eye upwards in this attic bathroom, aiding the feeling of spaciousness, with a Thassos White marble benchtop and Vanilla Cream honed marble tiles, both from RMS Marble. The latter flow seamlessly from the floor towards the ceiling, which is finished in Dulux Whisper White. Serene and refined, this ensuite is now far from the storybook image that is conjured when you think of an attic. Thanks to this bathroom renovation, it’s a retreat that the owners find sophisticated as well as soothing.
Creating a neutral colour palette
Sunlight streams into the attic bathroom through the dormer window, supplied by Windoor Joinery. This natural light reflects off white fixtures. These include the Kaldewei ‘Classic Duo’ oval freestanding bath, ‘Subway’ wall hung toilet and also the ‘O.Novo basin’, both from Villeroy & Boch. The burnt timber of the ‘Brutalist Tri-Leg’ stool from The Vault creates a point of contrast. Chrome is king, with Iver ‘Cali’ pull handles from Keeler Hardware, Brodware ‘City Stik’ tapware and showerhead plus Hydrotherm heated towel rails all in Chrome finishes.
Functional inclusions
“Select materials that not only stand the test of time but also tell a story,” suggests Andrew. “The Vanilla Cream stone brings a touch of luxury that only grows more beautiful with age, acquiring a distinguished patina over time that adds depth and character to the space.” These honed marble tiles were used to create functional built-in features, such as a bathtub niche, and a shower bench. Andrew says, “this thoughtful design blends practicality with beauty, resulting in a tranquil, spa-inspired atmosphere.”
Interior design: Mr Waller, mrwaller.com.
Source book
Builder: Steve Rayner, Sydney Adaptions, 0408 219 510.
