Masterpiece In Glass

The 28-foot-long-by-10-foot-wide dimensions of this bath posed a renovation challenge for architect Christopher D. Macneal, AIA, beyond the fact that I.M. Pei designed the three-story Philadelphia row house. Adding a three-dimensional aspect to the design, the 5-foot 6-inch square glass shower for two keeps sight lines flowing and increases the perception of space. The shower’s nickel-plated steel framing echoes “the cubist look that was the organizing device of the room,” Macneal says, as does a glass mural that extends along the room’s entire length. Its etched, back-painted, and mirrored glass reflects light and enhances spaciousness while masking hinge-paneled storage in the slim room. Macneal credits builder Allen Powell with making the mural happen by finding ways to impeccably connect the glass panels. Builder/cabinetmaker: Allen Powell, Philadelphia; Architect: Kieran Timberlake Associates, Philadelphia. Photographer: Halkin Photography.