Thomas McConnell
The homeowners of this Austin, Texas, remodel wanted every room to foster family togetherness, even the master bath. “They aren’t totally immodest,” says Kevin Alter, “but they like the idea of communication within the bath.” In addition to an open feeling, Alter had a lot of other requests to pack into 125 square feet of space, like separating the shower and bathtub, a double vanity plus a seated makeup counter, and a concealed toilet—all features that permit the whole family to use the room simultaneously, but for various activities.
Alter also had his own requirement for good bathroom design: plenty of windows. “Bathrooms should have lots of views and light, but windows are usually small or not included because you need so many mirrors and cabinets for pills and potions.” He worked light and views into the plan, too.
Alter fit in all of the function (along with a little luxury) by assigning more than one purpose to each element. Fixed glass runs nearly the length of the room framing leafy views and letting light pour in. Movable mirrored medicine cabinets slide along the length of that window on aluminum tracks, letting the owners choose between a view of the surrounding live oaks or contemplating their morning bedhead. A freestanding wall doubles as makeup station and a screen for the bathing area. The wall stops short of the window so that the mirrored cabinets can also serve the bathing area. And because the tub and shower are separate yet together, Mom can shower within reach of the little one taking a bath. Alter’s inclusion of ample light plus a feeling of openness makes the compact bathroom feel downright lavish. “The thing that architecture does really well is resolve things that seem contrary to each other,” he says.
Project Credits
Builder: Melde Specialty Construction, Austin, Texas
Architect: Alterstudio Architects, Austin
Project size: 125 square feet
Construction cost: $270 a square foot
Photographer: Thomas McConnell
Resources: Plumbing fittings/fixtures: Danze, Dornbracht, and Duravit.
