Sleek Master Suite

Simplicity mixed with some daring decisions sums up this bedroom and dressing area.

Amy Parker has created a space that caters to her simple, unembellished tastes and expresses the peaceful, light-filled atmosphere she craves. This is quite a feat when you consider that her home-a loft-overlooks the streets of downtown Asheville, North Carolina.

"I wanted a bedroom that was free of clutter and open like the rest of my place," she says of her sleek space. "That's why I decided to have everything built-in, meaning no furniture except for the bed."

Lofty Lounging

Located on the top floor of a 1912 low-rise, Amy's loft had once housed offices for the Bell Telephone Company. Some of the building's original features, such as its 15-foot-high ceilings, were still intact. Also, because the building was situated on a corner lot, each floor contained ample windows on three of the four sides. Even before Amy began her renovation, she was determined to maintain the sundrenched expanse for her master bedroom and bath.

Bathed in Light

Relying on architect Wayland Plaster and contractor Kirk Boone for help, Amy made sure that her master suite uniquely suited her personality. For one thing, the bathtub occupies a corner of her bedroom. A wall of rippled glass blocks behind the tub provides privacy while allowing natural light to shine through. "I admit that it's not for everyone," Amy says with a laugh, "but I love it!" To soften things a bit, she placed houseplants and fresh flower arrangements around the bathtub.

On the other side of the headboard wall, her vanity and dressing area sparkle with the same pristine, streamlined elegance. Surrounded by mirrored walls, two glass sink bowls rest on an elevated limestone countertop that seems to float. In case Amy forgets her surroundings, the floor-to-ceiling mirrors reflect the cantilevered terrace and wall of windows located opposite the vanity. Only her limestone-tiled shower provides a complete escape from the bright city lights.

Clearly this homeowner has captured the benefits of urban living while creating a master suite that's entirely her own. ROBERT MARTIN

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Apr 2005
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