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CHRISTOPHER GRUBB, PRESIDENT ARCH-INTERIORS DESIGN GROUP • BEVERLY HILLS, CA How can creative storage make a master bath unique and special? "The inside of our cabinets have a lot of bells and whistles, such as slide-outs underneath the sink so you have easy access to items in the back. I also like to include a blow dryer 'holster' on the inside of the vanity with an outlet so it's easy to use while keeping drawer space open. I also do adjust- able shelves and drawer dividers so you can separate all of the small things that get used in the bath. It's about dividing and conquering to make storage more functional." What are some other 'go-to' elements you use to make a bath personal and special? "Using tile and stone in interesting ways can really elevate a space by giving it visual or tactile tex- ture. It's one of our signature design elements that we bring to a project. Mosaics in particular have visual motion. They really add dimension to a space that could otherwise feel fat if the same material is used on the foor and the wall. "We also see a big demand for quartz countertops and natural stone for fooring in large-format sizes that are as over- sized as possible to mitigate grout lines. The larger size also helps make a space feel larger, especially with natural stone, which can have so much variation. What are some other 'go-to' elements you use to make a bath personal and special? "We have a lot of unique and beautiful handcrafted mosaics and stone tile. Having these beautiful pieces gives visual interest to the space. Lighting is another element that can make or break a space. We use it to high- light specifc areas and create certain atmospheres. Plumbing fxtures, especially those with an architectural feel, can really elevate a space. "Being able to add unique and special touches gives a level of importance to the master bath. We always elevate the master bedroom and now we are continuing that into the bath and are giving the entire master suite a level of sophistication." What current trends are you incorporating into your master bath designs? "We are seeing a lot of curbless showers and freestanding tubs. Steam showers are also a luxury element that isn't limited to resorts anymore. People are seeing they can have them in their own home. "Some of our high-end projects also have two master baths. We're working on one now where her master bath has a freestanding tub and his has the shower. They each have their own vanity/dressing area and toilet. We're also seeing some people incorporate entrances to the master bath that include special items such as a cofee bar." This bath designed by Christopher Grubb features his and her vanities – separat- ed by an oval freestanding tub – and a large shower built for two. Special storage features include three small drawers on the top of each vanity integrat- ed into the wrap-around dark alder wood accent that boldly contrasts against the gloss white cabinetry and quartz top. In the shower, Grubb added mosaic tile that adds visual texture. Photos: Greg Weiner 42 Kitchen & Bath Design News • March 2016 SPRING BATH REMODELING REPORT