Inspired by the artistic symmetry of a unique, freestanding tub that he'd once seen in a magazine, luxury home builder, Peter Magee was determined to use this fixture as the focal point of the dramatic master bath in one of his most recent spec-built projects—a $4.75 million home in Scottsdale, Ariz. "I literally designed the bathroom around it," he says of the 2,220-pound basin which is carved from a single block of limestone and imported from Italy.
Directly behind the 7-foot oval tub, the one-of-a-kind bathroom features a walk-through double shower fronted by an electrified glass partition that transforms from a crystal clear room divider to a privacy-enhancing translucent one with the flip of a switch. Separate his-and-hers water closets and access to a private outdoor shower patio complete this luxurious personal retreat.
Magee describes the 7,992-square-foot home's architectural style as a fusion of contemporary and historical Mexican architecture. "It has clean geometric lines, with all 90-degree corners. The tub and sink in the master bathroom are the home's only rounded elements," he says.
Magee balanced the modern elements of the home's architecture with a palette of natural colors and materials, including limestone and oak, to give interior spaces a warm and soothing character, he says. "While the house is definitely contemporary, it does not feel cold or impersonal."
Rather than using large windows to illuminate the master bathroom's interior, Magee opted for a grid of small square windows that create an interesting play of light within the space when sun shines through them. The windows overlook the home's rear pool terrace and are not covered. "They reveal the drama of the interior space without sacrificing privacy. You would really have to work pretty hard to see in them from the outdoors," says Magee.
Magee, also a residential designer, finds building high-end spec homes a liberating experience. "I love the level of control that goes hand-in-hand with spec building," he says. "Often I don't complete all of the elements of the home's design before the construction process begins. I let it evolve as it is being built and exercise my freedom to constantly make changes and adjustments."
The home was completed in May 2004.
Style of Home ¦ Contemporary Mexican Hacienda
Location ¦ Scottsdale, Ariz.
Total Square Footage ¦ 7,992
Estimated Market Value ¦ $4.75 million
Builder/Residential Designer/Interior Design ¦ Magee Custom Homes, Scottsdale, Ariz.
Spec-Built Primary Residence
Major Products Used ¦ Cabinetry: custom oak ¦ Tub, Sinks: Boffi ¦ Plumbing Fixtures: KWC Faucet ¦ Bidet, Commodes: Toto ¦ Outdoor Showerhead: Hansgrohe