Meditative mix

Custom Home, July-August, 2004 by Shelley D. Hutchins

The owner of this 1970s rambler remodel is a collector of contemporary art and a believer in the benefits of feng shui. He hired architect Mark Krittenbrink to transform a warren of gloomy rooms into spaces that would stand alone on their own artistic merit, such as this masterfully materialized master bath. The bathroom was a key element of the renovation because the owner wanted it to be an oasis of spiritual, mental, and physical rejuvenation.

"The owner had a very clear vision about what auspicious colors he wanted," says Krittenbrink. "We also wanted to keep the material selection minimal." Slate was selected as the primary finish for its natural texture and earthy palette. Glass block became the solution for how to introduce copious yet discreet natural light that would silhouette the freestanding tub. The block pattern mimics shoji screens, which are found throughout the house. Transparent glass for the shower enclosure and double vanity allows them to fade gracefully out of focus.

Twin storage towers made of maple provide a warm counterpoint to the hard surfaces. Maple reappears as stair treads leading to the adjacent meditation room, while a dry sauna opposite the vanity is lined in red cedar, which adds another note of woodsy warmth to the bath.

Builder: Sun Construction, Noble, Okla.; Architect: Krittenbrink Architecture, Norman, Okla.; Interior designer: Sharon Stewart Designs, Oklahoma City; Photographer: Michelle Wurth Photography. * Resources: Glass block: Pittsburgh Corning, Circle 190; Lighting fixtures: Lighting Concepts, Circle 191; Plumbing fittings/fixtures: Duravit, Circle 192.