Graf Master Bath, Oakland, California

♦ 2010 Partners In Preservation Award, Oakland Heritage Alliance

After 99 years, a 1911 landmark residence in the historic Bellevue neighborhood needed a major facelift. Part of that larger project, this new Master Bath was designed to match the character of the neo–Jacobean home.

The bathroom itself wasn’t bad – it had plenty of light and square footage. What wasn’t great was a tired clawfoot tub, a tiny original corner sink, no direct access to the separate toilet room next door, and old vinyl flooring. The plan was reconfigured with a new sink and cabinet, a direct door to the toilet, and a new oval window to replace the dry rotted originals. The Owner befriended a mosaic artist who handcut the spectacular tile floor with a design inspired by the antique tiles used in the shower surround. Dark green marble countertops augment the tilework while the original medicine cabinet was refurbished for modern use. With traditional finishes and classic features, this new bathroom is ready for the next 100 years.