Bathroom as sanctuary? That was architect Rachel Schade's mission when she renovated the master bath for the owner of a 1920's Pennsylvania farmhouse in Plymouth Meeting. "The idea was that it look like it had always been there," she says of it's traditional, timeless aesthetic. "We didn't want it to go out of style in 20 years." Done in soft, neutral colors, the room is an example of balance and order: The tub is centered on the original windows, with sink vanities flanking it on either side. Opposite the windows is an alcove for the sink, and one for the toilet. All the fixtures are Waterworks, and the sink cabinets were custom-made in the classic English style, with French
limestone tops to match the floor and shower walls. Schade played off the original molding around the windows in her design, using it as a unifying theme in the custom medicine cabinets and mirror frames. Even though the space is quite large for a bathroom -almost 200 square feet- it feels warm and comfortable. "it has a peaceful, Zen quality," says Schade, "like an inviting retreat."
