Classic Refresh

Eye-catching woodwork and time-honored touches elevate a first-floor bathroom

Designer Ellie Mroz aimed to create “a refined, classic, luxe space” for her clients’ full-bathroom renovation, a look that’s in line with the rest of the Westfield, New Jersey, home’s aesthetic, she says.

“We love how the traditional, moody space is lightened by the brass elements and the airy window treatment,” designer Ellie Mroz says.

Classic mixed metals and natural materials such as marble and wood achieved the desired effect, says Mroz, principal of Ellie Mroz Design in Westfield. White rift oak paneling with a custom stain and flat poly finish establishes a warm backdrop for the harder surfaces, including the stone mosaic flooring that runs into the walk-in shower. The shower walls — reflected in the mirror in the photo — are covered in white honed marble.

Says Mroz: “We fell in love with the sink: the ‘Henry’ two-leg washstand from Waterworks,” which contains a lower shelf for storage. As for the use of mixed metals, “We definitely like combining metals for interest, especially classic metals like antiqued brass and nickel, in a refined space like this.” But they should be grounded, she says. For instance, “the sconces tie in with the mirror, while the vanity legs tie in with the rest of the bathroom hardware.”

The bathroom is located adjacent to the mud­room, near the family room and just off the entrance to an outdoor pool and entertaining area. “It’s convenient for homeowners and guests whether they be inside or outside,” Mroz says.