Ebb & Flow

A riverfront vista runs through this bathroom retreat in seamless style

The double vanity is wrapped in an exotic wood veneer that book-matches the same material on the backsplash for a cohesive flow, designer Yelena Gerts says.

When taking on a whole-house remodel in Monmouth County, New Jersey, the owners desired a luxurious, contemporary feel for their primary bathroom, one that emphasizes views of a spectacular setting overlooking the Shrewsbury River.

A large shower, sumptuous soaking tub and well-appointed makeup vanity were among the requested amenities in the 245-square-foot space, says Yelena Gerts, owner and principal designer of House of Style & Design in Holmdel. “The makeup vanity is placed with a view of the water along with the bath and shower, creating a flow throughout the room,” says Gerts, an allied member of the American Society of Interior Designers and member of the Window Coverings Association of America. Antiqued mirrored surfaces above the tub and in custom built-in cabinetry further reflect light and views.

Antiqued mirrored surfaces — above the bathtub and in a stretch of built-in storage cabinets — I “open up the space and reflect water views,” Gerts says. Large porcelain slabs cover the walls and tub surround. A water closet is situated to the left of the shower.

The focal-point double vanity, wrapped in an exotic wood veneer, book-matches the same material on the backsplash. “The backsplash and sink were designed to be seamless and to flow, drawing your eyes across the room,” Gerts says. Quartz countertops with waterfall edges reinforce a sense of fluidity on the main vanity and makeup station. Quartz, Gerts notes, “is a lot more manageable than marble and has a beautiful finish.”

Porcelain slabs with subtle veining establish their own rhythm and flow on the walls and tub surround, while ceramic floors in a chevron pattern add movement and interest underfoot. A consistent mix of metal finishes — in matte black and brass — ties the room together for that finishing touch.

Nothing says calm quite like a waterfront setting, visible from this makeup vanity and beyond.