Today's Master Bathroom:Is it a Bathroom or a Living Room?

Today's master bathroom combines all the elements of a luxury spa with the comfort of a living room. From living room furniture such as easy chairs, chaise lounges and sofas to fireplaces, refrigerators and coffee makers, the new master bathrooms wrap up the whole house and put it one room!

First of all, the master bathroom is so much larger than the bath of even a few years back. Today's bath is even larger than yesterday's bedroom -- it could easily be two times as large. Then the bathroom fixtures need to be simply sumptuous.

Along with the his- and hers-vanity locations with hand painted vessel bowls, that are true works of art, other amenities abound. A waterfall or whirlpool tub, walk in shower with multiple messaging showerheads and body sprays and, of course, built-in seating will be included. All of these water-providing devices need to be fed by oversize plumbing and special hot water on demand units. And don't forget those special mixing valves, so that the water temperature will be mixed to the perfect temperature. Pressure-balancing systems will also be required.

Next we look to the luxurious surface materials used in the master bath of today. Whether it is marble, onyx or imported Italian porcelain, these materials will be combined with lots of custom stained woodwork and cabinetry, maybe even Doric columns to complete the desired look. The floor, of course, will be heated and the towels will be heated also. European features such as towel radiators to warm the towels and take the chill off this extra large room are essential. The chandelier hanging from the ceiling might be Waterford and will be augmented by the correct amount of ambient and task lighting devices. Brushed gold and leaded crystal faucets to compliment the design are mandatory. And lastly, telephones, televisions and elaborate sound systems will complete this sumptuous sanctuary.

Today's master bathroom is a personal haven devoted to pampering. It offers all the possible comforts for body and soul. After a hard day at work, enjoy your therapeutic bath, then recline on your chaise lounge in front of the fire. Sip a Chardonnay or enjoy a latte, while listening to soft jazz on your surround sound and escape from the world in your palatial retreat.

What's that? You say you don't have the room or the funds for such a luxurious bathroom? Well, why not take the best features and create your own personal oasis for much less money. Forget the costly waterfall tub and multiple body sprays. Look for the natural quarry look of slate or limestone instead of marble. Do a little faux painting on the walls, or, if that's not your thing, try stenciling.

Change your lighting and maybe add a small hanging fixture. Pamper yourself with heated towels by installing an electric towel radiator. Just plug it in and you're ready to go. Zehnder America provides one that is programmable, so the bathroom and towels are warm and waiting for you before you enter the room. Now place some lovely scented candles and a silk plant or two around the room and your master bathroom makeover is complete.

Sure, most of us don't have the extra funds to create a master bath like the one in the Taj Mahal. But with some small changes and a few upgrades, you can create your own personal temple of luxury.