Favorite Spaces Winner: Master Bath

Why she loves it:
For architect Lauren Strutman and her husband, architect Dick Busch, the master bath of their historic home truly marries the old with the new. “We live in the oldest house in Chesterfield currently being used as an actual residence,” says Lauren. “In fact, our house used to be two separate two-story log cabins with a ‘dog trot’ in between.” It was later enclosed to create one house with a traditional center hall plan. One of their favorite spaces in their renovated circa 1836 home, the master bath was part of a 2005 addition. “We love how the plastered walls, wood ceiling and tumbled limestone floors make the space warm and cozy,” says Lauren. “We even chose to panel the adjoining closet areas in a horizontal pine ‘cabin’ style to add to the rustic ambience,” says Lauren. Tiling the shower walls, as well as using a curtain instead of a glass door, adds to the simple elegance of this timeless master bath.

Why the judges love it:
We love the charm of mixing modern amenities with weathered textures. The homeowner was consistent with the rustic, historic theme, which gives the room a nice continuity and connects it so well to the existing bedroom. We also love the detail of the vanity backsplash, and the built-ins are wonderful. There is just the right amount of well-utilized space.

The cabinetry, designed by the homeowners
and Ohio craftsman David T. Smith,
adds historical character to the room.