Though the Neoclassical residence in Washington had a storied past—once serving as the Turkish ambassador’s residence—it had seen better days by the time new owners hired Barry Dixon to restore its former grandeur. To update the modest master bath, the designer first incorporated a neighboring bedroom, complete with fireplace, into the space. “The idea was to create a luxurious and leisurely bath where you could have coffee and breakfast with your hair wrapped in a towel, or enjoy a soak in front of the fireplace,” he explains.

Dixon’s vision pays homage to the home’s vintage, but through a light, present-day lens. Tumbled limestone and marble tiles pave the floor and walls, recalling a time during the 19th century when “people first learned about germs and wanted surfaces they could wipe down,” he says. An antique table topped with stone and a clawfoot Waterworks tub floating in the middle of the room evoke bygone days, as does Dixon’s custom, his-and-her vanity with legs made of hand-forged iron.

Despite the nostalgia, comfort comes first in this bath, which also features a private WC and steam shower. In lieu of built-ins that would look “too suburban,” says Dixon, he sourced a timeless armoire for storage. And Anichini terrycloth covers the Century chairs—designed for lingering après spa. As the designer remarks, “This is not a bathroom to hurry in.”

Interior Design: Barry Dixon, Barry Dixon, Inc., Warrenton, Virginia.

THE DETAILS
Tub, Tub Filler & Sink Fixtures: waterworks.com. Sinks: kohler.com. Drapery Fabric: scalamandre.com. Drapery Trim: samuelandsons.com through hinescompany.com. Armoire: olystudio.com. Custom Vanity Design: barrydixon.com Hang-Forged Vanity Legs: kellymetalwork.com. Chairs: centuryfurniture.com. Terrycloth Chair Fabric: anichini.com. Antique Table & Urns: Gore Dean Antiques. Lantern: vaughandesigns.com through hinescompany.com. Sconces: jlambeth.com. Custom Mirrors: davidiatesta.com through hollyhunt.com. Tile & Vanity Countertop: renaissancetileandbath.com.