The original, unused heating vent (figure A) in one wall presented a challenge: should it be hidden with a mirror, or would display shelves be a better idea? Nancy Golden decided that neither was her favorite choice; instead, she had the grating removed and covered with plywood. Then four ceramic tiles were attached to the plywood panel and bordered with a decorative bullnose tile border to create a frieze that looks as if it came with the house (figure B). To the toilet nook Golden added a wall-hung planter with a silk amaryllis; a grouping of candles on the toilet tank help add depth to the area. Because in a bathroom everything seems to be at one level, Golden raised the line of vision by adding decorative -- and functional -- iron shelves on the walls above the bathtub. One advantage of using iron in a bathroom is that if it rusts from excessive moisture, it just keeps looking better and better. If you wish to use wood, however, be sure to give it a protective coat of moistureproof paint. Other features of the newly designed space include an inexpensive decoupage plaque above the tub, expensive toweling, pots of bamboo, more candles and a fern (living plants are very important in home design). On the sink side of the room, a metal bowl filled with potpourri and a candle adds warmth and fragrance, and tortoise-look accessories add richness. A clock, a two-tiered iron basket for soaps and facet towels, family photos, a silk orchid and still more candles help create an inviting and relaxing sanctuary after a hard day's work.
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