Preston Estates Luxury Primary Bath
“Four Seasons Elegance—Right at Home.”
Winner of Houzz “Bath of the Week”
A Brief Overview
WINNER of Houzz Bathroom of the Week : Article – Wet-Room Steam Shower Brings Spa Style
This master bathroom renovation was inspired by the client’s cultural connection to bathing and the couple’s shared love of comfort, beauty, and luxury. As someone of Japanese heritage, the wife described her nightly tub soak as a deeply rooted ritual. Meanwhile, the husband emphasized the importance of a full steam experience. Together, they told our team, “We want the look and the experience of a Four Seasons hotel bathroom.” To bring that vision to life, we designed a spa-like layout with the soaking tub placed inside the steam shower area—allowing for a seamless transition between bathing and showering. It’s a personalized solution: she uses the tub and shower; he enjoys the rain head and steam features. From custom cabinetry, heated floors, and natural textures to high-end finishes and thoughtful lighting, every detail was curated to create a sanctuary that blends cultural tradition, elevated comfort, and everyday indulgence.
Year
Design Style
Design Timeline
Timeline to Build
Budget
Location
2024
Japandi, Contemporary
4 months*
3-4 months
$165,000
Preston Estates / Cary, NC
Year
2024
Design Style
Japandi, Contemporary
Design Timeline
4 months*
Timeline to Build
3-4 months
Budget
$165,000
Location
Preston Estates / Cary, NC
Key Features
| . | |
|---|---|
| - Steam Shower with Integrated Bench & Tub | - Steam Shower with Integrated Bench & Tub |
| - Multi-function ‘Real’ Rainhead | - Multi-function ‘Real’ Rainhead |
| - 15-ft Vanity with Makeup Station | - 15-ft Vanity with Makeup Station |
| - Auto-on LED Accent Lighting | - Auto-on LED Accent Lighting |
| - LED Backlit Mirrors with True Light Technology | - LED Backlit Mirrors with True Light Technology |
Key Selections
| . | . | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Flooring: | Triangle Tile & Stone 12x24 Onyx White Porcelain | {{selection_title}} | Triangle Tile & Stone 12x24 Onyx White Porcelain |
| Wall Paint: | Vasari Limewash in #14 Dolomite | {{selection_title}} | Vasari Limewash in #14 Dolomite |
| Trim Paint: | Sherwin Williams 6119 Antique White | {{selection_title}} | Sherwin Williams 6119 Antique White |
| Cabinet Vendor: | Tice Kitchen & Interiors | {{selection_title}} | Tice Kitchen & Interiors |
| Bar Countertops: | Taj Mahal Quartzite | {{selection_title}} | Taj Mahal Quartzite |
Challenge
This luxury bathroom renovation presented several technical challenges, beginning with the importance of proper waterproofing and steam containment. A powerful, state-of-the-art steam system—along with high-end plumbing fixtures—required careful coordination to ensure precise placement of valves, drains, and controls.
To improve accessibility, the soaking tub was recessed 5 inches into the floor framing, making it easier and safer to step in and out without compromising structural integrity. The original tray ceiling was removed in favor of a cleaner, more modern look that complemented the updated design. Finally, to effectively manage steam when the door is opened, we installed a second powerful exhaust fan.
* Design timeline was longer on this project due to the client traveling.
Solution
By integrating the soaking tub inside the steam shower, we delivered a seamless bathing-to-steaming experience—tailored to both homeowners’ preferences. The wife enjoys her nightly soak surrounded by warm steam, while the husband relaxes under the multi-function rain head with full steam therapy. Heated floors, natural textures, and carefully placed LED lighting complete the Four Seasons–style retreat they envisioned.
Design
Vision-driven planning for luxury, wellness, and cultural connection.
- Create a spa-inspired primary bath blending Japanese bathing tradition with modern luxury.
- Integrate soaking tub and steam shower in the same wet zone for a seamless transition.
- Design for dual use—hers: tub and shower; his: steam and rain head.
- Include a custom 15-ft vanity with makeup station, LED backlit mirrors, and auto-on accent lighting.
- Use heated floors, natural textures, and Japandi finishes for warmth and serenity.
- Remove tray ceiling for a cleaner, more modern aesthetic.
- Select high-end fixtures and materials, including Taj Mahal quartzite, Onyx White porcelain tile, and custom cabinetry.
Build
Precision craftsmanship to bring a high-performance spa retreat to life.
- Engineered proper waterproofing and steam containment.
- Coordinated installation of high-end plumbing, ensuring correct pressure and placement.
- Recessed soaking tub 5 inches into floor framing for accessibility and safety.
- Installed multi-function rain head, integrated bench, and dual exhaust fans for steam control.
- Transformed walk-in closet with heated tile flooring, custom LED lighting, and built-in display cabinetry.
- Added custom laundry hamper and purse/jewelry display cabinet for elevated function.
- Aligned tile work and millwork with precision to showcase luxury finishes.
Love it!
This four-time repeat client now enjoys a personal sanctuary so exceptional it was featured in Houzz’s Bath of the Week. The wife treasures her nightly soak in the recessed tub, surrounded by the mist of the steam shower. The husband relishes the rain head and full steam therapy. Heated floors, limewashed walls, and warm LED lighting create a tranquil spa atmosphere.
The upgraded walk-in closet is now tiled, heated, and beautifully lit—complete with a purse and jewelry display cabinet and built-in laundry hamper. And the homeowners can’t stop raving about their $5,700 Toto toilet—an indulgent touch that adds both comfort and fun to their daily routine. From the expansive vanity to the perfectly integrated wet zone, this suite delivers the elegance, comfort, and indulgence of a Four Seasons retreat—right at home.
Houzz article: Bathroom of the Week – Wet-Room Steam Shower Brings Spa Style
