Cincinnati April 2021

1
1 A wide doorway and an elevated toilet are just a few of the space’s universal design elements.
To help realize their goal they called upon the talents of
the remodeling and design team at The Cleary Company.
“The homeowners were clear as to what they wanted,”
says interior designer Laura Watson. “She wanted a bathtub—the
original space did not have one, and he wanted
a shower that was bright and open and almost felt like
you were showering outdoors. Plus, the existing bath was
extremely dark and dated. The windows were tiny.”
When you step into their completely updated space it’s
evident the years of planning paid off. A major goal of
the renovation was to take advantage of the lush outdoor
scenery of their property and introduce it into the room
as a calm, inviting element. This is achieved with a small
bump-out addition that allowed for a bit more space to
maneuver. Floor-to-ceiling windows were added on the
northern-facing wall in the bedroom and bath areas—
even in the shower.
A deep air jet tub allows for soaks in front of a picture
window and an oversized shower has all the bells and
whistles for lighting, music and temperature control. Its
zero entry, along with wide doorways and a floating vanity,
ensure the bathroom will be accessible as the couple
ages in place.
To allow for the enjoyment of the wide-open views
with a feeling of privacy, The Cleary Company team
erected a nine-foot high stucco wall around a 19 by 32-
foot section of the yard and created an intimate courtyard.
A deck built of Zuri, a low-maintenance composite
material, works as a transition space between the bedroom
and the courtyard. Two short steps lead the couple
into their pea-gravel courtyard which is shaded by a large
multi-stemmed maple tree.
Strategically placed landscape lighting and assorted
water features add the necessary sights and sounds to
make this an inviting escape day or night.
Showing her appreciation, the homeowner recently
sent the contractor this note. “I love my bathroom! Best
way ever to end a day in the tub watching the snowfall.
So grateful!”
Editor’s note: This project won a 2019 national Contractor
of the Year (CotY) award from the National Association of
the Remodeling Industry. (NARI).
54 housetrends.com