Serene Ensuite Retreat

As part of a full home refurbishment of a Grade II listed property in the much-loved St Leonards area of Exeter, this serene ensuite retreat is designed to be a calm and contemporary sanctuary. The result balances architectural elegance with modern functionality.

the brief

The brief was to create a space that felt both sophisticated and restorative — a bathroom that would stand the test of time through its materials, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. Our clients wanted the ensuite to reflect the same level of design integrity as the rest of their newly refurbished home, combining refined finishes with a contemporary aesthetic.

the design
This luxury master ensuite in Exeter exudes quiet confidence through thoughtful design, premium materials, and a harmonious palette.

The room’s generous proportions and large shuttered windows provided the perfect foundation for a spa-like environment. Soft natural light filters through the shutters and allows sunlight to gently bounce off marble-effect surfaces to create a soothing atmosphere. As a result, the entire space feels calm and beautifully balanced.

At the centre sits a contemporary matt white bath, sculptural yet understated. It’s position beneath the window creates a striking focal point. Meanwhile, brassware in matt gold brings subtle warmth and a touch of understated glamour.

To one side of the bath stand two wall-hung tall units, elegant cabinetry from Italian manufacturer Oasis. Founded in 1908 by the Quaia family, this century-old, family-run business continues to draw inspiration from 1920s and 1930s Art Deco design, Italian architecture, and fashion. Oasis offer a wide range of finishes, and for this ensuite, our clients selected dark grey fluted glass for a refined, luxurious look.

These tall cabinets provide generous concealed storage. One unit is left-hinged and the other right-hinged, ensuring effortless access with a design detail that keeps the ensuite feeling open and balanced.

To the other side of the bath, a dedicated vanity nook showcases more bespoke Italian furniture by Oasis. The wide, single-drawer vanity unit, also finished in dark grey fluted glass, pairs beautifully with twin washbasins for everyday practicality. The basins, also from Oasis, are crafted in dark grey satin lacquered glass. Their smooth texture adds depth and interest without overwhelming the calm aesthetic.

Fantini taps, from their Icona Deco range, add warmth and contemporary sophistication. Designed by Vincent Van Duysen, the range reflects Fantini’s philosophy of restrained luxury. The design is minimal yet characterful, defined by soft curves, balanced proportions, and tactile handles. Moreover, the matt gold PVD coating provides a rich, soft tone that resists tarnishing and fingerprints — a hallmark of Fantini’s premium engineering standards. As a result, the brassware will look timeless for years to come.

Above the vanity, an illuminated mirror enhances both natural and ambient light. This feature creates a balanced glow that highlights the subtle textures throughout the room. In addition, it enhances the sense of spaciousness and serenity in this serene ensuite retreat.

The walk-in shower continues the ensuite’s language of calm minimalism and refined materiality. Large-format marble-effect porcelain flows seamlessly from wall to floor, emphasising scale and continuity. The full-height glass screen maintains visual openness, while a discreet linear drain ensures a perfectly flush finish. A ceiling-mounted rainfall showerhead and a hand shower, both in matt gold, echo the fittings used across the space. Together, these details create a tranquil, spa-like experience that feels both architectural and indulgent.

Throughout, every element, from materials to fittings, have been carefully chosen to complement the home’s classic but contemporary interior scheme. Fantini’s architectural precision and Oasis’s Italian craftsmanship come together with natural tones to form a timeless composition. Moreover, the blend of light, texture, and proportion ensures that luxury never feels loud, only serene and deeply personal.

Ultimately, this serene master ensuite retreat in Exeter transforms a functional room into a true haven of tranquillity. Elegant, modern and completely harmonious, it fits seamlessly within the character of this lovingly restored home.