A suite on two storeys: tailor-made for panelled perfection

"We planned to create an ensuite and dressing room to the master bedroom ever since moving to Ferry House,” says Theresa, our client. “Early on it became clear that, due to plumbing and structural constraints, it would be easier to expand up rather than out. The space above our bedroom was billed as an entertainment room but the staircase was steep and narrow, making it difficult to access and therefore rarely used. Reconfiguring the staircase and redefining the layout of the space above was critical to the overall project. The made to measure cabinetry throughout, as well as carefully considered sourcing of fittings and furnishings was also very important.

The main room is very spacious and has allowed for a lounge area (complete with a wood burner in the old fireplace) and a library/bar nook; also something we had always wanted and which really adds something special to the suite.” says Theresa. “I love colour, so painting the bedroom suite in a dark bold shade felt absolutely right. Our inspiration came from images of ‘moody’ hotel rooms in design magazines. Things like positioning the freestanding nickel bath in front of a glazed shower screen and the geometric black and white tiles were obvious choices for me”

The bedroom itself is panelled from top to toe, with a build in library unit, bespoke bar nook, window seat and under built -in cupboards and drawer sets, all by Barr Joinery and every inch was made to measure. “The master suite at Ferry House has leaded windows and an open fireplace, so it really lent itself to the traditional panelled cabinetry with quarter round beading which we were able to create for it.” says Sam Kerwin, Barr Joinery Designer and Project Manager. “It is the detailing of the individual pieces and the uniform statement paint colour which really brings the space together”

The walk through dressing room was designed with facing ‘his and her’ sides, each composed of the right combination of drawers, shelves and hanging spaces to meet our clients’ requirements. The walkway created through the centre of the dressing room leads to the ensuite bathroom at one end and staircase down to the bedroom at the other. The wardrobes are built into the eves, ensuring that every bit of space is put to use and leaving the higher mid-section of the room for dressing.

The finished master bathroom is a visual sweetshop. Behind the centre piece polished nickel plated coper bath sits a matching shower tray (both by Catchpole and Rye) into which slots a bespoke glazing screen fixed with tailor made polished chrome ceiling hangers. Two single Devon and Devon ‘Memphis’ consoles, in also in polished nickel, sit either side of sliding pocket doors, which allow for an un-interrupted space within. Fittings and fixings including lighting, mirrors, sanitary ware, ironmongery and mosaic floor tiles are also from Devon and Devon. The flooring is finished with a bespoke colour matched tile border from The Marble Workshop, along with the bespoke marble shower wall.

The overall look is one of striking elegance; think sumptuous hotel suite but with a personal touch. The Barr Group team (Barr Build and Barr Joinery) thoroughly enjoyed working on this wonderful project. We thank our clients for the opportunity and for allowing us to share their finished images.