WINNER – 2013 Bathroom of the year

Congratulations to Susan and the Smarter Team

A word from the designer

Susan Cleveland, bathroom and kitchen designer.
“It was a very exciting event for Smarter Bathrooms and Smarter Kitchens. A lot of passion, dedication was finally rewarded on the night. The good thing about the HIA awards is that it is a reflection of all components of what makes a great bathroom or kitchen. Specification, Design, build and project management. On a personal level – it is fantastic to be recognised for something I  feel so passionate about. I’m Thrilled!….absolutely thrilled!!!!”

About the Award

The HIA Housing and Kitchen & Bathroom Awards represent the pinnacle of achievement in Australia’s residential building industry. They recognise excellence in the construction, design, innovation and technology of housing. Participation in this prestigious competition is a benefit enjoyed only by members of HIA. Judged by industry professionals, the Awards acknowledge the talent of builders, designers and building companies who plan and construct quality new housing and apartments, renovations and outdoor projects.

About the Renovation

Susan’s client, who works for the Australian Ballet Company, had a strong sense of aesthetics and wanted a light and fresh bathroom renovation for his beautiful old Melbourne City Apartment. Susan used her extensive design skills, attention to detail and empathy for the client’s brief, and worked tirelessly with the build team at Smarter Bathrooms to create this striking curvaceous and exciting bathroom. We loved it so much we submitted it to HIA for their annual awards

When asked about the challenges, Susan said,

“This one bedroom apartment nestled in a beautiful old building in Melbourne was architecturally designed in the 1970’s. All elements were still on track except for the bathroom. A 3m high curved wall from the living room contained the door looking directly on to a not so good looking hand basin and toilet suite. It also looked onto the back of very dull mosaic curved shower cubicle and beyond a typical laundry tub and washing machine. There was very little storage and the owners found it frustrating to use.”

“Working closely with the build team we managed to retain the curved shape by splicing the veneer and filling in the area with a new wall where the client will display art work. We moved the bathroom entrance to the bedroom via a translucent glass sliding door. The new sliding door looks onto the streamlined vanity and mirror area. We made full use of the ceiling height in the new laundry storage area for washing machine, dryer, hot water service and further storage.

Maximising the space we installed a large walk in shower with a single pane of glass, concealed cistern toilet and a long mirrored cabinet with floating vanity. For a fresh finish, Susan used the beautiful Bizazza  pearlescent mosaic tiles at the bottom of the room reaching to white along the newly formed curved wall to reflect a cascading waterfall. The calacatta marble benchtop, and clean white cabinetry was used to enhance and not compete with the colour scheme. The bathroom has been restored to the prestigious luxury deserving of Old Melbourne city apartment buildings.”

After the curtain fell on this stunning bathroom renovation project, Susan’s client was singing her praises on and off stage.

The team at Smarter is so proud of the project and wish to thank the client for the opportunity and all the team who continually help to achieve the high standard of excellence we are known for.

Call us today on 1300 662 838 to speak with one of our award winning designers or visit our showroom at 77 Salmon Street Port Melbourne. You can also book free in-home consultations online to explore your renovation options.