Part 2: Bathroom Remodeling in Westchester County

We can do better than the typical bathroom.

Part 2, In-Depth JDH Bathroom Design Options

In this article, I will focus on my general design build philosophy for master bathrooms. At JDH Design Build Studio, bathroom design is more than aesthetics—it’s a conversation between history and modernism. My remodeling philosophy is not about simple upgrades; it’s about architectural integrity fused with spatial psychology and seamless blending of past and present. The question then becomes, how will we masterfully build a spa-inspired retreat into your 1900s Colonial or Tudor Revival home.

The Spa-Inspired Retreat: A Philosophy of Serenity

Europeans have been skillfully perfecting the exquisite art of the bath for centuries—from the grand and opulent Roman thermae to the tranquil, Zen-like Japanese-influenced Scandinavian spas of today. At its very core, a beautifully crafted spa-inspired bathroom is meticulously designed to evoke a profound sense of refuge and relaxation, employing architectural principles that emphasize balance, harmony, and an immersive sensory experience. This transformative space is where the concepts of biophilic design, phenomenology, and the intricate psychology of retreat spaces converge to create an oasis of tranquility and well-being.

Natural light floods in through windows, heated limestone warms your feet, and rejuvenation begins. The scent of cedar and bergamot fills the air. Thoughtfully designed bathrooms foster psychological decompression and spiritual revival.

Master Spa/Bathrooms into Westchester’s Historic Homes

In Westchester County, New York, there are many different types of homes that have served the nation’s growth from first settlers to modern electronic traders. Westchester and the surrounding areas have few spots for new construction. You don’t need to live in a contemporary glass house to achieve the spa experience. Westchester’s iconic Colonial, Tudor, Victorian, and Cape Cod homes may have been built for another era, when done thoughtfully they will absolutely accommodate a custom daily spa retreat. Let’s tackle each style.

1900s Colonial is a classical balance where contemporary meets tranquility. Colonials are all about symmetry, tradition, and understated elegance. Many have compact, compartmentalized layouts. To integrate a spa-inspired bathroom follow these guidelines when brainstorming what you want in the design and build.

Honor your home’s Colonial proportions. It is essential to keep fixtures and millwork perfectly aligned with the home’s original sense of balance and harmony. A beautifully designed freestanding, clawfoot-inspired soaking tub can effortlessly bridge the gap between classical elegance and modern sophistication, creating a stunning focal point in your bathroom. It doesn’t have to clawfoot. Although you might want to have some excuses for long soaking like, reading a juicy book with a glass of wine, remember to leave plenty of space around the tub for comfortable entry and exit, we don’t want you to get stuck!

Introduce natural materials. Consider hand-cut stone tiles, wood vanities with veined counters, and unlacquered brass fixtures that will add the classic colonial patina. Expand with purpose. If space allows, consider a modest expansion to create a light-filled bathing area with a view—perhaps framed by classic French doors leading to a private terrace. Think of it as a passport from the hustle and bustle of New York. Travel granted, you are stately, sophisticated, and now have a daily ticket to relaxation.

Second stop the Tudor Revival. Dark drama meets light-filled serenity. Tudor homes are beloved for their rich woodwork, leaded glass, and old-world charm, unfortunately the often dark featured, cozy interiors do not lend to spa like rejuvenation. The key to integrating a spa aesthetic without losing the Tudor character by employing contrast to your space.

Massage the drama out of the space to achieve a balanced design. Keep the charming, exposed wood beams, then thoughtfully juxtapose them with creamy plastered inspired walls. A gracefully arched doorway will arise feelings of a softer, Mediterranea elegance. That elevates the overall ambiance. Borrow from history by incorporating Gothic and Romanesque influences that harmoniously pair with luxurious spa elements like exquisite limestone floors, deep soaking tubs for relaxation, and intricate wrought iron details that add character.

Illuminate strategically by utilizing beautifully arched mirrors to match arched doorway. Backlit vanities and generously placed skylights infuse bright warm into the traditionally moody Tudor aesthetic. Your Tudor bathroom will feel less like an intimidating historic medieval bathing dungeon and more like an inviting private chamber at your secrete enchanting countryside chateau. Comfort and royal architectural elegance can coexist seamlessly.

Higher up the royal architectural ornature is the Victorian Grandeur. A bathroom inspired spa with ornate sophistication. Victorian bathrooms are often elaborate, featuring decorative tilework, intricate moldings, and vintage fixtures. The trick here is editing—preserving period details while eliminating visual clutter.

Play with the asymmetry of a Victorian design. These homes have irregular shapes and layouts. Sections of protruding peeks followed by receding nooks. These homes inherently favor a grand and striking centerpiece. This could be beautifully represented by a sculptural soaking tub. Or an elegantly curved vanity featuring twin sinks. Use historic shaped materials in modern ways. The jewels of your master bathroom should have intricate polished faucets and fixtures. Imagine incorporating tiles in soft muted tones with irregular patterns instead of bold patterns (I will have an article on tile patters next week).

Pinwheel tile layout with natural stone.

How about a touch of flame for your bathroom. That will spark the old Victorian style. Imagine a vintage fireplace but instead, a sleek minimalist styling that will complement your master bathroom spa into contemporary aesthetics. We will remember to modernize it with glass and on-demand gas start.

We must not forget lighting the historic Victorian. Use of layering materials incorporates soft airy sheers over modern windows. Glass could be a beveled clear “stained glass” inspired windows to diffuse light delicately. Combine original wainscoting with the smooth finish of Venetian plaster walls, and artfully blend the old-world opulence of intricate details with a serene, spa-like restraint that invites tranquility.

Fourth Cape Cod Charm: Coastal Simplicity Meets Spa SerenityCape Cod homes are known for their unpretentious, light-filled interiors. These homes naturally lend themselves to spa influences—but require careful curation to avoid feeling too “beachy.” Emphasize natural light: Think clerestory windows, breezy linen drapery, and strategically placed skylights. Keep it textural, not thematic: Use tongue and grove walls and rustic wood vanities, no need for nautical motifs. Soften the edges: Incorporate curved shower enclosures, rounded soaking tubs, and hand-finished plaster walls to create a sense of organic movement. Not a New England lighthouse keeper and more of a weekend retreat.

Your daily spa awaits!

My Final Thoughts: Merging history with modern luxury is achivible for Westchester homeowners are stewards of architectural history, but that doesn’t mean they can’t indulge in the best of modern spa luxury. Whether your home whispers of 19th-century grandeur or early 20th-century charm, a well-integrated retreat elevates it—not for resale value, but for the sheer joy of living well. At the end of the day, that is what great design is really about.

Happy remodeling, call and ask for Joel to schedule a consultation visit. (914) 999-0323