Alexandria, VA

This home within the iconic mid‐century modern community of Hollin Hills needed a primary bath renovation. Our design matched the home’s architectural roots while bringing the space firmly into the present day. The original bathroom felt dated and compartmentalized, dominated by an oversized soaking tub and separate shower that failed to capitalize on one of the room’s greatest assets ‐ a series of high clerestory windows that flood the space with natural light while maintaining privacy.

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The redesign embraced simplicity, symmetry, and restraint. By removing visual barriers and reimagining the layout, the room was transformed into an open spa‐like retreat featuring a curbless, doorless shower that enhances both accessibility and the clean architectural lines of the space. The elevated windows now play a starring role, drawing daylight deep into the room and acting as a counterpart to the high gloss vanity that reflects light throughout.

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A carefully curated palette of monochromatic gray tones creates a calm and sophisticated backdrop, while subtle warm undertones keep the space from feeling sterile. The floating vanity with integrated channel pulls emphasizes the home’s modern aesthetic, and a wall‐hung toilet further enhances the sense of openness and visual lightness. Rich stone surfaces and meticulously detailed tile installations provide texture and depth without disrupting the minimalist composition.

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Every design decision was guided by the homeowner’s desire for a sleek, highly functional space that reflected the modern character of the rest of the home. The result is a modernized bathroom that somehow feels like it was always meant to be in this home.

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Designer: Nancy McCarren, AIA, @mccarren.designs
Photography by Brian Distad, Styling by Clara Rose Interior Design