Bathroom Design Idea: White-on-White

A predominantly white bathroom design has universal appeal, but there are as many moods to white as there are people to appreciate them.

The tub in this white-on-white bathroom gives bathers a seaside view.

In this king-size master bath, an air of well-bred, quiet luxury has been established through an array of deftly understated touches. Most of these make use of white-on-white -- a scheme that seems to render even the most whimsical elements witty rather than cutesy.

Custom-made bathroom cabinets are trimmed in bamboo for a subtly exotic touch.

The result is a layered, rich look that exudes dignity and gives one a sense of the owners' personalities, too. The teak and white wood tub surround, for example, evokes both classic architecture and the timeless appeal of ships. The state-of-the-art tub is protected by a fiberglass finish and a traditional recessed-panel surround.

The vanity cabinets, traditionally simple except for exotic touches of bamboo trim, recall tropical English plantation influences. The ivory wall-covering and coordinating oyster white tile vanity trim are beautifully textured for a quiet opulence. The plantation look is enhanced by the door's fixed-louver top that lets air circulate but protects privacy.

The shower is even more beguiling thanks to accent tiles depicting shells, sand dollars, and starfish.

The shower stall is a masterpiece of white-on-white tiles in classic rope and marine-life motifs. Unlacquered brass fittings and a built-in seat of softly mottled polished stone enhance the underwater mystique.The overall effect of these signature elements is seaworthy but not cliché.