In 2008 I was asked by my employer of the time, Jayman MasterBUILT to develop a spa-like Ensuite that could be adapted for most of our standard line of models. We had developed a gourmet kitchen concept, which was called the Nordlund Kitchen, a few years earlier and were having quite good success with that. The thinking was that people would like to have something in their home that set it off from the typical home in that price range.

 

Also, at the time, we had a strategic partnership with Kohler so it would give us an opportunity to showcase some of their newer products.

 

While looking through books and magazines for inspiration, I came across an advertisment for a cabinet supplier from Italy. They had a photo of a wardrobe installation that was actually open to the bedroom area and had large windows incorporated as part of the dressing area. This made me think that perhaps the closet area did not need to be separate from the bedroom and ensuite as is usually the case.

 

By incorporating that space which is usually dedicated to the walk-in closet and the circulation area therein, it would almost double the square footage of the ensuite. By opening that space up, it also allowed an "island" in the closet area as well as room for a small bench to aid in dressing.

 

In order to try to keep the cost from getting too far out of line, I tried to standardize the sizes of the various components even though the actual arrangment would vary from model to model. We had limited options for the wardrobe units, which would be critical in this layout as being able to close the doors on your clothing for humidity as well as aesthetics would be key. We priced out custom made as well as manufactured from our various cabinet suppliers, but the cost was getting too high. As it turned out, we used the Ikea Pax line of wardrobes which have many different options as far as door styles, interior fittings and lighting.

 

The first one that was built was in a showhome in Riversong at Cochrane and turned out really well. The Interior Design which was done in-house by Wen-Di Interiors was a clean, simple style which really invoked the Spa look and feel.

 

I do not know how well this was received or how many were sold as Jayman and I parted company soon after, but since this was released shortly before the economic meltdown in 2008, I suspect the timing was not ideal.