Deep soaker tubs. Tubs are optional in the master bath. But if a good soak is how you like to unwind, you can add bubbly with today’s effervescent tubs and those featuring heated air jets that emit warmth and bubbles. These are replacing water-jet Jacuzzi tubs. Also, tubs are less likely to be positioned in a corner where they take up valuable square footage. Tubs are smaller but still made for two. “You might want to consider a separate water heater for the tub if you use it often,” suggests Ken Perrin, president, Artistic Renovations, Cleveland, Ohio.

Separate toilet rooms. Hiding the loo behind closed doors within the master bath gives everyone more privacy, especially when the space will be used by more than one person at a time. Ventilation and lighting are key in this closed off space, and it’s nice to a dedicated vanity with storage if possible.

Vanity privacy. Dual sink vanities gain privacy when a shelving unit is posited between the sinks.

Sink style. Undermounted sinks offer a sleek look and make countertop cleanup a cinch.

Heated floors. Nothing says luxury like stepping on to a warm, tile floor. Radiant heat can be placed below tiles for a reasonable price—Perrin estimates about $600 or less in a small 5x9 bathroom. Johnson notes that radiant heat mats that don’t use a lot of energy are an option for specific areas in the bathroom.

Other considerations. A natural color scheme will create a timeless, peaceful environment, from fixtures to tile. Recycled glass tiles are “here to stay,” according to Perrin, and placed sporadically throughout the bathroom, they provide interest without making the space busy.

Other features to consider:

• Cabinets that look like furniture pieces with footed legs and antique detail
• Steam showers
• Tile that scales the entire wall, borrowed from European design
• An upholstered chair or loveseat
• Magazine rack
• Television or stereo system built into cabinetry (or behind the mirror in the case of the TV)
• Heated towel racks—or, as an alternative, a warming drawer that would be installed in a kitchen can efficiently do the job of warming linens in the bathroom
• Expanded windows and skylights to let in natural light
• The use of Japanese-style screening in walls separating the toilet and rest of bathroom so the space feels open yet private.