TriadHomes.com

A garden theme prevails in the deluxe master bathroom of this Stokesdale home. The in-ground tub, wrought-iron touches, hand-painted mural, slate floor, and natural colors and textures created the paradise getaway builder Fireside Homes Inc. intended.

Builders nationally and locally are finding high-end elements are a priority for some buyers.

“Our customers appreciate not only the beauty of a luxury bathroom, but also the feeling of being away from the routine and stress of the day,” says Sherrie Nelson, design coordinator with Fireside Homes, based in Greensboro. “They want an environment that is relaxing and sets the tone for them to really let down. It’s the last retreat we have, and our most private retreat.”

Nelson says they tried to capture the feeling of the outdoors, a popular theme as buyers look to build a bridge to nature and use more natural materials such as slate, granite and stone.

She says common features buyers look for are  good quality cabinets, natural materials like granite and spa overtones with marble soft and smooth lines.

The bathroom is in an Arbor Run home Fireside featured in the Greensboro Builders Association’s 2007 Holiday Showcase of Homes. Nelson says of the eight to 10 houses Fireside builds in the Triad each year, from 50 percent to 75 percent would be considered luxury homes.

— Compiled by Heather L. Modlin