Old World Features Meet Modern Ambience in Westfield Bathroom

Archways, ceiling treatments, and tile and stone blend with fresh, modern elements

Arches and porcelain slabs reminiscent of solid stone hearken to Old World architecture while the light and bright feel of the room bring it into the modern day.

Old World European architecture remains engaging thanks to characteristics that span various historical styles. Kshipra and Sachin Thareja noted their appreciation of those characteristics when chatting with designers Malorie Goldberg and Ariel Fischer of Noa Blake Design about their newly constructed Westfield home. But the couple didn’t want just Old World. “They wanted to blend its beauty with fresh, modern elements that would keep the home feeling light and bright,” Goldberg says. “The homeowners have a great eye and were able to pinpoint an overall look and feel quickly, which is always such a great way to start.”

The designers started by planning classic details and then blended in modern sensibilities. “Throughout the home, we focused a lot on archways, ceiling treatments, moldings and, of course, tile and stone reminiscent of European classicism,” Fischer says.

The nod to classicism is particularly evident in the primary bathroom. “Small details make a big difference,” Fischer continues. “The way we trimmed the doors and drawers on the vanities is a perfect juxtaposition of traditional and modern.”

Arches also play a role. “We are seeing a lot of arches now,” Goldberg notes. “Sharp lines have been softened with curves across all areas of design. Arches were always an important piece of this home because they are such a great way to gently nod to ancient architecture. You will notice arches as a focal point spanning every period from Renaissance to Neoclassical to Beaux-Arts.”

In fact, this bathroom features multiple arches, including the entry to the shower and the generous niches for his and her vanities (one shown). “Because the vanities are directly across from one another with wall-to-wall arched mirrors, it creates this incredibly beautiful tunnel effect that just makes everything else in the space pop even more,” Fischer says, perfectly blending old and new worlds.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article first appeared in the August/September 2025 issue of Design NJ under the headline “Classic for Today.”

For other bathrooms updates, see “Relaxing Refuge,” “The Makings of a Modern Bathroom, ” “Soothing Simplicity,” “A Marriage of Tastes,” “This Bathroom Has Ageless Appeal” and “Bathrooms With Character: Changing Room.”