Leila Eppard, founder and president of 1720 Design Studio Inc. in Turlock, won the 2025 American Society of Interior Designers ANDYZ Award for Best Residential Bathroom Design over 75 square feet for her work on a renovation project in a home in the Del Rio community of Modesto.

According to Eppard, this master bathroom wasn’t just a remodel; it was a complete reframing of how space could feel and function. What began as a dark, oversized layout with a dated vanity and narrow shower became an opportunity to create something truly personal—a private wellness retreat inspired by nature, stillness, and intentional living.

“The turning point came when we looked beyond the walls and realized the underused patio just off the master suite held the key. By enclosing that exterior space, we expanded the footprint and opened the door to a whole new rhythm that flows between spa, sanctuary, and home,” she said.

A Japanese maple tree now anchors the room beneath a newly added skylight, its presence calming and alive. The concrete soaking tub, too large to bring in traditionally, was craned in through the ceiling and now stands as a sculptural centerpiece. The original shower area became a cedar sauna, while a double-headed shower and cold plunge add to the restorative experience.

“We embraced natural textures—boulder stone, warm woods, soft lighting—to create depth without visual noise. The custom vanity was designed with hidden storage to blend function seamlessly into the calming environment,” she said.

Project team included:

— CEO/ Principal Designer: 
Leila Mendoza Eppard

— Design Team:  Adri Denlinger, 
Annika Layman 

— Builder/ Construction Team: 
Haro Construction (Steffen Haro) 

— Photography: 
Jessica Brydson Photography 

— Cabinetry/Millwork: 
B.Y. Cabinetry 

— Lighting Design/ Designer: 
Phillips Lighting & Home, Carrie Arnold

— Furnishings & Decor:  
Suite 52 Living