Feel the need for tranquillity? Betting that some consumers would rather avoid the chaos of Saturday afternoon at a big-box store, Kohler Co. hired Mark Janson and Hal Goldstein to design its very first retail location: 6,400 square feet on the ground floor of the Merchandise Mart. Soothing columns of water frame the entry, while the rear of the space is anchored by a row of showerheads spraying water into a trough. In between are 300 models of sinks, toilets, tubs, and shower stalls, many of them plumbed for use. Vignettes—abstract concepts rather than literal re-creations—pair the fixtures with tile and stone from Kohler subsidiary Ann Sacks.

Apartment, New York

DESIGN Architecture in Formation.

STANDOUT The soaking tub in the bedroom and the marble-topped vanity next door offer hotel-style luxe.

House, Toronto

DESIGN Cecconi Simone.

STANDOUT This kitchen's slatted wall features cantilevered glass shelving, which can be removed or accessorized.

House, Los Angeles

DESIGN Nicholas.Budd.Dutton.

STANDOUT Cutouts in the shower's limestone slabs reinforce the clean lines overall.