Bathroom design: Between functionality and spa experience

 

The modern architecture of living spaces identifies bathroom interiors not only as the design of one of the primary functional units of the apartment, but also as the creation of a relaxing space that is used multiple times throughout the day, and in which an active day begins and ends.

Perceived through the evolution of use, the bathroom space simultaneously encompasses the formerly separate spaces of toilets and bathrooms, which have changed their character from semi-public and public spaces of socialization, relaxation and hygiene to private spaces of relaxation and self-care. Today, in modern housing, bathroom spaces are used, according to research by Rem Koolhaas (2014) on average 6-8 times a day, which makes them one of the most frequented spaces of a home.

In our projects, we apply the worldwide inputs and principles of architecture and design, so in the bathrooms we design, you can often find the Japanese principle of interior architecture according to which the space of the toilet is always separated from the bathroom space.

Privacy interweaved with luxury

Located most often in night zones, next to the bedrooms, bathrooms are the most private spaces of the apartment. In our projects, we strive to create unique environments for clients in which the day begins and ends with a pleasant spatial experience.

We achieve this by introducing different elements into the bathroom space itself, from the functional to the unexpected – they articulate unique spaces and, with the effect of surprise, translate a functional room into a luxurious experience. Using custom-made furniture, glass doors and surfaces, carefully selected decorative metal accessories and attractive soft-tone colours in gentle tones, we create spaces that bring warmth and luxury into everyday spaces.

The luxurious and high-end element that elevates the ambience of the bathroom in our projects is the use of arched mirrors or mirrors at full height, which together with the dynamics of other reflective surfaces, as well as earthy and vivid tones create attractive spaces. In our interiors, the design of the bathroom directly communicates with the design of the other rooms in the apartment, with which it makes a continuous and unique visual expression.

Spa in the apartment

The use of the bathroom and the need of clients for a luxurious experience of space are increasingly pointing to the introduction of elements that resemble wellness and spa spaces, which affirm the complete relaxation of users. Inspired by the evolution of similar spaces from picturesque public baths and hammams to modern spa centres – rich in tranquil tones and natural materials – we strive to ensure that in each of our bathrooms, the user has the same experience of complete relaxation and comfort.

Bathroom architecture inspired by water and relaxation is embodied within the contrasts of light and dark tones, reflective and matte wall surfaces and gradation of lighting. This way, the bathrooms we design can simultaneously give the impressions of tropical forests, mystical caves, modern saunas, or futuristic ambiences based on the application of circular and arched elements with reflective accents along the natural tones.

As a detail that connects complete functionality and relaxation, in our projects you can often see a quote of ancient and modern tepidarium, in the form of built-in benches and seating areas within the shower space. When designing in areas with a rich landscape, we try to connect natural materials and elements with the outdoor space, so often in our projects in bathrooms can be found tall windows that allow the breach of natural light, which dynamically refines the textures applied in the design.

Kids’ bathrooms – spaces of expressive character

While master bathrooms predominantly affirm relaxation and peace, and toilets represent nook-like continuations of the living room and day zones; the kids’ bathrooms are designed as colourful spaces that on the one hand communicate with the playful character of children’s rooms, and on the other, enable subtle transformations in use through elegant and reduced strokes, which emphasize growing up, without the need for subsequent changes in design.

While getting to know our youngest clients, we associate the design with motifs such as superheroes, cartoon characters, or with kids’ favourite colours – that we style through unique shapes, materials and unusual elements that make up the timeless design with which one grows up.