The bathroom of tomorrow, today Part 2

Considering both the past and future of bathroom design, a slate of new releases explore notions of shape, heritage and the user experience. The bathroom of tomorrow, today

At the forefront of the bathroom sector, ISH provides a platform from which designers showcase the trends, ideas and styles set to guide the year ahead. Across 2,400 stands within Messe Frankfurt’s expansive halls, the latest technological, aesthetic and cultural shifts in bathroom design can be observed. An increased focus on global sustainability, for example, saw the 2017 show introduce a wealth of new efficiency and waste reduction solutions, whilst the changing demands of the hospitality market contributed to the production of new materials and functions, as well as the proliferation of both cutting-edge and resurgent design styles. Featuring leading global suppliers alongside emerging names and rising talent, the fair offers an essential insight into the minds of designers across all levels of the industry, and an indicator of what to expect from bathrooms in new projects worldwide.

This year, a slate of new fixture, amenity, water system and accessory releases highlighted the revitalisation and reintroduction of historical design elements to the market. Combining graphic lines and a simple spout with natural curves, THG’s Dean collection recalls a striking industrial spirit, whilst Graff’s Finezza faucet channels retrochic through its elegant profile and an uninterrupted cast that runs from tap to base. Likewise, the Meccanica and Cesello members of Gessi’s 316 collection reference the industrial aesthetic with their vivid texture options, and Lefroy Brooks’ Ten Ten tap reinterprets machine-age forms through a contemporary lens. The colours on show reinforced this historical influence, with an abundance of bronze, brass, copper and gold prominent throughout. A step away from traditionally popular pure white and porcelain shades, these finishes allow for moodier environments and expressively dark interior schemes. However, for all the heritage influences that shone through, the evolution of brand-unique materials and manufacturing solutions emerged as an alternative, more forward-thinking trend.

Laufen’s SaphirKeramik, first launched in 2013, has now developed into a material employed by designers including Patricia Urquiola for the distinctive Sonar washbasin, whilst Villeroy & Boch’s Patrick Frey-designed Finion collection utilises the brand’s own TitanCeram, a versatile fusion of feldspar, quartz, clay and titanium dioxide. Elsewhere, Kaldewei’s Steel Enamel took centre stage at a stand dedicated to ‘iconic solutions’ with the launch of the Minea washbasin, a minimalist and seamless fixture made possible by the single-layer material. With these surfaces allowing for experiments in shape and profile, several new silhouettes emerged. The thin washbasin rim – a defining feature of both Duravit’s Cecilie Manz-designed Luv range and Vitra’s Outline collection – proved a popular design choice, whilst Victoria & Albert’s Eldon bath, the product of a collaboration with Conran + Partners, combined the London-based firm’s knowledge of contemporary interior demands with the shift towards slimmer, more compact pieces.

New materials also mean new textures, with Bette’s Ornament bath and BetteLux Oval Freestanding bath boasting experiments in surface character. The latter’s fabric exterior turned inquisitive heads and highlighted the steps away from convention that bathroom designers are taking, as manufacturing processes quickly evolve. This departure from classic bathroom forms and shapes could be seen as a direct consequence of this material revolution, with designers creating new conventions through the development of more adaptable ceramics. However it is not just the materials that have evolved, but also the industry’s scientific, technological dimension.

Toto’s Flotation tub – a research-driven release that draws influence from flotation therapy – exhibited the leaps and bounds that the science behind bathroom design has taken, whilst Grohe’s Aquasymphony rebranded the shower space as a wellness zone, complete with adjustable coloured lighting, spray settings and integrated Grohe Spa mobile application. Likewise, Dornbracht’s Michael Neumayr-designed Aquamoon, part of the wider Lifespa concept, incorporates water-control technology to create a range of different mood-specific flow modes, matching these with suitable levels and shades of ambient lighting. Seeking to stimulate guest senses through texture, aesthetic and shape, as well as expanding on the psychological side of the bathroom experience, this new slate of products juxtaposes popular, traditional ideas with forward-thinking sensibilities, wrapping the technology of the future in aesthetics of the past.

THOMAS CRAPPER 

Comtesse 

The Comtesse suite features sophisticated, curved lines with a nod to vintage glamour. Inspired by original 1920s pieces, the design has been remastered to combine classic creations with modern materials and techniques. The collection is available in a range of two-tone original glazes found in the archives, including Sea Mist, Crème Anglaise and All White. www.thomas-crapper.com

DURAVIT 

Vero Air Rimless 

Combining state-of-the-ar t technology with comfort, the Vero Air Rimless WC and SensoWash Slim Seat collaboration is the latest in Duravit’s Vero Air progression. Incorporating the latest rimless technology and SensoWash Slim, the design also allows touch button control to operate all functions. Meanwhile, the WC’s rectangular basic form finishes with a gentle curve downwards, appearing geometrically precise and harmoniously round. www.duravit.co.uk

VITRA 

Eternity 

Designed by Sebastien Conran with Vitra, Eternity comprises a number of bathroom accessories focusing on the genuine needs of the user. The sophisticated range features an enduring hardwood teak and combines it with striking finishes for a minimalist result. The collection brings together 31 products, ranging from freestanding accessories set to contemporary flat-top towel holder. Eternity is available in three finishes: white with chrome, black with chrome and black with gold. www.vitraglobal.com

CARRSON 

Sun Valley Bronze 

An exquisite range of solid bronze bathroom hardware and fixtures, the latest collection from Carrson features finely handcrafted designs taking inspiration from the mountains of Idaho, USA. Each piece is made using the finest quality art-grade bronze, with precision machining and superior components ensuring functionality and durability. Handapplied patina finishes lend character and distinction to the collection. www.carrsonint.com

HURLINGHAM 

Galleon 

Galleon is a polished cast iron bath that features a classical style with character features. Measuring 1700mm x 700mm, the statement piece offers a focal point for any luxurious bathroom. Hurlingham offers a wide choice of distinctive bespoke finishes, allowing for optimum versatility. www hurlinghambaths.co.uk

ROCA 

In-Wash 

Utilising leading technology, built in to the WC, In-Wash offers exceptional personal hygiene that provides complete cleaning, care and comfort. Not compromising on design, the smart toilet features soft curves and minimalistic design, allowing it to adapt perfectly to the interior of any bathroom space. www.roca.com

CLAYBROOK 

Opus 

The ergonomically designed Opus collection comprises a bath – available in two sizes – and an ensuite basin. Designed to complement a range of interiors, the bathtub and basin also offer functionality via the integrated shelf. The collection is also available in a variety of Claybrook moulded stone colours and finishes. www.claybrookinteriors.co.uk

MARFLOW 

Crystal Edition 

Marflow has extended its St James Collection with the exclusive Crystal Edition. Encompassing black and clear crystal handles made using Swarovski crystals at their core, the new additions are complemented by refined concealed bath and shower plates which present an angular shape, nodding to art deco’s bold geometric forms. www.marflow.co.uk

BAGNODESIGN 

Mezzanine 

The Mezzanine washbasin presents flexibility, with its refined design available in four widths, from 440mm for compact spaces, up to a double basin version at 1200mm for more spacious bathrooms. All of the basins can be installed on a countertop or wall-mounted, as well as semi-recessed for the smallest option. www.bagnodesignlondon.com

AGAPE 

Immersion 

Neri & Hu’s Immersion bathtub takes inspiration from traditional timber bathing vessels in Japan and China, with a greater depth than a standard tub and smaller footprint. Similar to an onsen experience, the posture of bathing is more upright, while the design features minimal lines and elegant proportions. www.agapedesign.it

Sources: Sleeper, 9-10, 2017

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