In the tropics

When you live in a tropical climate, it makes sense to maximize any views of lush greenery be they distant or close up. This bathroom does exactly that. With its fully glazed exterior wall, the room has an intimate connection with the outdoors.

Singapore architect Ai Loon Yong of Timur Designs says the bathroom project was part of a major remodel of a house that features a mix of modern and tropical design elements.

"The house was remodeled to open up the entire interior to the outdoors," Yong says. "Just as all the living areas now focus on the newly landscaped outdoor living areas, so the bathroom has a green outlook. The major difference is the bathroom opens to a walled courtyard, which ensures the room remains private, but still receives plenty of natural light."

The sense of transparency is enhanced by a glass-walled shower box and open shelving between two structural supports. The shelves, made from locally sourced nyatoh wood, help to visually separate the shower and vanity areas.

Nyatoh wood is also a feature of the cantilevered his-and-hers vanity unit. Elevating the vanity above the floor reinforces the clean-lined, contemporary look, and also creates a more spacious feel, says the architect.

To further enhance the visual link between inside and out, there is a large planter box that serves as a screen between the toilet and bidet and the shower box.

Another visual link is provided by the floor tiles around the shower, which echo the paving in the courtyard.

Story by: Colleen Hawkes

Photography by: Tim Nolan