The art of relaxation

A s many of us move toward contemporary apartment living, bathroom design has followed suit. Simple, compact designs incorporate all-in-one bedroom and bathroom suites, to create increasingly personal spaces in which we relax and rejuvenate.

Architect David Hacin designed the bathroom in his apartment as a space for living and sharing merging bath and bedroom as an intimate retreat.

"Bathing is a time to relax and unwind, which I wanted to align with the ritual of bedroom relaxation," he says.

Some of the strongest influences in his design came from the elements surrounding it, with the level of detail in the bathroom being the same as in any other room.

"I defined these spaces as one by creating a furniture-like feel in the bathing area that extends from the master suite to the apartment as a whole," he says.

Hacin's choice of decor removes the sense of an antiseptic space, and refines it as an intimate zone. A seating area creates a space to share a place in which to linger.

The spa-like design draws on Zen philosophy of being in touch with water and at one with nature.

Limestone flooring complements the soothing green painted walls to lend to the Zen experience.

The trend toward gender-specific areas is also incorporated into the design, with the intentional use of dark walnut to create a masculine tone.

Naturally finished walnut provides a platform for the bathtub and vanity, to give these individual fixtures a custom-made feel.

Hacin's decision to devote a significant portion of space to a large tub meant sacrificing other aspects of the design, such as a double vanity.

"The built-in bath has a sense of being carved into the wood its size and depth dominating the end of the master suite," Hacin says.

"We abandoned the notion of the tub as a glorified shower base. This design is based on the simplicity of old-fashioned claw tubs that cradle the body, and are built for two."

Subtle lighting adds to the intimacy of the space. Recessed halogens have been installed for general illumination, with diffused wall lighting on either side of the vanity mirror.

Story by: Trendsideas