In the wake of recent years, where the impact of isolation lingers, there has been a notable shift in the perception of bathrooms as sanctuaries. The bathroom, once a communal space in history, has evolved into a personal refuge. Despite historical practices like communal bathing in ancient Rome and medieval Europe, the early 20th century marked the emergence of discrete bathrooms within homes. Presently, individuals renovating their bathrooms are emphasizing the preservation and expansion of personal space.
Anna Karp, CEO of Bolster, a design-build firm in New York, observes a change in priorities, with people investing more in the overall layout of the space than in extravagant tiles and fixtures. Notably, the inclusion of sofas and built-in shower seating has become mainstream, driven not only by comfort but also by the practical considerations of aging in place. For those planning to stay in their homes for an extended period, these features offer both convenience and long-term suitability. Additionally, sound insulation, including the use of heavier doors for enhanced privacy, has become a sought-after feature among some clients, reflecting a growing emphasis on creating a truly private and comfortable bathroom environment.
Pamela Shamshiri, an interior designer based in Los Angeles, sees the primary bathroom evolving into a wellness space, tailored to specific spa rituals desired by clients. Acknowledging space limitations, choices often need to be made between features like a large soaking tub and a steam shower. These modern bathrooms serve multiple functions, accommodating activities such as meditation and work, leading to the inclusion of furniture like armchairs and armoires. Shamshiri’s own experience in a Rudolph Schindler house showcased the integration of heated floors, allowing for extended periods of self-care, with clear signals of privacy communicated through closed shoji doors.
New York interior designer Joy Moyler emphasizes the importance of connecting the bathroom to the rest of the house and opposes cold, clinical aesthetics. She has introduced table lamps to vanities, creating a warmer ambiance. Moyler advocates for layered lighting to accommodate different moods and tasks, acknowledging the challenges posed by traditional bathroom lighting for tasks like applying mascara.
Architect Chris Fogarty, from Fogarty Finger, expresses a strong preference for bathtubs, considering them crucial, especially from an English perspective. He favors porcelain tiles for walls and floors, particularly the new thin, large-format versions, appreciating their marble-like appearance and durability. Fogarty points out that seemingly simple and spare bathrooms often involve complex construction processes, citing the example of floating vanities requiring hidden steel bars to prevent sagging. He notes that modern bathrooms conceal intricate structures behind the walls, contributing to their functionality and aesthetic appeal.
