Page 44 - Designing Ways 281

BATHROOMS

Bathrooms

by Stienie Greyling

A
bathroom is a room in which
people wash their bodies or parts
of their bodies. It can contain
one or more of the following plumbing
fixtures: a shower, a bathtub, a bidet, and
a washbasin. The inclusion of a toilet is
common.
A bath as an institution has a long
history. Writings from ancient biblical
and other sources mention baths.
Architectural remains from ancient Egypt
indicate the Greeks of classical antiquity
thought the bath important. Roman baths Heated towel rails
featuring a combination of steaming,
cleaning and massage appeared wherever
the Romans made conquests. like wood and stone, these colours can
Modern baths have taken many forms. transform a bathroom into an oasis of calm. The mirror area with two sources of light
In some cases they have combined Bathroom lighting should be uniform
features from many types of older baths, and bright and must minimise glare.
including the Turkish bath and the For all activities like shaving, showering,
Oriental tub bath. grooming, etc. one must ensure equitable
Electrical appliances, such as lights, lighting across the entire bathroom space.
heaters and heated towel rails, generally The mirror area should have at least two
need to be installed as fixtures, with sources of light at least one meter apart
permanent connections rather than plugs to eliminate any shadows on the face.
and sockets. This minimises the risk of Ceiling and wall lights must be safe for
electric shock. use in a bathroom, (electrical parts need
Earth tones are making a subtle splash in to be splash proof), and therefore must
bathroom colours. Indulge in rich browns, carry appropriate certification.
burnt orange, or muted greens to mimic Customers are placing increasing
nature’s serenity. Next to organic materials, priority on products and design that

Indulge in rich
browns, burnt orange
& organic materials,
like wood and stone

44 Issue 281 • dw