More and more interior designers, architects, planners and developers, as well those at the top of industry, are recognising the value in creating spaces where nature can thrive indoors, be it at home or in the workplace. And with a move towards more regenerative, natural materials creating more circular processes, our ‘Meet the Makers’ night, as part of the Bio-Spaces exhibition, curated by Planted and Oliver Heath Design, will highlight some of the brands leading this conversation.
Speakers include: TySyml - Adam Davies (Founder), GENCORK - Brimet Silva (Creative Director), Sofia Hagen - Sofia Hagen (Founder), Paul Crofts Studio - Paul Crofts (Founder), Cecoceco - Henry Schmidt (Creative Director), Blast Studio - Paola Garnousset and Pierre de Pingon (Co-Founders). Host: Sam Peters, Planted Community.
SBID Members earn 2 x CPD points for attending!
While trends in bathroom design may not change as rapidly as fashion, bathroom manufacturers are still tasked with staying ahead of the curve. With this in mind, Roca presents its take on the freshest inspirations, colours, and looks for bathrooms. This is partly in response to the trends set at this year's Salone del Mobile in Milan. Moreover, it serves as a summary of how Roca plans to incorporate these ideas in the upcoming year and beyond, especially within its new Tura collection.
The essence of the Mediterranean is making waves in bathroom design, infusing a fresh, timeless elegance into these formerly purely utilitarian spaces. This trend captures the region's vibrant culture, rich history and stunning natural beauty, transforming everyday areas into luxurious sanctuaries of relaxation and style. This transformation is achieved, in part, through the use of natural materials that not only provide durability but also add warmth and texture, creating a welcoming environment. Mediterranean-inspired colours also play a crucial role, with shades of blue, white and terracotta reminiscent of the sparkling Mediterranean sea and its sun kissed landscapes.
Mediterranean-inspired bathrooms often feature large windows, skylights and lush house plants. This design approach blurs the line between indoors and outdoors, enhancing the sense of tranquillity and openness. This ambiance directly influenced the design of the Tura collection, which draws inspiration from how Mediterranean light filters through the shutters that shade Spanish windows. As an homage to this, wooden slatted shelves were included in the Tura furniture.
Renowned for its warm, earthy tones, terracotta is a prominent trend in modern bathroom design, offering a perfect blend of aesthetic appeal, practicality and comfort. One of the greatest strengths of terracotta is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with a wide range of colours and materials, including whites, greys, greens and natural woods, allowing homeowners to create a harmonious and cohesive look. Its warmth also helps to create an inviting and relaxing retreat - and with this in mind, Roca introduced Light Terracotta as a signature colour for the Tura bathroom furniture.
This year's bathroom design trends are embracing soft lines and rounded shapes, marking a shift towards more organic, fluid aesthetics that promote relaxation anc harmony. Elements such as oval mirrors and circular basins are integral to this trend, as they reduce the harshness often associated with modern, angular designs. The freestanding bath in the Tura collection is a good example, as its softly curved shape creates a generous and comfortable interior.
Incorporating curves can also create the illusion of more space. Unlike sharp angles that result in visual barriers, curved lines guide the eye smoothly around the room, enhancing the perception of space, which is particularly beneficial in smaller bathrooms. Furthermore, the biophilic design trend, which seeks to connect interior spaces with the natural environment, also drives the popularity of curves. Nature rarely features straight lines, and by incorporating organic shapes, designers create spaces that feel more natural and inviting.
In a world where stress is omnipresent, neutral colours help create a spa-like, tranquil atmosphere in the bathroom. Shades such as soft whites, warm greys and gentle beiges promote relaxation and a sense of well-being. In addition to Light Terracotta, the Tura furniture is available in calming shades of Off-White and Light Noble Grey.
Neutral colours also provide a versatile backdrop in the bathroom, enabling homeowners to update accessories and fixtures without affecting the overall colour scheme. This adaptability is especially appealing to those who frequently refresh their decor. The Tura collection accessories exemplify this trend, as their neutral colours derive from their natural composition - recycled felt storage boxes and recycled cork lids, which also function as basin shelves.
Roca's Tura collection is available now and comprises a Stonex® freestanding bath; ceramic basins, WCs and bidets, available in Gloss White, Supraglaze® White and Matt White finishes; and furniture in Off-White, Light Noble Grey and Light Terracotta.
About Roca London Gallery
Roca have more than 100 years experience of designing bathroom products and kitchen solutions with the aim of increasing peoples quality of life through continuous innovation in the production of sanitary ceramics.
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LAUFEN consistently stays abreast of the leading bathroom trends through collaborations with world-renowned designers. This was evident at the Milan Fair in April, where LAUFEN showcased its trend-led approach in both new product introductions and their presentation. Here's a summary of five bathroom trends that are likely to continue through 2024 and beyond.
Terracotta, a material celebrated for its earthy warmth and timeless appeal, has emerged as a key influencer in shaping the landscape of modern interior design trends. The charm of terracotta is not confined to the physical spaces it occupies. Its influence pervades deeper, extending to various aspects of interior design including furniture.
The richness of terracotta as a colour is particularly sought after in the bathroom because it adds warmth. Whether it's a subtle hint of terracotta in a piece of furniture or a bold statement wall, this versatile material elevates the aesthetic appeal of the space, making it truly stand out.
Neutral colours, celebrated for their understated elegance and versatility, play an indispensable role in the world of interior design, particularly when curating a monochromatic scheme. These colours range from the quiet whispers of soft greys to the gentle embrace of warm taupe. Each of these hues, in their own way, contribute to crafting a serene and calming backdrop, which is particularly welcome in a bathroom setting. Variations in neutral tones, however minor, can dramatically alter the ambiance of the room, adding depth and interest. Thus, the use of neutral colours is not just about simplicity, but about creating a balanced and harmonious space that can effortlessly adapt to changes in style or mood.
In the ever-evolving world of interior design, trends come and go. However, there are a few staples that have stood the test of time due to their timeless elegance and functionality. One such staple in bathroom decor is chrome brassware, which has remained popular for its sleek, minimalist aesthetic and ability to complement any bathroom style.
Timeless and versatile chrome not only blends seamlessly with any colour palette, but also pairs beautifully with a variety of other materials, such as glass, marble and wood. This means that it can easily fit into any bathroom decor, whether you're aiming for a luxurious spa-like ambiance with marble countertops and glass shower doors, or a cosy, rustic vibe with wooden cabinets and natural stone tiles.
Curves in bathroom design add a soft, organic touch to what is traditionally a space filled with hard, angular lines. They offer a refreshing visual contrast, introducing a more relaxed and natural feel and can also invoke a sense of comfort and luxury, reminiscent of high-end spa retreats. Moreover, curves can make a bathroom appear bigger, as they easily guide the eye through the space.
There are many ways to incorporate curves into a bathroom design. Rounded mirrors are a popular choice, adding a touch of elegance and softening the overall aesthetic. Curved bathtubs and basins can also make a bold statement, serving as a focal point in the room. Even subtle additions, like using rounded tiles or installing curved brassware, can go a long way in transforming the bathroom into a more calming and inviting space.
One of the primary benefits of having plants in your bathroom is the improvement of air quality. Plants naturally absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, which can help to freshen up the air in your bathroom. Additionally, certain plants are known to remove harmful toxins from the air. The humidity from your shower also helps plants like ferns and ivies thrive, making your bathroom an ideal place for them.
Plants have a calming effect on our minds, reducing stress and helping us to relax. This makes them perfect for the bathroom, a place where many of us begin and end our day. The addition of greenery can transform your bathroom into a peaceful oasis, providing a tranquil space for you to unwind at the end of a busy day. It's small wonder that in our busy and stressful lives, indoor plants have become more popular than ever!
Stockist: 01530 510007 or laufen.co.uk/point-of-sales
About LAUFEN
LAUFEN is a premium brand under the ROCA umbrella and one of the world's leading manufacturers of sanitaryware and bathroom furniture, with a global distribution network. For over 125 years, the LAUFEN brand has been using ceramic, the oldest malleable material known to man, to create innovative sanitary products in state-of-the-art manufacturing plants. What makes LAUFEN products unique is the combination of emotional Italian design and legendary Swiss precision, resulting in functional and aesthetically pleasing products. Additionally, LAUFEN is fully committed to preserving natural resources and environmentally friendly production.
The tour will be led by Margarita Valova from Zaha Hadid Design and Head of Marketing at Roca Group (UK) David Bromell. The speakers will discuss the conceptual and technical aspects of the gallery design, and will reveal the fascinating story of how the architecture took shape, from Hadid’s initial design concept through to the practical installation. The 90-minute tour will examin the challenges presented by the existing building, the design concept and spatial strategies, and will give an in-depth look at the innovative processes and materials used to achieve the iconic double curvature of the interior.
AJ sustainability editor Hattie Hartman and FCBStudios partner Joe Jack Williams will discuss how to use their new book, MATERIALS: An Environmental Primer, to help make responsible material choices and reduce the environmental impacts of construction: what to consider, what questions to ask, how to read an EPD - and more. They will highlight current trends and innovations related to conventional materials and the increasing use of bio-based materials. Bring your questions!
SBID Members earn 1 x CPD point for attending!
On 6th June, the Roca London Gallery will host a panel discussion as part of the new Bio-spaces: Regenerative Resilient Futures exhibition, curated by Planted and Oliver Heath Design.
Global biophilic design specialist Oliver Heath will be joined by a panel of experts to discuss how we can transform our buildings if we recalibrate our relationship with nature. The discussion will explore how our urban environments would look and feel if nature was part of the architectural design process. Asking the questions: How can we start to collaborate with nature as a member of the project team rather than a service provider? Can we really advocate for nature in the design of our buildings and cities without a human-centric bias?
This talk will bring together some of the leading voices who are helping architects to design with nature rather than against it. To conclude the discussion a Q&A will provide the audience to engage with our expert panel.
Roca London Gallery's panel of experts will explore how allowing nature to flourish in all spaces can support biodiversity, make cities more resilient to the effects of the climate crisis, whilst also more comfortable and equitable to live in.
This talk will draw on some of the leading authorities on biophilic design and explore why nature should be at the heart of every design process, whatever the scale. To conclude the discussion a Q&A will provide the audience to engage with our expert panel.
Speakers:
- Oliver Heath, Oliver Heath Design
- Paul de Zwart, Another Country
- Adrian Byne, Benholm
- Dr Vanessa Champion, Journal of Biophilic Design
Curated by environmentally-focused media and events platform Planted, in collaboration with Oliver Heath Design Studio, Bio-Spaces will plunge the visitor into the world of biophilic design, exploring biodiversity and biomimicry in design, as well as biomorphic design, bio-based materials and bioregenerative design.
Visitors will journey through a series of modular gridded ‘islands’, each exploring a theme pertinent to the concept of nature-informed design and each populated with exemplary case studies and products that derive inspiration and materials from nature and the environment. A multi-sensory approach alongside touches of greenery will enhance the experience, bringing the water-inspired spaces of the Zaha Hadid Architects-designed Roca London Gallery into direct dialogue with like-minded projects and products that aim to reconnect people and spaces with nature.
On 25th April, the Roca London Gallery will host a launch event of the new exhibition Bio-Spaces: Regenerative, Resilient Futures, in the company of curators Planted and Oliver Heath Design Studio.
Bio-Spaces runs until 30th September 2024 and looks into biomorphic design, bio-based materials and bioregenerative design.
Guests will journey through a series of modular gridded ‘islands’, each exploring a theme pertinent to the concept of nature-informed design and each populated with exemplary case studies and products that derive inspiration and materials from nature and the environment. A multi-sensory approach alongside touches of greenery will enhance the experience, bringing the water-inspired spaces of the Zaha Hadid Architects-designed Roca London Gallery into direct dialogue with like-minded projects and products that aim to reconnect people and spaces with nature.
Click here for more information about the exhibition.
Curated by Clare Farrow Studio, the talks panel will focus on the vitally important theme of health and wellbeing in small urban living-work spaces, from a designer and user point of view.
Featuring William Bracewell, Principal Dancer of the Royal Ballet, whose new film explores movement and wellbeing in small spaces; Tokyo architect Toshiki Hirano and his Rika-chan doll’s house; Proctor & Shaw; and Richard Beckett from the Bartlett who is doing a live probiotic workspace experiment.
Other participants in this inspiring event will be Tokyo adviser and architectural designer Toshiki Hirano from the Kuma Lab at The University of Tokyo, who has taken the Rika-chan dolls house as a playful but also very serious model for future small space design, investigating its light, compact and foldable thinking with a view to future micro transforming designs; architect Mike Shaw of Proctor & Shaw, whose award-winning Shoji Apartment plays with the idea of translucency, vertical stacking and an opening and closing cocoon that enhances the psychological and physical experience of a tiny home; and Richard Beckett, Associate Professor at The Bartlett School of Architecture, who has collaborated with an immunologist from UCL to conduct a live experiment entitled ‘Imagining a probiotic microbial workspace’, which visitors will also be able to interact with and experience for periods of time.
Health in tiny spaces is not just about the dimensions of rooms and flexibility of furniture, or about bringing green plants in for pleasure and detoxing the air. It is about recognising that over-sanitised spaces disrupt the balance of microbes in our living and work environments, especially since the pandemic, resulting in autoimmune diseases that are on the rise. Beckett’s groundbreaking exhibition and experiment that blends architecture with science and medicine, brings the forest floor and ‘forest bathing’ concept out of nature and into the smallest of spaces. The results of his experiment will be revealed at the close of the exhibition in January 2024.
SBID Members earn 1 x CPD Point for attending!
Exhibition: Takeshi Hosaka, Love2 House, Tokyo, © Takeshi Hosaka
Event: Richard Beckett (UCL), Living in a probiotic microbial space, Live experiment in the exhibition
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