Stealth vanities, sink-tub hybrids, and glammed-out potties transform the bathroom from a utilitarian space into one full of surprise and personality. This curated collection explores inventive forms and materials ranging from wafer-thin ceramic composites to portable wash stations inspired by steamer trunks, and Swarovski-encrusted toddler thrones. Come see unconventional silhouettes, clever space-saving creations, and designs that blur the line between practical necessity and playful indulgence!
Called Pool, this unconventional washbasin, reminiscent of a laundry trough, is the work of Spanish industrial designer Martí Guixé for upscale Italian bathroom ceramic and furniture brand Azzurra. Stainless steel gives the deep, thin-walled sink its minimalist form, while the matt white epoxy lacquer completes its understated aesthetic. Daily rituals at this self-contained cleaning station are enhanced by a quirky, clothespin-like towel clip, and 2 teak wood ledges – one to accommodate toiletries, and the other as a cover for the washbasin’s bi-level bottom.
Using Kerrock, Kolpa‘s proprietary solid surface material, Slovenian firm Design Studio Desnahemisfera developed a brilliant twofer solution for bathrooms constrained by plumbing or space. Aptly named Symbiosis, its sink seamlessly morphs into the tub’s sculpted headrest, concealing plumbing for a contemporary, streamlined silhouette. Digital water and pressure controls, as well as Bluetooth-enabled speakers round out the tech-savvy features promoting maximum relaxation and stress relief.
Carved from a single block of marble by Vicenza area artisans, Italian industrial designer Enzo Berti’s Cashmere washbasin for Kreoo reflects his sculptural sensibility. The rim’s graceful, swoop-like extension provides a handy perch for soaps, towels, or decorative accessories.
Measuring 85 x 41 x 17 cm h (33.5 x 16.1 x 6.7” h), Cashmere comes in Calacatta Carrara, Bianco del Re, Nero Marquina, Nero Portoro, Persian Grey, Verde Ming, and Wooden Onyx. Delivered in a luxurious, velvety matt finish, other stones and finishes are available upon request. Click-clack drain options include gold bronze, chrome, and chrome with a logo-etched marble cover.
The refreshing design of Laufen‘s Ino collection stems from the unique qualities of SaphirKeramik. This pioneering, hi-tech ceramic composite by the Swiss manufacturer boasts a steel-like flexural strength that makes wafer-thin walls for sinks and bathtubs possible.
French designer Toan Nguyen met the challenge with a suite of washbasins, bathtubs, vanity units, and cabinets that appears monolithic yet unexpectedly light. The vanity base’s minimalist wrap-around design belies its plethora of storage organizers stashed within. The drawer front is offered in walnut veneer or matt white powder-coated aluminum.
Hidden, a ‘stealth vanity’ concept by Giulio Gianturco for premium Italian manufacturer MAKRO, is inspired by steamer trunks from the Golden Age of Travel. The physician-turned-designer drew upon his expertise in medical instrumentation and competitive sailing to turn this small but mighty box into a portable wash stand. Measuring a mere 100 x 55 x 27 cm h (39.4 x 21.7 x 10.6” h), it contains a Corian-like sink, marine-grade stainless steel faucet, USB connector, an LED-lighted mirror with magnifier, plus a shelf and storage drawer. Thermo-treated hemlock ensures maximum durability and dimensional integrity in a high humidity bathroom.
For someone with a toddler and £700 ($940 USD) to spare, here’s the bling-encrusted alternative to the $37 portable travel potty that most parents settle for. The brainchild of Amanda Jenner, inventor of My Carry Potty, this posh tusche cush toilet trainer is adorned with a whopping 3,200 Swarovski crystals – certainly the way to ‘go’ in style!