Bathroom design, and its associated fusion with the living space, should be able to transcend diverse influences into a cohesive whole which can complement the essence of the environment rather than distracting from it

1. Raseel Gujral Ansal,
For Better Interiors
Bathroom as a living space/concept Bathroom has become a living space, a shower in the bedroom, furniture in the bath, TV and fireplace by the tub... The bathroom and living areas are blurring the lines. Can you comment on the trend?
Bathroom design, and its associated fusion with the living space, should be able to transcend diverse influences into a cohesive whole which can complement the essence of the environment rather than distracting from it. Luxury features, from flat screens to fireplaces and skylights, can transform a bathroom from the ordinary to the opulent. For instance, natural light offers much that can be done with it. Wood fins in the skylight over a deep bath constantly offer varied and spontaneous graphic art as the angle of the sun shifts throughout the day, playing on the various textured surfaces introduced into the space, be it the stone dressing or the textured fabrics.
Additionally, the aim is to create minimum number of spaces within an interior and resist solid walls as much as possible. Plate glass sliding doors making up at least one, if not two, side of every room enhances a sense of light and space. An ensuite placed within the bedroom sphere separated by half-height walls and low partitions allow the bathroom to take on ‘borrowed views’ through the bedroom and beyond.
Bathrooms are an extension of the living space and styles where expressions of individual effervescence can be incorporated into a classic décor palette by the sophisticated use of innovative design. However, in order to get a quirky flavor, one doesn’t necessarily have to pick up ethnic items of décor, it is really a question of fragrance and fragrance can come in through color. For example, touches of pink can brighten up a mainly black-and-white room, and a Venetian-style mirror is the perfect compliment to the classic pedestal sink.

2. The topical furniture such as the Out of the Closet from Casa Paradox’s “Illustratti” collection, packed with youthful energy, is a tongue-in-cheek take on the traditional vanity. Creating a green room-like ambience, the shutters of this modern vanity open up to warmly lit bulbs, a red glass sink and a Venetian mirror once again replicating a wholesome fusion where classic meets quirky. The surface of the black and turquoise unit has original digital prints on it, while the legs are finished in high gloss black, gold and red lacquer finish.
Dressers are an integral connect between the living spaces and the bathroom. Organically Indian but conveying a message that is fairly subliminal, the “Neophile” collection from Casa Paradox showcases pieces that are strikingly contemporary, glamorous and engaging. For instance the Zephyrus Bureau, comprising gold leafing on the bureau with beveled mirror on drawers and a moulded white thassos stone top with Swarovski crystal inserts, possesses a sense of fresh international glamour. Ably coupled with the Archilles Chair in teak wood with gold leafing, adds a note of whimsy making for a perfectly awe inspiring dresser.
Small bathrooms
What are the key elements one needs to keep in mind while doing up a small bathroom? What kind of wall treatments, flooring and fixtures should one go for in a small bathroom? Please comment.
A simple detail can go a long way in adding a sense of space and luxury to a small space. Combining practicality with visual harmony, a small bathroom can be efficiently functional without any compromise on the design aesthetics. For instance, floor-to-ceiling cabinets can be utilized to add height with a strong emphasis on an uncluttered look. Additionally, within the shower area, a glass shower wall eliminates the visual barrier created by shower curtains or doors thereby enhancing the appearance of space.

3. The key to a successful design in restricted spaces is to create an attention-commanding focal point. A highlight in mosaic tiles, for instance, adds to the charm of the space and demonstrates that patterns when used selectively as accents will not overwhelm a compact room.
A color pallette of neutral and white in combination with mirrored surfaces add to the roomier feel of the space while a contrast of flooring in a rich tone adds warmth and creates a balance. The powder room vanity in teak wood with a high gloss white lacquer complemented with seating in a similar high quality finish provides lightness to the space and offsets the sturdiness of the stone. The recessed lighting in the ceiling illuminates any reflections, suggesting a boutique feel of a serene, calm and timeless space.
Bathroom as spa What are the key components that convert your bath into a spa and what are the current trends and kind of products in this segment?

4. A calming pallette dominated by neutral stone makes bath spaces a haven for rest and relaxation. Luxury is incorporated into the environment with elegant yet functional pieces of furniture that transcend and become pieces of art. From the freestanding nickel-leg vanity in a high gloss red lacquer to the Zephyrus Armoire, from Casa Paradox’s “Neophile” collection, in mirror and high gloss lacquer give the room character and enhance its ageless regal appeal. While, being functional, the trend also ferments a flair for the mélange between the past with the present, the classic with the contemporary.
A sunken tub adds drama to make a statement of tranquil serenity while the jaali panels distinguish this more intimate space and add visual interest without completely walling off the natural light. These additions further enhance the space and offer so much more than the average bathroom. The use of unexpected elements, such as upholstered furniture, luxurious drapery and artwork, make a bathroom feel like a glamorous restroom.
Elegant seating further invites lounging while the deep bathtub calls for soaking making up the two evidently essential components of a relaxing spa retreat.

5. High Tech bathrooms
Technology has changed the look and feel of the bathroom. What kind of products are available today that make the bathroom high-tech? Please comment.
To embrace technology, one must think of every element in the bathroom and how it interacts with the needs of the individual. Technology bridges the gap between elegance in design and the customized experience that an individual seeks. From digital shower controls and eco- friendly faucets that permit preset preferred temperature, water volume and massage settings to in-the –mirror and wall mounted television units, bathrooms have evolved from a space of physical needs and personal hygiene to the in-house entertainment and relaxation havens.