Interests and passions follow their natural evolution and by doing so, they tend to permeate. As such, we find ourselves demanding to bring this Asian-flavoured serenity and calm into our living areas as well. When there is a subtle fusion between Eastern and Western design philosophies, we notice a synergy with clean and uncluttered designs inspired by nature. These designs embrace Asian-themes which lend themselves particularly well to bathroom design and layout.

Jasmin Kraneveldt is director of leading sanitaryware supplier, Bathroom Bizarre. She acknowledges, ‘People’s bathrooms are the first we use when waking up and the last one we visit before going to bed’. Here, Kraneveldt reveals ways of successfully incorporating an Asian flavour into our bathroom spaces, a homage to the development of the bathroom from being a place of hygiene and functionality to including a space that expresses personal serenity and heightens it.

A bathroom featured alongside Pamplona basins and stands, the free-standing Venice 11 bath, the Iberia toilet, and the Portofino taps (all from Bathroom Bizarre), proves to combine the simplicity and symmetry, indispensable to Asian design. The clean lines of the various pieces of selected sanitaryware and faucets complement one another to produce an overall contemporary look with functional undertones.

Asian traditions are built on the concept of balance. From Asian religious beliefs, to their cuisine, and of course, their design we find that symmetry in design requires a central axis, which is provided in the images by the centrally located, free-standing Venice 11 bath, with equal balance or weight on each side, provided by the two free-standing Pamplona basins and stands.

The layout does not necessarily have to be a perfect mirror image; in fact, it provides more visual interest if it is not. As such, the Iberia toilet, and the hand-carved wooden towel rail have been positioned on the left hand side of the bathroom, and to counter balance this, a Balinese-style cabinet has been placed on the right hand side. This composition displays a layout harmony. Symmetry and balance provide for an ordered aesthetic and remain elements from which general design methods draw frequently.

An emphasis on natural materials to enhance a sense of unity with the natural world is characteristic of Asian spirituality and so it extends itself into the world of design. Incorporating this into all aspects of the room – from the chosen colours through to the sanitaryware and furniture, the lighting, and the choice of flooring – will create a suitable foundation.

This bathroom features laminate flooring in Limed Oak. This is an affordable option, it’s aesthetically pleasing, hard wearing, and since its edges are wax-impregnated it is moisture-resistant. Solid bamboo flooring at an increased cost, is also a great alternative, as are pebble mosaics and slate or sandstone tiles. The wooden floor complements the various Mahogany furniture and accents featured throughout: the wooden stands holding the Venice 11 bath, through to the Pamplona basin stands, the mirror frames, floating shelves, the towel ladder and the hand-carved Buddha relief that takes pride of place behind the bath and the hand-carved Mahogany cabinet.

Other natural elements featured as accessories in this bathroom include a hand-carved stone Buddha candleholder, bonsai trees, a white orchid, and a tropical fern – all of which bring qualities of the outdoors,indoors. The featured back loofah sphere hanging lamp is an especially interesting addition – it is made from cross-sections of genuine loofahs that have been stained black and stuck together. Its shape allows the shadows it casts on the ceiling above to mesmerise.

Says Kraneveldt: ‘When it comes to the choice of colour palettes for Asian-themed bathrooms, the choice is left to your discretion. One can go with plain white or muted, pale earthy shades akin to Japanese designs. One can choose bright jewel tones like emerald green or ruby red, inspired by Chinese and Indian decor, or as featured in this bathroom, one can choose spicy tones inspired by the robes of Tibetan monks.’ These orange shades make the dark wooden accents and white sanitaryware ‘pop’. A practical choice as a sense of warmth and serenity transforms the space, without being too overwhelming,’ explains Kraneveldt.

The timeless and versatile aspect of Asian themes in our bathrooms and other interior spaces, allows us to customise the design and decor to suit our individual taste. Ultra modern and subdued in its appeal, or a style that is warm and eclectic – the choice is relative.

If you would like any further information on this bathroom, please contact Antonella Dési on ant@theline.co.za or on 072 307 0167