144

Bathing Room

Opening context:
Intimacy Gradient, Common Areas at the Heart

Conflict

“The motions we call bathing are mere ablutions which formerly preceded the bath. The place where they are performed, though adequate for the routine, does not deserve to be called a bathroom.”

Bernard Rudofsky

Resolution

Concentrate the bathing room, toilets, showers, and basins of the house in a single tiled area. Locate this bathing room beside the couple’s realm — with private access — in a position half-way between the private secluded parts of the house and the common areas; if possible, give it access to the outdoors; perhaps a tiny balcony or walled garden.

Put in a large bath — large enough for at least two people to get completely immersed in water; an efficiency shower and basins for the actual business of cleaning; and two or three racks for huge towels — one by the door, and one by the shower, one by the sink.

Closing context:
Light on Two Sides of Every Room, Filtered Light, Compost, Still Water, The Shape of Indoor Space