Living House concept reimagines the bathroom as an emotional retreat

The contemporary bathroom is increasingly being conceived as more than a functional space. Instead, it is becoming an environment that encourages reflection, comfort and sensory connection.

Guided by the “Living House” concept, this 41 square metre bathroom explores how architecture can evoke emotion through carefully considered materiality, light and form.

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Rather than relying solely on decorative elements, the design draws upon the essential components of architecture, including volume, texture, colour and natural light, to transform the experience of the space. Landscaping, generous daylight and a strong relationship with surrounding gardens blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, creating an environment that feels calm, restorative and deeply connected to nature.

At the heart of the project is the idea that architecture can be interpreted differently by every occupant. Familiar materials and carefully chosen colours encourage users to draw upon emotional memory, whether through the nostalgic presence of traditional ceramic tiles, the warmth of a muted pink feature volume or the cave-like atmosphere created by the enclosed architectural forms.

Tiles are used as the project’s sole wall and floor cladding, reinforcing the geometric clarity of the interior while celebrating one of the bathroom’s most familiar materials. This restrained approach creates visual continuity throughout the space, allowing texture and light to become the defining design features rather than an abundance of finishes.

The project’s palette takes inspiration from the work of Mexican architect Luis Barragán, whose distinctive use of colour and ability to balance modernist principles with local architectural traditions continues to influence contemporary design. Here, soft neutral tones establish a calm backdrop, while a bold pink volume forms the visual centrepiece of the room, introducing warmth without overwhelming the composition.

Natural materials further reinforce the Living House philosophy. Iron shelving provides a robust architectural framework, woven straw accessories soften the interior and pebbles incorporated into the foot bath strengthen the connection to the natural landscape. Together, these tactile elements contribute to a layered sensory experience.

A sculptural freestanding bathtub anchors the bathroom, establishing a sense of relaxation and ritual, while gold tapware introduces a refined contrast against the restrained material palette. The result is a bathroom that moves beyond functionality to become a place where architecture, memory and nature converge, demonstrating how thoughtful design can transform everyday routines into moments of quiet reflection.

Images by Haruo Mikami via ArchDaily

The contemporary bathroom is increasingly being conceived as more than a functional space. Instead, it is becoming an ...