PRECIOUS STONES
Every September and January, the Maison&Objet Observatoire decodes the times and analyzes new consumption behaviors to define the upcoming season. This fall it dubbed the theme to be explored in its Inspirations No. 27 trend book and staged at the show Precious.
“Precious and preciousness are expressed in many ways. The word immediately evokes cut stones and their mysterious settings, raw materials rendered more beautiful still by the genius of man. In art, precious entails a character of great delicacy, brilliance, even wealth. It is often linked to gold, mirrors and ornaments. But, while all that is valuable is precious, preciousness does not hold the same value for everyone. From somewhat trivial affectation to the very essence of life, preciousness inspires dialogue between excessive materiality and the most extreme fragility.”
Within this context, bathroom designs being showcased revel in luxury and luxuriousness. From the unbelievable shapes of new monolith tubs to rich rose gold taps to an invigorating hydro-shower session, a toned down extravagance is returning to the home and the bathroom, though sumptuous and unusual materials, simple pleasures and beauty.
For example, THG introduces a brilliant Rose Gold finish for its Collection O by Studio Putman in collaboration with Christofle, to cater to clients interested in an uber-elegant bath. It also unveils the Putman-designed Metamorphose, crafted from carbon fibre or ceramic, traditional materials commonly found in the world of watch making.
“While the shower areas will continue to get larger and sleeker, it is the bath that will become even more important as a key luxury item,” says Bette’s Sven Rensinghof. “Exceptional baths will take centre stage in the bathroom and will provide the luxury – both in terms of design and experience.”
An explosion of startling introductions prove the point. In fact, internationally recognized interior designer Kelly Hoppen, prized for her East-meets-West effortlessly elegant style, debuts three new ranges for Australian brand Apaiser, known for its handcrafted stone composite bathwares, made of a reclaimed sustainable marble core. The London-based tastemaker adapts her signature look to the bath presenting three organic, curvaceous options: the layered designs of Harmony, inspired by the petals of a lotus flower; the foldedpaper-like Origami inspired by Japanese art that gives it its name; and Bande, based on the Obi, a sash used in traditional Japanese dress. “We have created a range that is both beautiful and unique,” Hoppen says. Apaiser’s Belinda