Design should always contain an element of surprise, especially in the home, where countless hours are spent in a daily routine suited to an individual, or sometimes collective, taste. The great appeal of contemporary interior design often lies in its bold minimalism and stark style. Even better is when that style contrasts with an unassuming exterior structure — hence, the element of surprise.
Studio 304’s Sunken Bath project reimagines an average ground floor apartment in Clapton, East London, using elegantly aging materials and a Japanese-inspired concrete aesthetic. With the addition of a new kitchen, dining room, toilet and bathroom, the renovation enlivens the space through this singular, sophisticated style.
The apartment’s previous layout, which included a dark and uninviting bathroom, provided a poor relationship with the sunny, south-facing rear garden shared with the neighbors. To maximize privacy and daylight, the two households agreed to split the garden into two smaller gardens facing south and east.
The new bathroom was set against the east façade, clad in larch slats, with views of the personal garden. The architects designed a stunning sunken bath made of glass walls that extends out into the garden. The larch wooden slats arch over the top of the glass cube for more intimate experience. The garden features granite gravel, polished concrete and bamboo to create a personal, peaceful and spa-like atmosphere.
The toilet and bath areas are covered in a creamy, gray micro-cement that’s not only waterproof, but sophisticated and dramatic against the long, larch slats highlighted in the windows or on the ceiling and floor.
Just as the enclosed bath adjoins the hidden east garden, the kitchen also connects seamlessly with the outdoors via a polished floor that extends through a large doorway. A glossy, copper worktop, sink and wall bring a note of warmth and luxury to the bright, minimal kitchen. The appliance storage and extract system areas are covered in larch slats to echo the pattern found in the bathroom area.
Studio 304’s vision for the secluded bath — as well as their use of smooth, richly colored materials meant to mature gracefully over time — adds a layer of secret beauty to this English home. According to the architects, this personal and surprisingly stylish interior will develop its own patina, achieving an even more unique tone throughout its existence.
All images via Studio 304 Architect by Radu Palicicia