Thursday, October 7, 2010

soak it all in

the elegance, the luxury, the pinnacle of taking an ordinary ritual and transforming it into an experience.  at the least, freestanding bath tubs bring a unique design element to what can become an overlooked room in the home.  at the most, these beauties warrant a room all to themselves (insert floor to ceiling window overlooking the garden, or skylight opening up to a starry night).  the art of soaking originated quite appropriately with a queen in crete some 4,000 years ago.  the idea lost its relevance for a significant period surrounding the dark ages and emerged as a gentile practice.  


the bath design industry has commercialized the idea with throw backs to all different places and times.  cast iron or copper tubs put a rustic spin on things teleporting us to the french countryside.  a classic "claw-foot" tub with a touch of gold breathes a more antique style which was popular in the victorian era and ancient orient.  for a contemporary feel, opt for a simple and classic white porcelain tub.  hang a chandelier overhead for a soft and romantic touch. 


go ahead- treat yourself like a queen, and soak it all in.


reminiscent of 19th century french copper tubs


over the top- amethyst tub by baldi


classic white


a touch of gold


shabby chic chiffon