< PreviousJANUARY 2024 commercialinteriordesign.com 30 SPECIAL REPORT: BATHROOMS force behind this project, but at its core, functionality was the highest priority. “Despite the look and feel of the designs being really eccentric and different, functionality is still at the forefront in a commercial space like Dubai Mall,” Shaddock says. In such a high-traffi c space, fi ttings and fi xtures needed to be put to the test. “We collected a huge number of samples from different suppliers for faucets, sinks, WCs, soap dispensers and all the other functional items for a full review,” she explains. “They were reviewed from both a design and an operational perspective, then a full set was decided on and standardised across the project for cohesion.” OVERCOMING OBSTACLES Most design projects are a race against the clock, but managing 29 different renovations at once proved laborious. “The biggest challenge for this project was is the construction period,” admits Shaddock. So far, just ten of the new bathrooms are 31 commercialinteriordesign.com JANUARY 2024 SPECIAL REPORT: BATHROOMSJANUARY 2024 commercialinteriordesign.com 32 SPECIAL REPORT: BATHROOMS complete as the project is ongoing. “Other challenges include phasing and access without disturbing mall operations, the procurement of so many different material, and refi nement of so many different details in such a short period of time,” she explains. “Project team workshops were held often and were pretty intense. Given we are now entering the busiest time of the year for the mall, we have a short reprieve and will start again full steam for the next set in January.” HIGHER STANDARDS Standards for bathroom design have changed, even in public washrooms. Consumers are now expecting more that functionality. “In a commercial space, creatives love to push the boundaries and have fun in unexpected ways,” says Shaddock. “Social media exposure and curated lifestyles are fairly recent developments that demand more and more ‘Instagrammable’ spaces to create a point of difference – we have to keep feeding the beast.”33 commercialinteriordesign.com JANUARY 2024 SPECIAL REPORT: PRODUCTS An editor’s selection of latest bathroom products to hit the market BATHROOM BRILLIANCE BAGNODESIGN ALPINE BY SANIPEX GROUP These BAGNODESIGN Alpine Verbier wall mounted basins are manufactured in the company’s slab fabrication facility in Jabal Ali and are completely customisable (the slab can be chosen as per your preference). Here, they are perfectly balanced by the timber tones and texture of the BANGODESIGN Bosco storage unit. SOLOS BY IDEAL STANDARD Designed by Ludovica+Roberto Palomba, the Solos collection embodies the essence of minimalism. Innovative technology and manufacturing processes allow for an ultra slim silhouette, conveying a feeling of lightness and timeless elegance. HANSGROHE TECTURIS E COLLECTIONS The new Tecturis E line of faucets from hansgrohe draw inspiration from the functional beauty of water, combining comfort, functionality, sustainability and architectural principles in every detail. RAK REMAL BY RAK CERAMICS The latest from RAK Ceramics, RAK Remal was inspired by the ever-moving sand dunes of the desert. Chic, simple and tactile – this is the new luxury. The range was designed by Sahar Madanat and is available in glossy white and earthy, natural Mica white fi nishes. 34 SPECIAL REPORT: SUPPLIER PROFILE W hen it comes to premium bathroom products, Axent International is a global leader. Founded in 2008, the company has been redefi ning bathroom spaces with its unique design ethos, innovation and technologically advanced range products. Axent’s products have a global footprint, gracing luxury bathrooms around the world, bringing a sense of opulence and comfort into everyday life. The company’s wide-ranging portfolio includes cutting-edge shower toilets, top-tier sanitary ware, shower systems, and bathroom fi ttings. Every product is a testament to the company’s commitment to quality, created in collaboration with AXENT INTERNATIONAL: ELEVATING BATHROOMS WITH INNOVATION AND DESIGN A dive into Axent International, a world-renowned manufacturer of award-winning bathroom products renowned designers and backed by groundbreaking technology. Axent’s dedication to crafting premium products extends into its strategic global presence. The company has established branches in the United States and Switzerland, catering to Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. Nestled in the scenic town of Rapperswil-Jona near Zurich, the company’s Swiss headquarters is the birthplace of Axent’s unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, research, and advanced technology. The company’s success is not accidental but a result of a deep understanding of the industry, in-house expertise, and a relentless pursuit of research. Axent’s aspiration to be a global leader in sanitary technology is refl ected in its constant innovation and reliability. Winning world-class international awards, Axent products offer a perfect blend of technology and design that impresses customers, architects, and designers alike. The company’s collaborative approach has garnered the trust of architects and developers worldwide. A commitment to understanding customer needs and market requirements has allowed the brand to offer tailor-made solutions in hygiene, effi ciency, and sustainability. Internationally acclaimed designers, including Matteo Thun and Antonio Rodriguez, and an in-house design team led by Arthur Eisenkrein, work meticulously to ensure every Axent product elevates bathroom design. For more information, contact the SANIPEX GROUP at www.sanipexgroup.com. Axent products blend technology and design in a way that impresses customers, architects, and designers alike JANUARY 2024 commercialinteriordesign.com35 PARNTER CONTENT commercialinteriordesign.com JANUARY 2024JANUARY 2024 commercialinteriordesign.com 36 OPINION CID editor Holly Byrne makes a case for the humble bathroom mirror selfi e and explores its infl uence on the bathroom’s bold new look VANITY FAIR M irror, mirror on the wall, who has the fairest bathroom of them all? A place where the lighting is just right, and the colour palette is captivating. Panoramic views and statement tiles would be nice, too. After all, a beautiful bathroom with all of the above is the ultimate opportunity for self-portraiture. Traditionally relegated to utilitarian roles, the bathrooms of commercial spaces such as hotels, restaurants and shopping malls have become destinations in their own right. But, while client requests for the ‘Instagrammable moment’ are an exciting challenge to some designers, others shudder at the thought at the idea of desiging for social media. Whether you like it or not, the digital world’s mammoth infl uence on consumer behaviour is here to stay and I don’t think that’s a bad thing. It’s no secret that social media is an essential consideration for business success, and while the restaurants, cafes and retail outlets having been competing to become more ‘shareable’ for years, the movement has fi nally entered the washroom. American socialite Paris Hilton claims to have invented the ‘selfi e’ in 2006, but it was the celebrity-fi lled bathroom mirror photographed that emerged from the Met Gala in 2017 that sent the mirror selfi e into the stratosphere, shattering the mould of conventional bathroom design in its wake. Striking patterns, vibrant colours, and unconventional materials are now gracing the walls and fl oors of commercial bathrooms, as designers are challenged to think beyond the ordinary. As always, functionality is paramount, but the mirror selfi e movement has challenged designers to infuse artistry into every corner. From avant-garde fi xtures to bespoke artwork, bathrooms are evolving into galleries of design ingenuity. While the pursuit of ‘Instagrammable’ has irritated many a designer, it’s now evolved beyond a pretty place to strike a pose leaving the fl ower walls, swing chairs and neon signs behind. Every iPhone photographer knows that the secret to a good selfi e is in the angles, and that demands all- encompassing design that looks good from every angle. This translates into a departure from generic designs to bespoke, high-quality materials. The mirror selfi e, as the discerning critic, has raised the bar, demanding that every inch of the bathroom is beautiful, or at least photogenic – and scuffed walls, tarnished taps or bubbled wallpaper simply won’t cut it. As consumers and smart phone photographers grow more discerning, the focus on bathroom aesthetics goes hand in hand with a demand for durability. The mirror selfi e, with its power to capture the essence of a space, has become a litmus test for the durability of design. The mirror selfi e movement has, inadvertently, made this sentiment resonate in commercial spaces. Bold, beautiful bathrooms are no longer a luxury, but an expectation and, at least in part, an expectation that’s been driven by the vein but often irresistible urge to snap a selfi e. A very photogenic bathroom at Bab Al Shams, a Rare Finds Desert Resort, designed by LW Design37 commercialinteriordesign.com JANUARY 2024 PARTNER CONTENT The world-leading ceramics supplier has introduced RAK-Remal, a new bathroom collection in collaboration with designer Sahar Madanat SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT: RAK CERAMICS R AK Ceramics is one of the largest ceramic brands in the world, specialising in ceramic and grès porcelain wall and fl oor tiles, sanitary ware, faucets, and tableware. Founded in 1989 and headquartered in the United Arab Emirates, the company has 23 state-of-the-art plants across the United Arab Emirates, India, Bangladesh, and Europe with the capacity to produce 118 million square meters of tiles, 5.7 million pieces of sanitary ware, 26 million pieces of porcelain tableware, and 2.6 million faucets per year, and products that can be found in more than 150 countries. The latest collection from RAK Ceramics has been crafted in collaboration with Sahar Madanat, one of the most emergent and talented product designers across the Middle East. Meet Sahar Madanat An industrial designer by training and an entrepreneur and design advocate by heart, Madanat is one of the most awarded designers in the region, and is considered a pioneer in product design. Her design work ranges from medical design to new concept furniture, and with her latest focus on bathroom fi xtures. About RAK-Remal The desert served as the major muse for the design of Madanat’s collection, RAK-Remal. In conceptualising pieces for the new collection, Madanat drew inspiration the interplay of textures and forms in the desert, the interaction of sand with the wind, and the way sand is shaped by the hooves of a horse or pushed away with a stroke of a hand. The stillness and serenity of the desert, and the raw, natural elements that form beautiful, gentle silhouettes simply by moving sand have all been captured within the products of the collection. Every detail is designed to bring the user closer to nature. Tactile impact RAK-Remal washbasins are available in two different fi nishes: glossy white or the earthy and natural-look Mica White, a new artistic glaze developed by adding particles of muscovite mineral into the mix. The sanitary ware within the collection features ReelFlush, the new dual fl ushing technology from RAK Ceramics which is extra silent and water-saving. A place for calm We all aspire to relax and rejuvenate our minds and souls every once in a while. Living close to nature or visiting the calm and tranquil desert, revives the soul. By sitting under the stars, feeling the soft texture of sand and admiring the beautiful dunes during sunset, we are inspired, we are grounded, we are connected to earth. The new RAK- Remal collection from RAK Ceramics brings the beauty of nature into our most important spaces. Sahar MadanatJANUARY 2024 commercialinteriordesign.com 38 SPECIAL REPORT: OPINION Avrushali Mhatre, assistant professor at the School of Textiles and Design at Heriot-Watt University Dubai, shares insight into commercial bathroom design THE ARTISTRY OF DESIGNING COMMERCIAL BATHROOMS D esigning bathrooms for commercial spaces requires a refi ned approach that goes beyond aesthetics, where the functionality, durability, and user experience are crucial considerations. Unlike residential bathrooms, commercial bathrooms cater to diverse crowds, emphasizing effi ciency, cleanliness, accessibility and inclusivity are key factors. Balancing these aspects while incorporating innovative design is essential to create spaces that leave a lasting impression on users. Brands often leverage specifi c colors to reinforce their identity and resonate with their audience. For instance, Pantone’s unveiling of Peach Fuzz as the 2024 Coloor of the Year signifi es peace, well-being, and comfort. This gentle hue can signifi cantly infl uence the ambiance of commercial bathrooms, evoking a sense of tranquility and inviting a positive emotional response from users. Designers work closely to develop a color and design approach consistent with the client’s vision, ensuring that the selected hues resonate with the intended audience. Incorporating these specifi c colors into the bathroom design can enhance brand recognition, create a cohesive environment, and evoke desired emotions in users, thereby creating a more memorable and immersive experience. The interior design of a restroom plays a crucial role in creating an environment that is not only practical but also visually appealing. It’s important for the restroom design to refl ect the establishment’s brand and ethos, as it contributes to a seamless overall experience for customers or visitors. The signifi cance of interior design goes beyond mere functionality, it encompasses a strategic fusion of elements, ranging from fi xture arrangement to lighting and fi nishing choices, all meticulously orchestrated to optimise the user experience. The layout of fi xtures determines not only the practicality but also the fl ow and spatial dynamics within the bathroom. Lighting, strategically positioned, accentuates features and sets the ambiance. Tiles and fi nishes serve as the palette, adding texture, colour, and personality to the space. For instance, the size and texture of tiles can defi ne the visual appeal and functionality of commercial bathrooms. Larger tiles can visually expand smaller spaces, while textured surfaces offer enhanced grip and aesthetic interest, contributing to both safety and design sophistication. Moreover, eco-friendly commercial bathroom designs are gaining popularity as they prioritise sustainability and environmental consciousness. Employing water-effi cient fi xtures like low-fl ow toilets and faucets reduces water wastage, while sensor-operated devices promote energy conservation by minimising unnecessary usage. Utilising recycled or sustainable materials for tiling and furnishings decreases the carbon footprint. For instance, recycled glass tiles are a standout option. These tiles are crafted from recycled glass bottles or industrial glass waste, reducing landfi ll waste while offering a stunning visual appeal. They come in various colors, sizes, 39 commercialinteriordesign.com JANUARY 2024 SPECIAL REPORT: OPINION “The signifi cance of interior design goes beyond mere functionality, encompassing many elements” and patterns, making them versatile for different design preferences. Many manufacturers are now making porcelain tiles from recycled materials such as discarded fi xtures or recycled ceramics. These tiles are highly durable, water-resistant, and are ideal for commercial bathroom fl oors and walls. They also come in various designs, mimicking the look of natural stone or wood to provide chic and sustainable design solutions. Incorporating natural light sources and energy-effi cient lighting systems is another crucial aspect which can reduce electricity consumption in the commercial setting. Implementing water-saving technologies such as greywater recycling further enhances sustainability. These designs not only minimise resource depletion but also convey a commitment to environmental responsibility, encouraging businesses to create functional and aesthetically pleasing restroom spaces while actively contributing to a greener future. Integrating smart technology into commercial bathrooms revolutionises their functionality and enhances user experience. Occupancy sensors offer an effi cient solution by regulating resource usage, such as water and electricity, optimising their consumption based on real- time occupancy. These sensors can adjust lighting, water fl ow, and ventilation precisely when needed, contributing to substantial resource savings and environmental conservation. Queue management systems effectively regulate traffi c fl ow within busy bathrooms, ensuring a smoother and more organised experience for users. By providing real-time information on stall availability or directing individuals to less crowded areas, these systems reduce congestion and wait times, improving overall user satisfaction. Moreover, interactive displays strategically placed within these spaces serve multiple purposes. They offer directions, making navigation easier, while also serving as platforms for advertisements or important messages. This not only assists users but also presents an opportunity for businesses to engage customers or promote products and services. Incorporating such smart technologies can transform commercial bathrooms into effi cient, user- friendly spaces that prioritise resource optimisation, streamline traffi c fl ow, and provide valuable information, ultimately enhancing the overall experience for visitors while aligning with sustainability goals. Lastly, ensuring cleanliness in commercial bathrooms stands as a key objective in design. The integration of touchless fi xtures, encompassing automatic faucets, soap dispensers, and fl ush valves, represents a crucial step toward curbing germ transmission and fostering a hygienic environment. These innovations not only prioritise user well-being but also streamline operational effi ciency. Moreover, the choice of durable, easy-to- clean materials are important for maintaining pristine conditions. Utilising materials resistant to stains, scratches, and microbial growth facilitates a streamlined cleaning regimen, ultimately reducing downtime for maintenance and upkeep. Such materials not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also mitigate long-term maintenance costs. In an era where cleanliness and hygiene are of heightened importance, the utilisation of these design strategies not only addresses immediate concerns but also aligns with a broader societal shift towards health-conscious environments. By integrating touchless technology and selecting resilient, easily maintainable materials, designers effectively create commercial bathroom spaces that prioritise both user health and operational effi ciency, thus setting a new standard for cleanliness and maintenance in public spaces. Commercial restrooms offer a signifi cant chance for businesses to strengthen their brand image and leave a memorable mark on their clientele. Serving as crucial touchpoints, these spaces offer a glimpse into an establishment’s dedication to prioritising user satisfaction, inclusiveness, and environmental consciousness. Designers can enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the space, thereby creating a cohesive and inviting environment. A well-designed commercial bathroom is a testament to an organisation’s commitment to excellence, care for its customers, and forward-thinking approach to design.Next >