Israeli designer Tal Engel used thin strips of wood veneer to create a modern bathtub that resembles a decorative wooden basket. Made using traditional Asian boat-building techniques, this tub is both decorative and functional.
The Otaku bath was made by weaving thin strips of white ash and maple veneer to create a large sheet. The wooden sheet was then pressed into a bathtub-shaped form with steam. Once dry, the tub was coated in layers of resin to keep the bath watertight. To give the bath a more modern silhouette, the tub was then mounted on a stylish steel frame. The strips of wooden veneer ultimately give the bathtub a basket-like silhouette that is similar to the bamboo baskets found in Asia. As Engle explains, he created the tub to "emphasise a unique relationship between sailing and bathing."
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Woven Wooden Bathtubs
- The trend of incorporating woven wooden elements into bathtub design creates a unique and visually appealing aesthetic that merges traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality.
- Asian-inspired Design
- The trend of utilizing traditional Asian design techniques in home fixtures like bathtubs offers a cultural fusion that resonates with consumers seeking unique and distinctive pieces.
- Creative Material Applications
- The trend of experimenting with unconventional materials, such as wood veneer, in bathtub construction opens doors for innovative and sustainable design solutions.
Where This Applies
- Interior Design
- The interior design industry has the opportunity to take advantage of the woven wooden bathtub trend by offering clients unique and visually striking bathroom fixtures.
- Home Furnishings
- Home furnishings companies can tap into the demand for Asian-inspired design elements, including woven wooden bathtubs, to cater to consumers seeking distinctive, multicultural home decor.
- Architecture and Construction
- Architects and construction professionals can explore creative material applications, like wood veneer, in bathtub designs to offer clients sustainable and aesthetically pleasing options.
