A DAILY Luxury Experience in A MINI Bathroom
XP& Architecture Turns a Dark Bathroom into a Spa
XP& Architecture design for a bathroom in West Los Angeles creates the impression of a spacious luxury spa on a minimum 5’x 5’ footprint.
The small space was expanded through a visual connection to the outside. A floor to ceiling window replaced a small glass block opening. The lush vegetation of the outside is now visible from the interior. The California native plant “scouringrush horsetail”l and an exterior screen provide privacy for the user. More natural day light can now penetrate the space through the huge opening. The white walls reflect the natural light the most: white has a lighting reflection factor of 80-85. A wall length mirror makes the tight space appear much bigger than it is. The translucent safety glass shower divider, which spans from floor to ceiling as well, also contributes to the spacious feeling of the bath.
The appliances are all high-end and imported from Germany. They are low flow appliances and using less water than conventional American appliances. They are built into the wall and do not extrude into the space. Maintenance service can be provided through a service door in the wall.
All lights are recessed in the ceiling. To give the impression of a higher ceiling four warm florescent lights are tucked on both side walls underneath the ceiling and light washes the walls.
The bathtub is sunken into the ground. The 8’ ceiling appears way higher when sitting inside the tub. When used as a shower a Wooden Grill (Ape wood) prevents you from slipping. Ape wood is moisture resistant.
The building inspector summed it up by saying: Very unusual! All in all a great daily spa experience on a minimal footprint!
XP& A (Expand Architecture) is a full service architectural practice. Expanding architecture beyond its limitations with Performance Driven Design & Cultural Ecologies. XP& Architecture’s designs span from product design to urban planning and the portfolio includes residential, commercial and institutional projects.
The firm is based in California, USA with offices in San Francisco and Los Angeles. XP& Architecture delivers architectural design solutions that are based on 15 years of experience in the practice, great management and follow through.
Judith K. Mussel is the design principal and founder of XP& Architecture.
Founded in 2006 XP& Architecture is dedicated to cultural ecologies, creating environments that enhance the cultural landscape with advanced technology in design and construction.