The Emerging Bathhouse Culture

While bathing culture today has evolved into a more private experience, contemporary architects are treating bathhouse design as a medium to encourage human contact.

- Tina Thakrar

It all started in the ancient times when communal bathing was associated with richness in architecture and culture. The bathhouse was not just a place for well-being and relaxation, but also a place for social exchange and community life. The introduction of private bathrooms has reduced the opportunities for community interaction and obviated the need for architecture that encourages stillness and reflection.

However, contemporary architects and designers are taking up this challenge and re-imagining bathhouses as social spaces, with smart water use for the 21st Century. The Roca London Gallery is bringing this to the fore by hosting Soak, Steam, Dream: Reinventing Bathing Culture, an exhibition on until January 2017.