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Minimalist bathrooms: Principles for more space and accessibility

Find out how minimalist bathroom design is revolutionising bathroom trends through functionality, sustainability and innovative technologies and learn about strategies for future-oriented bathroom design that combine design and accessibility – and set new standards.

In the world of modern architecture and bathroom design, minimalism is experiencing a remarkable renaissance that goes far beyond mere aesthetic choices. This trend towards greater functionality, adaptability and sustainability reflects the needs of a diverse society and represents an essential approach for architects, planners and installers. At a time when the demand for future-proof and environmentally friendly solutions is increasing, the minimalist bathroom design offers an attractive solution that is both contemporary and sustainable.

The 7 basic principles of minimalist bathroom design

From the creation of open and calming spaces to the integration of sustainable materials and the clever use of lighting and colour, every element plays a crucial role in creating a minimalist space. In this section, we look at seven basic principles that form the core of every minimalist bathroom.

Clear lines and plenty of space: Minimalist design in bathrooms not only creates visual appeal, but also a calming effect that invites relaxation. Limiting the design to essential elements and clear lines creates open, airy spaces that support and simplify daily routines.
Focus on functionality: A minimalist bathroom is designed to be functional as well as aesthetic. Well thought-out storage solutions, intelligently positioned fittings and height-adjustable WCs and washbasins increase user-friendliness and ensure that the space is accessible for people of all ages and abilities. The HEWI System 900 , for example, makes it easy to design bathrooms that are both minimalist and barrier-free. With a sleek, minimalist design , it offers well thought-out products that are not only practical and durable, but also easy to install and keep clean.

Sustainable materials: Products and solutions that are designed for longevity and low environmental impact reflect the growing awareness of ecological responsibility. One example of this is our Re-seat family made from post-industrial recyclate. It shows how sustainability and minimalist design can come together to create products that are both haptically and visually appealing.
Well thought-through lighting: The right lighting and colour scheme are crucial for creating a calming atmosphere in a minimalist bathroom. Natural light, supplemented by unobtrusive but functional artificial light sources, such as an LED illuminated mirror , emphasises the aesthetics and highlights the purity of the room.
Flexible storage space solutions: A minimalist design calls for intelligent storage solutions that maximise the available space without compromising on aesthetics. Close co-operation between planners and installers is crucial in order to develop solutions that are both practical and visually appealing.

Value-added accessories: Of course, accessories also play an important role in the design of a minimalist bathroom. Modern, practical elements such as towel rails, side trolleys or soap dispensers in a timeless design enhance the modern look without overloading the room. With its portfolio of universal products, HEWI offers a range of accessories that can be combined with all series.
Intelligent colour design: In terms of colour, neutral tones should dominate, visually enlarging the room and providing brightness. Accessories in contrasting colours can add depth and sophistication. System 900 from HEWI, for example, is available in different colours – from lever handles to support rails, paper roll dispensers and brush sets through to the washbasin system.
HEWI simply has to be provided with the desired colour code from around 4,500 possible colours. This enables unique colour concepts that create personalised recognition value.

Advantages of inclusive bathrooms with a minimalist approach

Minimalist design goes hand in hand with the idea of accessibility by promoting clear, open spaces that are accessible to people with different needs. By paring down to the essentials and focusing on wide, unobstructed areas of movement, minimalist bathrooms can be designed to be safe and comfortable for users of all ages and abilities. Strategically placed support rails, level-access showers without thresholds and wheelchair-accessible washbasins are just some of the design decisions that improve both aesthetics and functionality. This conscious integration of accessibility into the minimalist design ensures that beauty and usability are harmonised, turning a bathroom into not only a place of rest and relaxation, but also a safe and welcoming space for everyone.

Integration of smart technology in minimalist bathrooms

Advances in technology offer new opportunities to make minimalist bathrooms both more practical and more environmentally friendly. Touchless, sensor-controlled fittings, for example, start and stop the water flow with a sweeping hand movement, while programmable room temperature controllers take the comfort factor to a whole new level. Also very practical are touchless light switches, which use motion detection to provide convenient, needs-based and energy-saving lighting control.

Collaborative planning of functional and aesthetic bathrooms

The development of an accessible and safe bathroom starts with a shared understanding of the needs of different generations among all those involved. Level-access showers, non-slip floors and well-positioned support rails are some of the elements that need to be incorporated into planning to ensure accessibility.

By working together with foresight and taking these principles into account, architects, planners and installers can design spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also meet the needs of users and contribute to their well-being. Designing a minimalist bathroom requires more than just a reduction to the essentials. The aim is to create a space that harmonises elegance, functionality and modernity, supported by a well thought-out selection of materials, colours and lighting.

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