Global - Technology - Review

The traditional Japanese bathing ritual consists of cleansing the body at a stand alone wash station, followed by a relaxing soak in a deep wooden tub filled with clear hot water. Furniture Designer William Garvey has drawn inspiration from this style of bathing for his iconic Geo Bath and basin. Wooden baths or Ofuros are designed to stay warm for long periods of time and William Garvey's Geo bath has embraced these ideals within its striking teak design.

“When we think of relaxing spas or bathrooms within luxury boutique hotels, an oriental theme is often present. The Japanese are masters at languishing in the bath and like to place an Ofuro where the bather can enjoy a pleasing natural view, which adds to the relaxing experience considerably,” comments Bill Garvey, designer and director of William Garvey Ltd.

Like an Ofuro, the deep-sided Geo bath allows full immersion and an integrated seat allows the bather to relax in a more natural upright position making it more comfortable for longer periods of time. The bath has shorter than standard dimensions also making it great for use in small bathrooms. The use of timber within wet environments is particularly practical, Teak is used extensively in the marine industry because of its durability and the natural oils found within the timber protect it from water, resist marking and allow easy cleaning with household detergents.

The design force behind Devon-based bespoke furniture makers William Garvey Ltd is Bill Garvey, whose work is recognised for its simple, pared-down style that enhances the natural beauty of wood, resulting in a signature style that is effortlessly timeless. William Garvey has become a leading authority on successfully using wood in wet situations and the company has built up an extensive product range of baths, basins, sinks and teak tiles. In addition, the company's wholly bespoke service has resulted in commissions for kitchen furniture design and freestanding furniture. Large projects receive the same attention to detail as single pieces and the company has both the skill and the capacity to produce stunning work on a large scale.