The activity of deep submersion bathing is found in many different cultures. In the West, the most common form of Asian baths are Japanese baths. In fact, for many Westerners, Asian baths and Japanese baths are one in the same. Because of that, we’re going to focus our attention on the Japanese bath or ofuro.

The traditional ofuro is made of hinoki wood, which is unique to Japan. Other commonly used woods are Alaskan yellow and Port Orford white cedar. It’s also now common to see them made of acrylic or stainless steel. There is generally no overflow drainage built into the tub, so commonly, there will be a floor drain near the tub.

Another unique thing about Asian baths is that they’re not really for cleaning. They are intended to be used for relaxation and for the health benefits associated with soaking in hot water. The bather cleans themselves with soap and water before they enter the tub. Then, because of the depth of the tub, they are able to fully submerge themselves and soak. Instead of lying or partially lying in the tub, the bather sits upright. There’s often a seat built into the tub to make this easier.

If you’re considering adding an Asian tub as part of a re-modeling project, there are several things to consider. First off, if you’re putting the tub in the bathroom, do you have adequate space for it? Secondly, will you be getting a model with Western style plumbing or will you need to incorporate a floor drain into the project. A small ofuro may have a liquid capacity of 70 gallons. Compare that to a conventional Western style tub’s 40 – 60 gallons. Because of this you’ll need to consider weight and hot water supply. If the new tub will require much more water than the old tub, check to make sure that the floor is strong enough for the extra weight. Also consider the capacity of your water heater. Most residential water heaters have a 30, 40, or 50 gallon capacity.

Even if it does take a little more planning than a conventional tub would, one of the current crop of Asian soaking tubs may be perfect for your home.

MTI Elise 2 Soaker Tub Petite (63" x 32" x 20.625") Offer by: Modern Bathroom Price: USD 4,419.99 Sometimes the simplest designs can be the most striking, as vivdly illustrated by the Elise Freestanding Soaker Tub. This beautiful tub is designed to work with wall-mounted or free standing faucets. Constructed using MTI's   ESS  (Engineered Solid-Surface) composite material, the Elise features a 10 year limited warranty and comes complete with toe-tap chrome plated drain and overflow kit. Like all MTI products, the Elise is built to order in the USA and ships within 7 business days , the fastest turnaround in the industry. Please note, custom orders may not be returned. More information regarding the return policy of your custom-built MTI Whirlpools product is available here. Also available in Large size. Dimensions Length Width Height 63 32 20.625 Details Max Fill Shape Material Undermountable Tub/Shower Suitable 74 gal. Oval Solid-Surface No No Please allow 2-3 business days for order transmittal and verification.

Ultimate Accents 3 Piece Double Vanity:

Avanity Single Set with Granite Top:

Avanity Milano Single Vanity Set:

Replacing the vanity in a bathroom is something you can do for yourself, and with these styles – found at MoreVanities.com are easy to install.

Avanity Zen Single Vanity with Black Granite Top:

Dreamline Glass Double Vanity Sink:

Nameeks 61″ Double Vanity

Avanity Legacy Maple Burl

Available at ModernBathroom.com, the price points do vary. Modern Asian bathroom vanities are classified by sinks that sit atop the vanity, known as vessel sinks.  The use of materials such as glass or bamboo in place of granite and marble, as well as darker wood colors. Now these are general rules of thumb.

For most homes, Asian bathroom design consists of lights, mainly overhead lamps and sconce that add a unique flare. Although fluorescent lamps are part of the lighting fixtures, they often use soft-glow types that give off a cooler light rather than incandescent bulbs.

The main layout for the bathroom was inspired from most American and European designs, added to a more Asian flair that would call their own. Screens and more vibrant colors when it comes to the floor tiles and walls gives off an optical illusion of having more room. Although some Asian bathroom designs would resemble a 4-star hotel in terms of modern elegance, the very essence of the design is simply derived from nature. Some flora is introduced, while waterproof wallpaper with bamboo prints give color to the walls. This can also include wood tiles and mahogany from other Asian countries for the counter top and a small armoire.

The main shower area and tub are designed depending on the country of origin, which can be circular like the Japanese or wide like the Chinese. Of course the rich would introduce a small above-ground pool for the main purpose of soaking in hot water, as well as lavish it off with some orchids to create a more natural look. With the mixture of both modern and classic, most modern jet-streamed tubs are placed in a central location, according to the feng shui belief that the center is the very heart that revolves around everything.

Simple fixtures, mainly of faucets, shower heads and booths may sometimes be imported, while designs from local bathroom designers are inspired by using the available floor space of a typical Asian home. This is well suited for small bathrooms that upon entering would have everything within arm’s reach without too much clutter. For the wall to place a mirror to, they can be large, considering the vanity of most Asians and how they can be conscious about their looks.

Decoration is revolved mainly of plants, with some wood for frames and screens and a large portion is concentrated simply for the floor. Tiles sold in Asia have several patterns, which custom made ones can be ordered like that of a jigsaw puzzle, to create a mosaic effect.

Although a number of American homes may have a touch of European and American styles, the Asian bathroom décor is becoming a big hit, considering the need to have a bathroom with all the necessary items and fixtures without walking too much. The Asian bathroom design is for those with small homes, yet emphasizes mainly on the bathroom as the centerpiece.

For more bathroom design ideas, visit http://www.bathroomdesignideas101.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anthony_Lee