Transforming Bathroom Spaces through Light and Shadow

For a long time, the people of Japan have found subtle beauty in the design of natural light and shadows. Even today, in an increasingly illuminated world, architects integrate them into their designs, imparting a sense of serenity and rejuvenation. Informed by this traditional concept, LIXIL Group Corporation (“LIXIL”), maker of pioneering water and housing products, announced today it will unveil new bathroom designs by its brand INAX at Milan Design Week 2020. INAX’s exhibition, to be held in the heart of Milan, will showcase products ranging from innovative shower toilets to textured tiles, as well as bathroom arrangements celebrating both light and shadow. “In a single and undisturbed moment, as we move from light to shadow, we transcend an unseen boundary that takes us to a place of deep tranquility, changing how we feel. As we shift back to the light, we return to a place of clarity and energy,” says Yasuhiro Shirai, Vice President of Design for LIXIL Water Technology Japan. “This concept has influenced the Japanese for centuries- it is a source of Japanese aesthetics, reflected in its architecture and culture. INAX is proud to present its interpretation of light and shadow in bathroom spaces, conceptualizing this physical and emotional transition. We invite people from around the world to experience a deeper level of relaxation and vitality that helps transform everyday life,” says Shirai.   Embodying Japan’s Rituals of Water INAX manufactures innovative bathroom products and artistic tiles. Originating from Tokoname, famed for its pottery heritage, it draws on a 100-year legacy of shaping the designs and products found in Japanese bathrooms – including the first shower toilet manufactured in Japan. Its bathroom spaces are designed to transform everyday life by embodying the close connection the people of Japan share with water – what it calls “the rituals of water”. Even in today’s modern age, this is a relationship that goes beyond the use of water in everyday life: water is seen to purify, heal and recharge both body and mind. Similar to bathing in Japan’s hot springs, known as onsen, INAX’s baths are designed to help a person completely relax and rejuvenate. Much like the ritual of taki-gyo, in which a person purifies their mind and soul by meditating under a waterfall, INAX’s rainfall shower is designed to replicate the effect. INAX will now visualize how the traditional Japanese concept of light and shadow can be applied to water, helping to relax and re-invigorate. After announcing its global expansion at Milan Design Week 2019, INAX launched its latest collections in China and Vietnam. Strengthening its global foothold, INAX returns to Milan with plans to expand to other Asia Pacific countries and regions of the world in the future.