For years, the past has served as a source of creative inspiration: whether it is the cyclical nature of trends (both sartorial and decorative), or the ongoing influence of renowned and stylish figures (see Grace Kelly, whose personal style continues to inform fashion trends today). When stuck for interiors inspiration, therefore, a good place to turn is to the past: after all, if an idea from 10, 20 or even 50 years ago still catches your eye today, it has clearly succeeded in being both chic and timeless.
One such example is the late collector Marcella Rossi’s London flat. It was full of beautiful things, that, in 1985, House & Garden had the opportunity to showcase. The original feature demonstrated how the precious pieces had been used to create a layered and sophisticated home on one of London’s prettiest squares. Today, despite being nearly half a century old, its decoration feels as stylish as ever, with one of the most unexpected and inventive rooms being the bathroom. Accessed via a small dressing room, the space is the result of a clever extension after the owners bought the apartment.
The room is lined with mirror-fronted cupboards, which conceal a basin, a dressing table, a telephone and a refrigerator – as well as all manner of organisational paraphernalia and functional objects. ‘I wanted somewhere that would remain rigorously tidy during the day,’ explained Marcella at the time. The door that leads from the bathroom to the dressing room is another lesson in using mirrors to magnificent effect, creating the illusion of infinite space, but blending beautifully with walls covered in a silver herringbone wallpaper.
This is no mere bathroom, but a study and living space too, used at various points throughout the day. The ‘living room’ feeling is enhanced by the carpeted floor – a now rather rare addition to bathrooms but one that we certainly hope to see more of in the future – and the sunken metallic bath, which makes for the bathing equivalent of a 1970s conversation pit. At the other end of the room are silver metallic screens, designed by Sebastian Wakefield, which conceal the bidet and WC, while a lacquered stool, also by Sebastian, adds an arresting jolt of colour.
Lighting is also key. Thanks to the combination of the bay window and the mirrors, the space benefits from plenty of natural light, allowing artificial light to be kept to a minimum (a rarity in bathrooms). An off-centre, Art Deco-inspired pendant light adds a decorative touch, while strategically positioned white spotlights blend into the ceiling and prevent the space from feeling in any way clinical. The past 40 years have seen a number of trends come and go – and bathrooms are no exception – yet spaces like this are proof that a strong and distinctive sense of identity will always be in style.
