Persimmon Spa and Tokonoma

Urbana, Illinois

The clients, who reside in both Tokyo and Urbana, wanted to bring Japanese amenities to their Midwest home. The primary request was for a deep soaking tub, along with an open area to wash before soaking. Since the space was also used as a Guest Powder Room, a glass wall was installed between the toilet/sink zone, and the shower/bath zone. This keeps the toilet area dry, while also allowing a performative view of the bath space. Mirror and counter extend across the glass divide to expand the visual experience.

Two primary surface materials are deployed throughout. Floor and wet walls are composed of 2” square gray tiles. Walls and ceilings are walnut veneer water-resistant panels. Various lighting components allow for a variety of intensities and combinations. Finally, the original small window was extended down to the deck of the tub and combined with a sliding laminated rice paper screen, allowing a view of the adjacent ornamental tree while also maintaining privacy.

The reconfiguration of walls necessary to enlarge the bath area created an unexpected opportunity in the adjacent entrance foyer. A closet was eliminated and replaced with a Tokonoma, a narrow recess that features seasonal plants and work by the artist Toco Shinoda.