A bathroom (sometimes called a washroom, lavatory, bathroom or urinaloire) is typically where we go for complete personal hygiene functions. This includes usage of the bathroom, cleaning the genital area, washing their hands or brushing their teeth. In some parts of the US, the room may also include a sink, often referred to a “wash sink,” urinal/toiletry cabinet, hair basin or “touch basin,” and sometimes a toilet. Although bathrooms are designed primarily for hygienic purposes, many also serve as recreational centers and are great rooms to hang out in after a tiring day. This article briefly covers the history of the bathroom, the various kinds of fittings and fixtures that can be found inside and some of the best ideas for decorating your own.
The ancient world was obsessed with water and bathing. One method that was popular in the ancient world was the floor tile method where a layer of soil was laid over the sub-floor then slotted in front of a waterproofed “shower” or “bath” built into the front of the tile. This shower or bath would then trap all the water used in bathing. This was only practical for small houses with no central heating and drainage system and so the majority of ancient civilizations preferred to use such lavish facilities in their homes. Modern day toilets and showers differ in scale from this original concept however and modern bathrooms have become a place to relax and escape the stresses of daily life.
Showers and baths are a relatively recent innovation in the bathroom. Bathtubs first replaced the older practise of “baths.” A hole was cut into the floor of the bathroom and a hole was then patched onto the wall. A hole was then inserted into the wall above the bath, which then acted as the drain for the water that came from the bath. A door was then placed on the hole to allow the water to flow out of the bathroom. The door is typically made of glass to prevent splashes and leaks.
The word “baths,” in British English, has an additional meaning. In the Old English language, it meant a pit or brook. In more modern times, it is considered an enclosure for a water source. In modern British English, a bathroom often incorporates features of both a bathtub and a toilet. Such a bathroom may be fitted with taps, handrails, shower curtains, and even a bidet.
The bathroom of today is considered to be the primary room of the home, which is why such a spacious bathroom is required. Most people try to fit as many things into a small bathroom as possible. With today’s technological advancements, the creation of the modern bathroom is a closely guarded secret. Few manufacturers are allowed to create the modern bathroom, because it involves many complicated engineering processes.
One of the most popular features of a bathroom today is the bath or toilet. Most people prefer a rather large size, which helps to define the space that can be used for other fixtures, such as the sink and mirror. A lot of designs of both a toilet and a bath incorporate the common word “el” in their names, indicating the distance between them. Some examples of “el” names include the elfa, elbe, and the elka.