Bronze A' Design Award Winner 2025
Envision a contemporary bathroom environment occupying a generous space rendered in soft neutral tones, where the wall surfaces read as smooth warm gray plaster catching diffused ambient light from concealed sources that create even illumination without harsh shadows or dramatic directional effects. Anchoring the middle zone of the space, a substantial floating vanity system extends horizontally across roughly two-thirds of the visible width, suspended above pale gray large-format floor tiles that suggest cool stone or porcelain with minimal visible grout lines, creating the impression of continuous surface interrupted only by subtle seams. The vanity itself presents as a sophisticated modular composition alternating between three distinct material treatments that establish visual rhythm and functional differentiation: smooth sage green panels with matte lacquer finish that absorbs light softly, suggesting the cool smoothness of painted wood or high-quality laminate; warm blonde wood surfaces with visible horizontal grain patterns that would feel smooth yet textured under fingertips, suggesting natural oak or ash veneer with satin finish catching light along the grain striations; and charcoal gray panels with similar smooth matte quality to the sage elements but providing deeper tonal weight, like dark slate or charcoal-painted surfaces. These cabinet doors appear handleless, their surfaces uninterrupted except for the thin shadow lines defining panel edges, suggesting they open via push-latch mechanisms requiring gentle pressure rather than visible hardware. The counter surface, in matching pale neutral tone, extends in clean horizontal line, its thickness appearing modest, perhaps two inches, creating a crisp edge profile. Resting atop this counter sit two circular vessel sinks in warm cream ceramic, their smooth rounded forms like shallow bowls inviting touch, positioned symmetrically with generous spacing between them. Rising from the counter beside each sink, slender matte black faucets present narrow cylindrical bodies perhaps an inch in diameter rising straight before curving gently forward in graceful arcs, their dark surfaces absorbing light like smooth metal at room temperature. Behind and above the vanity, two large rectangular mirrors with gently rounded corners occupy prominent wall positions, each measuring perhaps three feet tall by two feet wide, their most distinctive feature being the integrated LED lighting that creates brilliant white glowing perimeters around all four edges, like windows into brighter spaces beyond, their cool white illumination contrasting with the warmer ambient room lighting. These luminous frames cast subtle reflected glow onto the surrounding wall surfaces. To the left of the composition, tall storage panels in matching materials rise from floor toward ceiling, their vertical emphasis counterbalancing the horizontal vanity, with a white terrycloth bathrobe hanging from discrete matte black hooks mounted on the warm gray panel face, its soft textile folds suggesting plush absorbent fabric. Between the two sink stations, the vanity features an open niche finished in the charcoal tone, creating functional storage display area where a cylindrical container and folded textile rest on an interior shelf. A small ceramic vessel holding delicate botanical sprigs, perhaps eucalyptus or similar with small rounded leaves and thin branching stems, introduces organic life between the two sinks, its natural forms contrasting with the geometric precision surrounding it. The overall atmosphere suggests serene morning or evening light, the kind of even diffused illumination found in spaces with concealed cove lighting or large frosted windows admitting abundant indirect daylight, creating a sense of calm spaciousness without harsh contrasts. The floating installation of all elements, with visible shadow gaps beneath the vanity and vertical panels, creates perception of lightness despite the substantial furniture mass, as though the carefully composed elements hover in the space rather than anchoring heavily to architecture. Temperature associations might describe the sage green as cool fresh spring growth, the wood tones as warm honey or sun-warmed oak, the charcoal as cool river stone or evening shadow, the cream ceramic as warm milk or sun-bleached linen, the gray walls as neutral morning fog, and the LED glow as bright midday sky.
Vico is the product of a user centered design approach, capable of adapting to various bathroom sizes thanks to its modular structure. The design process prioritized simplicity, functionality, and material integrity. Scratch and moisture resistant lacquered surfaces, a hygienic acrylic washbasin, and an LED illuminated mirror blend aesthetics with technology. All of Vico's design parameters are shaped by ergonomic considerations and the use of sustainable materials, offering a holistic solution for contemporary bathrooms.