ofuro

Japanese soaking baths are a type of bath which originated as a short, steep-sided wooden bathtub. Found all over Japan in residences and Japanese inns (ryokans), ofuros are traditionally made from hinoki, a Japanese cedar. Ofuros differ from Western bathtubs in both style and use.   The sides are generally square rather than being sloped, are deeper in the region of 24 inches (60 cm) and have no overflow drain. Ofuro are part of the Japanese ritual of bathing, not meant for washing but rather for relaxing and warmth.  More than one member of the family uses the same bath water and therefore, for the Japanese, it was important to be completely clean before entering the ofuro.  Ofuro are constructed to leak slightly as the cedar expands and contracts with temperature and humidity, even the drains would flow onto the floor. Traditional baths were not sealed in any way so that the cedar wood stains quickly to a dark colour.

While we prize the simplicity of traditional ofuros, we offer a wider range of bespoke designs and materials.  Our creations are sealed with the same proprietary composite finish as our other offerings that guarantee complete waterproofing and a durable finish.  This allows us complete freedom in almost any domestic or exotic woods.  Below are inspirations from around the globe.