A place to bathe... in a Hamam

Fountains

Public drinking fountains like this are often found at plazas or central intersections within an Islamic "medina", which is the old market or city center.  Often standing low to the ground they are accessible by children and are an ideal bathing element for wheelchair users.

A place to bathe... with buckets

Much of the world bathes with a bucket.  This process is quite enjoyable and uses minimal water.  Take note of the dipping cup in this photo.  The dipping cup is key.

A place to bathe... with spirituality

Islamic ablutions are ritualistic acts of cleansing before prayer.  This is a diagram of the steps taken to wash one's orifices and appendages with water.

A place to bathe... with room to breathe

Hot arid climates rely on courtyards for cooling air circulation and natural light.  I choose these images because they highlight the key elements of a Riad courtyard: the fountain, citrus trees, tile work and seating areas.  Minimal water not only acts as a humidifier, but also brings an auditory element to the cooling effect with trickling fountains (which are also necessary for mosquito prevention).  The citrus trees add color and aroma while lowering the temperature.  The central courtyard allows for affective circulation/wayfinding and is also an ideal place to relax and sip mint tea.

A place to bathe... in a Hamam

This traditional Turkish Hamam has been interpreted by many different Muslim cultures.  The key element that remains throughout the Hamam's incarnations is the "Sicaklik" or hot room.  Here, a slab sits at the center where a vigorous exfoliating massage takes place.  Beurre de Karite (shea butter), ground apricot pits, Neem extract, rose oil and cardamom are just a few of the homeopathic ingredients used during the massage process.

A place to bathe... with plants

16" is the recommended height for a raised bed for wheelchair bound gardeners.  2' width is ideal for weeding, harvesting and watering.

A place to bathe... with non-slip flooring

This grooved non-slip concrete flooring is traditionally used in cattle yards.

A place to bathe... with skylights

This "Crystal 73" glass (available through AGC Glass) effectively blends light down to the work area.

A place to bathe... with mosaic surfacing

Zellij mosaic tile work comes from the Moorish tradition of Islamic geometry.

A place to bathe...

Here are some representations of traditional places for communal bathing, which span from the Roman bath house to the Russian "Banya".