"The Cast Iron Bath Revival" - Part 2

As Featured in February 2016 Issue of Architects Data File:

Last time we spoke about the virtues of cast iron baths and some of the properties.
Here we continue to explore what makes cast iron so unique:

Compared to acrylic and plastic baths, cast iron is incredibly damage resistant. Indeed we firmly believe that it would take a concerted and determined effort to chip or mark cast iron, let alone break or permanently alter or damage the integrity of a cast iron bath.

A quick search for (sacrilegious) videos online, will throw up a few removal videos and they perfectly show how much effort is required to break a cast iron tub, and, what’s more, that’s with large sledge hammers, determination and brute force! Certainly not for the faint hearted!

The damage resistance means also means the bath will appear newer for longer instead of being susceptible to looking tired or in need of a repair or a facelift. How many times have you seen certain products that despite relative structural integrity and longevity, develop a beaten up or worn-out appearance that weakens the entire aesthetic or overall effect?

Thirdly, the maintenance of a cast iron bath is relatively minimal, a quick wipe with a damp cloth followed by a dry cloth is all that is required to prevent the build-up of mineral deposits, or to remove any soap/bathing product residue, that’s it, and this is usually all that is required after use.

Finally, the thermal dynamic properties or heating aspects of a cast iron bath serve to reinforce the aforementioned positive points.
Certainly the case with newer ‘repro’ baths, the use of better production methods and smarter casting technology have resulted in higher grade material, greater efficiency, better reliability and a higher level of insulation than that found in other types of baths.
A cast iron bath retains the heat for longer than non-metal alternatives, therefore producing a ‘hotter-for-longer’ bathing experience and in the midst of winter you can’t wish for anything better than a hot tub to soak in for hours and hours.

In Conclusion…

A Cast Iron bath is more than a product, it’s a design icon, it’s historic, it’s versatile, it’s pragmatic and economical and, what’s probably its crowning glory, it’s a sound investment. 

"The Cast Iron Bath Revival" - Part 1

As Featured in February 2016 Issue of Architects Data File:

“What comes around, goes around”

Well, that’s certainly the case with cast iron baths, as ever increased demand pushes the market to a second coming, and those at its heart continue to enjoy a cast iron renaissance. 

But why cast iron baths? 

Why choose cast iron over the modern-day alternatives such as acrylic or even plastics?
What makes cast iron baths so special?

Of course there is more than one simple answer, there are quite a few reasons and by knowing the differences between cast iron and its alternatives may well establish why some people and companies won’t accept any imitations and take a great deal of pride in cast iron baths.

When it comes to the bathroom nothing beats the heritage and charm of a Cast Iron Bath.
It’s hard to replicate the authentic bathing experience that comes from using a free-standing bath made from genuine cast iron and lined with true vitreous enamel.

So what makes that so?

Firstly, cast iron is a solid and very hardy material, made in a time-honoured and labour intensive process - it’s this very attribute and hard wearing nature that leads it to be significantly longer lasting than acrylic or plastic counterparts.

It wouldn’t be uncommon for a cast iron bath to outlast several generations! I’m sure you’ve seen the odd very old cast iron bath being used in fields for animal feed/water troughs- whilst we think this is quite sad in many respects, it also serves to demonstrate their incredible longevity. If the good old British weather takes years and years to render one pretty much useless, imagine how long one would last if it’s looked after and cared for?

Check our Part 2 soon, or in Februrary's edition of ADF. 

Hurlingham The Bath Company at Decorex, Syon Park, London –20th-23rd September 2015

We are extremely excited to announce that we are to exhibit at Decorex International 2015 show in the beautiful setting of Syon Park, London in September.
Our superb collection of free-standing baths continues to expand and we are always striving to constantly explore new designs/influences and thrilling, timeless craftsmanship.

Made from authentic materials such as Cast Iron, Copper, Brass and Marble, Hurlingham ensure not only the highest quality products but also offer a completely bespoke tailoring option; from a selection of over 4000 paint colours (and ever expanding), a choice of fabric or genuine leather, Houlés braiding, real or faux metal leaf gilding, the use of cast iron appliqués and even our special 3-day intensive hand polishing finish.

All our cast iron baths are finished with genuine vitreous enamel, a highly resistant material with outstanding durability and toughness.

Some highlights of the latest additions to the Hurlingham range include:

Acanthus Leaf - Showing off both bold design and highly skilled craftsmanship, the Acanthus styled feet have been intricately cast from iron and thereon either attentively hand polished or painted depending on preference – the polishing technique takes place over a period of three days, and achieves a deep and unique lustre.

A variation on our Mon Empire bath it can of course be customised in any way, shape or form that you desire.

Mon Empire - A doth of the cap to the iconic 19^th Century French ‘Empire’ bath  - the first mass produced bath from the historic City of Lyon.
A high sided bath, it lends itself to deep relaxation, its design is typical of cast iron baths and can be made and designed with various appliques, painted or polished however desired. The fleur-de-lys feet further enhance the French feel.

Simba - The grand and impressive Simba is expertly hewn and shaped from one block of superb white marble and commands an imposing presence.
A large featured bath, the focal point of which is a bold and fierce hand carved Lion’s head on both sides.
A contender for the King of all baths!

Copper Contempo - Another superb addition to our copper bath range! The Contempo features a more modern design and almost minimalist style to the bath that allows for the natural beauty of the materials to take centre stage.
A full roll-top or ‘tube roll’ and a hidden plinth further adds to the modernistic feel.
We also have a single ended model in an ultra-cutting edge look.
Available in Copper or Brass.

The Montpellier - A unique cast iron bath that utilises a wooden roll top to create a warming character to the bath. With an elegant shape the bath can be painted in any colour and the wooden roll can also be stained or painted in wide variety of colours.
A brighter paint would produce a more contemporary feel!

La Petite – Good things come in small packages! We certainly think so with the La Petite, the cutest bath in our entire range.
Here at Hurlingham we believe little ones need pampering too and with our dainty child-sized cast iron bath they can do so in some style!
We thoroughly encourage you to get in touch with your inner child to decorate this bath, the limit really is your imagination. Don’t forget it can be redecorated at any time too.

Washbasins - We will also be exhibiting our very latest product range: Washbasins. With their classic styling and excellent craftsmanship that proved to be so popular at the May Design Series, the cast iron and copper basins and wash stands signal a new venture for Hurlingham as we continue to make efforts to change the landscape of bathrooms up and down the country.

We have many more baths and shower trays that we are considering taking to the show, so please do stay on the lookout for any more news of the exhibition.

Bathing and its Health Benefits

Thanks to busy modern lifestyles, a quick shower is often favoured over a long soak in the bath, but baths can do wonders for your health, not to mention they can help you relax and de-stress after a busy day or week.

Did you know that certain bathing ingredients can support internal cleansing and overall health? Some of these include:

Baking Soda – Adding baking soda to your bath can be beneficial for those suffering from swollen glands, sore throats or soreness of the gums & mouth.

dissolve 4 cups of aluminium-free baking soda in a bath as hot as you can stand it, and stay in the bath until the water has cooled.

Epsom Salts – A bath with Epsom Salts can be beneficial to heart & circulatory health, can lower blood pressure, ease muscle pain, and eliminate harmful substances from the body.

To get the health benefits from this detox bath, dissolve 2 cups of Epsom Salts in a comfortably warm bath, and stay in for at least 12 minutes.

                                                       

        

Sea Salt & Baking Soda – This detox bath is great if you travel a lot, as it is therapeutic for exposure to radiation, x-rays, aeroplane flights and airport screenings.

Before soaking away in a sea salt & baking soda bath, do be aware that it will make you sleepy – so it is best to have this bath at night time before bed.

Apple Cider Vinegar – Adding Apple Cider Vinegar to your bath is a great overall detoxer, and is perfect for aches and pains!

Add 2 cups of pure apple cider vinegar to a bath as hot as you can handle it and stay in the bath until the water has cooled.

Essential Oils - with just a few drops of favourite essential oils you can transform your bath time in to a haven of relaxation and spa like tranquillity.

With a little experimentation and a little research you can find out the perfect oil or combination of oils that will help what might be ailing you on a particular day.
Don’t reach for the painkillers next time a bath might be just the tonic to perk you up when you’re feeling ill or down.