The evolution of the architectural Ohtake basin from Roca

The Ohtake basins, designed by the late architect Ruy Ohtake, are a cornerstone of the Roca Group’s portfolio. But how is the Ohtake design evolving?

Double Ohtake basins in outdoor bathroom area, greenery surrounds

Ruy Ohtake, one of Brazil’s most prolific and visionary architects, was renowned for his ability to blend art with functionality. His signature approach, marked by sweeping curves and organic shapes, is evident throughout his architectural and design work.

It is these principles are beautifully embodied in the award-winning Ohtake basins from Roca, which capture the essence of fluidity, movement, and nature’s effortless elegance. 

A modern minimalist bathroom with a black sculptural sink, a black faucet, and concrete walls. A large round yellow mirror hangs above the sink, accompanied by a small black wall-mounted soap dispenser and toothbrush holder. To the left, a black square artwork with a yellow abstract shape is mounted on the wall. The countertop features a ceramic dish with smooth stones and a white plate holding a natural sponge and soap. The space has a raw, industrial aesthetic with a neutral color palette accented by bold black and yellow elements.

Image credit: Roca

Ohtake was deeply inspired by the natural world, often drawing from the smooth contours of pebbles shaped by water, the undulating forms of ocean waves, and the graceful curvature of rolling landscapes. His philosophy revolved around breaking away from conventional geometric forms, embracing instead the unexpected and the daring.

The desire to surprise and challenge traditional aesthetics is at the heart of the Ohtake collection. The basins’ fluid, organic curves create a sense of movement, transforming them from mere bathroom fixtures into statement pieces that elevate any space they inhabit.

Since their launch, the Ohtake basins from Roca have been celebrated not only for their visual appeal but also for their ability to balance artistry with practicality. The collection continues to evolve, demonstrating Roca’s commitment to innovation and excellence.

Recent additions include a striking new countertop basin design and a sophisticated Matt Black finish, both of which serve as a tribute to Ohtake’s pioneering vision. Released two years after his passing, these new iterations honour his legacy by maintaining the essence of his design ethos while introducing fresh elements that keep the range contemporary and relevant. 

The new countertop basin reinterprets the original design by inverting its shape, resulting in a sculptural form that is carved into a square surround. This innovative approach introduces a structural contrast that enhances the fluidity of the basin while making a bold statement.

The juxtaposition of organic curves against a defined, architectural frame reinforces the balance between softness and strength — an interplay that was central to Ohtake’s work. This new adaptation seamlessly integrates into modern bathroom designs, offering a distinctive focal point that exudes sophistication and originality. 

A contemporary bathroom set up with blue walls and an organically shaped mirror above dual white sculptural sinks. A white floating toilet sits against a stone wall.

Image credit: Roca

Complementing this fresh take on the Ohtake collection is the addition of the Matt Black finish. This new colourway extends the existing palette, which already includes Gloss White, Matt White, Pearl, Beige, Coffee, and Onyx.

The deep, velvety texture of Matt Black lends a contemporary edge to the range, making it particularly suited to modern and minimalist interiors. The bold, dramatic finish enhances the sculptural quality of the basins, allowing their curves to stand out even more strikingly. Whether set against light or dark backdrops, the Matt Black finish introduces a sense of depth and refinement that enhances any bathroom space. 

The Ohtake collection’s continuous evolution reflects Roca’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of bathroom design while paying homage to one of Brazil’s most celebrated architects. Each new addition reaffirms the brand’s commitment to merging functionality with high-end design.

By transforming everyday bathroom elements into pieces of art, the collection ensures that Ruy Ohtake’s groundbreaking vision lives on, allowing his influence to shape contemporary interiors for generations to come. 

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Main image credit: Roca