Modern bathroom setting showcasing sculptural elegance with sleek fixtures made from recycled plastics.

Sculptural Elegance Meets Sustainability: Roca’s Stonex Collection Transforms Recycled Plastics

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Written by Sam Johnson

2026-08-12

The plastic bottles in your recycling bin might just find their way into your bathroom in a glamorous new form, embodying artistic sophistication. Roca’s Stonex material, crafted from recycled PET resin, features prominently in the expanded Ohtake collection. This innovative line, hailed for its design-forward approach, includes a compact bathtub inspired by Japanese Ofuro soaking culture. Stonex not only provides warmth to the touch but is also resistant to discoloration and wear, ensuring a lasting pristine look. From humble beginnings in recycling bins to receiving accolades like the Red Dot award, the journey is impressive.

Rodrigo Ohtake’s Legacy of Sculptural Elegance

Rodrigo Ohtake, son of the renowned Brazilian architect Ruy Ohtake, designed this collection’s expansion with Roca. His contributions feature two distinct basins, both derived from hand-sculpted clay models. These basins, resembling calla lilies, veer away from traditional geometric designs, offering a more organic look with graceful design. Accompanying the bathtub, soy resin accessories like a side shelf and an adaptable entry step/stool emphasize sustainability. Rodrigo’s approach harmonizes material choice and aesthetics, crafting an environment where these decisions meld seamlessly.

Close-up of a textured, white sink crafted with sustainable materials.

Diverse Design Options and Rich Finishes

While inspired by similar botanical elements, the basins introduce unique interpretations. One basin serves as a shallow, elongated vessel with an elegant, curved form reminiscent of a leaf in motion, showcasing artistic refinement. The second is deeper, offering a bolder, rounded design. Both basins, though rooted in clay artistry, are available in a wide palette far beyond basic whites. They feature finishes in matt black, onyx, coffee, beige, and an exclusive terracotta, which is primarily available in Brazil or upon request.

Stylish bathtub set against a backdrop of subtle, contemporary tiles.

The Ofuro-Inspired Bathtub

The Stonex bathtub captures the essence of traditional Ofuro baths with compact, steep sides designed for upright soaking and exceptional style. Integrated seating enhances the cocooning effect, prioritizing immersion over mere rinsing. Standard soy resin accompaniments such as a step and shelf complete the bathing ritual setup. Notably, Stonex retains heat upon contact, an understated yet crucial benefit for an enjoyable soaking experience.

Minimalist bathroom design featuring an eco-friendly vanity and soft lighting.

A Legacy of Design Innovation

Following the passing of Ruy Ohtake in 2021, Rodrigo seamlessly continued the legacy, merging practices into the OHTAKE studio in 2022. Ruy’s notable contributions include over 420 projects, grounded in organic forms and inspired by nature. Meanwhile, the influence of Rodrigo’s grandmother, Japanese-Brazilian abstract artist Tomie Ohtake, adds depth to the family’s design ethos. This blend of Japanese heritage with Brazilian modernism and sustainable design principles enriches the collection, aligning with Rodrigo’s future-focused vision and artistic charm.

This blend of Japanese heritage with Brazilian modernism and sustainable design principles enriches the collection. Explore how installations at beaches also merge art and design effectively.

Ruy’s notable contributions include over 420 projects, grounded in organic forms and inspired by nature. Discover how canvas painting is currently trending, offering new insights into artistic and design trends.

Detailed view of a shower area with modern, sustainable materials.

Available globally through Roca, the collection is recognized with prestigious awards like iF Design and Red Dot. Every piece conveys refined elegance, transcending its recycled origins and familial inspirations to stand as timeless examples of sculptural beauty and design excellence.

Source: yankodesign.com

Frequently asked questions

What material is the Stonex collection made from?

The Stonex collection is crafted from recycled PET resin.

Who designed the expanded Ohtake collection for Roca?

Rodrigo Ohtake, son of renowned Brazilian architect Ruy Ohtake, designed the collection’s expansion with Roca.

What is special about the Ofuro-inspired bathtub?

The Stonex bathtub captures the essence of traditional Ofuro baths with compact, steep sides designed for upright soaking and retains heat upon contact, enhancing the soaking experience.