A Second Look at Japanese Soaking Tubs

For centuries, the Japanese have enjoyed a relaxing ritual of steaming in neck-high water at the end of each day. Like other aspects of Japanese design, this simple yet harmonious custom has become popular the world over, as extra-deep soaking tubs are incorporated into modern bathrooms and backyards. Here's how it's done. Slideshow

More than just a clever cover, the ipe wood shell of Mark Erman's San Francisco backyard spa, thanks to its 40-foot tracks, niftily navigates the rocky straights between spa shelter, dapper deck, and bespoke buffet table. Photo by Jeremy Harris.