An overview of design products

A look at events, products and people in the world of design.

This article is part of our special Design section on water as a source of creativity.

For ancient Roman baths, a chance to shine again

After a drought period of 1,500 years old, the Baths of Caracalla in Rome have regained all their aquatic splendor. Built in the early 3rd century during the reigns of Emperor Septimius Severus and his son Caracalla, and inaugurated in 216, they welcomed up to 8,000 visitors per day until the source of their water was destroyed by the Visigoths in the 6th century.

The renovation of the 25-acre site is a 10-year project overseen by Daniela Porro, Rome's special superintendent, and Mirella Serlorenzi, the director of the monument. Last month, the completed first phase – the introduction of a 137-foot by 105-foot shallow reflecting pool known as the Water Mirror, designed by architects Hannes Peer and Paolo Bornello – was opened to the public. ="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">In an email, Mr. Peer described being inspired by the Natatio, an Olympic-sized swimming pool located in the former spa complex. The Water Mirror features 20 submerged water jets equipped with reflectors that send out delicate geysers infused with light. A stage that is almost flush with the surface of the pool is intended for theatrical performances, conferences and concerts.

Mr. Peer is also involved in redesigning the monument's entrances, to re-establish its connection with the urban fabric, and adding a botanical garden, dining areas and other amenities. The buildings that surrounded the baths, whose walls, colonnades and large open spaces inspired, among other things, the old Pennsylvania Station, will be restored. “Caracalla,” he said, “is a very complete and complex project.” rome.net/baths-caracalla. — ARLENE HIRST

Add spice to the story

Image Interior design firm McMillen will present a room inspired by the Blair House, the presidential guesthouse across the street from the White House, at the Kips Bay Decorator Show House.Credit...Nickolas Sargent

For their room in this year's Kips Bay Decorator Show House, Ann Pyne, president of interior design firm McMillen, and Elizabeth Pyne Singer, associate of the company (and daughter of Ms. Pyne), took inspiration from Blair House, the presidential guesthouse across the street from the White House. They started with a reproduction of a legendary Chinoiserie wallpaper that was used during a restoration of the Lee living room in 1964.

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