The way we view bathrooms has changed a great deal in the last twenty years or so. People now want their bath spaces to be a personal sanctuary, not just a utilitarian space. Self care, rejuvenation, and comfort are all drivers for today’s homeowner looking to create a personal sanctuary. And, technology and luxury materials and products have really changed how we can create a space that truly delivers a spa like experience. Some of what we’re seeing homeowners seek out recently are the following:
- The bathroom is now a wellness focused retreat that moves beyond luxury finishes to deliver features that enhance physical and mental well being, including steam showers, infrared saunas, and dry saunas. Soaking tubs are also popular, including the deeper bathing experience offered by the Japanese style soaking tub.
- Seamless indoor/outdoor flow is also popular. Large windows, skylights, and indoor plants all serve to reduce stress and make the space feel closer to nature. Where possible, private patios with soaking tubs and/or outdoor showers are a lovely option as well.
- Architectural statement fixtures are coming on strong – sculptural freestanding vanities, hand crafted sink basins, and floating vanities are all ways to create a bespoke look, especially when enhanced by dramatic natural stone countertops and backsplashes, terrazzo floors, or textured plaster walls.
- Smart technology continues to be a requested feature, and includes voice activated showers, touchless faucets, and smart mirrors with LED lighting and built in displays. Smart systems can remember individual lighting, water temperature preferences, and audio settings- perfect for shared primary suites.
- Wet rooms are another in demand option- these integrated shower/bath spaces offer a wide open, seamless feel, enhanced by linear drains, curbless shower spaces, and large uninterrupted tile layouts that are ideal for both design and accessibility. Wet rooms can include dual showerheads, extra large ceiling mounted rainshower heads, and other choices for a shower that offers multiple water features.
- Lighting has become easier to work with than ever before, and can be manipulated to adjust color temperatures throughout the day. Soft ambient lighting and LED cove lights offer a truly spa like relaxing environment, and undercabinet toe kick lights can be movement sensitive, coming on when they sense someone nearby in the middle of the night- creating a soft nighttime glow without overhead glare, and enhancing night time safety as well. Vanities can be lit to provide the optimal light for grooming and makeup application.
- Other spa level amenities include programmable heated floors and towel racks, ambient fragrance diffusers, built in sound systems, and my personal favorite- refreshment stations that may include coffee stations and mini fridges for storing seltzer, bottled water, or wine.
When it comes to personalizing and enhancing the bathroom, the options have never been more varied! At Case, project developers and designers work with the homeowner to identify what choices are most important to them, how those preferences can be integrated into their project, and how various materials, technologies, and design choices impact the project’s overall budget. Working with an experienced firm and team allows for a renovation experience that will deliver a space that incorporates what is most important to you, and will result in a beautifully designed and truly personal spa like space.
