Building Buzz

PAMPERING TREND OF BATHROOMS STAYS STRONG

Kohler sheds light on the move to bigger showers with lots of technology.

The focus on the bathroom as a personal retreat is showing no signs of slowing, suggests Wolseley Canada, a market leader in the wholesale distribution of plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, waterworks, fire protection, pipes, valves, fittings and industrial products.

“If there is any room in the house that should have a touch of luxury, it is the bathroom,” says Harry Kandilas, Director of Showrooms with Wolseley Canada. “As we shift our perspective of the bathroom and its role in the home, we are seeing more advanced accessories, more technology and more bold design ideas make their way into both renovations and new builds.”

Wolseley identifies the following bathroom trends this year:

BOLD COLOURS

More than just the colour of the paint on the wall, this includes bold tiles that bring new life to showers, backsplashes, floors and even the bathroom fixtures. Kohler is re-introducing two heritage colours, to help mark its 150th anniversary. Later this year, expect to see sinks, toilets and other elements in Spring Green (an original shade from Kohler’s introduction of colour in 1927) and the 1930s-era Peachblow.

BIG SHOWERS

In the 2020s, tubs are coming out in favour of spacious walk-in showers. Shower panels give these a spa-like feel. They often incorporate rainfall showerheads or multiple showerheads to add an element of romance to the shower.

MIX-AND-MATCH DESIGN

Matte black faucets with gold or chrome accents (or vice-versa) are showing well for this year. The mixing of hues on faucets adds a unique and stylish element to the sink area or in the shower.

TOUCHLESS

Touchless faucets remove what was once a common touchpoint where germs could be spread, combining innovative infrared technology with a futuristic look.

TECHNOLOGY

Some elements of the tech boom include: intelligent toilets that incorporate heated seats, touchless flushing and lid-opening, bidet functionality and night lights.

COMFORT

Modern bathrooms are re-creating the spa experience, with massaging hand showers, body sprays and steam systems.

SUSTAINABILITY

Look for faucets and showerheads that don’t compromise quality and water flow while still minimizing the water you use during your daily routines.