The Renaissance of the Bathroom
12:51 |
By Brenda Jacobsen
Yesterday’s
bathroom is transforming to suit our new lifestyles. Once characterized as a simple
room with a tub, toilet and sink, the new bathroom has transcended function to combine
with boutique-style accents and sustainable features.
While
traditional and classic fixtures such as pedestal sinks and soaker tubs endure,
modern designs with efficient powder-room lighting and custom cabinetry or
vanities in fashionable wood tones provide sophisticated ambiance.
From
practical to an inviting, spa-like feel, bathrooms look and feel different on
the surface. Older homes with excess veneered counter space and a single sink now
showcase dual counter-top vessels for multi-family use on exotic or natural
stone. The once cold-tiled bathroom floors now appear in cork, stone or bamboo,
heated for personal comfort.
The
standard bath has evolved from a simple scrub into a relaxing retreat - with optional
jets to add a therapeutic massage. The single shower nozzle has morphed into a
low-flow shower head attached to an adjustable bar for varying shower heights.
A
plain shower stall with plexiglass panels has become a tiled enclosure
featuring a multi-water-massage system. Hand-held shower controls with several
spray patterns are also available.
Technology
and sustainability has made their way into the bathroom with digital controls
and water saving economy. Once determined only at the shower head, water
pressure can now be managed digitally or remotely.
Decreasing
personal water use has continued to gain importance to lessen impact on natural
resources. Sustainable low- and dual-flush toilets are now common. While older
toilets used between 13 and 20 litres per flush, new low-flush toilets use an
average 4.8 litres, while dual-flush options result in three and six litre
usage.
While bathroom renovation
options today seem limitless, a focus on simplicity, clean lines and
contemporary appeal are trends while brushed nickel and oil rubbed bronze
fixtures are popular choices.
As
bedrooms have also evolved from sleeping quarters to become expansive living
spaces, bathroom ensuites have kept pace to rival the bedroom for square
footage to create a home within a home.
The health and wellness
trend has also impacted the bathroom with some home owners choosing to utilize
additional space to add infrared saunas or incorporate steam rooms as part of their health
regime.
Whether
you are considering a major bathroom remodel or a simple cosmetic touch-up,
it’s important to consider how the features you choose today will affect your
home’s resale value tomorrow.