KBB - September 2015 - 50

TRENDS

Showering
in Harmony
Therapy, steam and technology align in
today's immersive bathing experience
1.
Ancient Greek Olympians used them after training sessions, and the Romans are famed for using them for cleanliness and social gatherings. The
healthful spa-like baths the ancients enjoyed - known for their health and
relaxation benefits - have arguably reappeared in 21st-century homes.
While the ancient civilizations lacked personal showers, the focus on
their health benefits is back in full force today. According to a study done
by the North American Journal of Medical Sciences, various types of hydrotherapy - often used in a shower or sauna - can improve immunity
and assist in managing and easing pain, fatigue and anxiety.
"One's shower environment is as close as you get to connecting with
design, functionality, efficiencies, relaxation and wellness," said Vittorio
Bergossi, director with MGS. "The bathroom space is probably one of the
most important areas to have built to specific tastes and desires."

A Mountain of Options
Culture today is all about options. Everything from a coffee order to
online shopping to bulk candy selection allows consumers to personalize
(customize) the products they buy, and the shower is no exception.
"Our clients require that their shower experience be adjustable to
meet the demands for each day or even each shower," said designer
Melissa DeLong of Orlando-based Cabinetry Creations."It's been wonderful to see the advancements and discuss the benefits with our clients."
Grohe conducted a study with ceramics maker Villeroy & Boch, along
with Zukunftsinstitut, the Frankfurt-based think tank led by futurist Matthias
Horx, to determine what the bathroom in particular might evolve into by
2034. The overwhelming theme was a type of multi-ID bathroom based
around personalized convenience.
From body sprays to showerheads and adjustable hand showers with
digital temperature readouts, the possibilities are endless. For those concerned with water efficiency, new showerheads can control water shape,
velocity and thermal dynamics to deliver a more efficient spray with 40
percent less water. For the elderly, children or even pets, digital temperature displays signal different water ranges to prevent surprises. For those
looking for a luxurious shower, body sprays can relax and rejuvenate.
"Integrating a variety of spray settings offers additional opportunities to customize the shower experience," said Mike Miller, senior product
manager of the Delta Faucet Company.
Single-function showerheads are the most common in the marketplace
and can range from relatively small spray patterns to the wide patterns
found on rain showers. Each single-function showerhead may feel different
because of the spray pattern, number and size of the spray formers.
"Another big trend is a shower with a showerhead and hand shower combination," said Mike Reffner, senior manager for bath in the

K+BB

1. Designed by Davide Oppizzi for GRAFF,
the Ametis Shower Ring contains six-color,
full-spectrum chromotherapy with LED
lighting, inducing experiences like healing, optimism, serenity and joy. Circle No.
211 or visit kbbonline.com/freeinfo
4.
2. Using Smart Water technology, Dornbracht
introduces a new technology that better controls water temperature
and water. In the shower, each user can select his/her name on the
personalized settings or choose from various preprogrammed scenarios for the exact temperature and experience desired. Circle No.
212 or visit kbbonline.com/freeinfo
3. ESSIO turns the shower into a spa-like experience using 100 percent organic essential oils. This aromatherapy diffuser pod attaches
easily to the back of the showerhead and slowly releases a blend of
oils into the water. Pods instantly create an aroma once tilted into the
water stream. Starter kits are available for $44.99. Circle No. 213 or
visit kbbonline.com/freeinfo
4. The MicroTouch controller from ThermaSol works in the same
manner as a smartphone or tablet with the touch of a finger. Using
capacitive touch technology, users can control their steam shower
experience, including on/off, temperature or to recall their last steam
setting. Circle No. 214 or visit kbbonline.com/freeinfo

September 2015 / www.kbbonline.com / The Official Sponsor of KBIS www.kbis.com

http://www.kbbonline.com/freeinfo http://www.kbbonline.com/freeinfo http://www.kbbonline.com/freeinfo http://www.kbbonline.com/freeinfo http://www.kbbonline.com http://www.kbis.com

KBB - September 2015

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of KBB - September 2015