Luxury Housing Trends

January 20, 2006

Walk-in Bathtub with a Door

What, your bathtub doesn't have a door? Boy, are you missing out. This bathtub from Accessible Environments is designed for folks with mobility issues, so if you've got a senior living in your home (or you're planning ahead for your own retirement years), maybe it's something to look into. With such options as whirlpool jets, decorative colors, and a waterfall filler, there's no need for luxury to take a step back if you go with a walk-in tub. The 854 model shown here starts at $3,850.

http://www.acessinc.com
via Smart Senior

January 18, 2006

Bathroom Lighting Tips

If you're renovating your bathroom, it's important to remember lighting. Tips:

• A single source of light probably isn't enough to perform all your lighting needs. Instead, try layers of ambient, task, decorative, and accent lighting.
  
• Use lighting to highlight the face at the mirror. "Fixtures placed 30 to 36" apart on the vertical plane provide even illumination and minimize shadows"
  
• Skin tones look best under warm light, so try incandescent or fluorescent fixtures with color temperatures of 3500K or less.
  
• Consider dimming lights (Lights that slowly fade to ON are helpful for nighttime visits.)
  
• When considering decorative fixtures, avoid clear glass (produces glare) and colored glass (changes the color of the light reflecting on your face). Instead, try translucent lenses.
  

January 14, 2006

Hot Tubs, Whirlpool Tubs, & Air Jet Tubs--What's the Difference?

Shopping for a new bathtub? Trying to figure out whether you want a whirlpool tub or an air jet tub? Or maybe you're thinking of installing an indoor hot tub for true relaxation. All of these tubs are designed to massage your muscles, so what's the difference? Here's a quick look:

Hot tubs circulate existing water rather than pumping in new (you need to add chemicals to keep the water sanitized, but you don't need to waste a lot of water filling the tub every time you want to use it), and really aren't for bathing. (Adding soaps and fragrances can mess up the chemical balance.)

Whirlpool tubs are luxury bathtubs that pump a combination of air and water through a series of integrated jets. These tubs require access to pumps and pipes for maintenance in the form of cleaning, because mildew can colonize the standing water left in the plumbing.

Air jet tubs pump warm air into the tub, but they don't circulate water through the pipes, so there aren't any issues with standing water in the plumbing and therefore no need for additional plumbing access.

Source: Idea Wise: Bathrooms

January 13, 2006

"Wild" Stone Tiles

Tired of tame bathroom tiles? Ann Sacks' Selvaggio (Italian for wild) tiles will leave an impression on your guests. They're sturdy enough to be installed on the walls or the floors. Available in three colors, the Selvaggio tiles can be used as field tile or cut into borders and drops. The 12" x 12" field-size tiles are priced at $96.50 per square foot.

http://www.annsacks.com

January 06, 2006

Sorrento Sit Bathtub for Deep Soaking

The freestanding Sorrento Sit Tub is reminiscent of Japanese soaking tubs where, instead of lying down, you sit with water immersing your whole body. The bathtub is big enough for two, with a bench seat feature that allows for side-by-side bathing. Since it's designed for sitting, the tub takes up a smaller footprint than a traditional lie-down tub. It's three installation options (fully freestanding, sunken half way into low-level built-up decking, or as a drop-in with decking to the rim) let you place it as you wish.

http://www.vandabaths.com

January 05, 2006

Swash, High-Tech Toilet Seat

You're not still sitting on a 20th century toilet seat, are you? There are fun, new alternatives for your bum. The folks over at Brondell have come up with the Swash, a "high-tech toilet seat" for the "luxury bath." It has the following features: heated seat, separate warm-water wash for him and her (with temperature, pressure, and pulsation adjustability), warm-air dryer, and gentle-close lid. The Swash is designed to install on your existing toilet. There are two models, with prices starting at $469.

http://www.brondell.com/

January 02, 2006

Glass Tiles That Look Like Cobblestones

If you're looking for a decorative accent to break up the monotony of your bathroom tiles, check out the Cobblestone series from Hakatai. The hand-crafted glass tiles are made to look like wet and dry river rocks in a streambed. They can be used in bathrooms or pool and spas areas. Because they come as tiles, they are easier to install than true river rocks. A mesh backing makes them easy to work with, and the tiles are designed to present a seamless look when fitted together. The Cobblestone series comes in four options: tumbled white, polished grey, polished white, and tumbled grey. The price is $24 per square foot or $21.60 per sheet.

http://www.hakatai.com

December 29, 2005

Fuzion Whirlpool Bathtub from Jacuzzi

Jacuzzi's Fuzion bathtub is a one-person, acrylic whirlpool tub that is trimmed with a natural wood (choice of Teak or Wengé) rim on top. The tub has fourteen massaging jets, including four for the back. It comes with a backrest that has an integrated pillow. The tub also has a rapid-heat heater (no more cold bath water), overflow edge, and "illumatherapy lighting." The whirlpool measures 72" long, 36" wide, and 22.75" high, and the price is $4,500.

http://www.jacuzzi.com/

December 17, 2005

Gravity Glas Above-the-Counter Bathroom Sink

You're not still leaving toothpaste stains on the boring porcelain sink that came with your house are you? Well, if you've got a bathroom remodel in mind, look into the glass products put out by Gravity Glas. The company has some snazzy sinks and pedestals like the Mediterranean Basin shown here. This above-the-counter sink is made from 3/4" glass that is thick enough to stand up to normal bathroom wear and tear. It can be installed on any number of pedestals (it's shown with the matching Mediterranean Leg in the picture).

The price for the 18" basin is $1756, and it's available online via Home Click:
Gravity Glas Mediterranean Basin

December 10, 2005

Ofuro Concrete Bathtub

The 70 gallon Ofuro soaking tub is the smallest in Sonoma Stone's line of concrete bathtubs (I can only wonder how you get the big ones into the bathroom without taking out a wall). The tub is made with NuCrete, a stain-proof concrete surface and is available in 40 colors. In the precast tub, a rim drain replaces a more traditional drain assembly for a unique look that leaves no visible hardware. As an option, you can get integral heating coils to keep the water in the tub warm long after you've turned off the tap.

http://www.sonomastone.com

December 06, 2005

Waterbridge Hand-forged Faucet

You can spend thousands of dollars remodeling the bathroom, but if you pick drab fixtures, it's not going to snap. For a unique look, check out Sonoma Forge. They offer hand-forged faucets, shower fixtures, and related hardware made from metals such as rustic copper and nickel. Despite the heavy-sounding material, their faucets are intricate and elegant, serving to create an interesting focal point in the bathroom.

http://www.sonomaforge.com

December 03, 2005

Glass Pedestal Sink from Vitraform

The Pullman Pedestal Sink from Vitraform is made from Laminated Starphire glass with a translucent finish that gives it a unique look for the bathroom. According to the company, the manufacturing process ensures strength, consistency, and reliability. The pedestal stand and sink are available in 12 colors--the polished bronze is shown here. For information on purchasing and price, visit their web site at: http://www.vitraform.com/

November 30, 2005

Wooden Bathroom Sinks

Adagio Inc. puts out some nice vessels sinks carved from stone (like this blue marble bathroom sink we took a look at a couple weeks ago), but their wooden sinks are handsome too. Their model WD-105 (you'd think such elegant sinks would deserve more creative names) caught my eye because, unlike the rest in the line, it was asymmetrical. Now, we tend to appreciate symmetry, but sometimes it's fun to throw out convention and do something unique. Maybe you could pair it with this twisting tree trunk pedestal (also from Adagio):

http://www.adagiosinks.com/

November 27, 2005

Hand-painted Bathroom Sinks

If you're remodeling the bathroom, one thing that can make a memorable focal point is the sink. Instead of buying some plain white ceramic one from the local home improvement store, don't be afraid to shop around and find something that reflects your personality. Granted, the "Sunflower Sink" isn't gender-neutral enough for many, but if you have a country decorating style evolving in the bathroom, it could work. And of course, the company who makes this sink, Painted Fire Garden, has others to select from; they specialize in hand-painted sinks and ceramic art. Their bathroom sinks run about $650.

http://www.paintedfiregarden.com

November 23, 2005

Jacuzzi Water Rainbow Faucet

Looking for an exotic faucet for your bathtub? The Jacuzzi Water Rainbow might not go so well if you're still sporting that pink porcelain tub from the 60s, but if you're upgrading to a snazzy new bathtub and want some eye-fetching hardware, this piece certainly has a distinctive look. Available in polished brass, chrome, and other finishes, the Water Rainbow faucet is 9 inches long, 4.5 inches wide, and 1.5 inches high. According to the folks at Jacuzzi it is a "welcome addition that brings the peaceful melody of falling water to your bathroom-- stylishly--day after day." At the very least, it doesn't have any jagged edges for your to bump your elbow on when you're bathing the kids. The price is around $300.

http://jacuzzi.com/products/faucetsfittings/

November 15, 2005

Marble Bathroom Sinks

Looking to do something a little exotic during your next bathroom remodel? Vessel sinks are in style, and Adagio has a number of unique stone models to choose from. One gleaming example is this blue marble sink. Sure to be a decorative focal point in any bathroom, the sinks are also available in black marble, royal green, and sky green. I wonder if the natural veins in the marble hide the kids' toothpaste stains?

http://www.adagiosinks.com

November 09, 2005

Towels with Microban

Microban (antimicrobial protection built into products during manufacturing) is popping up in lots of household items, everything from kitchen countertops to the grout you use to seal your bathroom tiles. Now it's making an appearance in bath towels. The Grand Patrician "high-end luxury towel" stays fresher longer, according to the manufacturer. This doesn't mean you don't ever have to wash them, but you shouldn't need to run them through the laundry so often, as the towels won't pick up that musty mildewy smell once they've gotten damp the first time. Available from Amazon.com, the towels cost about $30 a piece:

Grand Patrician Microban Towels

November 08, 2005

Kohler Hatbox Toilet for Small Bathrooms

If you prefer a minimalist bathroom or you have a small space and need to make the most of your room, Kohler offers the Purist Hatbox toilet, one of this year's additions to its ultra-contemporary Purist suite of bath fixtures. The tankless toilet has a compact, elliptical design. The 0.2-horsepower electric pump is fully enclosed within the bowl and offers a 1.6 gallon flush. According to the company, the toilet's chair-height (17-inch) seating makes it easily accessible, and the "Quiet Close" seat lid eliminates slamming. The price for the Hatbox toilet is $2,890, and it's available in white, Biscuit, Ice Grey, Almond, Thunder Grey, and Sandbar.

http://www.kohler.com

November 05, 2005

No-slam Toilet Seat

If there's more than one sex occupying your home, you're probably familiar with the slam of the toilet seat as it clanks its way up and down, depending on the user. Kohler's Quiet-Close toilet seat is designed to keep the lid from slamming, even if you drop it down. Further, "QuickRelease functionality allows the seat to be removed easily from the toilet for cleaning." This no-slam toilet seat is made from polypropylene that's supposed to resist staining, chipping, and fading. It has an elongated design that should fit all one- and two-piece toilets. Prices start at $52.85.

http://www.kohler.com

November 02, 2005

Bathroom Fan, Heater, and Light in One

There is a wide variety of bathroom ventilation fans on the market. If you don't like noise, you'll want to avoid fans with a high "sone" output. 1 sone is about equivalent to the sound of a quiet refrigerator running in a quiet room. Cheaps fans can be as many as 4 sones, whereas quieter ones, like nearly silent models from Broan or Panasonic can run at 1/3rd a sone. Bathroom fans can do more than vent. Many include lights, and the model QTX110HL from Broan incorporates a quiet fan with a light and a heater for those chilly mornings. The MSRP for the heater fan is $413.

http://www.broan.com

October 15, 2005

Foot Flush--the No Hands Toilet Flusher

If you're a person who pays particular attention to germs (and shouldn't we all?), you may cringe at the idea of putting your hand on the same toilet flushing handle as everyone in the house (including all the grubby little neighbor kids who pass through) uses. Well, the folks at Foot Flush came up with a solution. Their flusher rests on the floor, and you simply pump it once with your foot to activate the toilet. Shown here is the whimsical "Fun Foot Flush." They also have a classic version that comes without the toes. You can find the Foot Flush online for $30.

http://www.footflush.com/

October 11, 2005

Neorest Automatic Toilet... with Remote

The toilet might not be the item most people think of when they drool over advanced technology coming to the home, but it refuses to be ignored. Toto's Neorest 600 Toilet senses your approach and lifts the lid. The lid closes and the toilet flushes when you walk away. And for guys, the toilet has a special wireless remote control with a button to lift the seat.

http://www.totousa.com

October 09, 2005

Vortex Sink

The Vortex sink from Elite Bath was featured on Kitchens and Baths 2005 last week on HGTV. The uniquely designed bathroom sink is available in satin bronze or satin white bronze finishes and comes with a hand-crafted solid oak stand. Specific products details are available on the company's web site.

http://www.elitebath.com
http://www.hgtv.com

October 07, 2005

Self-cleaning Shower

You've heard of self-cleaning ovens, but how about self-cleaning showers? The Shower Shower by Arizona company Intelligent Consumer Products is designed to do just that. The control panel allows you to program a little arm that whisks out and sprays your favorite cleaner every day after you shower. It has three different cleaning levels: light, normal, and heavy, and a readout tells you when it's time to add more cleaner. Let's face it: true luxury is about having someone else (or something else...) do your house cleaning for you. The Shower Shower starts at about $1,200.

http://www.i-c-p-inc.com/

October 06, 2005

$200,000 Pearl and Diamond Bathroom Sink

Alas, this $200,000 diamond and pearl sink from Bear Creek Glass doesn't come replete with its own security guard. The extravagant sink, mentioned last night on HGTV's Kitchen and Baths 2005, has 183 diamonds built into the basin's top edge that are accented by 18 black pearls set in 18k white gold. One hopes shipping is included in that price tag.

http://www.bearcreekglass.com/
http://www.hgtv.com/

September 22, 2005

Horizon Falls Two Person Bathtub

The Horizon Falls bathtub from MTI Whirlpools is a spacious corner soaking tub that has room for two people to relax at once. According to the maker, soothing waterfall sounds and sensations make the experience doubly relaxing. A bathtub like this takes a lot of water though, so you'll want to make sure you have a hot water tank that can handle it. The average fill is 83 gallons with a maximum fill of 151 gallons.

http://www.mtiwhirlpools.com/

September 21, 2005

Solid Stone Mosaic Sink for the Bathroom

Vessel sinks that sit atop the countertop are popular in bathrooms right now, and this Stone Tuscan Bowl with Tile Mosaic from Linkasink is an impressive piece. It combines solid stone with patterned tiles. Measuring 17 inches in diameter and 6 inches in height, the sink is available in your choice of twelve colors. The company's stone mosaic sinks are low maintenance: "A once a week spray of glass cleaner typically will take care of anything."

http://www.linkasink.com/

Residential Urinals on the Rise

Urinals are showing up in more and more high-end bathroom renovations. For one thing, it solves the perpetual argument over who left the seat up, but there are environmental reasons for adding a urinal, too. A part of Toto's Lloyd Bath Collection, the Lloyd Residential Urinal uses almost half the water of even a low-flow toilet per flush. It's available in cotton white, colonial white, bone, gray, sedona beige, and ebony. The price is $1,100.

http://www.totousa.com/

September 19, 2005

Jacuzzi Fontana Tub with Waterfall

The Jacuzzi Fontana ("fountain") bathtub has a cascading waterfall, rainbow fill spout, and underwater lights. Of cousre, it also has the bubbling jets you'd expect from the classic maker of jetted spas and tubs. The jets are adjustable, and the tub comes with a heater to keep the water warm long after regular bathtubs have cooled off. Color options are black, almond, white, and oyster. The price for this luxury tub is a little over $7,000.

http://www.jacuzzi.com

September 18, 2005

"Rock Ice" Above Counter Basin for the Bathroom

The snazzy Rock Ice above counter basin from Porcher is made from glass with a hand-crafted cracked ice exterior design. It has an inside diameter of 16.5 inches and a depth of 5 inches. The sink is available in aqua blue, black, green, and transparent. The MSRP is $2,400.

http://www.porcher-us.com

September 17, 2005

Round Massage Bathtub

Who says all bathtubs need to be oval or rectangular? This massage bathtub (with whirlpool jets) from Acquinox is completely round, measuring 59 inches in diameter and 30 inches high (26 inches deep). The tub can be either freestanding or installed as a built in, and it comes with an optional chromatherapy package. A 1.2 horsepower motor runs its 12 massage jets. The pictured hardware is included with the tub. The price for the round bathtub is $6,500

http://www.acquinox.com/
via Old House Web

September 13, 2005

24K Gold Bathroom Sink

I originally hit the Oceana site looking for information on their glass sinks, but this "24K Gold Series Under Mount Lavatory" caught my eye. It's very... gold. A tad gaudy for my tastes, but if you've got a gold theme going in your bathroom, well, here's your sink. At $1,250 it's not as pricey as I thought it would be. You'll have to find your own gold hardware to match, though.

http://www.oceanaglasslavs.com/

September 01, 2005

Dornbracht RainSky, Now That's a Shower

The Dornbracht Rainsky Shower is "like having a rain cloud at your command, drenching you with water and cleansing with a calming downpour." Now, I don't know about all that, but it looks pretty cool. The Rainsky mounts flush with your shower ceiling for a minimalist design. Water pours from dozens of small holes. Having a rain cloud at your command doesn't come cheap. Expect to pay $7,000-$9,000 for Dornbracht's Rainsky.

http://www.dornbracht.com

August 29, 2005

Corner Bathtub + Shower

Five piece master bathrooms with separate shower stalls and bathtubs are popular these days, but if you're remodeling an older, smaller home, you might not have room for both pieces. That's no reason to give up on luxury. The Maax Maximizer 6060 is a corner bathtub with integrated shower stall. When you're bathing, you have plenty of space and can relax with the tub's massage jets. When you're showering, there's a glass door to keep water from escaping, niches for your soap and shampoo, and a wooden seat incase you want to take a load off.

http://www.maax.com/

August 28, 2005

Custom Textured Glass Shower Door

Meltdown Glass is a "kiln-fired glass studio" that specializes in glass textures and colors. They do residential and commercial work. This shower door was custom designed for a home in Scottsdale, Arizona. Meltdown Glass does everything from furniture to bathroom sinks to unique kitchen range hoods. Their various styles include textures and colors such as tinted glass, opaque or transparent fused color, metallic colors, and countless specialty and custom hues.

http://www.meltdownglass.com/

August 26, 2005

Curved Shower Curtain Rod

We spend a lot of time talking about luxury multi-headed showers and $10,000 whirlpool bathtubs because... well, they're cool. But here's a low-tech (low-cost) gadget that can take your existing tub/shower combo and make the shower feel roomier. A curved shower rod works just like a regular shower rod except that it bows out in the middle to give you more arm space while you're washing. The price runs about $50. You can find curved shower rods at stores like Bed, Bath & Beyond or online from Smarthome: Curved Shower Curtain Rod

August 25, 2005

Convert Your Toilet into an Elizabethan Pull-chain Toilet

Here's another option for those looking to give their bathroom an antique feel. Vintage Tub sells a kit that allows you to convert your existing round front or elongated toilet into an Aberdeen Oak, classic Elizabethan Pull-chain Toilet. According to the company, the kit works with any 1.6 gallons per flush residential bowl. The price for the kit is $485 via their web site. Don't forget the matching freestanding Elizabethan toilet paper holder ($59).

http://www.vintagetub.com/

Clawfoot Massaging Bathtub

If you're remodeling an older house, you may not want to put some sleek ultra-modern tub in the bathroom. Clawfoot tubs are definitely back in style today, but with all the conveniences of the 21st Century. The Serenity from Aquatic Whirlpools uses warm air bubbles to massage you while you soak. The tub has 3 massage settings: constant bubble, wave action, and pulse action. Other features are variable speed controls, chromatherapy lighting, and contoured seats.

http://www.aquaticwhirlpools.com/

August 22, 2005

$80,000 Bronze Bathtub

The "Serenity" is a hand-crafted bronze bathtub from Elite Bath, Inc. It is signed, dated, and numbered by Joe Jumalon, an Oregon artist. There are images of herons, koi, and bamboo leaves carved on the outside. Since the tubs are custom made one at a time, they are available in different sizes to suit your needs. The price for this unique bathtub? $80,000.

http://www.elitebath.com/

August 17, 2005

Teuco Evolution Freestanding Glass Shower

Most showers get tucked into a corner of the bathroom, but Italian shower maker Teuco offers you a freestanding glass shower that's treated more like a sculpture on display. Their Evolution Round EO2 Shower with Sauna offers a vertical massage, a stereo radio, an aromatherapy dispenser, a steam sauna option, a hand-shower, and lots of other perks that make this a luxury shower. The cylinder shape is made entirely from glass and has sleek, clean-cut lines that give you a modernist look in the bathroom.

http://www.teucoevolution.com/

August 13, 2005

Boulder Sink from In Stone Gallery

Vessel sinks are in style these days, and these above-counter basins are being made with so many different materials that it's simply a matter of choosing what suits you best. A bathroom sink reminiscent of a boulder isn't for everyone, but it's hard to deny that In Stone Gallery's Ocean Blossom would make a statement in any bathroom. The company specializes in natural stone sinks, and they also have an interesting collection of sink stands for those who don't want the bulk of a vanity. Some even look like tree branches, just incase you're into that natural look in the bathroom.

http://www.instonegallery.com/

August 12, 2005

Hardwood Floors in the Bathroom?

Hardwood floors are generally a no-no in the bathroom, because the inherent dampness makes the wood susceptible to warping. An alternative many homeowners are looking into today is laminate flooring made to look like hardwoods. Pictured here is "Caramel" from Pergo's Hardwood Series. According to the manufacturer, the laminate is so impervious to gapping and the moisture penetration it allows, the material is perfectly fine for use in bathrooms. The warm traditional look of hardwood complements a plethora of design styles.

http://www.pergo.com/

August 08, 2005

Stone "Bomber" Bathtub

The solid stone Bomber bathtub by Antonio Lupi is sure to make a statement in any bathroom. It's not going to fit in every bathroom, but if you have the room to spare and you've ever wanted a round tub, this may be the one... Available in Juta stone or Sinai stone, the tub measures 140 cm in length and width by 55cm in height. Make sure your bathroom floor can handle the weight before you consider an all stone tub like this one!

http://www.bath-italy.com/

Marble Bathtub

Gregory Muller Associates Inc. are artists and designers who create "natural stone environments and custom stone pieces." They do custom work using onyx, marble, and granite and make everything from sculptural furniture to fireplace surrounds to the marble bathtub shown here.

http://www.gregorymullerassoc.com/gma_inc_studios.htm

August 07, 2005

Vertispa Shower System

Many homeowners sigh longingly at the new luxury showers coming on the market, the ones with multiple shower heads. The problem is installing them; typically you have to redo some of the plumbing which means you've got a big home improvement project on your hands. If you're looking for the relaxation of multiple shower heads with a simple installation, American Standard's Vertispa Shower System may do the trick. According to the manufacturer, it installs in "as little as 30 minutes" and doesn't require replumbing the bathroom.

http://www.americanstandard-us.com

August 02, 2005

Ayoura Hydro-thermo Massage Bathtub

The BainUltra Ayoura hydro-thermo massage bathtub is designed to give bathers a full body massage via 63 strategically placed air jets. Inspired by the egg, the Ayoura is available in freestanding or drop-in models. Some of the tub's features are: chromatherapy (LED lights that change color to fit your mood), heated backrest, heated headrest, two armrests, two grab bars, and an optional massage table.

http://www.bainultra.com

Bathroom Side Table or... Ah, Finally Some Place to Put the Book

I love reading in the bathtub, but at some point you have to set the book down and get to washing. Then you face the question of where to put your book. Porcelain ledges, toilet seats, and the like tend to get steamy and damp, and you're relegated to tossing your treasured paperback on the floor (where it'll probably get wet anyway when you climb out). The answer? Dornbracht's Melt table, a part of their Interiors collection, might do the trick. I'm not sure if the Melt side table is specifically designed for the bathroom (although Interiors is slated as a furniture collection dedicated to bath and living areas), but it looks like a handy spot to hang your towel and set a book or magazine. At the very least, the natural maple finish shouldn't collect condensation as badly as most bathroom surfaces.

http://www.dornbracht.com/

August 01, 2005

Goodbye Showerhead; Hello Kohler WaterTiles

Luxury showers with multiple spray angles are more popular than jetted tubs these days, and the trend is toward a sleek style that eliminates visual clutter and protrusions. Kohler's WaterTiles are brass 5" x 5" showerheads designed to blend in with the rest of the tiles. You can install as many as you want. They sit almost flush with the ceiling, wall, or intersections between those places. Once installed, you can still adjust the spray to target you whereever you wish. They're relatiavely inexpensive at $119-$199, but expect to redo the plumbing in your shower to install these body sprays.

http://www.kohler.com

July 28, 2005

Flat Sink Brings New Style to the Bathroom

The Purist Wet Surface Lavatory isn't the first flat sink I've seen, but it's a classy looking one. Both faucet and sink are made by Kohler. "The flat surface and surrounding channel of the Purist wet surface lavatory highlight unique water delivery. This fireclay lavatory offers versatile installation options and is without faucet hole drillings. This lavatory is part of the Purist Suite, which helps transform your bathroom into a luxurious home spa environment." The price for this unique bathroom sink? It starts at $569.95 (faucet not included).

http://www.us.kohler.com

July 27, 2005

Instant Hot Water with In-Sink-Erator

In-Sink-Erator offers a range of instant hot water heaters that install in your kitchen for easy convenience. No more waiting (and wasting resources) while you wait for your water heater's hot water to reach your faucet. The water is filtered and comes out at a near-boiling 200 degrees. The heater installs under the sink. Fixtures come in a variety of finishes. The price ranges depending on whether you want just the basic instant hot water faucet or if you want filtered hot and cold water to come out of the tap. The basic unit starts at $150 and the more deluxe units are $500 and up.

http://www.insinkerator.com

July 22, 2005

Ann Sacks Copper Bathtub

According to any number of professional chefs who swear by their copper pots, copper retains heat better than other materials. Ann Sacks offers a copper bathtub that supposedly has the same heat-retaining properties. Part of their Kuo Collection, the handscrafed, freestanding oval bathtub has double-wall construction and "body-fitting curves." Its redish tones fit in well with stone surroundings and remind you of the olden days (but with today's modern amenities like... running water).

http://www.annsacks.com/

July 21, 2005

Frameless Glass Shower Doors

Frameless glass shower doors are popular upgrades in luxury bathrooms--let's face it, a vinyl shower curtain with mildew stains isn't a good look with slate tiles and multiple shower heads. (Ok, it's not a good look any time.) Alumax Bath Enclosures manufactures a line of custom-fabricated showers and enclosures designed to fit any decor. Finishes include: silver, satain, brushed nickel, and gold. Framed and frameless glass shower doors can come in clear, tinted, and obscured styles, or with etched patterns.

http://www.alumaxbath.com/

July 18, 2005

Pharo Shower Cocoon

This Hansgrohe freestanding shower (AKA the Pharoh Cocoon) looks a little like something you'll find on Mars Colony some day. It's "rendered in four colors of translucent acrylic and has an integral lighting system and an attached rail that warms towels while you wash."

Quote from "Complete Bathroom Design"
http://www.hansgrohe-usa.com/

Aquarium Toilet

People are putting fish in some interesting places these days. If the fish tank backsplash and the fish tank sink weren't your cup of tea, how about an aquarium toilet? It combines a reservoir for flushing with a working aquarium and is sure to be a conversation starter when guests visit your bathroom. This fully function toilet was designed by Oliver Beckert and is distributed by Elseware. Not recommended for those who don't like being watched while doing their business...

July 17, 2005

Stainless Steel Toilets Come to the Home

With stainless steel coating all the kitchen appliances these days, it was only a matter of time before someone put it in the bathroom. The Metro Urban Toilet from Neo-Metal is a stainless steel model that is designed to work with standard residential water and waste lines. The company also offer stainless steel bathtubs and sinks if you want that cool metal gleam throughout your bathroom. The price for the Metro Urban Toilet will run you a little over $3,000.

http://www.neo-metro.com/

July 12, 2005

Teak Soaking Bathtub

William Garvey's teak Geo Bath is based on traditional Japanese bathing preferences (deeper tubs with less of a footprint). It is shorter than standard US/European bathtubs and snugly fits into smaller spaces without giving up any of the luxury of soaking. The handsome teak gives it a unique look (they also have a few teak sinks you can choose from).

Teak Geo Bathtub

June 27, 2005

Waterproof TV For the Bathroom

If you've ever thought about catching the morning news while you're in the shower or relaxing in your whirlpool tub with a good movie, you may be interested in this product. The Aquavision LCD TV is designed specifically for use in the bathroom. Not only is it waterproof but it addresses something the bathroom mirror tv folks might not have thought of: steam. The Aquavision TV has a heated screen which ensures the picture doesn't steam up. It comes standard with a waterproof remote.

http://www.aquavision.tv/

June 24, 2005

Foot Massagers

Foot massagers can feel great at the end of a long day of standing. One example is the Jentle Ped from MTI Whirlpools. It is an at-home foot massager that uses heat, massage, and whirlpool jets to sooth tired achy feet.

Product Notes:

Built of durable Lucite cast acrylic, the Jentle Ped uses MTI's whirlpool technology to soothe and rejuvenate tired feet. The Jentle Ped features four directional mini-jets and has an ergonomically sloped floor so the user can stretch the plantar fascia (the ligament that forms the arch on the sole of the foot). Measuring 28" x 23" x 13" (at the deep end) or 10.5" (at the shallow end), the Jentle Ped is a convenient size for installation in the bathroom, home health spa, utility room or numerous other locations in your home.

http://www.mtiwhirlpools.com/

June 22, 2005

Concrete Sinks with Class

Looking for a concrete pedestal sink? Stonehenge Concrete Works in Bothell, Washington creates distinct custom countertops, tiles, fireplace surrounds, and sinks made from concrete. They have two styles of concrete: NeoLith and DuraLith. Neolith is especially high-strength and low-shrinkage. DuraLith is built to be stain-resistant. Their Arts & Craft style pedestal sink can be mounted on stainless steel or finished bamboo frames, or a matching concrete pedestal. They have numerous colors available (below is "Monte Cristo pewter" from the May/June 2005 issue of Custom Home magazine.)

http://www.stonehengeconcreteworks.com/

June 20, 2005

Top 5 Bathroom Home Improvements That Add Value to Your Home

According to How to Increase the Value of Your Home, there are five bathroom home improvements that can "dramatically transform your bathroom."

1. Install new countertops.
2. Replace the sink and faucet.
3. Install a new shower/bath tub. (As LHT mentioned in Home Improvement for Home Value: Which Improvements Pay Off?, luxury showers are more desired by homeowners today than fancy tubs.)
4. Install new flooring.
5. Update the lighting to include necessary task lighting and accent lighting to give the room a warm ambiance.

Source: How to Increase the Value of Your Home
Related: Top 5 Kitchen Remodeling Improvements That Add Value to Your Home

June 18, 2005

Hansgrohe Rainmaker Shower

Today's showers and showerheads are bigger and better. There are a wide variety of spray effects availabe, everything from a vigorous massage to a tropical downpour. One of the current trends is showerheads that are flush to the ceiling, dropping water straight down. These sleek showers offer a modern, uncluttered look in the bathroom. One example is Hansgrohe's Rainmaker which sits flush to the ceiling and drops 46 liters of water a minute with a choice of spray patterns and even lighting effects.

Hansgrohe

Home Saunas

Home saunas are becoming more popular, whether custom built installations or do-it-yourself sauna kits. Some people swear by the soothing dry heat for promoting good health or just relaxing the body. One company that sells home sauna kits is Finlandia in Portland, Oregon. They offer both indoor and outdoor saunas in several types of woods, such as redwood, red cedar, and western hemlock. Prices of home saunas range depending on size and whether you order a precut or custom built package. Finlandia asks that you call them for specifics.

June 16, 2005

Fogless Bathroom Mirror Anyone?

So guys, you'd actually like to be able to shave when you get out of the shower, eh? I've seen a few little shaving mirrors out there that claim to be fogless, but ClearMirror's heating element that goes behind your regular bathroom mirror, may be the most convenient.

"Simply speaking, a ClearMirror® is a very thin heater that is adhered to the back of a mirror and wired to the same power supply as the bathroom light fixture, fan or separate switch. When turned on the pad heats up, preventing condensation on the surface of the mirror."

ClearMirror also has a version that works in the shower.

ClearMirror

June 14, 2005

Kohler Sok Bathtub

The Kohler Sok (pronounced "soak") is a large 41" by 75" bathtub that allows you to be submerged to your chin in water that never gets cold. The water continuously spills over the tub's edge into water channels that reheat and recirculate the water through small air jets that create small soothing bubbles. This luxury bathtub also has underwater LED light ports for chromatherapy. They gradually cycle through a progression of eight colors, or with a touch, you can choose to hold one color indefinitely.

Kohler Sok Tub

June 12, 2005

Color Changing Sink

I saw an interesting sink mentioned on the Home and Garden Channel tonight. The Nymphaea bathroom sink from the Whitehaus Collection changes color from blue to red, depending on the temperature of the water. LEDS embedded in the glass basin make this possible. I'm not sure who actually needs a color changing sink, but if you're looking for something unique for the bathroom, maybe it's for you. Here's a blurb from the Whitehaus site:

"Nymphaea is the only glass basin, which changes color with the temperature of the water and creates a magnificent and relaxing atmosphere. This beautifully hand-crafted crystal glass basin line was designed around the concept of light and color, known as chromatherapy, to create a world of beauty and purity right in your own bathroom."

http://www.whitehauscollection.com/

Spinning Showerhead Anyone?

There are lots of new options for showers out there including a variety of showerheads with unique features. The Danze Spinning Showerhead 7 appropriately has 7 jets that revolve to give you an invigorating shower experience (or it works for just getting you clean, too). The 9 inch adjustable extension arm attachs to your showerarm to make this showerhead easy to position. It's available in brushed nickel, chrome, PVD, and polished brash finishes.

http://www.danze-online.com/

June 10, 2005

Speaking of Steam Showers...

In Which Home Improvements Add Value, I mentioned steam showers as being very desirable with homebuyers right now. The Tylette Mono Steamroom from Tylo of Sweden is one example. The steam showers come in one or two person models with lots of upgrades available. The basic model starts at a little over $5,000.

Here's a blurb from their site...

The built-in steam generator has automatic water filling, emptying and flushing functions and comes complete with a built-in fragrance dispenser. Also included is an exclusive thermostatically controlled mixer and shower set with adjustable sprinkler head. All visible plumbing fittings have a chrome-plated finish.

The TyletteTM Mono Standard Steamroom includes all of the above plus recessed halogen lighting, eight massage jet nozzles, waterfall and tropical rain features.

Available options also include a choice of hinged or sliding doors, and colors of either white or marble.

Tylette Personal Home Steamrooms

June 09, 2005

Kosmic Shower Cabin Brings New Life to the Bathroom

How's this for a snazzy looking shower stall? The Kosmic Shower Cabin from Kos provides a full hydroptherary experience with body jets, steam, massage, and chromatherapy. Fiber optic lighting, available in a variety of basic colors depending on your mood, makes the whole shower cabin seem to glow.

Kos

June 08, 2005

ShowerARC by Hansgrohe

Thinking of remodeling the bathroom and jazzing up the shower stall? The ShowerARC from Hansgrohe provides a new way to install a multi-jet shower without worrying about complicated plumbing issues. Its versatile design means it can be tucked into an alcove, enclosure, or wetroom. The unique arch design means water can reach the body from three sides at the same time.

Hansgrohe

June 07, 2005

Kohler Riverbath Bathtub

The Kohler Riverbath has jets designed to mimick the rhythm of a river, either soothing or vigorously massaging, depending on your mood. The luxury bathtub has four whirlpool options that can be changed with the touch of a button: Whirlpool, Rapids, White Water, and (grab a barrel) Waterfall. It's available in rectangular or circular shapes. Both styles are big enough for more than one bather and allow you to customize by choosing your tile, marble, texture, and color.

Kohler Riverbath

June 04, 2005

Television Mirror Brings TV to the Bathroom in a Subtle Way

Television in the bathroom isn't a new concept--people have been dragging in their sets to watch from the tub for some time--and today you can even get jetted tubs with popup LCD TVS. But how about a television embedded in your bathroom mirror? The Seura TV Mirror is fully incorporated into the bathroom mirror. When you turn off the TV, it disappears. When you turn it on, you can watch the news while you brush your teeth in the morning.

The Séura television mirror provides a convenient viewing location when it is on, and a non-obtrusive way to hide the television when it is off. When the LCD is activated, the screen is conveniently visible as a window within the mirror. When it is turned off, the LCD is completely hidden from view to allow for a complete mirror reflection.

The MSRP is between $2800 and $5000, depending of the size of the TV.

Seura TV Mirror

May 29, 2005

Wooden Bathtubs = the Next Bathroom Remodeling Trend?

It seems like jetted bathtubs are all the rage these days, but Real Estate Journal article "Wooden Bathtubs Offer A New Way to Soak" takes a look at another option. High-end wooden bathtubs are being offered for homeowners who eschew the modern trend and want a more rustic or country feel in their bathrooms. Some of the manufacturers claim that wooden tubs keep water warm longer, though the article retains some skepticism about the likelihood of the science behind that dubious statement. However, these tubs certainly do offer a unique look in the bathroom.

May 26, 2005

Aquarium Sink Makes for a Truly Unique Bathroom Experience

Nothing makes a statement in the bathroom like an aquarium sink. I'm not sure what kind of statement it makes, but the kids will probably think it's the coolest thing in the house. It might even get them to wash their hands more often and brush their teeth without being nagged. No need to worry about the fish in the Moody Aquarium Sink. Their tank is separate from the running water. According to HGTV's American Home 2005 show (where I first saw the sink showcased), "Moody is both a sink and a self-contained aquarium which can also be used as a terrarium and decorated with sand, rocks and plants. There are two openings, one on each side of the sink top, closed by two decorative glass soap dishes that allow maintenance of the aquarium."

At $5,500 an aquarium sink is not a purchase to be made on a whim, but if you're looking for that truly unique bathroom experience, it might be for you. Nothing says I-don't-take-myself-too-seriously like a fish tank integrated into the sink.




Moody Aquarium Sink

May 07, 2005

Ceiling Mounted Showerhead, Like Standing Under a Waterfall

Changing out fixtures and faucets is a good way to add elegance to a bathroom, but changing out your old showerhead could add a whole new element to your shower experience. Danze's 6" Ceiling Mount Showerhead (search for D461503 in their product catalog) has three seperate heads that rain down water on the user, like standing under a gentle waterfall. And if the waterfall bit doesn't sell you, at least ceiling mounted showerheads get rid of the need for taller folks to crook their necks sideways to rinse the shampoo out.

Danze

May 03, 2005

New Toilet Technology

Who has the most innovative toilets? According to the New Bathroom Idea Book, it may be the Japanese. "More homes in Japan have toilet jet sprays than have personal computers." I'm not sure I need a jet spray to wash my backside, but here are a few innovations the Japanese are seeing in their toilets today:

• Toilets with selectable soundtracks that include such sounds as chirping birds, wind chimes, and Japanese harps
• Toilet seats with built-in electrodes that apply an electric probe to the buttocks to measure the sitter's body fat percentage
• Toilets that measure sugar levels in the urine
• Toilets with air conditioning and heating controls to easily set the temperature in the bathroom at a preprogrammed time

April 27, 2005

Anti-Scald Valves for Showers

Most new bathrooms come with anti-scald valves, but if you're living in an older house, you might be familiar with the experience of wild fluctuations in the water temperature when someone else in the house draws on the water supply. Anti-scald valves are relatively simple to install compared to other bathroom components that get upgraded during renovations.

The two main types of valves are pressure-balancing valves and thermostatic valves. Pressure-balancing valves are cheaper and easy to find. They detect and compensate for pressure changes in the hot/cold water supplies. Thermostatic valves keep the water output temperature the same regardless of changing pressures. Most of them come with a volume control and some can even be set to maintain a constant preprogrammed temperature.

You should avoid cheap anti-scald valves. Though they can offer some protection, they don't work as well as the higher-end models.

Source: New Bathroom Idea Book

April 21, 2005

Bathroom Sink Materials: Your Choices

Whether you're remodeling the whole bathroom or just replacing a chipped sink, there are a number of different kinds of sink materials to choose from. Prices vary, and they each have different strengths.

Ceramic Sinks

You can get custom glazed ceramic sinks from local potteries and from some larger manufacturers. Overall, ceramic is reasonably durable, but sinks made from the material have a tendency to chip or crack.

Vitreous China

One of the more common bathroom sink materials, vitreous china stands up well to even abrasive cleansers. Despite that, they can also crack and chip over the years.

Enameled Cast Iron

Cast-iron sinks are as tough as they sound. They're fairly impervious to cracks, though it's possible to chip to finish with enough abuse.

Enameled Steel

Enameled steel sinks are not quite as indestructible as enameled cast iron; they are more likely to chip and they are also noisier than cast-iron. You don't see them so much today.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is more common in the kitchen than the bathroom, but these sinks can be appealing in the bathroom because they are easy to clean.

Cultured Stone

Cultured stone sinks are made from a mixture of crushed stone and polyester resins. The more money you spend, the more durable sink you get since more expensive ones have a higher percentage of strong minerals like quartz. Cheaper sinks often have a gel coat finish that cracks and blisters over time.

Solid Surface Sink Materials

Corian and related solid surface materials can be good choices because they are sturdy. If they do get scratched, that can be sanded out.

Source: New Bathroom Idea Book

April 07, 2005

Choosing a Jetted Bath Tub

Jetted bathtubs are among the most popular additions when homeowners remodel bathrooms. These luxurious tubs are available in many sizes and styles. The cost varies a lot depending on these factors. Taunton's New Bathroom Idea Book has a page on choosing a whirlpool tub. Here is a summary of some of the information offered (for a more complete list and more information on tubs and whirlpools in general, you may want to check the book out from the library):

When you buy a jetted tub, you should only get one as large as you need. Bigger tubs take a long time to fill and may need more than your hot water tank can handle.

To make sure you get a tub you will enjoy, hop in the various models on display in the showroom. The dealers won't mind and this will give you a chance to try them out before purchasing.

If you take long baths, look at models with in-line heaters. These will maintain the uniform temperature of your choosing for as long as you stay in tub.

Think about the jets: do you want a gentle massage or a deeper massage targeted at specific spots on your body? Larger jets handle the former, while smaller jets are perfect for the latter.

New Bathroom Idea Book

April 03, 2005

Origami Massage Bath Tubs

If you're looking for a truly relaxing bath tub, check out the Origami line from BainUltra. The Origami 6032 uses air jets to apply acupressure treatment while you soak. Both aromatherapy and chromatherapy (light energy) features are available. There are five rectangular or oval tub choices in the Origami line. The 6032 retails for $2,300.

Adjustable Hand Showers

Adjustable hand showers make a lot of sense if you're remodeling your bathroom and thinking ahead to your retirement years when sitting in the shower might be preferable to standing. Or maybe you just like the idea of being able to direct where the spray hits you. Numerous manufacturers offer adjustable hand showers (you can even buy them online through Amazon) and installation is fairly simple for the average do-it-yourselfer. These hand-held showerheads can make the shower a more relaxing experience.

March 27, 2005

Bathroom Remodeling Ideas

Bathrooms and kitchens are the most popular rooms in the house for remodeling projects (everything from changing out the counters to completely gutting everything and pushing out walls). The website for the Home & Garden Channel has a big section devoted to Bathroom Design Ideas that includes before and after pictures, video clips, and tutorials. If you're in the planning stages of your bathroom remodel and looking for ideas, it's a good place to start.

March 22, 2005

A New Whirlpool Tub vs. Your Old Hot Water Heater

Whirlpool bathtubs are one of the most popular bathroom remodeling projects. According to the book 101 Cost-Effective Ways to Increase the Value of Your Home, this particular upgrade can even increase the value of your house. One thing to keep in mind, the author warns, is if you decide to install a Whirlpool tub, you may also need to install a larger hot water heater. These luxury jetted tubs are typically deeper than standard bathtubs and as a result hold more water. A hot water heater should hold about two thirds the amount of the tub. So, if you currently have a 40 gallon hot water heater, and are not looking to upgrade it, shop for a tub that doesn't have a capacity of more than 60 gallons.

March 06, 2005

Magnetic Soap Holder

If you like bar soap, but you're tired of cleaning soap residue out of the dish or from around the sink, a magnetic soap holder may be just the ticket. First, you install the soap holder (wall mount and sink mount options are available, some of a more permanent nature than others), then you simply stick a small metal disk in the soap and hang it suspended from the holder.

Samuel Heath Magnetic Soap Holder

February 27, 2005

Bath & Shower Filters

Filters in pitchers or hooked up to the kitchen faucet to purify drinking water have been around for years, but shower filters are relatively new. The reasoning behind them is that chlorine in your water can be unhealthy for your skin (which is your biggest "mouth"). I'm glad I didn't know about those studies during my years on swim team... These filters are meant to promote healthy skin and help keep you free of annoying itching or dry skin that can be caused by the chemicals or minerals in your bathing water.

Today, you can get both shower filters that get hooked up directly above the showerhead or bathtub filters that float around in the tub.

Shower Filter
Bath Filter

February 20, 2005

Remodeling the Bathroom, Cost Estimates

Along with kitchens, bathrooms are one of the most popular remodeling projects homeowners choose. If you're thinking of tweaking (or completely overhauling) your bathroom, you might be wondering what kind of cost you're looking at. Here's a summary of costs, based on projects, according to Taunton's New Bathroom Idea Book.

• Cost up to $1,000 = Mostly cosmetic stuff. New paint and a new toilet or sink or new flooring.
  
• Between $1,000 and $2,500 = Install a new toilet and sink or replace the tub or shower, but you'll probably have to keep the same layout.
  
• Cost between $2,500 and $7,500 = Minor floor plan changes, new floors, fixtures, finish materials.
  
• $7,500 to $12,000 = You can do a fairly complete rehab with changes to the floor plan and add a new window or skylight.
  
• $12,000 to $20,000 = If you're using premium materials or adding luxury items (jetted tub, etc), bathroom remodels can jump into this price range. This usually covers things like enlarging the bathroom or converting a closet as well.
  

February 15, 2005

Residential Steam Showers

Steam showers in the home are becoming more popular both because they feel good, and many believe steam has health benefits such as promoting blood flow which can help muscles recover after workouts or injuries. Creating a residential steam shower involves a bit of renovation since you'll need to install a steam generator, such as the
Thermasol SteamShower Series Steam Bath Generator

The shower also needs to be built so it can be completely enclosed to keep the steam in. You can add benches and other amenities for comfort.

Shower Tower

A shower tower is a vertical series of jetted spray heads designed to emulate the massaging power of a jetted bathtub. No need to wait for the tub to fill. Most shower towers recycle the water so it's not wasted, and many come with separate heaters built into the pumps to keep the water warm throughout your shower. The Kohler BodySpa Shower Tower is one example; it comes with ten jets and a waterfall feature.

February 13, 2005

Heated Toilet Seats

Towels aren't the only thing staying warm in the bathroom this winter. Heated toilet seats heat the seats to 25F above room temperature and feature uniform heat distribution throughout. Heated seats cost about $100 and are fairly simple to install, taking only a few minutes.
More warming ideas at Ten Products to Keep Your Home Warm This Winter

Towel Warming Drawers

We've mentioned towel warming racks, but towel warming drawers are also becoming popular. Similar to the warming drawers being used in new kitchens, these ones are built to keep your bathroom towels, slippers, and robes cozy and warm. Towel warmers are put out by manufacturers like Kenmore and cost around $600. The main advantage these drawers have over towel warming racks is that they get the towel warm all the way through.

Jacuzzi + TV

Let's face it. It was only a matter of time before someone put a television in the bathtub. The Jacuzzi La Scale whirlpool jetted tub comes with TV, DVD player, stereo, and surround sound. Floating remote included. The big round tub seats two. Looks like the bathroom may be the next living room.

Jacuzzi Bathtub with TV

February 01, 2005

MTI Whirlpool Bathtub

Freestanding bathtubs are popular again today, giving an old-fashioned, elegant look to the bathroom. However, many consumers prefer the perks technology is bringing to bathtubs, such as hydrotherapy jets. The Antigua Bath (granted the Product Innovator Award by Kitchen & Bath Business) combines vintage design with the luxury of thermo-air massage. The double wall of the tub conceals the necessary pipes inside. The 59x21 inch tub is available in more than 50 colors to match any bathroom.

MIT Whirlpools Antigua Bathtub

January 24, 2005

Bathroom Cabinets--Handcrafted?

If you want to give the bathroom a new look without a lot of remodeling work, you might try a handcrafted bathroom sink cabinet. These handsome units are usually made of wood with hard countertops such as granite and include stoarge beneath the sink. Hook up is generally as simple as attaching the sinks to the preexisting bathroom plumbling.

Examples of handcrafted bathroom cabinets available online:

Carlton Sink Cabinet

Preston Double Sink Cabinet

January 22, 2005

Towel Warmers

Towel warmers, for the uninitiated, are exactly what they sound like. If you love the idea of that straight-from-the-dryer warmth radiating from your towels after you get out of the shower, a towel warmer might be just the ticket. Most towel warmers are designed to run safely 24 hours a day and don't require anything more than an outlet. Both wall-hanging and moveable floor models are available.

Towels warmers don't necessarily have to be just for the bathroom either. If you have a hot tub you enjoy during the winter, an outdoor towel warmer might be just what you need after getting out.

January 11, 2005

Smart Bathroom Fans

Are you still manually flipping on the fan in your bathroom? The Aware Air is both a light and a fan that automatically detects humidity, then turns on by itself to remove odors, steam, and damaging moisture from the air. It's quiet and built to last. The low profile grill and glass lens is sleek but subdued enough to complement a variety of decorating styles.

January 08, 2005

Sauna too Expensive to Install in the Bathroom?

Jacuzzi has something called the Ambient Air Body Dry System that dries you off after your shower without the need of a towel. It comes with the Summer Rain shower series, offering 12 air jets (fully adjustable) that, through the use of a pre-heat cycle, are warm the minute you're ready to use them. The air tower can reach a heat of 140 degrees, so it's not quite a sauna, but it should keep you from getting cold as soon as you get out of the shower.

More information at Jacuzzi Introduces Ambient Air Body Dry System

Hands-Free Faucets

Hands-free faucets aren't just for the restrooms at the movie theater. Numerous manufacturers are now offering facuets with electronic sensors for home use. Why are they a good choice? Hands-free faucets can reduce water use by 5% and they limit the spread of germs. And some of the models out there look pretty cool, too.

The Grohe Europlus is a handsome electronic faucet. Delta's e-Flow is a hands-free faucet made specifically for residential use. The Kohler Tripoint is available in both hard-wired and battery powered versions.

Whirlpool Bathtubs: Water Jets vs. Air Jets

You know you want to install a jetted bathtub (who wouldn't?), but you're not sure whether water jets are superior to air jets or vice versa. Here's a quick lowdown:

Traits of water jets:

• Powerful jet action
  
• A more vigorous massage than air jets
  
• Good for targetting specific muscle groups
  
• Water jets require regular flushing
  

• Gentle bubbling action
  
• Can handle the use of oils/salts
  
• Quieter motor than water jets
  
• A cleaner bath due to no recycling water
  

The prices for bathtubs are comparable for water jets and air jets, so it's really just a matter of preferences. Can't decide? There are manufacturers that offer models that offer both.

Source: Annual 2005 Home Building issue of House Beautiful.