The right decorative plumbing and hardware can take your average room and transform it into something extraordinary. Add in the latest technological advances, and it improves a room’s functionality as well as its aesthetics. To find out what’s on the horizon, we asked the presenters of our June decorative plumbing and hardware courses about the top trends they see in the category:
Larger, Customized Kitchen Sinks and Faucets
Greg Rohl, president western division, ROHL, LLC, Presenter: Considerations for Choosing Kitchen Sinks, June 28, 2017, 12 p.m.
Larger, specialized sink designs with features like filtered water and accessories such as cutting boards, colanders and dish racks, are on the rise. According to Greg Rohl of ROHL, LLC, they serve as both a food preparation area and an entertainment centerpiece.
Changing lifestyles seem to be driving the trend says Rohl. As people start preparing more meals at home, they need more substantial sinks and faucets.
“Kitchen sinks are getting bigger — both deeper and wider,” he says. “The average sink size used to be between 30” to 36,” now you’re seeing sinks at 42”, 48” and even 68”.”
The culinary industry is also credited for this growing trend. Homeowners are winnowing out the best aspects of a commercial kitchen and taking them home. With these larger “workstation” sinks, they can prep, entertain and clean in one central area.
Adding a great faucet is crucial. Specialty faucets like an on demand hot water filter faucet make blanching vegetables, preparing oatmeal and brewing tea a breeze.
“There are so many different sink sizes, configurations, materials and colors to choose from that homeowners can truly tailor their sink to their specific needs,” says Rohl. “But not everyone has the available space for these larger sinks. The challenge now is for manufacturers to take this same functionality and customization and fit them into a smaller, compact design.”
Linear Drains and Luxury Showers
Barbara Kratus, sales and marketing director, Infinity Drain, Presenter: Linear Drain Systems: Design, Installation & Application, June 20, 2017, 12 p.m.
One pivotal trend that Barbara Kratus of Infinity Drain is seeing is the popularity of custom, luxury showers. While tub/shower combos are still being used for secondary baths, master bathrooms are transforming into an everyday oasis.
“Homeowners are getting real about what they want in the bathroom,” says Kratus. “If they don’t use their tub, they’re opting for a larger shower enclosure. If they enjoy relaxing in the tub, freestanding options provide an elegant look.”
A steam unit or bench and the addition of sound, chroma or aroma therapy add to the spa-like atmosphere, while large format tile or stone and a linear drain create a clean, upscale look.
A linear drain affects more than the look of a shower though. It helps drain water more efficiently when multiple shower functions are in use.
“Whether the homeowner chooses to have the drain disappear into the floor with a tile-in option or stand out with a decorative cover, there are many styles and finishes to choose from,” she says. “Using a linear drain provides an automatic ‘wow factor’ to any shower design.”
For clients with mobility issues, having a curbless shower allows easy access into and out of the shower enclosure. It also visually opens the space since the same flooring material can be used inside and outside the shower.
“Linear drains were originally brought to market to achieve barrier-free or curbless showers,” says Kratus. “As installers and contractors gain experience with linear drains and building barrier-free bathrooms, we predict that this type of installation will become the standard in shower construction.”
Smart Toilets
Jamie Kwiat, global specifications executive, Kohler Company, Presenter: Kitchens, Baths and Showering Solutions, June 15, 2017, 12 p.m.
Jamie Kwiat of Kohler sees an increased use of smart toilet technology.
“Intelligent toilets and cleansing seats have been prevalent globally for years,” says Kwiat. “Clients are bringing back their experiences from overseas and designing them into their home bathrooms.”
Intelligent toilets and cleansing seats feature warm water cleansing with pulsating and oscillating sprays, dryers and deodorizers, providing a more sanitary option to toilet tissue alone. Intuitive controls allow you to regulate the entire experience.
“These cleansing seats and intelligent toilets feature next-generation technology,” she says. “And they are being fabricated with clean lines and leading-edge designs that blend seamlessly with any décor.”
It’s also an eco-friendly option says Kwiat. A decrease in the use of personal wipes and toilet paper flushed into the sewer systems will help alleviate the strains on our existing infrastructure.
To learn more about these and other decorative plumbing and hardware trends, check out our upcoming courses:
Kitchens, Baths and Showering Solutions teaches you to meet the needs of the luxury bathroom consumer. Learn to create a custom, spa-like retreat that will give them a personalized, multisensory experience right in their own master bathroom.
Linear drain systems have become an important element in the overall design of the bathroom, wet room or outdoor shower. Linear Drain Systems: Design, Installation & Application gives you all the information you need to design barrier-free bathrooms.
Considerations for Choosing Kitchen Sinks considers durability, function and style when selecting kitchen sinks and accessories. A critical element in kitchens, bar and prep areas and laundry and pet grooming rooms.
