How we use our bathrooms today

In addition to using water for relaxation, the bathroom can be am intimate and private space that has an emotional and mental feel like no other in the home. Linking the bedroom, library and bath creates a space to relax and read. A fireplace brings back the intimate sitting room of the past, where the tub was brought into the bedroom and placed near the fireplace for warmth.

Comfort Station

In creating an inviting and relaxing space, comfort is a top priority, and new materials and technologies are used to design these elements of comfort.

• Tubs not only contour to the body, but are made of a soft, resilient material to cushion the body as the bather enjoys the relaxing hydrotherapy.
• Cushioned and heated toilet seats have been available in other parts of the world for many years, and have made a fairly recent appearance in the North America market.
• Additional comfort is added through heated floors so people no longer step out of the tub onto an icy, cold surface.
• Warm towels are very comforting to people as they step out of the shower, or warm up muscles before beginning exercise. In addition to the reintroduction of towel warmers, warming drawers are now available. 

Mediation

Mediation rooms or spaces provide a quiet place to relax and reflect  Japanese rock and sand gardens allow the user to create a peaceful setting. A space devoted to exercises like yoga helps with a relaxing end to a busy day.

Health and Wellness

An interest in healthy  routines and health monitoring among an aging population has made its way into the design concept of more luxury bathrooms. Designers are including massage tables for treatments at home. The bathroom may also include a gym or exercise studio.

With the newest technologies, consumers can also use the bathroom for health monitoring. Fixture companies are marketing toilets that monitor waste for various health-related indicators. A concern for health has also fostered the development of antimicrobial finishes to deter bacterial growth.

Technology and Electronic Devices

The modern bathroom is not lacking in technology and electronic devices. Equipped with radio, CD/DVD players, televisions and speaker systems, consumers can stay abreast of the current world news while dressing, or listen to music while relaxing in the whirlpool tub or sauna. Not only are flat screen televisions incorporated into some whirlpool/jetted tubs, but showers also can have a waterproof television screen, blended into the tile wall, controlled by a waterproof remote and heard on ceiling speakers.