Design Trends – Mark Bickerstaffe
Kohler's Director of New Product Development, Mark Bickerstaffe, highlights some directions in bathrooms:
Destination bathrooms have evolved into a living space rather than just a bathing room. We use them for relaxation, privacy, grooming, and bathing. Therefore the needs and expectations of the bathroom space are being stretched ever farther and companies like Kohler are responding with the introduction of smart bathroom appliances that enhance the bathing experience while being ever mindful of limited resources such as water and energy.
Digital showering our concerns for water management have been met with new technology that will precisely control water use and synthesise this with control of light, steam and entertainment. Digital showering systems can be used to custom programme the exact requirements of each family member.
Toileting while this hasn't changed for decades, the dual pressure of water-saving and hygiene is driving innovation. This is the area where we waste the most water so we will see continuous innovation here. Numi, our flagship, is a beautiful very low flush toilet that also has a hygienic personal cleaning system with comfort and entertainment features. (not yet available in Australia and New Zealand).
Key considerations when renovating a bathroom, storage and lighting are key elements of a successful design. These are both pivotal elements of a bathroom that are very difficult and expensive to retro fit. Sophisticated lighting will enhance the bathing experience and banish the discomfort of overly harsh or even annoyingly dim lighting. Well thought out storage, while ensuring an uncluttered space, will also utilize previously wasted space, such as under baths.
Maintenance everyone wants low maintenance, especially for high traffic areas such as the bathroom. Wall-mounted taps, above the basin, not only give a super-clean look but also make cleaning really easy.