Kitchen & Bath Design News is the industry's leading business, design and product resource for the kitchen and bath trade.
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Product Trend Report BCI Acrylic Bath Systems has added two slate colors to its products. CanyonSlate and RosaSlate are for use in smooth and patterned wall surrounds, as well as decorative trim. This further expands the company's oferings of acrylic bath systems, including systems for aging-in-place remodels. Circle No. 169 on Product Card GlassCrafters' Majestic series features truly frameless shower enclosures. The series features a solid brass pivot hinge with the ability to handle larger and heavier doors. The Majestic ofers durable construction and custom design. Circle No. 170 on Product Card possible," he says. Zar notes that consumers are keeping the same footprint in their wet area, but these spaces seem roomier because they are not completely encased. The popularity of clear shower doors contributes to this, as does a lower threshold when the area is transitioned to a shower only, she adds. CONSERVATION LEGISLATION California Faucets' new version of StyleTherm – a thermostatic shower system – is entirely CALGreen compliant. StyleTherm employs a two-outlet diverter valve with volume control features. The diverter allows users to toggle between single shower applications while still ofering volume control, anti-scald safety protection and exact water temperature settings. It is available in three trim options that complement the company's 25-plus handle styles and 34 fnishes. Circle No. 171 on Product Card Brizo's Sensori custom shower systems feature Sensori Thermostatic Valves to keep water temperature consistent and prevent scalding. Sensori includes two H2Okinetic body sprays that contain an internal system that sculpts the water into a unique wave pattern to provide the feeling of more water. Touch-Clean soft rubber spray holes allow for easy cleaning. The system is available in fve styles. Circle No. 172 on Product Card Conservation issues have an impact on trends in showers and tubs, particularly in states where new legislation is guiding what is allowable in shower fxtures. In California, for instance, multi-function diverters are no longer allowed, says Rohl. Manufacturers are developing products that address these conservation concerns without sacrifcing the overall showering experience. Kohler, for instance, has developed spray technologies that allow for less water usage but consistent performance, says Rotelli, who cites the new Katalyst spray as an example. "A simple design allows air into the water stream, which allows for larger water droplets to emit from the showerhead, but also be sprayed out with great pressure, as to not affect the user experience. We are removing a half gallon of water with our Katalyst 2.0 GPM showerheads and the user cannot tell the diference," says Rotelli. Chen adds that there may be more movement toward WaterSense compliance as diferent states implement more water conservation legislation. For instance, in New York City, a law was implemented in 2010 to enhance water effciency standards. "One specifc that which came into efect July 1, 2012, was the requirement of the WaterSense label on all showerheads, private lavatory faucets and bath-specifc fxtures. If water conservation and efciency become more of a priority, then more eforts will probably be focused on technology to enhance the showerhead performance with the reduced fow rate," says Chen. CUSTOM CONTROLS Though there are consumers who want a place to get away from the technology that surrounds them in their daily lives, there are also those who want the digital age to carry through to their shower and tub controls. "The major trend in bathtubs and showers is the evolution of technology. Clients are looking for customized control, right at their fngertips," says Rotelli. Kohler's DTV Prompt system has a waterproof digital interface right in the shower that allows the user to control the water temperature and features with a simple push of a button. The Rodeo model tub from Hydro Systems takes its form from the sleek curves of California's famed Walt Disney Concert Hall. Rodeo's fuid shape is modern in style, with high sides that allow the bather to completely submerge in the deep well. Circle No. 173 on Product Card In this residence, the bath is adorned with tempered safety etched panes of translucent blue glass in shower enclosures and sliding doors. Bendheim Satin Tech etched glass features maintenancefriendly surfaces that are luminous and obscuring, creating openness with privacy. Photo by Bjorg Magnea. Circle No. 174 on Product Card The 6030SPAN shower pan from Aquatic measures 60"x30"x20-5/8", allowing it to be retroftted in a standard bathtub alcove. The pan has a left- or right-hand drain, an integral left- or right-side corner seat, a low, 3" threshold and a slip-resistant, textured bottom. A designerlook, tiled-wall application is ofered. Circle No. 175 on Product Card 52 | Kitchen & Bath Design News September 2013 Grohe America ofers handshowers in modern, contemporary and classic styles to match any bath decor. Power&Soul; showers from Grohe feature four individual spray types as well as seven mixed spray patterns that can be easily selected and combined by pressing one of the four buttons on the back of the showerhead. Circle No. 176 on Product Card The Saver Tub with Curved Apron from American Standard ofers extra comfort and elbow room, yet fts in a standardsize tub alcove. The curved front apron creates a roomy bathing space, while the tapered design and straight bottom edge allow for tub replacement in the space of any standard alcove tub. Optional matching wall surrounds with storage space and a curved shower door are available. Circle No. 177 on Product Card