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The Rainshower SmartControl from Grohe features a combined push- and-turn button that starts the flow of water and controls water volume, and textured edges for easier control with wet fingers. TurboStat technology is a metal thermostat handle that delivers preferred water temperature. Circle No. 167 on Product Card The Fascino shower system from Gessi North America includes a wall-mount- ed showerhead in mirror steel with a 21 5 ⁄8" projection. A wall-mounted showerhead and a companion hand shower set are offered in chrome, gold CCP, satin nickel, polished nickel PVD, copper PVD and black metal PVD. Circle No. 168 on Product Card The Gridscape GS4 Series Mondrian Edition from Coastal Shower Doors is characterized with geometric aes- thetics and customizable features. A segmented hinge appears continuous, creating a multidimensional element when the door is opened. Circle No. 169 on Product Card This Satin Black showerhead – Danze's Mono Chic 5"x8" – is available with its Midtown shower trim. The rain show- er-inspired showerhead features a thin profile and Air Injection technology, operating at 2.0 gpm. It also has 88 easy-to-clean jets to prevent mineral build up, the firm reports. Circle No. 170 on Product Card ThermaSol showcases the Serenity Light Sound Rain Head, controlled by the ThermaTouch in-shower 7" LCD touchscreen controller. ThermaTouch allows personalization, from steam du- ration, temperature setting and individ- ual memorized presets, to Tranquility, a visual and sound-effect experience. Circle No. 171 on Product Card Inspired by the petals of a dahlia, Kohler's Exhale spray face, fashioned from silicone, delivers a showering experience designed to calm the mind and invigorate the body. Available in two sizes and flow rates, each shower- head and handshower offers up to four sprays. Circle No. 172 on Product Card Sonoma Forge has added the WaterBridge Exposed Shower System in a new application – mounted on a glass wall. The industrial chic look is enhanced by new accessories that con- ceal the mounting hardware, providing a clean appearance when installed directly to glass shower enclosures. Circle No. 173 on Product Card Aston's Langham frameless sliding shower collection now offers oversized 72"x75" door models. Configured without a base, it can fit alcoves 68"- 72" in width. The line is available with stainless steel or chrome finish, 10mm (3/8") thick premium clear or frosted ANSI-certified tempered glass. Circle No. 174 on Product Card TECHNICAL IMPACT With the frantic pace of technological advances in the modern world, it's no surprise that there are many developments to consider with shower systems. From elements that impact the actual functioning to those that enhance the overall experience, technology impacts the rising trends. "We live in a world of possibility," says Bishop. "How digital becomes woven into the experience is the next leap. Imagine being able to talk to your shower and never have to touch a handle to set a temperature, set the water pattern and flow rate and possibly see your water usage if rules begin to limit the amount one can use. The possibilities are endless." Even if some of those possibilities haven't come to pass yet, many changes are happening in the here and now, including integration of differ- ent therapies, water delivery options and steam. "With the spa-like experience desired at home, Basco continues to see tech enter the market and continues to explore integration of unique functionality demands of today's homeowner like steaming, lighting and integration monitor/TV displays," says Weyman. Mendoza agrees: "Although some clients are going without tubs, they still crave a spa-like experience." This means an increase in steam showers, body sprays and lighting options, from task lighting to chromatherapy. Allen says that popular elements include larger showerheads with higher water delivery efficiency and misting functions in both showerheads PERSONALIZED FUNCTION One of the factors behind the larger shower sizes is the number of items people want to put into these spaces. A single showerhead is no longer enough. From seating to multiple body sprays and other accessories, re- quirements for the space have become more complex. "With the larger shower spaces, consumers are adding more devices like handshowers, bodysprays and multiple showerheads," notes Reffner. "These may be laid out on one, two or three walls, and may even utilize the ceiling to mount showerheads." An upgrade with major impact is a shower system that features both handshower and fixed showerhead, he states. Even if there's no space for a larger shower, investing in new show- er products can enhance the showering experience, Ramaker says. For instance, the addition of a handshower can create the illusion of more space, as it offers freedom of movement and allows the user to direct the water spray exactly where it is needed. Seats in the shower are also a rising request, he adds, for shaving legs as well as meeting ADA applications. Of course, sometimes the desire for seating has more to do with pampering than practicality. "Shower seating has become more popular as well, with tubs becoming less prevalent," says Allen. "The seating provides the relaxation experience of a tub, making it more comfortable to relax and linger for a personal wellness experience." 48 Kitchen & Bath Design News • September 2016 PRODUCT TREND REPORT