Bathrooms make a splash with high-tech luxury

Technology brings new comforts to the bathroom

When it comes to technology, bathrooms are the last unconquered territory in the home. But that’s quickly changing as existing technologies are modified for use in bathrooms and new solutions are created exclusively for these spaces.

"For so long, our society hasn't recognized the benefits of the bathroom beyond the five-minute shower," says Kevin Kennon, founder of New York City–based Kevin Kennon Architects. "But what is the first thing you do when you walk into a hotel room? You check out the bathroom, even before you check out the view. And now we're all starting to realize the bathroom isn’t just functional but is part of a ritual we have every day of getting up and going someplace. If it's designed right, it's a place that will make you feel better about yourself."

Heated shower seats and floors, mood lighting, built-in audio, televisions — these and other technologies can transform a bathroom into a luxury retreat. Jamie Myers, a designer with Susan Fredman & Associates, Ltd., a Chicago-based residential and commercial interior design firm, says that many of her clients request TVs for their baths. "People like to watch the news as they get ready in the morning or watch a movie after work as they relax in the tub," she explains. For example, SÉURA Inc. has rolled out a line of TVs that look and function like mirrors when turned off. When switched on, they provide high-definition viewing. Less expensive options include flat screen plasma televisions that are installed away from wet areas and controlled by remote.

Refrigerators are also making their way into the bath. Small models like those popular in dorm rooms have been updated and refined for baths. Homeowners can cool everything from their morning orange juice to a nice chardonnay or even their favorite facial cream. Some appliances also offer a warming option.

Traditional bathroom components like lights also are going high-tech, Kennon says. LED lighting, which was previously too expensive for residential use, is now showing up in single-family homes and condos. LED lighting is not only energy efficient; it also provides different lighting effects. "With LED lights, you could have the whole bathroom change color or transition between bright light to cooler light," he says, adding that LED lighting is perfect for bathrooms because it provides more natural lighting for applying makeup. "It can really make a difference when people want to relax in their bathroom or just try on clothes."

Luxury items like towel warmers have evolved, too. Consider Thermique Technologies' towel warmer: It doesn’t contain any tubes or racks; instead, it's composed of a single pane of glass with a transparent coating that provides warmth across the entire surface. The towel warmer comes in a 24-by 36-inch model that attaches to the wall and is hard-wired to the electrical system, or a 24-by 24-inch free-standing version that plugs into a wall outlet.

"We use bathrooms to get ready to face the day — why shouldn't they provide the most innovative, high-tech products?" says Mike Hobbs, president of Thermique Technologies. "These little luxuries can help you get ready for the rough and tumble world and set a great mood for the day. Or they can provide it with a great ending."


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