From powders to primaries, bathrooms have traveled a long road with its current destination – one of ambiance and luxury, a place to revitalize oneself.
We spoke with Elizabeth Rishel, CKD, owner of Orion Design on what she is seeing in bathroom trends.
Photos courtesy of Orion Design
KCH&S: Are you seeing bathrooms becoming more of a relaxation and recharge area?
Orion Design: We certainly are! It used to be that clients spoke about efficiency of getting in and out of these spaces in the mornings but the conversation has changed to how they might get the most out of their bathroom suite. This might be in spa features integrated into the shower or bathtub but we see it in other ways as well. We have had more clients asking for a make-up vanity as a place to relax and prepare for the day or a night out and have had frequent requests for the integration of a wine refrigerator and/or coffee bar. I believe people are gaining more and more appreciation for self care and it is exciting to see these spaces foster that.
KCH&S: Keeping with the trend of spa-like elements, what do you see in the way of tubs and showers?
Orion Design: Large, spacious, two-person showers that integrate steam and multiple shower heads are a frequent element that we incorporate into Primary Suites. We are also incorporating large soaking tubs or bathtubs that have various hydrotherapy options. Sensory therapies are also an option! Lighting/color, music/sound, and aromatherapy are also additional elements that can be implemented in a way to foster relaxation.
KCH&S: We’ve been hearing more about bidets, has this trend hit Kansas City yet?
Orion Design: We have not been incorporating many free standing bidets but we do see washlet toilet seats on most of our projects. This is similar except it allows us to combine the two fixtures into one and takes up much less space. We make sure to incorporate an outlet at the back of the stool so that these seats can incorporate heat elements for the water and seat. Our clients have been appreciating this added function in their spaces and often inquire as to how they can add them into bathrooms.
KCH&S: Warmer neutrals are appearing in the bathrooms, how does this relate to fixture colors and textures?
Orion Design: One of the most exciting things that we see in design today is that our clients are wanting spaces that are truly unique. They are becoming more and more open to layering in color, pattern, and texture. This can be done in a warm neutral relaxing way but we also see it done in a more invigorating and colorful manner. This certainly makes our jobs more fun! For us, this might mean that we are sourcing tile that has a rich texture or a fun wallpaper.
KCH&S: Artistic patterned tiled floors and walls are finding their spot in the bathroom, how do you suggest is the best way to use them?
Orion Design: Be bold! Don’t be afraid to fill a wall with a deep rich colored tile or flood a floor with an interesting pattern. Many times it is when people hold back that the spaces end up being disappointing. If this is a bit too scary then perhaps using wallpaper to bring in a pattern might be safer as it is easier to remove wallpaper then tile. In this case, come in with a more neutral timeless tile.
