The Wellness Factor

He notes: "The whole idea was to make it a more livable space, where you could almost live in the bathroom."

In this project, as in many of his current bath projects, Palmer sees a growing trend toward designs that promote a sense of well being. He explains, "A lot of businesspeople consider the bathroom like a think tank: it is place to unwind or charge your batteries. Therefore, a lot of different materials are being seen [to inspire them]. Even ceramics and porcelain tiles are getting popular."

Since nature is the ultimate soothing experience, he says it's no surrpise that so many people want natural materials and glass to create a sense of openness. Of course creative designs that personalize the space also make it the perfect escape: "You can do a lot with the colors of ceramics, for instance, as well as with neat designs in the tile."

He continues: "More and more you are seeing styles [that inspire and soothe], such as round columns for a Grecian look, for example. We are finding that, when it comes to aesthetics, clients want something that is more eye-pleasing and relaxing."

He continues: "Warm cherry cabinetry and white in the bathroom are also popular. There is so much more to offer with the fixtures and off-white and stone sinks. It just makes it a nice place to be."

Natural Remedy

Needing to convert a family's main bathroom into a space suitable for everyday use as well as the occasional house guest, Julie Williams, CKD, CBD and owner of Novato, CA-based Julie Williams Design, chose a solution that was, well, natural.

She explains: "We all lead very busy lives, surrounded with fast-paced technology. This, coupled with global conditions and events, has caused us to seek a serene atmosphere and retreat in our homes. Therefore, I think natural materials, simple design, open spaces, a soothing color palette and the celebration of water [enables designers to] create a personal spa environment for clients."

She continues: "{With this project], we were seeking something with a Zen/Asian style'open, and simple'using natural materials."

The nature theme also ties in with regard to tying together the inside and outside of the home: She points out, "For us, geographic location usually dictates the use of the space, as these are usually second homes either at the Coast or in the mountain areas. This also may determine the material selection."

However, while aesthetics are important, she adds, "I always consider the safety aspect when selecting materials and planning safe access to tubs and showers. For instance, I will suggest decorative grab bars for all showers for all ages," she notes.

In terms of general bath trends, Williams has seen a bigger call for floor warming systems, steam showers, air tubs, multiple shower sprays and more attention to details like tile and colors. Design trends vary by style, she notes, adding, "Traditional design usually means materials with more details, such as furniture-style pieces and symmetry. Contemporary design usually calls for materials that are sleek, with clean lines, open uncluttered design, sometimes bold color and materials used in unexpected ways."

But regardless of whether they prefer traditional or contemporary, clients want baths that reflect who they are. She relates: "It really depends on the project and the desired outcome and needs. I do not have a problem mixing materials, finishes and products if it serves the design and the clients' needs."

For this project, Williams used slate for the floor and shower, as well as a 3"-thick slab on the vanity.

"Cherry wood with a pecan stain was used for the custom piece and made to resemble a table," she reports. "A clear glass Le Bijou vessel sink with a Grohe faucet is reminiscent of an Asian bamboo fountain, while the antique Chinese mirror frame brings a splash of color and an artistic element to soften and balance the space."

A Toto toilet and custom glass enclosure finish out the space.

Williams believes this bath is a good example of how the wellness trend seems to be flourishing. She concludes, "Through the use of naturalistic materials and an open and uncluttered design, we were able to create this wonderful, peaceful space for the client." KBDN