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Bring bathroom luxury home
Soak up spa style
What people dream about, however, is a soothing retreat — a spa-inspired space to rewind in.
People now want soaker tubs and multiple shower heads.
 They want water closets, granite countertops and storage.
And renovation companies are only too happy to help.
“People now are looking for more luxury with nice bathtubs and neutral colours,” says Designer’s Choice Kitchen and Bathroom’s Dan Rafferty.
“Now you can do showers with nice, big rain pans — a 9-inch shower head that basically drizzles water over you. We also put in a lot of steam systems.”
Rafferty says clients come in with lists at the ready, including everything from heated towel bars, to bidets, to jacuzzis.
“Now that the city’s become more affluent, people just like pampering themselves. People are working with their spaces, but working with their space wisely. They are making a beautiful space, but making it functional at the same time.”
However, replacing those avocado fixtures with high-end, spa-friendly ones can come with a hefty price tag. Rafferty estimates it can cost $30,000 for a bathroom renovation.
In a new home, however, the sumptuous spot often comes with the house.
“Calgarians by nature are working long hours and don’t necessarily have time to go out of the home for a spa-like experience,” according to Landmark Homes’ Aaron Brown.
The homebuilder features plenty of upscale features in its show-homes, from walkthrough showers to romantic fireplaces.
“We’re seeing larger soaker tubs, and we’re seeing two-person soaker tubs so people can enjoy their spa experience together.”
Brown says creating a romantic room is simple once fireplaces and ambient lighting get involved.
Often, ensuites are divided from the master bedroom by a two-way fireplace and little else, explaining why separate water closets — rooms housing only the toilet — are becoming more prevalent in new homes.
“It’s having a spa-like experience but still having privacy.”
And as if steam showers and fireplaces aren’t enough, modern technology has elbowed its way into the commode, as well.
Flatscreen televisions and stereo systems have made their way into the bathroom, providing yet another means of escape.
And, Kohler has melded technology and bathroom fixtures together, creating the ultimate in showering experiences: The Digital Thermostatic Valve System (DTV).
The product offers homeowners a plethora of options at the touch of a digital button. Whether it’s a customized massage or a personalized temperature setting, the DTV does it all.
“We have integrated leading-edge technology that is simple to use in creating the ultimate showering experience,” says Kohler’s Michael Wandschneider.
And the ultimate experience is exactly what homebuyers — and homebuilders — are keeping in mind.
“The ensuite is considered a personal retreat where people can relax in privacy, with as much luxury as they can afford,” says Baywest Homes’ Ryan Hall.
“They may even forgo options in other areas of the home, just so they can upgrade their ensuite to include some wow factor.”
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