A modern shower for any bathroom

Read article : A modern shower for any bathroom

Just like fashion and everything else in life, décor also has emerging trends. Gone are the days of dingy shower cubicles and minute shower heads - today the modern shower is earning its rightful place in the most stylish bathrooms. Kate van Niekerk, marketing manager of Tile Africa, shares her expertise to help you bring your outdated shower in line with the latest trends and designs. 

 

What are the latest shower trends?

Square, frameless showers are the latest trend, with clear glass to show off the tiles and mosaics. No more grimy shower curtains to be embarrassed about. The modern glass shower enclosure reflects natural and artificial light and creates a sense of space and openness. “It is now super fashionable to showcase the whole package and not just the shower door,” says Kate.

A new range of shower roses and hand-held showers reduces water consumption without affecting the water pressure and amount of water delivered. A water flow regulator maintains a predefined, constant flow rate regardless of the line pressure. The regulator reacts to water pressure changes and adjusts to decrease the amount of water passing through, while the flow-rate remains the same.

 

Pressure variations are compensated for and water consumption can be reduced from 30 to 10 liters per minute.

What is the latest look when it comes to showerheads?

Showerheads, previously available as small shower roses, now come in larger sizes, making this contemporary water spout a standout feature in the shower.“With the invention of water-saving shower heads, consumers can now spoil themselves with larger shower heads, as the size doesn’t influence the amount of water being delivered,” she says.    

What has inspired these shower trends?

Modern bathroomware is developed with the scarcity of natural resources in mind. The latest products with green credentials are designed to make it easier for consumers to conserve the environment.

 

The contemporary bathroom has become less of a personal area and more of an experience of luxury and relaxation. “The whole package of modern tiles, mosaics and listelli encourages us to be more daring with clear versus frosted glass showers,” says Kate.

How can tiles be used to create a unique look for the shower?

A mosaic feature wall or column in the shower will grab attention. Shimmering glass, smooth metal or textured natural stone mosaics are a great way to create a focal point and draw the eye towards the shower.Borders add interesting texture to walls and the creative possibilities are endless. Wide or narrow, horizontal or vertical, borders can be created with beautiful listelli, tiles cut into different sizes or colourful mosaics.Textured tiles and pebble mosaics are perfect for the shower floor to make it less slippery.

 

What are the shower options for a small bathroom?

Most of us will admit to dreaming of a larger bathroom, but it is luxury that many modern homes lack. Fortunately, with adequate planning, even the smallest bathroom can be transformed to accommodate a shower and a bath.Though space may be limited, it is possible to fit a shower in a small en-suite or a guest bathroom by choosing a space-saving layout.

If you prefer a shower, rather than a shower-bath combination, you may want to consider a curved corner or pentagon shower cubicle. “This is a miracle space-saver as it cuts away a corner and therefore frees up space,” says Kate.

Where it is impossible to fit in a separate shower, an all-in-one bath and shower combination is the answer. A shower bath consists of a stylish bath that features shower fittings and a glass enclosure, so that you have the choice between enjoying a bath or a shower.

What are the considerations when planning a shower that will be used by children?

If the bath and shower have tiled edges, make sure these edges are finished off with a round border. Shower corners can be a hazard, so check that they are finished off smoothly, with no sharp edges protruding.Extremely hot water is another danger to consider. Turn down the temperature of the geyser fitted for this particular bathroom. Medicine and cleaning products should be safely stored in a childproof cupboard. 

 

What accessories are available for showers?

A shower caddy is a handy accessory as it keeps all items, such as shampoo and shower gel for example, neatly together and within easy reach. A shaving or cosmetic mirror on a concertina wall stand is a practical option in the shower as it can expand and twist to achieve the right angle. Make sure that accessories are made from stainless steel so that they don’t rust in the humid and wet conditions.Additional storage space can be created by fitting glass shelves and a towel rod next to the shower. “Keep accessories simple as a bathroom can easily look cluttered,” she says. – Antonella Desi

Pictures courtesy of: Tile Africa

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