11 Shower Heads For Your Master Bathroom

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There is no better feeling in the world than coming home to a warm shower and having the water run along your face. Showers are supposed to be soothing. They are meant to make you forget work, soccer practice or reality TV. As such, given that the shower can do all the above, you better have the best shower head on the market.

Shower heads come in all shapes and sizes. Whether it’s a handheld, rainfall, dual or double shower head, it better take you to a place you can’t experience anywhere else in the home. The designs have greatly changed over the years and that is why I gathered 11 of the best shower head designs on the market.

If you're thinking about installing a new shower head, let us help you find reliable shower contractors near you!

Hand Held Shower Heads

As you will see with the other shower heads mentioned in this article, many are made of chrome that give your shower the shiny and bright design all of us desire. This hand held shower head is part of a casual and comfortable shower surrounded by different sized tile. The shower head may have a small diameter, but homeowners can adjust the height while you wash your hair.

Thinking about upgrading or converting your tub into a more luxurious shower? See some of the costs involved with our shower installation cost estimator.

As you can see in our next handheld shower head, they are many updates you can implement to make sure your shower experience is up there with the best. The silver shower fixtures are part of a traditional bathroom that is covered in white wall coverings. The shower head comes with an adjustable height feature, as well as multiple shower panels below. With this shower head system, you surely won’t miss a spot.

Dual Shower Heads

This is one of my favorite shower heads as the traditional beauty features dual shower heads, slate tile all around, extra panels below the shower heads and a frameless shower door. Clearly, this shower was designed for two people, but I doubt anyone would complain about the extra space if they go at it alone.

If you are thinking of installing a glass shower door like you see here, see what it costs with our glass shower door cost estimator.

Rainfall Showers

If there is one dominant theme in new shower design, it’s the idea of the rainfall shower. No matter where you look, more and more homeowners are asking for rainfall showers in their master bathrooms. After all, they are easy, relaxing and fast.

This contemporary shower features a walk-in shower with a square, silver rainfall shower head. The simple shower handle matches the design of the gray and white bathroom. The shower head is not as flashy as some of the rainfall shower heads below, but it enhances a shower experience like no other.

Who said all great shower heads belong indoors? This courtyard shower added teak floors, tile backsplashes, a soap dish and of course, a large rainfall shower head.

Outdoor showers are often used to remove dirt or sand, but even so, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your design creativity. As you can see, if weather permits, your outdoor shower can look as good as any in America.

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Now we are really stepping up our outdoor shower. These homeowners decided to go all out with an entire indoor-outdoor bathroom, complete with a luxurious inground tub, mosaic wall tile, glass doors, an outdoor shower with a stone floor and of course, a chrome, rainfall shower head.

No need to worry about privacy, as this outdoor shower is completely surrounded by a tall, stone wall and greenery. If you want to add an outdoor shower, make sure you know what plumbing costs come with it.

Multiple Shower Heads

As you have read, there is no one shower head fits all. Many showers and bathrooms demand more and therefore, installed multiple shower heads in their newly remodeled bathroom.

Shower heads and bathrooms do not get more contemporary than this masterpiece with the massive rainfall shower head above and a smooth, thin handheld shower head below. The bathroom also highlights smooth, gray wall tile, stainless steel all around, a floating sink and tile flooring.

No matter your design preference, when you turn this amazing shower on, you’re in for an unforgettable shower experience.

I understand the size of this massive shower will not fit for most of our fans, but the shower head system is one that can go in any master bathroom. Two rainfall shower heads, a handheld option and multiple panels right in front highlight this frameless shower.

This brighter, international shower design also incorporated a built-in shower seat, recessed lights and a marble soaking tub.

Many Americans don’t like to hold the shower head, but still want the experience of multiple water outlets. That is why this shower head combo is perfect with the wide rainfall shower above, dual shower heads on the side and a small shower head next to the corner seat. Despite the size of the smaller shower head, it would be hard to turn down those shower jets.

Dual, detachable shower heads made their way into this gorgeous shower remodel with marble shower walls, a rock shower floor and bronze fixtures all around. They added a small bench for comfort as well as multiple shower shelves for storage.

This simple modern shower design implemented both a small ceiling shower head, in addition to a handheld shower head near the shower bench. Overall, they did a great job of implementing a mix of modern and industrial design with the white tile and cement wall in front.

Conclusion

Shower heads come in all shapes and sizes. If you want to enhance your shower experience and establish that relaxing and soothing aroma every night, then you may want to install one of these 11 shower heads as part of your next bathroom remodel.

As always, make sure you talk to local bathroom remodeling pros before you take out your checkbook.

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Rain Shower Heads - A New Shower Head for Your Master Bath

Read article : Rain Shower Heads - A New Shower Head for Your Master Bath

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Nothing is more invigorating than a nice hot shower. To have a wonderful experience in the shower go get a new showerhead for your master bath. Rain Shower Heads are one of the top shower heads on the market. They have so many different styles to chose from that you will wonder how you ever lived without one. Their mission is to create quality craftsmanship with exquisite designs coupled with aesthetically pleasing products. That is exactly what they deliver, I know because I own one myself.

Rain Shower Heads: Traditional Design

The first type of Rain Shower Head is the traditional design. The traditional shower head comes in four different sizes and finishes. You can buy this type of shower head in 10″, 8,″ 6″, and 5 1/2″ diameters. The first in the design series is call "Classic." It comes in a 10″, 8″, and 5 1/2″ diameter. All three sizes are designed with superior craftsmanship and are built with solid brass construction. The Rain Shower Head also is constructed with cast brass nozzles that direct precise stream control and allow better pressure during your spa-like experience. The smaller Rain Shower Head works as well as the other two except it has a smaller number of cast brass nozzles. Rain Shower Arms are sold separately from all three, however, the smaller version can be fitted to your regular shower arm or fitting. They come in Chrome, Polished Brass, and Brushed Satin Nickel. This Rain Shower Head would make an excellent new shower head for your master bath.

Next, the "Porcelain" 6″ Rain Shower Head combined beautiful with functionality. This shower head is made of solid porcelain and chrome-plated brass. It also comes in chrome or polished brass. For an extremely elegant look try combining the shower head with a matching Opus shower arm.

Then, they offer the 10″ and 8″ diameter "Legacy" Design. This is more of an economical designed shower head featuring the dimpled face construction. Even though it has not been constructed with the same cast brass nozzles, it still offers an amazing shower experience in comparison to standard shower heads. It is a full size shower head with same identical body style as the "Classic" series, but without the hefty price tag.

Lastly, there is the 6″ two-toned "Chrome and Brass" Rain Shower Head. This one is my favorite because this is the one that I own. It is absolutely beautiful with a chrome body flat plate design and a polished brass nozzle base. The brass tips are covered with soft rubber ends designed for more effective cleaning in mind for hard water stains. If you are a person that likes to soak in the tub, this shower head will give you a whole new perspective on relaxation.

Rain Shower Heads: Exotic Design

If you have a contemporary master bath then you will absolutely love this concept.. These shower heads are very unique in detailing and creative expression. They are designed to offer superior water pressure. The Rain Exotic line come in chrome, polished brass, and a satin nickel finishes. There is the 9″ "Ultra" shower head that is next to the largest size they make. It has a contemporary curved spoke-like body that delivers exceptional water pressure. The 6″ "Luna" shower head is the most exotic style in this series with a similar design, but with individual heads on the ends of each arm. The 10″ "Oasis" shower head has a much bolder look and would probably be better suited to the males in the house. Then there is the 6″ "Oasis" shower head that delivers the same experience with slightly fewer nozzles in place. Any of these styles will definitely make a statement and take your shower experience to a whole new level. A new shower head in your master bath like this one will make you feel as if you have crossed over into the future.

Rain Shower Heads: The Future Handheld

The last in the line has yet to be revealed, however, I can't hardly wait to see what they come up with after experiencing some of their other products. Rain Shower Heads are top quality and give you a wonderful spa-like escape. These type of shower heads are great for relaxing tired and aching muscles. I think that if you are going to get a new shower head for your master bath, you should consider any of these products.

5 Simple Ways to 'Zhng' Your Bathroom to Boutique Hotel Standards

Read article : 5 Simple Ways to 'Zhng' Your Bathroom to Boutique Hotel Standards

Bathroom #goals

The one thing you look forward to at staycations besides the breakfast buffets and movies on demand on the 42” plasma are the luxurious bathrooms. Stocked with plush towels, free-flow toiletries and if your hotel’s atas enough, a relaxing rain shower! And there’s a way you can take this hotel experience home, with some help from the experts of showers: hansgrohe. 

First to invent showerheads with adjustable jets and the wall-bars on which you mount your shower heads, hansgrohe has had many “eureka!” moments with state-of-the-art bathroom inventions. And we saw it firsthand at their recently revamped showroom - from button-operated rain showers to customizable taps in a spectrum of fashionable colours - with 5 bathroom additions to “zhng” your humble bathroom to one matching a 5-star hotel:

1. Get the hotel “rain shower” experience right in your home 

Raindance Select Overhead Showers

Your best bathroom karaoke sessions are at atas hotel staycations - you reckon it’s the combination of the superb reverb and rejuvenating rain showers. But you’ll also be “singing in the rain” in the comfort of your home with hansgrohe Rain Showers.

With up to 3 spray modes like RainAir (infuses water with air to create a voluminous water-saving spray) or WhirlAir (pulsating sprays that massage you), these overhead showers more than recreate the rain-like experience of hotel bathrooms.

The QuickClean technology in hansgrohe’s rain showers also makes cleaning a breeze because any dirt and limescale build up simply falls off when you gently rub the flexible silicon tip of each nozzle.

Raindance Select E300 Showerpipe Source: hansgrohe

If you’re excited about getting an overhead shower but your partner’s more a hand shower person, get the best of two worlds with 2-in-1 Showerpipes and Shower Panels. All your bathroom needs is an exposed connection to the main water supply and you won’t even have to hack the walls to install these babies.   

2. Change the mode of your shower with the press of a button

From delicate sprinkles to forceful streams, each of your family members has their favorite shower spray setting. And having to forcibly twist the showerhead dials back to your favorite setting every time you step into the shower can be quite a chore!

Raindance Select E120 - 3 sprays in 1 hand-shower (Colour: White Chrome)

But you can now adjust the jets of your shower, fuss-free, with hansgrohe’s Raindance Select hand showers like the Raindance Select E120. Clicking the “SELECT” button has you toggling between 3 different spray settings - Rain, RainAir and WhirlAir. And electricity’s not at all required to operate this clever device!

Remember to check the water pressure you have at home so the hansgrohe consultants can recommend you suitable hand showers.

Not just for hand showers, the Select Technology is also available on a range of hansgrohe showers, including the overhead rain showers. 

3. Bling up your tap handles with Swarovski crystals 

Source 

Never again settle for conventional metallic grey taps when there’s the option of stunning ones with sparkly Swarovski crystals. From the hansgrohe company’s luxury brand, AXOR, comes the closest thing to bespoke taps you’ll find. These customisations are hand-made in Germany, where taps can also be engraved with words and initials upon your request. 

Mandarin words can also be printed for those of you with parents who don’t read English 

You can also customize the heights of your taps to fit your bathroom. Source: hansgrohe

With 15 colours ranging from chrome to gold, these special finishes are not just pretty, they also make the metal more scratch-resistant. Taking customization up another notch, they even give you the option between matte and glossy - and you thought that was only applicable to the photographs you develop! 

4. Impress your guests with these one-of-a-kind taps

When guests come over to visit, the only room more visited than the living room is the bathroom. And all you need are these designer taps to give your visitors some serious tap-envy.  

AXOR Starck V. Source: AXOR

With a see-through faucet made of crystal glass, this tap reveals a mesmerizing water vortex. This is how spray researchers at Hansgrohe pay homage to Klaus Grohe - the founder’s youngest son - and his passion for water. Not only is it easy on the eyes, its easy-click-in design and safety-stop function make it really easy to clean. 

Turn up the zen with the AXOR Massaud’s nature-inspired designs and get a mini waterfall at your bathroom sink Source: AXOR

Bearing an uncanny resemblance to a branch and made with ⅓ less brass compared to regular taps, the AXOR Starck Organic taps are not only eco-friendly but very fancy. Source: AXOR

5. Give your basic bathroom a boutique hotel theme 

Your basic bathroom has a lot of untapped potential and your standard issue BTO bathroom can be boutique hotel material. All you’ve to do is dare to imagine and take inspiration from the urban chic AXOR Citterio M series or classy 1900s European AXOR Montreux series. 

Urban chic minimalist design of the AXOR Citterio M series Source: hansgrohe

The sleek design of the AXOR Citterio M series is the perfect option if you don’t have much toilet space to work with. Resembling the knobs and dials that you see in cars, this bathroom collection designed by the Italian architect and designer Antonio Citterio, ought to strongly appeal to you car aficionados. 

AXOR LampShower by Nendo Source: AXOR

There’s never been a rain shower as quirky as this lampshade that doubles as a showerhead, where the “spotlight” is literally on you as you stand under the water converging at the centre. So get ready to belt out those karaoke tunes. 

The AXOR Montreux Series - Posh up your bathroom with regal designs inspired by 20th century Europe. 

Hansgrohe- the touch of atas you need in your home

There are four types of Singaporeans in the shower. If you’re the chiongster who just whacks water both hot or cold or the hum ji kia who spends 10 minutes making sure the water’s the right temperature, showering is far from a relaxing experience. 

But here to change that, is a line of bathroom fixtures from AXOR and hansgrohe  - from hand showers with intuitive buttons to mind-boggling taps with water vortexes - they’ll completely redefine your idea of bathroom #goals. 

The showroom’s AXOR Massaud collection, featuring a lake-like bathtub and even a towel holder that looks like a branch! 

Catch these bathroom taps and showers in action and head down to the newly revamped hansgrohe and AXOR showroom at 69 Mohamed Sultan Road. With bathroom collections designed by prominent names in the industry - like Phoenix Design, Philippe Starck and Antonio Citterio - you’ll find there are really no bathroom boundaries in your home.

*From now until 28 February, simply pay with your Citibank debit or credit card and get 25% off regular-priced products under hansgrohe brand.

Click here to find out more about AXOR and hansgrohe!

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This post was brought to you by hansgrohe.

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Nags Head 403 | Outer Banks Vacation Rentals

Read article : Nags Head 403 | Outer Banks Vacation Rentals

The ultimate Nags Head vacation experience awaits you in this beautiful 12 bedroom oceanfront vacation rental. "The Stars" is conveniently located at the "Hot Spot" in Nags Head near shopping, restaurants, art galleries and local attractions. With 10 WELL-APPOINTED MASTER SUITES, there's no shortage of optimum privacy, relaxation and romance.

Pool dates are 4/15 - 10/21/17. HEATED POOL DATES 04/15- 6/3 AND 09/2 TO 10/21/17 - WEATHER PERMITTING - cost is $800. Sheets and towels are provided year round for full week reservations.

Every level welcomes you with new entertainment opportunites. On those rare rainy days, stay entertained in the recreation room on the ground-level, with a new large flat screen TV with a SURROUND SOUND HOME THEATRE. There's no need to run upstairs for a snack or treat, a built-in kitchen with microwave, icemaker and refrigerator will make it easy to enjoy snacks and drinks with minimal effort.

When your favorite game is on, head to the sports bar on the second-level, the SPORTS BAR boasts FOUR wall-mounted flat screen TVs, a sound system, billiard and foosball tables, a wet bar with a refrigerator, icemaker and microwave. One of the bedrooms on this floor has a shower which accomodates guests with disabilities. This floor also has a deck that overlooks the ocean and is equiped with another sound system.

After a long day at the beach, catch a movie on the 50" PLAZMA HDTV SURROUND-SOUND HOME THEATRE in the third-level great room. This level has a gas fireplace, a wet bar and a deck that overlooks the ocean. Enjoy the cable, 400 CD disc changer and the BLU-RAY DVD player.

Also on the third-level, you will overwhelm your senses in the grand master bath with 3 shower heads, whirlpool bath, sound system and hand painted beach mural. Enjoy the Stars ceiling view in the grand master bedroom. The spacious GOURMET KITCHEN featuring Audiovox 9" fold down TC with DVD/CD and radio, beautiful tile and granite countertops and top-of-the-line commercial appliances including a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Dacor Range with gas flame broiler in pure convection oven, which makes cooking for large groups a breeze.

This house boasts one of the highest points in Nags Head, compared to other oceanfront homes. There is a deck built at the level of the roof (forth-level). From this level you will enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as views of the town of Nags Head. This deck is spacious enough for several guests to enjoy a cup of coffee with the sunrise or sunset.

Make your vacation soundtrack with the pre-loaded CDs or the radio controlled by 11 keypads from the dune deck to the grand master bath. Wireless internet is available to keep you connected. Stream your favorite show or sport, or watch the action at the pool or out front from any of the 19 flat screen TV's
(14 of them are NEW for this season).

Outside, you will be treated to the private pool and hot tub with a lounge deck nestled in the dune with ocean views, speakers and a private walkway to the beach. A poolside and hot tub sound system are available for your convenience.

Baby Equipment Provided: 2 Highchairs; Baby Gates and 3 Pack and Play

THE STARS IN NAGS HEAD IS PERFECT FOR WEDDINGS AND LARGE FAMILY OR BUSINESS GATHERINGS. An event fee of $3,000.00 and a Security Deposit of $1,500.00 along with other fees apply. HEATED POOL AVAILABLE AT AN ADDITIONAL WEEKLY FEE.

GROUND LEVEL:
Access to pool and Hot Tub. Sitting room with 2 couches and a kitchenette complete with counter top M/W; Coffee Maker; Full Size Fridge; Ice Maker; and Small Sink. Full Bath accessible to and from pool with Shower Stall; Gas Grill; 2 Washers and 2 Dryers. On this level you will also find a Queen bedroom with a private bath (Tub/Shower combo); Bedroom with 2 sets of Bunk Beds with a DVD player and shared bath; King Bedroom with private bath and DVD player; Bedroom with 2 sets of bunkbeds share bath. All bedrooms have TV's.

MID LEVEL:
This level has 6 King bedrooms all have TV's; 2 of the Bedrooms have a DVD player and all have a private bath with shower stalls only. One of the King bedroom has a roll in sink and hand held bar near the toilet. The shower stall is not a roll in shower there is a lip to go over this room faces the ocean and has a deck access. This level also has a Recreation Room with a Pool Table and Foosball table; 4 Tv's; Surround Sound System; Kitchenette with a small sink; M/W and a mini fridge. Access to pool.

TOP FLOOR:
This level has 2 King Bedrooms one of the bedrooms has a jacuzzi tub and a beautiful separate shower and the other has a private bath with a shower stall. Both have TV's. Dining room has 2 tables one will sit 8 and the other 15 plus 5 seats at counter. The stove is commercial size to make cooking a pure enjoyment; You will also have the convenience of two dishwashers. The Living Room has a large TV; Blue Ray DVD player; Access to Deck; Gas Fireplace; You will also find a den with 2 chairs for the ones who love to read or sip their coffee while looking at the ocean.

Waterworks expert on bath design

Read article : Waterworks expert on bath design

When it comes to changing a room’s design – especially if the space is long overdue for an aesthetic makeover – it can be easy to get excited and jump feet first into the project. But in a bathroom, where fixtures and materials are expensive to change, going into the overhaul without a meticulous plan might not be the wisest decision.

Perhaps no one knows this better than Barbara Sallick, co-founder and senior vice president of Waterworks, who has spent more than four decades in the bathroom design industry. Sallick has distilled all of her knowledge into an artful new book, “The Perfect Bath,” which touches on every possible facet of designing a dream bathroom. From planning to selecting the perfect materials and enlisting the help of a design professional, Sallick arms the reader with her trusted tips and steps through a diverse and breathtaking array of beautifully appointed bathrooms.

We asked Sallick for some key pointers to keep in mind when designing a bathroom.

Q. Designing – or redesigning – a bathroom is a big undertaking. Where do you start?

A. First, imagine the type of space and experience you seek and plan it deliberately. Consider the colors and trends that continually resonate with you and collect tear sheets of images that most closely represent the experience you are trying to create. Next, I always recommend mapping out your daily rituals so the bath is fluid and cohesive to fit your lifestyle. Towels and toiletries should be within arm’s reach, shampoos and soaps should have a home so they’re neatly placed in the shower, and install good, flattering light for applying makeup.

Q.What’s a common mistake?

A. Certain seemingly small things that often get overlooked are quite important – for instance, leaving space for the proper placement of towel bars or hooks. Before selecting shower valves and shower heads, consider the flow of water into the apartment or home. Make sure you’re placing your valves in the right place; installing them in too deep will leave you cold and wet. This is when an experienced design professional can help you find the appropriate products and avoid some of the pitfalls.

Q. A bathroom renovation is a big and often expensive project. What are some of the materials that will stand the test of time and keep the space looking stylish years later?

A. Classic white subway tile in the bath is always timeless and also beautiful and can be updated again and again simply by changing the surrounding accessories. My personal preference? Ceramic, handmade tiles. For the floors, selecting a large stone, avoiding 12-by-12 tile … a small mosaic is always a classic look. Most importantly, make sure everything is properly installed.

Q. In all your years of designing bathrooms, what has been the most popular color with clients?

A. My love of white baths has been contagious. White has infinite range, depth and shading points.

Q. What feature or material is always worth splurging on?

Invest in a beautiful floor. The bath often has a small surface area, so a high-quality floor is achievable at a range of budgets. Quality bath fittings and fixtures are essential, in part because they are often the most costly to fix should something go wrong.

Q. What trends are you seeing take shape that will likely hold steady over the next several months?

I am not crazy about trends in the bath. It’s a space you don’t often completely gut renovate because it takes a lot of time and can be very costly. I believe in installing classic fixtures and fittings and then playing with trends through accessories, art, paint and towels or bathmats. But if there is a trend, right now it’s all about gray.

Q. What’s on its way out?

A. Whirlpool baths. At one point, every renovation had one. However, this is a waning fad.

Q. What’s the best way for clients to express their vision to a designer?

A. You can start by studying your closet to identify the colors and trends you tend to repeat, collecting tear sheets and then sifting through them for the images that most closely represent the experience you are trying to re-create. Make sure to edit yourself before meeting with the designer. Curate your choices.

Q. What does your dream bathroom look like?

A. My idea of the dream bath, for anyone, should be that it aligns with the design of your home. Make sure it’s classic, timeless and refined. The installation should be meticulous.

Q. Favorite paint colors?

A. Farrow & Ball is my go-to brand. I love their paint pots and the quality of the paint – I have at least 20 in my basement. I have used many F&B colors but my favorite is All White. It is what I call a warm neutral, and is a great bridge between all of the tile and marble and the white of the sinks and water closets. My second favorite is Plummett. It’s dark and adds drama to the bath.

Q. Most overlooked feature?

A. Heated floors.

Soak, soap and shower - tribunedigital-mcall

Read article : Soak, soap and shower - tribunedigital-mcall

Whirlpool tubs and cascades of water are becoming a bathroom favorite.

January 18, 2004|By Beth W. Orenstein Special to The Morning Call - Freelance

Seems homeowners are thinking outside the plain white box when it comes to choosing bathtubs and showers these days.

Whirlpool tubs are bubbling to the top of the list of favorites.

A whirlpool tub is ideal for soaking away stress or soothing aching muscles. Many homeowners are willing to make an investment in a whirlpool tub for that reason, area dealers agree.

"We're selling quite a few whirlpool tubs," says Ronald Laudenslager, a certified kitchen and bath designer for Yorgey Supply in Schnecksville. In a newly built home today, at least one of the bathrooms in the house will have a whirlpool tub.

Whirlpool tubs start at about $700, but can easily cost several thousand, depending on size, color, materials, mounting -- deck or recess -- and extras.

Yorgey works with contractors who build homes in all price ranges, Laudenslager says. The lower-end builders tend to use tubs made of gel coats or fiberglass while the higher-end builders will use acrylics, custom [solid-surface] panels, or ceramic tile.

Acrylic whirlpool tubs seem to be the most popular at Allen Supply in Allentown, says Tracey Stine, showroom manager.

Options for whirlpools include everything from lumbar supports, neck rests and grip bars to underwater mood lights and jets that provide champagne-like bubbles or rolling river currents. Some newer whirlpool tubs have a chamber in which to pour aromatherapy oils.

Jacuzzi recently introduced a whirlpool tub/entertainment system for two with a built-in 42-inch high-definition Plasma television and surround sound that upscale buyers are embracing.

Whirlpool enclosures can be made of tile, solid surface materials, teak, bamboo, or even stainless steel.

Whirlpools or jetted baths can be powered by a single-speed 3/4-horsepower pump or a 3-horsepower variable-flow unit or something in between. Some whirlpools can be programmed with different pulse rates and force.

It's more costly to install a whirlpool than a traditional tub because whirlpools need their own dedicated power line.

It is not typically a do-it-yourself job. "It gets quite involved to install it," Laudenslager says.

Antique-style bathtubs are popular among those renovating older homes.

Stine believes one reason they are not as popular with owners of more contemporary homes is that they are quite expensive.

"I don't see them being big because of the price," she says. Reproduction tubs start at about $1,500. Antique tubs range in price from $300 to $5,000.

Another reason antique-style fixtures aren't popular in new construction is people want larger tubs than are available in reproductions or restorations, says Daniel J. Lenner, a certified kitchen and bath designer with Morris Black & Sons in Hanover Township, Lehigh County. Today's master baths usually can accommodate a tub that is 6 feet long and some can accommodate whirlpools wide enough for two.

While whirlpools are growing in popularity, traditional bathtubs are not.

In fact, bathroom designers report getting more requests recently from aging baby boomers who want them to remove the traditional bathtub in their master bathroom and replace it with a stall shower.

The problem, Lenner says, is that as people age they may find getting into a tub more challenging than stepping over a shower threshold.

Homeowners who remove the tub from their master bath most likely have another bathroom with a tub. "So if they have grandchildren visiting they still have that option," Lenner says.

When it comes to showers, two trends are emerging: multiple, massaging body sprays and open designs without doors.

"Most people are looking to have several body sprays," Lenner says.

Once a luxury item, the hand-held shower spray also is becoming standard, Lenner says.

Lots of people like to hand-hold sprays so they can wash their pets in the shower as well, Lenner says. Handhelds also make the shower easier to clean.

The showers Stine sells often have five sources of water: a shower head, three body sprays and one hand-held spray.

The water doesn't trickle -- it either falls like a cascading sheet or jets with fire-hose strength.

All the sprays have water restrictors that limit the flow to 2.5 gallons a minute. "You don't have a choice. Everything is regulated," Stine says.

However, Lenner says, "If you have a showerhead and three body sprays, you have that many units times 2.5 gallons a minute. It's almost skirting the regulations having more spray heads."

And no more shower curtains: Some of the latest showers are built without doors.

The trend is so strong, Lenner says, more people probably would opt for door-less showers if they had the space. However, door-less showers require more space that most have..

Although different configurations are possible, homeowners generally need about 8 feet to get by without a door, Lenner says.

People also are opting for steam generators. Steam showers are growing in popularity because, like whirlpools, they soothe sore muscles. They also moisturize the skin and provide respiratory relief.

Burke Williams Day Spa in the Heart of San Francisco • We Blog The World

Read article : Burke Williams Day Spa in the Heart of San Francisco • We Blog The World

I love the concept of day spas, especially when you want an luxury escape for a few hours, where pampering is the order of the day. When we travel, we often review spas as part of our hotel stay, which is different than purposely making the time for yourself either on your home turf or when you are on the road and wish to indulge in a wellness experience. After all, isn’t your body worth it?

Meet Burke Williams,an urban day spa which has been around since 1984 and has quite a few locations in California. They drew most of their influence from some of the top European day spas. I had an opportunity to get a couple of treatments at their facility based in the heart of San Francisco, which is easily accessible for San Franciscans and travelers alike.

Above, is my favorite part of the spa – their massive hot tub. There’s nothing like a large hot tub and rarely do you find them, even at 5 star hotel spas. The lights were dimmed, which only added to the tranquility.

Nearby is a cold steam room which I saw a woman enter while I was in the hot tub and not leave for ten minutes. Brrr – I didn’t have the courage to try it although I’m certainly aware of the health benefits of cold water immersion and alternating from hot water to cold water dips. We reviewed Refuge in Carmel last summer that focuses on Thermal Cycle which is hot and cold water process mixed with relaxation in between. 

Exposure to cold water and ice baths, also known as “cryotherapy,” is a popular technique among amateur and professional athletes as well. At Burke Williams, they also have a very large hot steam room as well and unlike so many steam rooms I’ve tried over the years, it’s actually hot. On-site, they also offer a hot dry sauna, which I relaxed in for around 15 minutes before my treatments — you never want to go into a dry sauna after having a facial.

Spa Baths

They have two tubs in the spa set in a private room where you can take a therapeutic bath. There are many restorative benefits of hydrotherapy and worth doing whenever you have a chance. Here, traditional spa baths are available only in conjunction with another spa service.

Microsilk Baths are available for booking without another service, however, they recommend doing one in conjunction with a massage or facial.

Wetroom Treatments

I tried one of their Wetroom Treatments which are simply divine. While I’ve had body scrubs and wraps before, I’ve never had a salt scrub, which is so renewing for the skin. They talk about your natural glow unfolding from one of these treatments, which couldn’t be truer from how it feels and how your skin looks afterwards. Anthony described my arms as having a “glow” to them and “more radiant.”  

Purposefully designed shower heads envelop your body in cascading streams of water, after which you are scrubbed down with sea salt to remove dead surface skin cells — they refer to it as the Salt Glo, although if you have sensitive skin, you can opt for the sugar exfoliation process instead.

After the salt is removed, they wash you down (front and back) and then apply oil to leave your body feeling ever so soft. I absolutely loved this experience and would recommend adding to another service you’re doing that day. Obviously if you get a facial, do the wetroom treatment first. 

Sea salt photo credit: Seasalt.com.

Facials

Of course they offer a myriad of massage treatments, however I opted for the Anti-Aging Facial. If you’re over 40, I’d strongly encourage it.

They use professional H2V products which helps to regenerate and firm skin cells. Botanically derived stem cells and H2V R3 Transform with Matrixyl peptides repair damage, increase your skin’s resiliency, and boost collagen production. I definitely noticed a different to my face’s texture and brilliance after the treatment.

The Anti-Aging Facial

I absolutely loved this very targeted and customized facial designed to repair damage caused by extrinsic aging. They cleanse your face before applying a Vitamin C peel, their first major step of the treatment.

The 30% Vitamin C infuses the skin with protective anti-oxidants that neutralize free-radical damage and help reverse DNA damage. Key Ingredients for wellness geeks, include Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Ascorbic Acid, Bromelain and Papain. This peel is also added to your hands and covered with warm mitts.

Then, they spray the first enhancement: Age-Defy, which is naturally fragranced with apricot milk and is formulated with potent peptides to repair and actively firm the skin to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles. There’s Chlorella in this spray, which is a micro green algae anti-oxidant rich in protiens and amino acids, Antarticine; a peptide with ability to regenerate and protect skin by retaining moisture and water, heal wounds, increase collagen and elastin production, as well as boost hydration.

After the spray, they move into the 22 point acupressure massage, which is their signature and something they do with all facials. The second peel and my favorite one comes next — the Pro Beyond Pumpkin and Enzyme Peel.

This peel is by one of the skincare lines I like a lot – Eminence. Note: it tingles quite a bit when it goes on (a rarity for me),something to consider if you have very sensitive skin.

The peel helps to accelerate the exfoliation process by removing dead skin cells, reducing the appearance of pigmentation, fine lines and sun damage. The natural enzyme content of yam and pumpkin leave skin appearing firm and radiant.

Bromelain breaks down connecting structure that holds surface skin cells together and papain breaks down surface dead skin cells for easier removal. It also includes Niacin &Vitamin B3 which when applied topically, acts as a vasodilator to increase circulation, bringing oxygen and nutrients to the skin’s surface.

She then did a Defy mask, which is a potent Resveratrol antioxidant blend that helps to protect and rich skin nourishing fatty acids repair and nourish the skin. Key Ingredients include Monoi oil, Evening Primrose oil, Dragons blood extract, Resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant typically associated with red wine. This helps to protect and nurture cells, improve cellular function, increase collagen production, and improve elasticity while also reducing inflammation.

Their second spray enhancement is a stem cell one which is naturally fragranced with Olive and Coriander and is formulated with skin rejuvenating Mexican Bamboo and Japanese Knotwood to signal skin cells and put them in repair mode. These plant based stem cells stimulate our own skin cells’ natural repair process to help eliminate fine lines and wrinkles.

Believe it or not, there’s more! Unlike so many spas that do not give you the full time (especially your full 60 or 75 minutes “hands-on), they are present every step of the way.

After the stem cell spray, they apply a Cranberry AHA Mask,  which is a special formulation designed to enhance the capabilities of the fruit acids combined with moisturizers to leave the skin looking fresher and more supple. Ceramides create a strong water binding capacity leaving the skin hydrated with a visibly smoother appearance. Key Ingredients include Cranberry kaolin, Citric Acid, Glycolic Acid, Lactic acid, Malic acid, Shea Butter, and Wheat ceramides. BRAVO!

They also massage your arms, hands and feet during the treatment before applying the final spray enhancement: Illuminating Enhancement. This one is naturally fragranced with Sicilian Orange and Honey and contains a time released form of Vitamin C that can remain active in the skin for up to a week. This active form of Vitamin C helps to inhibit melanin production while the citric activator spray instantly brighten the complexion.

Before you leave, they also apply an Eye-tox serum to reduce iron deposits under eye and improve hydration as well as a Youth Cell Activator, a Quench Moisturizer and Protect (their SPF).

Like all top notch facials, they did extractions after plenty of steam in the middle of the treatment as well.

While they offer some of the traditional custom facials you’d find at most luxury spas, including teen and gentleman’s facials, I wanted to also mention another unique one I’d love to try at a future time. While the Four Layer Resurfacing Facial is shorter than the anti-aging one, the process includes an intense 4-layer progressive peel to leave your skin hydrated and glowing. Papaya enzymes combine with beneficial Alpha Hydroxy Acids to erase fine lines and minimize imperfections. They also do a detox masque infused with antioxidants.

The Ambiance

Join me on a tour of the spa — you’ll absolutely love the ambiance and their wonderful attention to detail throughout.

 

Nail Pampering

You can also get your nails done in style. What’s nice is that they have over-sized chairs designed to hug your body. They offer hot cups of tea, a lavender-scented blanket for your legs, and an oatmeal pillow to support your neck.  

They also offer other unique services such as body polishes, waxing and advanced eye lifts as well as “sprays” as an add-on to facials, such as stem cell and age defy sprays, which as noted above is included in the Anti-Aging facial.

Below, the vanity room.

They also have a shop on-site where you can purchase water bottles, skincare products, leather bags, gifts and more.

Below is a view from one of the windows — it’s located on the top floor of a mall, the same level as a movie theatre and nothing else. Translation: it’s very secluded and enormous. Two thumbs up!! We would definitely return.

DETAILS:

Burke Williams Day Spa

845 Market Street #510

San Francisco, CA 94103

https://burkewilliamsspa.com

(415) 694-7980

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Note: I was hosted by the spa but all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Founder

Renee Blodgett is the founder of We Blog the World. The site combines the magic of an online culture and travel magazine with a global blog network and has contributors from every continent in the world. Having lived in 10 countries and explored nearly 80, she is an avid traveler, and a lover, observer and participant in cultural diversity.

She is also the CEO and founder of Magic Sauce Media, a new media services consultancy focused on viral marketing, social media, branding, events and PR. For over 20 years, she has helped companies from 12 countries get traction in the market. Known for her global and organic approach to product and corporate launches, Renee practices what she pitches and as an active user of social media, she helps clients navigate digital waters from around the world. Renee has been blogging for over 16 years and regularly writes on her personal blog Down the Avenue, Huffington Post, BlogHer, We Blog the World and other sites. She was ranked #12 Social Media Influencer by Forbes Magazine and is listed as a new media influencer and game changer on various sites and books on the new media revolution. In 2013, she was listed as the 6th most influential woman in social media by Forbes Magazine on a Top 20 List.

Her passion for art, storytelling and photography led to the launch of Magic Sauce Photography, which is a visual extension of her writing, the result of which has led to producing six photo books: Galapagos Islands, London, South Africa, Rome, Urbanization and Ecuador.

Renee is also the co-founder of Traveling Geeks, an initiative that brings entrepreneurs, thought leaders, bloggers, creators, curators and influencers to other countries to share and learn from peers, governments, corporations, and the general public in order to educate, share, evaluate, and promote innovative technologies.