Hotel bathrooms: the union of form & function
In a fast-paced, noise-filled world, the bathroom, which previously simply served the standard hygiene needs of its user, is transforming into a space that combines these practical functions with a second, stressrelieving element
To achieve this multi-layered effect, the focus should be on leveraging size, without compromising comfort and efficiency. HN creates a checklist of sorts to assist anyone looking to obtain the basic desired configuration without the hassle of sifting through the many available styles, which can often be overwhelming.
Whether you’re considering revamping an older bathroom or plan on designing your own from scratch, the following items constitute the central focal points that combined, will help leverage comfort, style and functionality.
Tubs and showers
In general, and if space permits, three options are plausible, namely: a vintage claw-foot bathtub; a built-in soaking tub; or a freestanding shower. Despite the fact that all three serve the same basic purpose, there are inherent, subtle differences in what they offer. On the one hand, and if you happen to value modern luxury and comfort, then choosing a light-weight basic tub or one with whirlpool features will give you something akin to a spa experience at home. However, if the goal is efficiency, then a walk-in shower or even a steam shower configuration allows more room for additional amenities. Furthermore, modern, high-efficiency showerheads allow the user to control water-flow without it affecting pressure, an ideal choice for a customized and environmentally-friendly experience. While some believe that a sink needs to match the tub/shower, others like mixing things up for an eclectic, rather than homogenous feel. Nonetheless, when considering which model and what size sink to buy, thought should be given to who will be using it; whether it’s intended for guests, an individual or a family. Once that has been determined, choosing a wall-mounted, stand-alone, semirecessed, above-counter, or drop-in basin will depend on the desired visual sweep. Another factor that comes into play is shape, with options to choose from ranging from square, oval, scooped, Zen and round to rectangular models. Finally, there’s the choice of material. Aside from the standard porcelain, the market offers a choice of ceramic, chrome, glass, brass, copper, stone and concrete.
Faucets
To bring out the best in a basin, thought will need to be given to other elements and accessories. The faucets are
usually attached to the sink. However, installing wall-mounted faucets is an alternative well worth considering, providing a clever way of saving space and maintaining a minimalist feel. Similarly, while opting for traditional chrome is always a safe bet, if you’re a lover of fashion, brass may well be for you. This in-vogue material will bring depth and luxury to a sink, with the added bonus of concealing water spots and finger smudges.
Offering several benefits, high-efficiency faucets aerators will appeal to many more potential users than simply the environmentally conscious among us. These accessories are easily installed and will significantly reduce water use.
The vanity unit
Achieving a perfect match when pairing a cabinet or vanity unit with a basin of choice involves maintaining a certain harmony so as not to disrupt the overriding flow. The general rules are clear on this matter and the application a straightforward one; if the sink is relatively small or has a minimal design, a vanity unit of equal size will serve the dual purpose of hiding the sink’s plumbing while adding some storage space. On the other hand, if the basin is of the larger variety, then installing cabinets makes more sense, since these have greater capacity and can therefore accommodate more users.
Toilet bowl
Finally, when it comes to choosing a commode, three main factors, which pertain to, size, shape, and flushing technology, should be given serious consideration. Most of these parameters can easily be sorted out based on a user’s weight and height. In other words, the taller one is, the bigger a toilet needs to be to comfortably accommodate all physical faculties. Yet regardless of that, a choice between an elongated, or a round toilet bowl is important when it comes to making specific considerations. In general, a round bowl saves space while an elongated one may come across as somewhat obtrusive. One other concern is the type of toilet, the choice of which mainly depends on a set price point. Though a two-piece toilet, which comes with a separate water tank, is cheaper, a costlier integrated one is easier to clean. Flushing technology is of major importance, yet ironically, is often only given the thought it merits when a problem arises. If the water tank is small and depends on gravity for waste disposal, it may well make sense to invest in a bigger tank. However, if the plumbing is designed to lend assisted-suction, then a small tank should be sufficient.
With much to think about when it comes to bathroom installation and even more to consider, it makes sense to keep things simple. Focus on the basics and the other elements will follow.
Modern, high-efficiency showerheads allow the user to control water-flow without it affecting pressure, an ideal choice for a customized and environmentally-friendly experience