{"id":199392,"date":"2025-09-04T02:02:00","date_gmt":"2025-09-04T07:02:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.kitchenbathdesign.com\/?p=199392"},"modified":"2025-09-03T15:19:29","modified_gmt":"2025-09-03T20:19:29","slug":"shower-sanctuaries","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.kitchenbathdesign.com\/shower-sanctuaries\/","title":{"rendered":"Shower Sanctuaries"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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Sophistication in both design and function is a top priority for the shower space. Creating a soothing, spa-like atmosphere personalized to each user is paramount.

\u201cPeople still want a very tranquil, spa-type experience. It\u2019s their time to relax and unwind,\u201d stresses Jeff Silverstein, CEO at California Faucets in Huntington Beach, CA.

Both aesthetics and performance are key. \u201cThey want both a visual soothing and calming environment, as well as the best shower you can give them at the allowable flow rate,\u201d he says.
Howard Hyde, marketing and public relations manager for JACLO Industries located in Cranford, NJ explains, \u201cThe entire bathroom has become a more sophisticated and luxurious experience, focusing on greater ambience, d\u00e9cor, luxury materials and finishes, high-design elements and technology. The shower is simply part of this overall greater sophistication.\u201d

The shower has become a spa \u201cretreat,\u201d he adds, featuring luxury fixtures and finishes; materials like marble and granite; rainshowers; multi-nozzle jets; separate handshowers; steam function; ambient lighting; rainfall\/waterfall, and built-in seating.

\u201cCustomization is king,\u201d reports Angela Staten, v.p. of marketing for Infinity Drain, based in Amityville, NY. \u201cHomeowners want their showers to reflect their personal style, just like every other part of their home. We\u2019re seeing increasing demand for bespoke solutions \u2013 from custom drain finishes that complete a specific aesthetic to fully customized slot drains that wrap around a freestanding tub, leaving guests in awe. It\u2019s all about creating a unique, personalized experience.\u201d

Other trends include spacious showers, multifunctional showerheads, high-performing but efficient showerheads, warm finishes, stone-inspired slabs that reflect the look of nature, and etched glass decorative enclosures. That\u2019s according to manufacturers recently surveyed by Kitchen & Bath Design News<\/em>.<\/p>\n

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Personal Wellness<\/h2>\n
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The shower is a space to cleanse both body and mind, with a focus on overall health and wellness. To achieve this goal, it\u2019s essential for designers to tailor the space to each individual homeowner.

\u201cA major trend in today\u2019s bath design is the move to transform the shower into a visual centerpiece, driven by a desire for elevated customization and expressive detail,\u201d remarks Alex Dornbracht, v.p. and general manager of Kallista and Robern, which is headquartered in Kohler, WI.

\u201cToday\u2019s shower trends are being driven by the growing emphasis on wellness, self-care, and personalization in the home,\u201d reports Bob Gifford, director of business development for Hastings Bath Collection in Ronkonkoma, NY, the exclusive importer of VOLA products from Denmark. \u201cHomeowners and designers alike are looking beyond basic functionality and embracing showers as immersive, spa-like experiences. Homeowners can decide if they want a traditional showerhead or a rainshower and more body sprays in addition to other spa-like elements: steam, aromatherapy, etc. You can have almost anything given the multiple choices \u2013 the sky\u2019s the limit!\u201d

\u201cWe\u2019re seeing bathrooms evolve from simple sanctuaries to mini home spas. There\u2019s a growing emphasis on enhancing the shower experience, not just with better water efficiency but with upgraded spray options, better controls and elevated design,\u201d offers Jean-Jacques L\u2019Henaff, Leader LIXIL Global Design Americas with U.S. headquarters in Piscataway, NJ.

Features that enhance comfort and wellness are popular, agrees Hyde. \u201cIntegrating a steam generator transforms the shower into a personal steam room, promoting relaxation and detoxification,\u201d he notes. \u201cCreative lighting, including LED strip lighting and pendant lights, create a more relaxing and luxurious atmosphere.\u201d<\/p>\n

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Versatile Flow<\/h2>\n

Rather than a strong trend towards one type of showerhead, manufacturers reiterate that consumers are looking for options to configure the shower for their specific needs.

\u201cVersatility is increasingly top of mind in shower design, as people look for spaces that adapt to different users and everyday routines, whether that be adjusting for height differences, bathing a child or pet, or tackling post-project cleanups,\u201d explains Kiran Singh, senior brand manager for Peerless Faucet, a Delta Faucet Company brand, based in Indianapolis, IN.

Silverstein sees many \u201cmicrotrends,\u201d some of which have lasted for several years, such as large, thin showerheads. Overhead showerheads that are 8″ to 12″ are still strong and show dominance in the shower space, he reports. \u201cPeople are giving up the showerhead on the wall to have this overhead soaker type of experience,\u201d he observes. Sometimes, he adds, the overhead options are installed right into the ceiling for a clean, sleek look.

Instead of the showerhead on the wall, Silverstein adds, people are choosing a high-quality handshower, which provides easier control and maneuverability. With handshowers, he believes there are two trends: an all-brass, multifunctional option or a single function showerhead that gives the best possible spray.

Hyde agrees that rain showerheads and separate handshowers are in demand. Multifunctional spray options and multiple shower nozzles and\/or body sprays are also trending, he stresses. \u201cShowerheads offering various spray patterns, such as pulsating massage, aerated flow or a gentler \u201csilk spray\u201d cater to individual preferences and create a personalized showering experience,\u201d he offers. \u201cFor full-body drenching and hydro-massage, consumers are opting for multiple nozzles or body sprays strategically placed within the shower.\u201d

Dean Camastro, northeast regional sales manager, Duravit USA, which is headquartered in Hornberg, Germany with U.S. offices in Duluth, GA, agrees that consumers are asking for multi-functional showerheads with features like rain, massage and eco-spray modes. \u201cThermostatic control, touchless operation and customizable presets are also gaining traction,\u201d he adds.<\/p>\n

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Creative Warmth<\/h2>\n
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With the incredible range of finishes available for shower fittings, designers have the opportunity to give clients what many crave: custom, creative looks that exude warmth and serenity. Brushed and matte finishes continue to be strong, as do classic finishes like chrome and bronze.

\u201cWhile chrome is still king, brushed and matte finishes \u2013 like brushed nickel, matte black and brushed bronze \u2013 remain strong, offering versatility across various design palettes,\u201d says Camastro.

\u201cEven though VOLA offers an incredible selection of colors, we are still seeing brushed stainless steel as the most popular finish,\u201d Gifford states. He adds that he is also seeing a lot of warmer finishes, like brass and copper.

\u201cWhen it comes to finishes, chrome and brushed nickel remain popular, but there\u2019s been steady growth in demand for matte black, which continues to resonate with those seeking a more modern, expressive look,\u201d reports Singh. \u201cBrass accents are also gaining traction among those looking to add a touch of personality.

\u201cFinishes that were incredibly strong a couple of years ago, in particular satin brass and matte black, are still popular but are not growing,\u201d Silverstein reports. California Faucets\u2019 largest growing finish is satin bronze, which gives a softer look than satin brass but still has a rich feel, he continues. Additionally, the firm\u2019s burnished brass, which patinas over time, is taking off.

A cohesive look across fixtures is important, manufacturers say. \u201cCustom finishes are in high demand,\u201d stresses Staten. \u201cHomeowners no longer want to be confined to standard finish options. Instead, they\u2019re seeking the ability to match fixtures and hardware throughout the bathroom to create cohesive, curated designs.\u201d

\u201cShowerhead finishes tend to continue matching the rest of the fitting selection in the bathroom for a cohesive and stylish look,\u201d L\u2019Henaff agrees. \u201cCurrently, we\u2019re seeing a strong trend in warmer finishes like our GROHE Warm Sunset and DXV Polished Nickel.\u201d

\u201cThere has been an explosion of showerhead finishes over the last few years, moving way beyond basic,\u201c Hyde notes. \u201cThis wide range of finishes enables designers, architects and consumers to create truly personalized\/customized spaces by matching showerheads with faucets, grab bars, towel bars and even toilet tank levers,\u201d he reports. \u201cDrains come in more stylish designs\/patterns and are available in a wide range of coordinating finishes to match the other metals in the space.\u201d

\u201cArchitects and designers are placing greater emphasis on finishes that offer lasting beauty, particularly in spaces like the shower where daily use is constant,\u201d notes Dornbracht. \u201cDesigners often choose PVD finishes when longevity is a priority, knowing that the material will retain its appearance and integrity even in high-moisture, high-touch environments. These finishes are designed to hold their depth and character through years of use, supporting projects that are meant to last. Combined with thoughtful engineering and high-quality materials, the result is a quietly resilient foundation for enduring design.\u201d<\/p>\n

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Natural Feel<\/h2>\n
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Shower walls and enclosures are trending towards natural looks that enhance the soft, tranquil feel of the space.

\u201cColorful marbles and nature-inspired textures \u2013 like stone and wood-look materials \u2013 are also on the rise,\u201d observes Singh. \u201cThese options add depth and dimension without overwhelming smaller spaces\u201d

\u201cFor walls and enclosures, textured neutrals, bold veining and large-format ceramic panels in soft, natural tones are trending. These offer both visual impact and easy maintenance,\u201d Camastro reports.

Staten continues that idea. \u201cWhen it comes to colors and patterns for shower walls and enclosures, natural tones continue to dominate, but bold patterns and vibrant colors remain popular for those looking to make a statement.

\u201cWe\u2019ve seen a strong interest in softer, more organic forms,\u201d she stresses. \u201cThat\u2019s why we recently introduced the Disco-rectangle tile insert linear drain. Traditional drains with sharp edges can feel out of place in a design that\u2019s aiming for natural flow and elegance. It took real engineering to introduce curves into a linear drain \u2013 but it\u2019s a solution people were asking for.\u201d<\/p>\n

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Open Concept<\/h2>\n
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Homeowners are often separating bath and shower spaces \u2013 sometimes forgoing the tub altogether \u2013 to create spacious spa-like shower enclosures.

\u201cHomeowners and developers alike are prioritizing larger, more open shower spaces,\u201d Camastro emphasizes. \u201cThe traditional tub\/shower combo is being replaced with expansive, walk-in designs that emphasize comfort, movement and luxury. This is especially prevalent in primary bathrooms, where the shower often becomes the focal point of a spa-inspired retreat.\u201d

Dornbracht says, \u201cShowers are evolving from compact, utilitarian spaces into spacious, spa-like retreats that become the emotional and aesthetic heart of the bathroom. As homeowners seek relaxation and wellness, bathrooms feature larger shower areas with immersive water experiences and refined finishes that elevate daily rituals.\u201d

L\u2019Henaff adds, \u201cShower sizes have grown considerably, which reflects a shift in bathroom designs where showers are replacing bathtubs as the centerpiece of the primary bathroom. Homeowners are seeking more spacious and luxurious experiences like opting for larger showers that accommodate two people or feature multiple water settings like those found in our GROHE Spa Aqua Tile collection. It speaks to the broader trend of creating a spa-like feel in your bathrooms.\u201d

Singh reports, \u201cThere\u2019s a strong desire for openness in design, with more people moving away from traditional doors or curtains in favor of clean, expansive layouts. At the same time, we continue to see rising demand for accessibility features that don\u2019t compromise on style. This isn\u2019t just about aging in place \u2013 it\u2019s about universal design that works for everyone, from families with young children to multi-generational households.\u201d

Hyde agrees that shower sizes have increased significantly over the last decade, driven by both an aging population and a major boom in home renovations. \u201cThe aging population is driving a significant demand for accessible showers designed to enhance safety and ease of use,\u201d he emphasizes. Features in accessible showers include curbless or roll-in entry, grab bars, benches and handheld showerheads for flexibility and control, he adds.

Camastro comments, \u201cWe\u2019re seeing increased demand for streamlined linear drains that enhance accessibility while providing a sleek, minimalist aesthetic. Barrier-free showers continue to rise in popularity, especially in multi-generational homes and hospitality projects, where design meets function. There\u2019s also a clear trend toward integrated systems \u2013 wall panels, benches and trays working seamlessly together for both visual cohesion and ease of maintenance.\u201d<\/p>\n

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Satisfying and Sustainable<\/h2>\n
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Manufacturers strive to create a pleasurable showering experience while contending with concerns and regulations that revolve around water consumption. Technology that addresses this issue is a top consideration for many.

\u201cWater-efficient technology is leading the charge; sustainability isn\u2019t a passing trend, it\u2019s an integral component of bathroom design,\u201d Singh stresses. \u201cWith growing concerns around water scarcity across the country, water-saving features like aerators, low-flow technology and eco-
conscious materials are also becoming increasingly common in shower design. Today\u2019s consumers are looking for solutions that strike the right balance between wellness, sustainability and style in the shower.

Hyde reports that water-saving showerheads and fixtures, often labeled with the WaterSense certification, are becoming more popular as consumers seek to reduce their environmental impact and lower utility bills.

Water-efficient showerheads that help homeowners reduce water consumption without sacrificing performance are important, L\u2019Henaff concurs. \u201cPeople are looking for a great water\/shower experience with less water without having to compromise.\u201d

Silverstein agrees, noting that his company\u2019s main focus, when it comes to technology, is to offer the best possible experience with the water flow that\u2019s allowed.<\/p>\n

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Helpful Innovation<\/h2>\n
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New technology is constantly being explored and consumers especially appreciate technology that adds practical value to the product.

\u201cTechnology is absolutely reshaping the shower experience, but it\u2019s important to distinguish between helpful innovation and tech for tech\u2019s sake,\u201d stresses Singh. While things like smart shower panels, touchless faucets and LED medicine cabinet mirrors are becoming more mainstream, consumers continue to circle back to technology that solves real problems, she adds.

\u201cModern technology is transforming the traditional shower from a purely functional space into a personalized oasis offering comfort, relaxation and efficiency,\u201d remarks Hyde. \u201cThe advent of \u2018smart showers\u2019 has seen technological features such as temperature control, water flow, pressure control, spray pattern and integration into \u2018smart home\u2019 systems.\u201d

Camastro states, \u201cSmart shower systems with app or voice activation are growing in adoption, particularly in new construction and luxury remodels.\u201d

\u201cTechnology plays a significant role in shaping the future of shower design,\u201d emphasizes Staten. \u201cAt Infinity Drain, we are actively developing new innovations that aim to redefine what\u2019s possible with drain systems. Our focus is on solving real problems \u2013 making drains more intuitive, improving user experience and enhancing performance,\u201d she says.

Staten adds, \u201cIt\u2019s worth remembering: the drain is arguably the most critical component of any shower. If it fails, the consequences can be catastrophic. That\u2019s why we pair our product innovation with exceptional technical support to ensure proper installation and waterproofing. Technology can only take you so far \u2013 it\u2019s the expertise behind the product that ensures success.\u201d<\/p>\n

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Featured Products<\/h2>\n

Click on product image to request more information. See the full list of featured products from this article in the September 2025<\/a> issue of KBDN.<\/em><\/p>\n

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