HACKETTSTOWN, NJ — Today’s luxury bath has evolved as the result of changing lifestyles, “becoming a sumptuous, spa-like space that offers sanctuary, wellness and quietude,” according to the findings of the first-ever “Luxury Bath Summit,” presented in June by the National Kitchen & Bath Association.
The two-day virtual event, produced in partnership with quartz surfacing supplier Cambria, was based on the findings of a recent NKBA market research report, as well as observations from a panel of design professionals about the key factors influencing luxury bath design today.
“Not surprisingly, we found that travel, experiences at fabulous hospitality venues, a desire for fully integrated technology and a slew of rich materials were musts for many,” said Suzie Williford, executive v.p. and chief strategy officer for the Hackettstown, NJ-based NKBA.
“We also learned that the luxury bath is really part of a full-on look at the primary suite – bedroom, lounge, dressing areas, closets and bathroom spaces,” Williford observed. “Baths have evolved from a primarily functional space to one of the most important rooms in the home (and) have become a place where we invest time and enjoy, a place to nurture whole health and even romance.”
Among the Summit’s key takeaways:
- Luxury baths are reclaiming priority, and even square footage, from bedrooms, closets and other spaces.
- Technology in the bath is a priority, albeit a hidden one that enables ease, convenience, safety and experiences.
- It is easier to incorporate wellness and “living in place” concepts due to new product innovations such as steam showers, hydrotherapy, chromatherapy and integrated bidets and smart toilets.