Homeowners want to step into a new world when they walk into their bathrooms these days, and manufacturers are quite happy to oblige them with an astounding array of product offerings. Whether it's an energizing shower or a relaxing whirlpool bath, options abound in the number of jets, the direction of sprays, the choice of air and water temperature settings, and even the use of aromatherapy scents. It could be that a “back-to-basics” backlash will come in a few years, but for now, it's time to dive into a sea of options.
MTI. Bringing the home bath closer to a full spa experience is the aromatherapy package option, available on many of the company's whirlpool baths. A small, deck-mounted well houses a removable canister that holds felt pads dampened with the bather's choice of essential oils. The thermo-air massage system circulates air bubbles through the canister and into the bath, carrying the scent with them. 800.783.8827. www.mtiwhirlpools.com.
Lasco.
Part of the company's Contours brand, the
Radius series bathtub features an air bubbler, a jetted whirlpool system, and an inline heater. Along with four other tubs in the series, the Radius tub has a pearlescent finish and soft, concave surfaces that make for a relaxing bath experience. 800.877.2005.
www.lascobathware.com.
MGS.
Crafted entirely of stainless steel, the
thermostatic shower column with bath spout boasts unfussy design and high-tech functionality. Its valve features a volume control that is operated independently of the temperature control. The column is also available without the bath spout. 323.908.7618.
www.mgsdesigns.com.
JACLO.
Simply designed, yet smartly detailed, the
Cubix Collection comprises a complete master shower system with state-of-the-art thermostatic control valves, as well as a lavatory faucet and bathroom accessories. Pictured is the wall bar set with handshower. All pieces in the collection are offered in polished chrome and polished nickel. 800.852.3906.
www.jaclo.com.
TOTO.
Clean, stately elegance marks the
Lloyd Bath collection airbath. Tile and wood combine for a natural yet modern look. A 22-inch deep bathing well incorporates 16 air jets and a chromatherapy lighting feature. The air jet system dries the jet valves 20 minutes after the tub is used, ensuring hygiene and longer product life, the maker says. 800.350.8686.
www.totousa.com.
Acryline.
The Virginia Aquamasseur clawfoot tub combines up-to-date air-bath technology with retro-classic style. The tub, offered in white, bone, and biscuit, has a smooth, acrylic interior surface. The stylishly flourished feet come in a choice of finishes: white, chrome, satin nickel, gold, or oil-rubbed bronze. A multifunction keypad allows the bather to control the intensity of airflow and the amount of heat emitted. 800.794.4667.
www.acrylineusa.com.
Pulse.
The
Maui shower panel boasts five spray jets in addition to a “rain” showerhead and a hand-held wand. The 59-by-16.5-inch panel features a striking black tempered-glass background and brass-finished fixtures. A chic glass and chrome shelf holds soap and shampoo. 408.254.6665.
www.pulseshowerspas.com.
Kohler.
Performance Showering comprises a variety of deluxe shower components that can be combined to create a custom shower experience. One impressive element is the Water Tile, a square, flat showerhead that can be installed any number of ways to create a “targeted water experience.” Other components include the Vivacia Rain showerhead and a thermostatic shower valve. 800.456.4537.
www.kohler.com.
Delta.
Science meets the shower with
H20kinetic Technology. Larger droplets delivered at higher velocity, along with advanced thermal dynamics that make the droplets stay warmer longer, promise a supreme shower experience. The system's 1.6 gallons per minute feel like 2.5, the maker says. The system will be available in Delta's 1800 Jetted Shower Series, the 1900 Temp-Assure Thermostatic Custom Shower Systems, and the Victorian Collection. 800.345.3358.
www.deltafaucet.com.
MAAX.
The
Urban Series 6036 S shower system celebrates minimalist style with a frameless, tempered glass enclosure. The optional MAAX IES ¾-inch Integrated Energizing System includes eight adjustable body jets, a water tester, and a three-mode hand shower. Standard interior colors are white and biscuit, with chrome and brushed nickel options for the door hardware. 800.463.6229.
www.maax.com.
Hansgrohe.
Luxury and comfort combine in the
Pharo Helix shower panel. Five adjustable body sprays, a hand-shower with four spray modes, and an angle-adjustable showerhead with 64 spray channels will impress even the most discriminating bather. Halogen lighting casts a soft glow from the panel, which is available in three color/finish combinations. 800.334.0455.
www.hansgrohe-usa.com.
Celesta.
The
LX960 glass shower enclosure is uniquely angled, making it ideal for corner placement, the maker says. Six glass options are offered, along with several door pulls, knobs, and towel bars. The enclosure's Prima hinges are crafted from solid brass and finished in satin chrome. Glass panels come in ¼-, 3/8-, and ½-inch thicknesses. 866.686.5435.
www.celestabybasco.com.