Other interest was pointed at the recent releases of the Axor designer ranges from Patricia Urquiola’s poetic symphony of design and function; Jean-Marie Massaud’s free standing organic bath and; the new PuraVida range from the Phoenix Partnership – celebrating pure life!
Hansgrohe carefully selects the designers it works with and through thorough research, innovated products that are driving trends for today and well into the future. The company has noted the following distinct trends for bathrooms and naturally has a product to suit any and all. Hansgrohe has also developed a unique ‘Product Wheel’ as a tool which can assist in selecting the right product for the style of bathroom you desire.
Avant Garde – the emphasis is on new and unusual materials rather than hard edged technical features. Softness features strongly from warm and velvety materials and carpets to ambient lighting. Organic and volume driven design is the key. Hansgrohe’s designer brand, Axor, perfectly illustrates this trend with the launch of the new Axor Urquiola Collection as well as the Axor Starck Shower Collection and the Axor Massaud free standing bathtub – the epitome of supreme quality and innovative design.
Green (also known as Blue Responsibility)– the sustainable approach to natural resources and energy conservation are paramount and this marks probably the strongest and most influential bathroom trend. Waterwise technology combines with natural and
environmentally materials and design practices to meld wellness, economy and a sense of eco-consciousness into a durable yet design oriented oasis. The Hansgrohe Crometta 85 Green series uses only 6 litres of water per minute using EcoSmart Technology, which has also been incorporated into some of the Raindance overhead and handheld showers and when combined with Hansgrohe’s unique AirPower Technology, performance is amplified.
Fashion – the bathroom is set to make a statement as cocooning comes of age with more home entertainment and work from home environments. The bathroom becomes as important a visual statement as the kitchen. Timeless and clean lined designs are accessorized by signature pieces – colour and form plays a vital role whilst inter-changeable fittings ensure that you are always up to date. The latest collaboration from Hansgrohe and Phoenix Design has developed an entirely new, lively and flowing design language culminating in the PuraVida range. The ranges elegance and clarity reflect true and subtle luxury where organically–shaped undersides in clear white interplay with generously-proportioned shinning chrome areas.
Simple versatility – the new adaptable, barrier-free bathroom is chic and practical and can as easily appeal and be used by the elderly, handicapped or very young. There is a distinct shift towards family generational living again and bathrooms need to be multi-functional yet alluring to all ages. The new Metris Classic line from Hansgrohe fulfils a desire for warm, sophisticated living whilst still providing users with a generous comfort zone when using the products.
Private Spa – wellness evolves into ritual and the mundane and habitual cleaning schedule eschewed. Relaxation and regeneration of the soul are stimulated through the sophisticated use of design and aesthetic appeal of this private, indulgent sanctuary. The gentle deluge of Rainfall showers and sensory effects enhance the ambience and luxury of personal wellness and private spaces.
Techno – sexy electronic fittings, contact less operation and push button control of showers and other features dominate the hi-tech bathroom of today and tomorrow. Surround sound in large open walk-in showers, body jets and the ability to arrange your shower experience in the format that you personally desire, are juxtaposed with the modern man’s need for water conservation – see Axor Philippe Starck
The thread intrinsically woven through all is DESIGN. Today’s bathroom goes beyond a room for the chaste purpose of cleansing and is now a space, purposely built to reflect our individual needs, tastes and desires. Within one space we create a world for hygiene, escape and grooming where shower panels become room dividers and furniture is introduced into what is now a “living” room.
Courtesy of Hansgrohe and ISH 2009 |