Award

FEBRUA RY 2019 | 17 Plumbing Products Plumbing products focus on beauty, wellness, and safety in 2019 by LAURIE JONES W ith all of the high-tech, or luxury options for plumbing products constantly being profiled on the plethora of home renovation shows and TV ads, consumers are looking to upgrade their homes and create the ultimate home spa, so designers and manufactur- ers are happily obliging. DXV, part of Lixil, has released the Aqua Moment Drop-In Airbath, a bath that brings the tranquility of Japanese hot springs. A special feature is the relaxing waterfall that envelopes the bather's shoulders with warm, flowing water. "The topic of self-care and wellness continues to be a popular one in the industry," says Maria Bosco, director, product marketing, Lixil Canada Inc. "As a provider of luxurious bathroom fixtures, the DXV brand understands the minds of its clientele and created a product for total self-pampering and relaxation. The Aqua Moment Drop-In tub is the only one on the market to combine chro- matherapy with a shoulder-massage waterfall, creating an unparalleled bathtub experience for users seeking rejuvenation." Designed to complement the massage effect of the waterfall and provide deeply relaxing, full-sensory enjoyment, the tub's airbath system features 360-degree air jets offering a choice of classic, high-pressure, and deep massage settings. Leaning back against the waterfall's comfortable headrest, the user can let go and unwind as an inline heated air blower keeps the water pleasurably warm for the duration of the Aqua Moment experience. Unlike standalone hydrotherapy tubs, the Aqua Moment features a convenient drop-in design, providing greater flexibility to suit bathrooms of all sizes. The tub features a sleek, zero-edge profile for a clean look and highlights a minimalist design with contoured lumbar support for the bather's comfort. The Kohler Components Collection – defined by controlled forms and stark precision in every line and angle – allows users to design their own custom bath. "Our customers can choose a spout, handles, and finish to build their own signature look," says Donna Church, marketing and communications manager for Kohler Canada. "The Components shower and sink handles pair with the bath to add to the personalized design." This collection is constructed with premium metal that resists corrosion and tarnishing. One of Robinson Lighting & Bath Centre's feature bathtubs is the Vibe by BainUltra. "Vibe is a compact model so it is a perfect fit for small bathrooms," says Kyla Hazen, marketing co-ordinator. With clean lines and sloping walls that create a sophisticated design, Vibe creates an urban oasis. "BainUltra's ThermoMassuer therapy system is one of the most advanced products on the market when it comes to jetted tubs," says Hazen. "This system uses air rather than water, which is more hygienic compared to other products available. The air jets reach more areas on the body, which helps with relaxation and easing of tension throughout the user's muscles. They have a patented Geysair system that draws humidity into the air jets. This keeps the bath water from cooling down too quickly and the added heat offers a more beneficial mas- sage." The Hydro-thermo massage also claims to help eliminate toxins in the body, while the Illuzio Chromatherapy helps to reduce tension. Doug Sproule from Sustainable Solutions says, "One of the biggest regrets I hear from homeowners and even commercial property owners is that when they were building they didn't understand the value of installing a handheld shower wand. But hand showers allow for total flexibility both in terms of showering and cleaning. Whether wanting to rinse hair, wash a dog, or easily clean and rinse the shower itself, handheld showers are invaluable." He adds that until now, a pressure balancing system was installed without a handheld, the only way to add one was to completely replace the system, which means replacing the wall as well. This is no longer the case. "Our new fluid Switch is a game-changer for updating existing shower systems," says Sproule. "Simply remove the shower head and arm, and replace with the Switch, which consists of a shower arm, slide rail, and connection for a handheld shower wand and a mechanism to divert water to either the shower head or handheld. No new plumbing. Just a simple switch and the shower is completely updated and much more efficient. It's simple, easy, cost-effective, and more efficient." Kohler offers the Kensho sink, etched in natural stone showcasing Eastern motifs and Western artistic techniques. "The sensuous curves of smooth carved stone reveal a patchwork of Japanese sashiko kimono patterns depicting organic elements such as waves, mountains, and bamboo," says Church. Inspired by a Immerse Yourself Aqua Moment Drop-In Airbath from DXV.

• Cover