Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/354800
The Starck Slimline shower tray from Duravit round out the company's reinvigorated collection. A characteristic design feature is the fl at installation height, reducing the rim to a mere 4/5 of an inch and making it ideal for all standard shower enclosures. "What's interesting about the Starck shower tray is that it provides a low threshold, creating an easy ingress and egress," says Tim Schroeder, president. "Because we have been taught to expect a large threshold with showers, some people are concerned about water overfl ow. But the water will go down the drain, as it's meant to." Schroeder believes that the popularity of shower trays is on the rise, in lieu of tubs. "The tub will always have a place in our home building and apartment dwelling because of the resale value. But I do see a lot of master bathrooms going shower only, especially in the denser urban markets where there are only two bathrooms of modest size." Grohe Canada, Inc. has introduced its Retro-Fit shower system that will transform a regular shower and allow for a variety of design options for both consumers and businesses such as hotels. "The Retro-Fit can be personalized by combining it with any of our hand showers and rain heads," says Maria Bosco, marketing director. "The benefi t of this system is the tiles do not have to be removed and extra plumbing is not needed. All you have to do is remove the existing shower arm." The Retro-Fit is also sold in packages with the hand shower and shower head. "Apart from being economical, the beauty of Retro-Fit is the added functionality of the hand spray, which is ideal for young children or adults with limited mobility because it can be positioned at a lower height," says Bosco. "The six position diverter allows you to divert from the shower head to the hand shower, have both on at one time and also have access to reduced fl ow rates from both outlets so that you can conserve water." Sustainable Solutions International has introduced a new series of single lever Roman Tub fi llers that are as technologically advanced as they are beautiful. "While single lever basin faucets have dominated the marketplace for some time, tub fi llers have remained dual handle for one simple reason – fl ow rate," says Doug Sproule, COO. Green faucets have been lowering fl ow rates to save water, but for bathtubs it is the reverse. "You need to increase fl ow rate as much as possible to fi ll the tub quickly," says Sproule. "The faster the tub is fi lled, the better the energy savings." Using a 45-millimetre European ceramic cartridge, fl uid Roman Tub fi llers boast a fl ow rate of 13.5 gallons per minute. "That is the highest fl ow rate available in a single lever tub fi ller and comparable to any dual handle product," Sproule adds. "Another great feature is that the spout can swivel out of your way while in the bath." Size does matter, but for customers at Robinson Lighting & Bath Centre smaller options have not compromised on comfort. "This year the trend has moved towards smaller, freestanding tubs," says Christina Kempinski, showroom manager in Edmonton, Alberta. "BainUltra offers many different options to relax and inspire the bather. With the light therapy, heated back rests and scent therapy offered, you now have the ultimate in relaxation." Kempinski says another trend is the resurgence of the low-sided tub. "With the aging population, consumers are requesting tubs that you can easily enter and exit. These tubs are great for people with mobility issues." New tub options at Robinson Lighting & Bath have design features both inside and out. "Many modern tubs are more angular and offer built in shelves, but they are still simple enough to be a great addition to any bathroom," says Kempinski. "We are proud to carry the most unique, design-forward products offered on the market." ■ BainUltra's Evanescence Oval bathtub. AUGUST 2014 /45 Bathtubs and Showers