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AUGUST 2017 | 39 T PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY KOHLER; SPLASHES BATH & KITCHEN; BAINULTRA Bathtubs & Showers Baths and showers are making rapid advancements due to innovative technologies by LAURIE JONES The marriage of style and technology is the reigning theme for 2017's choice of bathtubs and showers. That said, traditional styles of tubs still have their place in the home spa setting, with touches of elegance to com- plete the room. Kohler's Sunstruck bath encourages bathers to relax their bodies and calm their minds. Available with VibrAcoustic technology, the sleek bath has hid- den speakers that emit sound waves to surround the body with relaxing vibrations. "The modern design trend is gravitating toward a seamless approach to technology," says Donna Church, marketing and communications manager, Kohler Canada. "The Sunstruck freestanding bath marries contemporary design with intelligent technology that is customizable to each bather's style and comfort." With its gracefully shaped lines and freestanding design, the bath creates a striking focal point and com- plements a wide range of bathroom styles. The experi- ence of VibrAcoustic technology permeates the entire body with buoyant rhythms that carry the bather on a course towards complete relaxation. Choose from four original compositions created by a renowned sound therapist or simply plug in your own smartphone, tab- let, or stream your music wirelessly. Easily accessed through an intuitive touch screen that controls the entire experience, users can adjust the volume above and below the water. Also, with the adjustable temperature settings of the Bask heated surface, users can customize the warmth on the back, neck and shoulders. The Monarch Collection by BainUltra pairs exqui- site materials with a luxurious level of bathing com- fort and wellness therapies. Its stunning achievement of design and engineering is a new iteration of bath design that feeds the senses, soothes the spirit and renews the body and mind. "The je ne sais quoi of the Monarch Collection begins with its innovative use of quartz and acrylic together for the first time in a tub design," says Julie Metras, development project manager. "The two mate- rials complement each other perfectly, with the lovely quartz stonework outlining the perimeter of the tub as a seamless deck. No other tile surfaces are needed to complete the deck, creating an elegant yet highly dura- ble surface with inherent antibacterial properties. "The clean lines and sleek sophistication of the Monarch Collection makes it a lovely choice for high- end bathrooms and especially well-suited for luxuri- ous condominiums." The tubs are available in drop-in or alcove set- tings and come in a variety of shapes and dimensions, including a traditional rectangle, a one-sided curved design for a modern look, or a curved-on-four-sides model that resembles a freestanding bath. The MAAX selection of bathtubs for 2017 crosses a variety of styles and options to create a relaxing retreat. "Homeowners who are looking for the ulti- mate spacious bathtub experience, and builders who are looking for a simple, but stylish tub for multi-unit projects would both find the Rubix bathtub a good fit," says Michelle Braden, marketing co-ordinator, Splashes Bath & Kitchen. "This tub features an extra- long bathing well which is complemented by the clean lines of its cubic shape. The 32-inch width, combined with the tub's length, gives bathers room to stretch their legs and the built-in, 70-degree lumbar support is perfect for reclining and relaxing." Another MAAX tub offered by Splashes Bath & Kitchen is the Exhibit. "The Exhibit bathtub provides a unique and versatile design for any bathroom remodel- ling project or new construction," says Braden. "It has a minimalist appeal for those who prefer clean lines. The tub has a variety of configurations, including drop-in and alcove, and is available in an extensive range of dimensions to accommodate most layouts." The intuitive GROHE Rainshower SmartControl shower system puts users in control of a fully person- alized showering experience. An innovative control panel offers easy-to-use functionality that regulates temperature and water flow based on individual pref- erence. A simple push turns water on and off, and water flow and temperature can be adjusted with a slight turn of the dial. "Selecting the head or hand shower is a simple push of the respective button, and you can have both on at the same time," says Maria Bosco, director, marketing and graining, GROHE Canada. "All controls are marked with self-explanatory symbols for intuitive operation, making this innovative shower system a joy to use." She notes the top of the control unit incorporates a wide, shatter-proof shelf for shampoos, shower gels and other body care products for added convenience. Immerse Yourself Sunstruck freestanding bath. Exhibit bathtub. Monarch Collection.

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