Designer advice: Embracing technology in the bathroom

In today’s busy world, many more of us are looking for ways to embrace technology within our homes to make the day-to-day a little quicker, easier or better for our wellbeing. Here, we ask Faye, Senior Designer at Ripples Bournemouth to give her advice on the key areas tech can be incorporated within bathroom design.

TV

Televisions can be a great addition to your bathroom, especially if you’re a fan of catching up on your favourite programmes whilst having a long soak in the bath, but they needn’t intrude on the sleek finish of your bathroom design. Many specialised TVs are available in a mirror finish so they blend into your bathroom design when not in use. They can also be linked to your home music system via Bluetooth so you can play your favourite tunes through the TVs speakers.

Digital shower

Digital showers are great for having ultimate control over your shower experience. They often come with a setting to warm the water first so it is up to temperature before you get in. Top of the range options may also have a touchscreen display which allows you to control the temperature and flow rate of many different outlets, each programmable for different users within the house.

Currently, there is a huge rise in push button technology within shower controls and showerheads. This is a great alternative to a digital shower as there are no electrics involved and it is a very easy to use with just the push of the button start or stop the shower and to choose the spray function you desire. Often user-friendly buttons have symbols on them so you can’t accidently put the overhead shower on instead of the handheld!

Underfloor heating

Underfloor heating is a must in the bathroom as it works wonders taking the chill off a tiled floor. If you opt for at least 80% coverage across the floorspace, underfloor heating can act as your primary heat source for the room allowing you to choose a more design led or practical towel radiator. Thermostats vary from programmable touch screen options to apps which can be controlled through your mobile phone so you can choose your preferred temperature remotely.

Despite its name, underfloor heating needn’t be limited to just being used under the floor. The tech can also be applied to walls, such as in walk-in showers or wet rooms, to help wick away water after you’ve finished showering. For the ultimate spa-inspired experience, the heating can be applied underneath an in-built shower seat, offering the perfect place to continue relaxing after your shower.

Shower toilet

Shower toilets are becoming more and more common within British homes – we promise once you try one, you won’t look back! Some shower toilet options include odour extraction technology, heated seats and even ‘paperless dry’ which dries you with warm air after the shower experience. You can also opt for a rimless pan with in-built automatic opening mechanism which lifts when you approach the seat and even automatically flushes the toilet for you once you’ve finished.

LED lighting

LED lighting is very efficient and as a long term solution will save you money on running costs. You can now get some really good quality bulbs which give you the same light quality as a halogen bulb but for a very reasonable price.

Experiment with feature lighting within the bathroom; by working with different layers of light you can control the mood of your room. You may like to incorporate softer lighting for the evening time when you want to unwind or pop to the loo in the middle of the night. Marker lights are also great little touches as they draw attention to certain areas within the room, for example in the shower, under the loo or within a storage niche.  

Many lighting options can now be controlled using an app on your phone, enabling you to set the atmosphere before you even arrive home. 

Top tip: Make sure to check the IP rating to ensure it is suitable for the bathroom.

For more bathroom advice from our team of specialist bathroom designers, download or request a copy of our free Style Guide.

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