Lighting + Technology in the Luxury Spa: ORC 2023
Updated on November, 5, 2023
One Room Challenge Article 6, Week 07
Welcome back to our Japandi bathroom project for the One Room Challenge. This is our blog article for Week 7 which will break down the investments being made in technology for this home spa as well as our lighting selections.
To read the other articles in this series, please CLICK HERE.
Our bathroom renovation will create a built in spa with features like a free standing tub to soak in, and a steam shower. There are many ways that lighting and technology can be used to add to the experience. Some of the technology available even comes with their own smart device apps to integrate additional features for our client’s home spa. Creating a spa bathroom involves considering both the lighting and the integration of modern amenities. In this week’s article we will cover some of the extra “add ons” that can be a part of designing a luxury bathroom in a Japandi style.
Throughout this article I will connect you with some of latest technology in wellness to consider when you want to renovate your bathroom into a home spa. This allows a behind-the-scenes access to not only our project, but also a window into our studio’s design process and the types of recommendations made by Corey (a recognised innovator in the kitchen & bath industry). Our luxury bathroom project is designed to be an asset for our clients who aim to age gracefully in their own home, with a beautiful custom designed principal bathroom with both accessible and wellness features.
Week 7 article features:
Lighting
Technology & Smart Devices
Chromotherapy
Qualified design is paramount.
Japandi Style Lighting
Differences in Patented Equipment by Quality Brand Names
Accessible Lighting
Chromotherapy is one of the wellness features that can be added to a home spa
Background
Hi! Andrew here, and I am the Design Director at Articulated Design Studio. You might remember that in Spring 2022 we entered the One Room Challenge for the first time. It provided such positive feedback from our readers that we couldn’t wait to participate again. The timing of the Fall 2023 ORC is catching us at a projects transformation that has taken months to properly design and plan for. Our aim is provide you with a behind the scenes glance at a luxury bath design project in this 8 article series. I will use this project to illustrate how we work together with our clients and their chosen contractors in an integrated design approach.
This series documents the features and benefits of steam showers as a cornerstone in the future of bath design. Our Principal Designer and Founder, Corey Klassen CMKBD NCIDQ IIDA, is also a Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer through the National Kitchen and Bath Association and a recognised subject matter expert in luxury bath design, steam shower planning and design, accessible design and living in place, and inclusive design. Over the years Corey has contributed back to the design industry at large not only through teaching the next generation of designers, and providing educational content at design industry events across both Canada and the United States. He has also been involved in publications and programs for the design industry at large.
“Then there was the total revamping of our certification program. I would like to give a shout out to two of our long time collaborators: Corey Klassen CMKBD of Articulated Design Studio and Judith Neary CMKBD of Roadside Attractions. Thank you both for your help and guidance with our new program which features a learning management system that makes it easier to access materials, as well as to track your progress online. Our certifications as well as our growing badge program are even more valuable as a competitive tool in today’s market.”
Bill Darcy, CEO NKBA, January 31, 2023, Time stamp 20:57 min/sec
https://nkba.org/insights/nkba-ceo-delivered-state-of-the-association-address-at-kbis-2023/
Over the past few years there have been many things happening behind the scenes at Articulated that we can only start to reveal. The accessible story to our bathroom renovation project is a great way to start that. Corey has won local and international awards for bath designs and spoken to the industry about steam showers and luxury bathroom design. Yet it wasn’t until a industry publication in 2022, through an independent peer nomination, that Corey was recognised for contributions to both accessible and inclusive design to the industry at large across the United States and Canada.
There have been many steps in our process to design this luxury bath for our clients. Throughout this article, I aim to connect you with the important factors and considerations about customising your bathroom with different technologies, lighting and wellness features. In order to provide context and research about the types of features you can include in your own home spa.
This article is skimmable.
Just one article might not answer all your questions, but it can help you start your journey.
Our clients are in their forever home and were inspired by a Japandi design style. The bath contains great natural daylighting from a skylight and window, and is separated from the sleeping rooms on the second floor. This bath doubles as the principal ensuite bath and the primary bath.
We are providing long-term value and wellness to our clients in their luxury bath renovation.
The Lighting
Let’s start with an inventory of the lighting which is a part of this bathroom renovation project. Some of them will add to the style of the space.
Yet just like the technology, there will also be illuminated features that are integrated into the design of the bath. The desired style without visually taking away from the desired style. The Japandi style is a minimalist design style that exudes a sense of calm.
Wall Sconces in a Japandi Style
Recessed LED Lighting
Recessed LED lights are a popular choice for steam showers. They provide bright, even illumination without being intrusive.
Make sure the lighting fixtures are rated for wet or damp environments to ensure safety.
Waterproof Fixtures
Given the moisture-rich environment of a steam shower, it's crucial to use waterproof or water-resistant light fixtures to prevent any safety hazards.
Dimmer Switches
Install dimmer switches to control the intensity of the lights. This allows for a bright, invigorating atmosphere during a morning shower and a softer, more relaxing ambiance in the evening.
The Technology being incorporated in this Bathroom Renovation:
Besides the lighting of the bathroom there is also the technology being integrated into the design of our luxury bathroom. There are so many options out there, and I will include a few of the options we have used in other projects that can be a part of making a home spa. Yet I must admit looking at the list below that there are quite a few selections on our list that the clients have invested in to make this quite a luxurious retreat.
Heated Towel Bars
Steam Generator
The heart of a steam shower is the steam generator. Modern generators often come with digital controls, allowing users to set temperature and duration easily.
Control Systems
Leading brands provide user-friendly control interfaces that allow you to customize your steam shower experience for each individual user.
These interfaces often include digital displays, temperature control, and pre-set programs for added convenience.
They can also connect with each person’s smart device to easily set up custom profiles
Aromatherapy Systems
Premium brands may offer integrated aromatherapy systems that disperse essential oils into the steam, enhancing the therapeutic benefits of your steam session.
These systems are designed for easy maintenance and use.
Ventilation System
A good ventilation system is essential to maintain air quality and prevent mold and mildew. Opt for a smart ventilation system that can be controlled automatically or through a mobile app.
Heated Floors
While not directly related to lighting, heated floors add a luxurious touch to the bathroom. Install a smart thermostat to control the floor heating, creating a comfortable environment.
Jetted Soaker Tub with warming pad
The selection chosen by the client can connect with a smart device app to make the controlling the device more convenient so specific settings for each user can be saved.
To create an experience that can rejuvenate your body and mind, we must remember all these features were designed well in advance, and fully laid out in our comprehensive construction drawings by a qualified designer. This ensures that all electrical installations meet safety standards and the local municipal building codes.
Additionally, the maintenance requirements of the technology were discussed ahead of the final approved design with the clients to ensure long-term functionality. All this makes for an efficient installation of the technology by our client’s chosen contractors. As we mentioned before, a luxury bathroom design and its installation does not happen in a weekend like it does in reality television. Everything takes time to design and properly plan for in the construction of our bathroom renovation. Our goals are to make sure that clients understand how long things will take with their renovation. So that, on the other side of this inconvenience they can look forward to enter the realm of modern relaxation and self-care.
There are additional wellness features one can consider to make a home bathroom into a personal oasis or a therapeutic retreat. One of those is chomotherapy which we have done in a previous project showcased below.
Chromotherapy
High-end brands may integrate advanced chromotherapy (colour therapy) providing a multisensory experience.
These systems are often customizable, allowing you to tailor the lighting to your preferences.
As you can see in our London Landing project this wellness features was integrated into the custom walnut vanity of this bathroom.
A steam shower with aroma therapy was a part of the other features of this bathroom design.
Chromotherapy
Also known as colour therapy, chromotherapy would be considered a form of alternative medicine. It involves using colours to positively affect an individual's mood and overall well-being. In the context of home bathroom spas, chromotherapy refers to the use of coloured lights to create a therapeutic atmosphere.
As you can see in the two images above, there is chromotherapy integrated into the custom walnut cabinetry of this bathroom. In a home bathroom spa, chromotherapy typically involves incorporating LED lights in various colours to enhance the spa experience. It can be built into not only cabinetry but into millwork details and the mouldings of a room. Each colour is believed to have specific psychological and physical effects. It can also affect the circadian rhythms of the human body.
The idea behind chromotherapy is that exposure to certain colours can influence the body's energy centres, known as chakras, and help restore balance and well-being. While scientific evidence supporting the therapeutic effects of chromotherapy is limited, many people find the use of coloured lights in home bathroom spas to be a visually pleasing and relaxing addition to their wellness routine.
What are some other elements which can be incorporated into a home spa?
Audio Systems
High-end brands may integrate advanced audio systems with smart devices, providing a multisensory experience. These systems are often customizable using apps designed for iOS and android devices, allowing you to tailor the sound to your preferences.
Smart Thermostatic Controls
Invest in smart thermostatic controls that can be connected to home automation systems. This enables users to control the shower's temperature remotely or set it to their preferences.
Occupancy Sensors
Implementing occupancy sensors can not only enhance energy efficiency. Lights and other electronic features can be automatically activated or deactivated based on the presence of individuals in the shower area.
LED Mirrored Cabinet
Another accessible feature that can be incorporated into a bathroom spa is LED lighting built into mirrored cabinets. You can be see them in this bathroom from our Coal Harbour project as well as the 2 Chromotherapy images above. Our principal designer wrote a great article about their benefits for Sidler International called:
Ocular Challenges? Key Design & Lightning Accommodations in Bathroom Design!
Hiring a qualified designer is paramount.
Having a properly designed home spa prepared by a qualified design professional is crucial for ensuring that you can enjoy these benefits to the fullest. Here's why:
Safety in the steam shower
A professionally designed steam shower ensures that it meets safety standards and includes features like automatic shut-off mechanisms, proper ventilation, and non-slip flooring to prevent accidents. Your peace of mind is assured as you bask in the tranquil warmth of the steam.
Energy efficiency
Proper design maximizes the efficiency of each of the wellness features the client is investing in. Each of them have specific requirements that need to planned for in the design phase of the project. That way any electrical requirements are addressed and planned for. You can relax knowing that your technology will work flawlessly every time.
Design aesthetics and style
All the wellness features of a home spa should blend seamlessly with your bathroom's aesthetics. So they can be customized to match your preferred style, from sleek and modern to more traditional designs. To complement your vision for your ideal bathroom sanctuary.
User comfort and access
Comfort is key in a home spa. Properly designed seating, ergonomics, and accessibility features ensure that your experience is comfortable, enjoyable, and luxurious. You can fully immerse yourself in the relaxation, free from any discomfort or inconvenience.
Low care and maintenance
Properly designed bathrooms with features like a steam shower use high-quality materials and construction techniques, ensuring that the installation will stand the test of time. Ensuring your investment is one that will last, providing years of comfort and relaxation.
Japandi Style Light fixtures.
Ultimately, the light fixtures our designer recommends to a client will come down to the chosen design style of their project. In our bath this is a Japandi design style. This style sometimes incorporates lantern forms and natural materials like wood. For the purposes of our bathroom we would like to connect with the matt black finishes of the both the plumbing fixtures and the accessible hardware of the bathroom design. This will provide some continuity in the design and keep things simple and calm.
The wall sconces our clients chose, play a bit with geometric shapes and have clean lines. which is why Corey recommended the Mitzi lighting.
Aira Bath and Vanity Wall Sconce
As you can see by our renderings and the other fixtures in the bathroom, this wall sconce will work beautifully in the space. It is also worth noting that Mitzi Lighting is also a brand sponsor for the One Room Challenge.
Our history with luxury bathrooms
Our Principal Designer, Corey Klassen, has defined himself early on regarding luxury bathrooms, even working with industry speakers and being interviewed upon the topic of steam showers and biophilic design. Which is why they participated in the Kitchen and Bath Planning Guidelines - with Support Spaces and Accessibility, 4th. ed., which allowed 10 subject matter experts to significantly update the publication for the kitchen and bath industry in both Canada and U.S.. Not only are metric and imperial forms of measurement are included, but also practical considerations for designers to reference when they design a custom steam shower or accessible baths.
Corey has worked with a range of quality brand names that produce steam showers, as well as plumbing fixtures like Brizo and DXV. Corey’s first time speaking at IDS Vancouver was when he presented the Luxury Bathroom CEU for designers in Fall 2014. His participation in an international marketing campaign for DXV by American Standard not only brought him early local recognition. It started his love affair with steam showers. He even wrote articles for Mr Steam ( a pre-eminent brand in the luxury bath marketplace) as well as presented his own CEU about steam showers at an international design conference for the kitchen and bath industry called KBIS. Below you can see the video produced for Lofty Visions, the project for DXV, where it showcases a steam shower for the advertising campaign.
Differences in Patented Equipment by Quality Brand Names
When it comes to the design and equipment, the choice of quality brand names becomes pivotal. Different manufacturers offer patented equipment and innovations that can enhance your experience. They have been steadily evolving over the course of the decade, and they even connect with your smart device now. These brand-specific differences include:
Steam generator equipment. High-quality brands often incorporate state-of-the-art steam generator technology that ensures precise control of steam production. This results in a consistent and enjoyable steam experience, and some even offer energy-efficient options, saving you on operational costs. Our selection for this project uses a continuous drip technology which is patented to stabilise the flow of the steam so there are no interruptions.
User control interface. Leading brands provide user-friendly control interfaces that allow you to customize your steam shower experience with ease. These interfaces often include digital displays, temperature control, and pre-set programs for added convenience.
Aromatherapy features. Integrated aromatherapy systems can be a part of the selections for a steam shower. They disperse essential oils into the steam, enhancing the therapeutic benefits of your steam session. These systems are designed for easy maintenance and use.
Chromotherapy and audio system features. High-end brands may integrate advanced chromotherapy (color therapy) and audio systems, providing a multisensory experience. These systems are often customizable, allowing you to tailor the lighting and sound to your preferences.
Quality materials. Leading brands use durable, easy-to-maintain materials for the construction of steam shower enclosures and seating. This ensures longevity and a luxurious appearance. They also provide guidelines for the placement of steam jets in the enclosure so the unit operates efficiently and the provides the best user experience possible.
Warranty and support. Quality brands often back their products with extended warranties and excellent customer support. This provides you with peace of mind and assistance in case of any issues. In the case of our steam shower brand Therma Sol. They provide comprehensive support to choose the right model for the size of the enclosure and the materials being used inside it. (As, natural stone will perform completely different than porcelain). It is all about the planning considerations pre-installation, as well as for the long term use.
Conclusion
There are many different ways to turn a bathroom into a home spa. Over the past decade our principal designer Corey Klassen has embraced a variety of technologies to innovate the designs of our clients. This allows us to create not only longterm value for our projects as well as design for a variety of potential needs of our clientele. Lighting can be a part of the technology of a space, as well as add accessible features and style. Our Japandi design style for this bathroom is not only communicated by the hardware details and plumbing fixtures, it is also visually brought together by the choices made with the decorative lighting (by Mitzi Lighting by Hudson Valley Lighting) that is a part of the finalised design
We can not wait to showcase the final result of our bathroom renovation. Stay tuned
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