BATHROOMS & SHOWERS Keeping it in the family


With several generations of one family often living under one roof, the bathroom needs to function on many different levels. How can merchants ensure their plumbing stock has the solutions to make the space accessible and comfortable for young and old?


generational homes. In fact, latest  suggest that households with two or more families will rise from 1.5m to 2.2m by 2025.


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This change brings with it a shift in the way we use our homes and ultimately in how the space is designed.


Living spaces that are to be shared by people with varying needs must be designed with practical elements at the forefront and none more so than the bathroom.


For the merchant, it is important to stock products and solutions that enable the bathroom to be future- proofed now, so it provides comfort


he way we live is changing: an ageing population and economic strains are resulting in an increase in multi-


and independence to the whole household as their needs change” says Daniel Ward, cermaics product manager at Twyford.


Practical privacy


“A major consideration for any bathroom, regardless of its size and who may be using it, is storage. Hiding away unsightly toiletries will give the illusion of space, create a clean look and remove potential hazards. Cleaning products can be kept out of reach of little hands, messy teens can shut the door on their products and adults can relax in an element of calm among the chaos,” he says. Multi-functional storage, such as washbasin units, or movable stools with hidden compartments, enable every inch of space to be utilised in a practical way. For very small bathrooms, tall units, a growing


trend in the UK, can provide the ideal solution, with each family member allocated a shelf.


Ward explains that safety is often a key concern for parents, and in households with less able residents. “Thermostatic taps will prevent scalding, with lever mixers making it  use. For bathing, products such as our All Offset Family Bath has a movable and reversible seat, headrest and a wider edge for parents or carers to sit alongside the bather. Shower seats   potential tripping hazards.”  of safety in the bathroom, which becomes even more important when designing a space for more vulnerable users. Ease of cleaning and increased hygiene levels can be achieved with


BMJ April 2017


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