What are the latest trends you are spotting in bathroom design?

Toni El Kadi: We have recognised a need for comfort and individuality as this year’s key trends. The new bathroom series ME, Duravit and Philippe Starck have succeeded in creating a collection that fulfils the demand for pure aesthetics and a wide variety of lifestyles.

Sophay Young: Custom vanities are proving popular in designer hotel bathrooms. Their sleek, contemporary design with clever storage options gives the illusion of spaciousness. Bathroom furniture made from natural products is starting to play a bigger role. Shelves, wall mounted storage units and cabinets in wood grains, and textures in honey shades warm up cold and clinical bathroom spaces. A focal point in bathroom design, the freestanding bath is not going anywhere in 2015. Recently, this trend has seen a move towards composite stone material; the matte surface and relaxed structure make them versatile for use in both modern and contemporary bathrooms.

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Ivan Zupanovic: We believe we have set the trend for slim-shaped bathroom products with our innovative SaphirKeramik material that allows for unprecedented design possibilities with ceramic.

Louise Pitt: Space, sleek lines and a spa ambience, luxury and comfort are the key trends. Also, as building quality has dramatically improved, people are now looking to use acoustic pipes and quiet fill valves in the toilet cisterns that greatly reduce acoustic levels in living spaces.

Arif Abdul Khader: In the last few years, we have seen an increase in size and function of the shower system. The trend is to choose big rain showers with cascade, and mist effect.

How often should hotel bathrooms be updated to keep up with changing trends?

Mohammed Ibrahim: This depends on the original design. If it’s a futuristic design and can be considered a sustainable approach, the bathroom will be on trend for a long time. Otherwise, it would need a renovation after three to five years.

Sophay: It depends on the occupancy rates but as a rule of thumb, we recommend between five to seven years for the hospitality industry.

Ivan: Most international hotel groups are working on bathroom refurbishments after between eight and 10 years of use.

Louise: The public washroom in a hotel is like a business card — it should reflect the style and quality the hotel wishes to portray.

Arif: If a client chooses quality products and creates a good mix of design and functionality, a bathroom can live for years. It’s the responsibility of the architects and designers to guide clients and hotels in making the right choices.

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