Hide Without the Seek
Hidden Conveniences
Clutter is a visual disrupter of the peace and quiet most homeowners say they crave when it comes to designing a dream spa-like bathroom. Modern, on-trend bathrooms are all about hidden conveniences like hiding hair dryers, shavers (and their cords!), other electrical items, and outlets inside cabinetry. But it is important to know that outlets enclosed within cabinetry require a special interlocking switch that turns off the power when the door is closed to prevent any overheating and a potential fire. Always ensure the electrical products used are approved for use in Canada.
In-floor heating, which turns cold tile to cozy warmth, pampers your feet especially during winter’s coldest months. And the good news? It’s now quite affordable. As with other warming devices like towel warmers and heated toilet seats, it will be important for your Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) to review all manufacturer’s installation requirements in advance. Installation instructions vary depending on the product used. You’ll also want to talk to your design professional and Licensed Electrical Contractor to ensure the placement of the corresponding wall thermostat is practical without impeding your design. The thermostat has to be at least one metre away from a bathtub or shower stall, or be Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protected. Your Licensed Electrical Contractor is required to know these specifications.
If you have outlets that are within one metre of the sink, shower or bath tub they will also require GFCI protection.
Any time you mix electrical power and water there are important electrical safety requirements to consider. That’s why it’s so important to ensure you’re hiring the right professionals to do the work.
Luxury meets function
With every master bedroom comes the desire for a master ensuite. To achieve a bathroom that is as luxurious as it is functional requires a team of professionals. Design expert Kimberley Seldon recommends incorporating luxury hotel elements to your home bathroom to create an oasis. Here are her three tips to achieve this look.
Create a streamlined space. Slim, white cabinetry disappears into the walls, but will provide ample storage for everything from toothbrushes to styling tools. With clean sightlines, the space can appear larger and feel more like an escape and less like a family bathroom.
Add five-star elements. In-floor heating and heated towel racks make the room cozy and keep plush towels warm and ready for use after a bubble bath. A Japanese toilet is a sleek alternative to a standard toilet and offers the functions of a toilet and bidet in one.
Consider unexpected finishes. Add interest to the space with materials like wood or brass. These materials visually warm up the room and can be used for fixtures, flooring or furniture.
Before starting a bathroom renovation, consult with your Licensed Electrical Contractor early in the design process to make sure you have filed a notification with the Electrical Safety Authority for the job.
Find a contractor in your area at findacontractor.esasafe.com