Home renovations continue to grow at a greater rate than new home construction according to HIA, with a bathroom renovation identified as one area that can add the most value to a home.

With the average cost of a bathroom renovation $17522, and 34 – 54 year olds spending the most, brands like Kohler are keen to flag the latest trends and technological updates to would-be renovators.

Bathrooms have evolved – and blossomed – into temples of personal care.  Gone are the sterile, clinical white spaces – today’s bathroom exudes plush comfort and zen-like calm.  Colour and texture are key players – in the form of terrazzo or concrete floors, lush foliage and ‘precious metals’ tapware.  Statement basins are also high profile inclusions.

Key to the look is a perception of space; natural materials (stone, timber, vegetation and floral design elements); and spa-like technology.

Kohler has recently introduced the Dutchmaster collection of artisanal basins that encapsulates the starring role nature and florals can play in a new bathroom.  Inspired by the Dutch Masters of the 17th century, the entire surface of each basin – round or rectangular – is adorned with big, bold, lush florals dramatically enhanced by a deeply dark, moody background.These basins are the perfect partner for one of Kohler’s wall mount or bench mount mixer taps in a luscious selection of precious metal finishes – from polished and rose gold to vibrant brushed bronze, titanium and brushed nickel.  The classically elegant design of the Purist mixer taps or the more contemporary, angular form of Composed are popular choices.

Clever inclusions to increase the perception of space are wall-mounted fixtures such as wall-hung toilets and floating vanities.  The more floor space that can be seen, the bigger the perception of space.  Kohler’s Veil Wall-Hung Intelligent toilet integrates a toilet and bidet in one and has stand-out features such as touchless flushing, one touch remote control functionality, hygienic rimless bowl and built-in UV self-cleansing bidet.  The Grande Wall-Hung suite meanwhile, features super hygienic rim-free technology and an ultra-efficient flush system.Wall-hung or floating vanities, in a sleek, understated design of sparkling vitreous china and hardwood detailing are a perfect fit for the modern bathroom.  Kohler’s Terrace collection comes in a range of four sizes to fit virtually any bathroom dimensions.

The choice of shower is pivotal to achieving the spa-like indulgence we all crave – and Kohler has a number of options.  The Exhale showerhead fulfils two aspects of the modern bathroom brief – its beautiful soft white silicone spray-face was inspired by the delicate petals of a dahlia while its Katalyst air-induction showering technology infuses water with air to create a powerful, luxurious deluge much like a rain shower.  In fact, there are four spray experiences on offer – full coverage, drenching rain, pulsating massage and silk spray.For those preferring an overhead shower there are the RainCan showerheads in square and round configurations, again with Katalyst technology – or, for a clever dual option the Converge is a truly multifunction showerhead.  This beauty combines a wall mount shower that has an integrated hand shower that detaches from the exterior rim by virtue of a magnetic docking station.

Kohler’s key message to would-be renovators is to do the research first – there are so many new, beautiful and technologically advanced products for the modern bathroom that will beautify the space, elevate the luxury of the bathing experience and create the perception of additional space.  And there are choices to fit any budget.