Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM JUNE 2021 32 A S S O C I A T I O N N E W S T he National Kitchen & Bath Association 2021 Design Trends Research reports that bathroom layouts are evolving, primarily by way of removing built-in bathtubs in favor of freestanding or soaking tubs. Some tubs are leaving altogether, as 60% of those surveyed said they're removing tubs to create a roomier shower. Additionally, as aging-in-place becomes a growing priority for many homeowners, larger freestanding showers to accommodate two people (including a caregiver) with zero-clearance entry for mobility devices, integrated seating and grab bars are all becoming more popular. NKBA designers, Shea Pumarejo, CMKBD, principal designer at Younique Designs and a three-time winner of Best Overall Bath in NKBA's annual Design Competition, and Jonas Carnemark, CR, CKD, CLIPP, owner and founder at CARNEMARK Design + Build, discussed the migrating bathtub and other bathroom transformations. • NKBA: What are your thoughts on the bathtub? Are you a fan? Shea Pumarejo: I'm a huge fan of a bathtub! There's no better place to relax and unwind than in a nice warm bath. I know a lot of homeowners are taking tubs out of their spaces to make room for bigger showers, but as a bath girl myself, I'm here to tell you it would be a deal-breaker for me if I were looking at a house to buy and the master bath didn't have a tub. Bathtubs are not just for kids – I believe they are here to stay. If this past year has taught us anything, it's that self-care is so important. Bathing is not just about getting clean. Studies have shown that a nice warm bath reduces tension and anxiety. Add some bubbles, Epsom salts or essential oils for aromatherapy and a bath is the perfect way to pamper yourself. Jonas Carnemark: I do enjoy a good soak, but for every day, I prefer a shower. • NKBA: Do most of your clients ask to keep or remove the bathtub in a new design or renovation? Shea: The majority of my clients want beautiful freestanding tubs. I do occa- sionally have a client who wants to eliminate the tub, but I generally try to talk them out of it for resale purposes. I always try to guide my clients to do the things that add value to the home and not take away value. Jonas: Over the years, most of our clients have decided to take the tub out of the master bath. It usually sounds like this: "We have this big old whirlpool tub that probably doesn't work. We filled it once when we moved in and then never used it. Now we just want it gone." On the rare occasions when clients do want a tub, they often long for a free- standing sculptural tub. For safety, I personally prefer an undermounted tub with a stable deck to sit on, so you can easily swing your legs over into the tub without risk of falling. • NKBA: According to the 2021 Design Trends research, separating tubs from the shower to be freestanding is a popular trend. Have you been finding this request among your clients? What are the benefits? Shea: Freestanding tubs are beautiful and can make a very impactful focal point in the space. There is a lot of versatility RUB-A-DUB-DUB: NKBA TALKS ABOUT THE TUB Lots of changes are happening in bathrooms these days

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