Dream Baths In Demand

What is the one thing Americans would change about their bathrooms? Make them BIGGER. That may surprise some builders, who are building master baths that rival the square footage of some master bedrooms, but a recent survey says it is so.

American Standard Inc., of Piscataway, N.J., surveyed more than 600 homeowners, and found that size does matter. Respondents also said they would add new showering/ whirlpool systems, double sink vanities and more natural light. Those features have been trends in luxury baths for the past few years. But those surveyed also stated that heated tile floors, stereo systems, heated towel bars and TV and VCRs are tops on their list, proving that luxury bathrooms are becoming the norm.

"The survey results mirror what we’re seeing in new and existing homes," says Jeannette Long, v.p. of marketing for American Standard. "In many upscale new homes, where space may be limited, we’re seeing homeowners either expand their bathrooms so they can include a whirlpool, or remove old bathtubs and replace them with units designed to fit that same space."

The survey also found that Americans prefer a more traditional or country style bathroom that won’t date itself in a year. However, a select group favored more avant-garde and modern styles.

"When they truly do have time to enjoy their bathrooms and treat it as a sanctuary, Americans love to pamper themselves with long hot showers and baths," says Long. "They also enjoy reading books and magazines, listening to their favorite music and lighting candles."

The survey was conducted on behalf of the bathroom fixture manufacturer by Opinion research Corporation International of Princeton, N.J. Sixty percent of the respondents were women.