Is Technology Shaping the Future of Accessible Bathroom Design?

A Wealth of Product Innovation

“There are a variety of innovations that we are seeing when it comes to the luxury bathroom environment”, says Mark: 

• Thermostatic precision where modern valve technology ensures the consistent delivery of water temperature, preventing scalding or coldwater shock when there is a significant change in the inbound water pressure.  

• Touchless activation whether it’s using infrared sensors on toilet cisterns or taps, or through voice activation and smart home application integration. 

• Minimalist design with integrated functionality where concealed controls offer a more slimline look without compromising on product functionality.  

• Sustainable solutions where water can be controlled, monitored and adjusted to reduce unnecessary usage.  

• Sanitaryware innovations including UV light cleaning integration, advanced anti-bacterial coatings and vortex style flush mechanisms to improve the cleanliness of the products. 

“We are already adopting a number of these innovations and incorporating them into our current product offer, Mark says. “Thermostatic valves, infra-red sensors and concealed controls already appear within our Signature Water & Shower Control collections, whilst we are also working to reduce the amount of water required when offering our sanitaryware solutions.” 

Leveraging Smart Technology

At Fitzroy, we are always innovating and continuing to look at ways in which accessible space can be made more user friendly in terms of performance and functionality. “There are a variety of smart technology solutions that offer unique, very niche solutions, but these need to be carefully considered as some require significant adaption or newly installed infrastructures to operate,” Mark says. 

Redefining Spaces

AI and Assistive Technologies will play a large role in the future and are appearing as the emerging technology that will redefine accessible bathrooms as we know them. There are many forms that can support an individual to live independently for longer at home, without the need for additional support and intervention. “As AI develops,” Mark says, “we are sure to see some of these technologies being incorporated into what we would class as standardised bathroom products. However, the user experience must always be central to the development of such ideas to ensure uncompromised, seamless, intuitive operation and performance.” 

Sustainable Without Compromising on Experience

With the advancement of technology, sustainability is no longer optional, but a considered element of the design process from the beginning. Today’s shower controls and bathroom products are designed to ensure sustainability such as “reducing water flow without compromising on the user experience through aeration and eco-flow technology; as well as integrated timers and consumption monitors so users can track their own usage,” Mark says. For designers and specifiers, sustainability is as much about compliance and futureproofing as it is about environmental ethics. 

Interested in learning more about our innovative new Taps, Showers and Water Controls? Discover our Gosfield Collection today.