Sink into comfort with the best tub chairs for 2024

A recent study, the 2024 Bathroom Trends Research Report from the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), highlights six key wellness-related design trends influencing bathroom remodels and new constructions. These trends are corroborated by insights from NKBA member designers Christopher Grubb, Julee Ireland, Anne-Marie Brunet, and Sandra Diaz-Velasco. Personalized features are a significant trend, with designers focusing on creating multi-sensory experiences. Brunet incorporates layered lighting, music, home fragrances, and textured finishes. Velasco uses dramatic wallpaper, murals, oversized patterns, and gradient colors to create visual impact. Grubb emphasizes functional storage solutions like slide-outs for toiletries and built-in hampers, which streamline routines and reduce stress. Ireland integrates spa-like amenities such as built-in lockers, benches, saunas, and aromatherapy, along with multiple water features in showers to cater to individual preferences. A strong health focus is also evident. Ireland designs bathrooms to counteract stress, which is increasingly recognized as a major contributor to illness. She prioritizes understanding clients' lifestyles to simplify and ease their daily routines within their new spaces. Grubb highlights the importance of natural light for wellness, recommending oversized, triple-glazed windows for abundant light and fresh air. He also suggests operable windows and smart glass for privacy and air circulation, promoting an overall sense of openness and well-being. Accessibility is another crucial trend, particularly due to the aging population. Approximately 90% of Ireland's clients consider accessibility features for themselves or aging parents, or due to family members with health issues. She integrates curbless showers, extra-wide entrances, open-concept layouts for wheelchair access, grab bars, bench seats, and lower-height shower trims to promote independence. Brunet notes that blocking for grab bars is often required, and there's a growing interest in zero-entry showers, even in secondary bathrooms, to enhance overall home accessibility. Grubb mentions wall-mount vanities that can be adjusted, integrated towel/grab bars, handheld showerheads, benches, and zero-threshold showers with wider doors, often framed as stylish and comfortable additions rather than just accessibility features. There is a notable shift towards larger showers over traditional tubs. Brunet reports that 85% of remodeling projects involve removing a tub for a more spacious shower, attributing this to time constraints, water conservation, and reduced maintenance. She observes an increase in steam shower installations for health benefits like arthritis and respiratory relief, viewing shower spaces as experiential destinations for relaxation. Grubb's clients consistently request large, spacious showers that accommodate two people, but caution against excessive sizing that might compromise steam shower efficiency. Ireland designs three-zone showers for shared spaces and incorporates spa features like steam, body sprays, and multiple showerheads. Despite this trend, all three designers acknowledge that some clients still desire tubs for visual appeal or the relaxation of soaking. Wet rooms are predicted to remain a strong trend for 2024. Ireland sees wet rooms as providing the spacious, spa-like, and open feel her clients desire, while also preventing water intrusion. Their simplistic design, devoid of disjointed elements, facilitates easier movement and optimal use of space. Velasco notes that wet areas, including both shower and tub, are increasingly designed for more space, natural light, and sensory enjoyment, as families spend more time at home and seek comfort in every area. Finally, large-format tile is gaining popularity. Ireland states that about 60% of her clients choose large-format tiles for primary baths, driven by advancements in technology that offer realistic stone looks with lower cost and maintenance. Brunet specifies large-format slabs almost exclusively for their uncluttered appearance, minimal grout lines, ease of cleaning, and luxurious aesthetic in showers and tub surrounds. Grubb also uses oversized porcelain tiles on floors or large tiles to reduce grout lines for clients who prefer modern designs.

This comprehensive guide explores the top 23 reading chairs available in 2026, categorized by price point, to assist individuals in selecting the ideal chair for their home. The selection process considered various factors including price, overall value, design aesthetics, physical footprint, and durability, with insights from interior designer Emily Henderson and Esther Parkhurst, senior director of product design and trends for Lowe's. The article highlights several top picks across different budget ranges. For those under $1000, options include the Delta Children Cozee Flip-Out Lounger, an affordable and machine-washable option for kids; the Better Homes & Gardens Ezra Accent Chair, noted for its solid wood construction and versatile design at a budget-friendly price; the West Elm Modern Lounger, made with sustainable vegan leather and recycled materials; the Bigsyy 4-In-1 Convertible Chair, a versatile piece that transforms into an ottoman, sofa, or single bed; the Kelly Clarkson Home Sydney Boucle Swivel Armchair, a space-saving design with a U-shaped back and swivel base; the Willa Arlo Interiors Alta Recliner, a modern take on a traditional recliner available in faux leather and polyester; the Kelly Clarkson Home Bransford Upholstered Armchair, which offers an antique aesthetic; the West Elm Penn Chair, known for its minimal assembly and medium-firm seating; the Birch Lane Westmere Manual Club Recliner, combining genuine top-grain leather with faux leather for cost efficiency; and the West Elm Lucia Wing Chair, a contract-grade velvet option with customizable leg finishes. Moving to chairs under $2000, the guide features the La-Z-Boy Marietta Chair, specifically designed for petite individuals; the Anthropologie Bixby Chair, an ornate yoke back armchair with a wide range of vibrant colors; the Burrow Nomad Velvet Armchair with Chaise, which includes a built-in USB charger for convenience; the Lulu and Georgia Rue Swivel Chair, offering bold patterns like tiger print; the Sixpenny Neva Chair, a highly customizable option with various fabrics and fill choices; the Crate & Barrel Family Oversized Chair and a Half, a large, cozy option upholstered in shearling-style fabric; the AllModern Anya Upholstered Slipper Chair, providing a modern look with an extra-deep seat; the Room & Board Eos Swivel Chair, prioritizing comfort with plush cushions and accent pillows; the Room & Board Lars Leather Lounge Chair, a quality investment piece made with Vermont wood and Minnesota leather; and the Pottery Barn Champlain Wingback Leather Armchair, a classic wingback design with adjustable levers for stability. The high-end selections include the Lulu and Georgia Harlowe Media Lounger, a spacious extended sofa designed to comfortably fit two people, and the Serena and Lily Magnolia Swivel Chair, offering extensive customization with over 170 fabric options and sustainable materials. The article also provides essential buying considerations, advising readers to evaluate material, size, and style. Material choices range from leather and velvet to performance fabrics, with suggestions for family-friendly options. Size considerations emphasize how the chair will be used—whether for curling up, stretching out, or as a focal point—and stress the importance of measuring space for the chair and complementary accessories like side tables and lamps. Style guidance encourages matching the chair to existing home decor or using it as an accent piece, with specific recommendations for modern, classic, and cozy designs. #ReadingChairs #HomeDecor #FurnitureReview #InteriorDesign #CozyNook #AccentChairs #ChairBuyingGuide #HomeFurnishings

Falls are a significant cause of injury and death among adults aged 65 and older, with bathroom falls being particularly hazardous. Installing a walk-in tub with a shower can mitigate these risks by offering a low entry threshold, eliminating the need to step over a high tub ledge, and incorporating various safety features. These fixtures are primarily designed for older adults and individuals with limited mobility, providing a safer and more convenient bathing experience. A walk-in tub is a home modification equipped with a watertight, outward- or inward-swinging door, allowing users to easily step into the tub. When combined with a shower feature, it offers the flexibility of both bathing and showering without waiting for the tub to fill. Most models include handrails and ergonomic seats to further enhance safety and comfort. Installation typically involves a home modification service or the tub manufacturer, who assesses the home for necessary plumbing and architectural adjustments. While walk-in tubs with showers offer enhanced safety and convenience, especially with overhead or handheld shower systems, they can be a significant investment. The cost of a walk-in tub alone can range from $2,000 to $20,000, and a tub-shower combination, often considered a specialty bath, can cost between $2,500 and $15,000. Additional shower features and accessories also add to the overall price. Installation costs, which can vary from $2,500 to $8,000, are influenced by factors such as tub size, necessary electrical or plumbing upgrades, and the removal of existing fixtures. Medicare generally does not cover the cost of walk-in tubs or their installation because they are not classified as durable medical equipment (DME). However, financial assistance might be available through state Medicaid programs, with eligibility varying by state. Veterans may also qualify for grants from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) through programs like Veteran Directed Care, which supports aging in place. Some manufacturers and retailers offer financing options, allowing for incremental payments. Key features to consider when purchasing a walk-in tub with a shower include essential safety components like ADA-compliant seats and grab bars. Buyers can also choose from various optional accessories, such as aromatherapy or hydrojets, depending on their preferences and budget. The decision between a walk-in tub with a shower and a traditional tub-shower combination often depends on available bathroom space, mobility limitations of the users, and long-term residency plans. If aging in place is a priority, a walk-in tub can significantly improve home safety. However, for those planning to sell their home, a standard tub-shower combination might appeal to a broader range of potential buyers. Alternatives to walk-in tubs with showers for enhancing bathroom safety include using non-slip mats or decals, bath chairs or benches, single-lever faucets, and non-skid bathmats. Walk-in tub-shower combinations are available from major home improvement stores, online retailers, and directly from manufacturers. Evaluating different models and suppliers is crucial to finding the best fit for individual needs and budget. Ultimately, these units offer a valuable solution for those seeking increased safety and independence in their bathing routines, particularly if a quick shower is preferred alongside the benefits of a low-threshold tub. #WalkInTubs #ShowerCombos #HomeAccessibility #ElderlySafety #BathroomRemodel #MobilityAids #HomeModification #AgingInPlace #AdaptiveTechnology

In 2025, bathrooms are evolving into luxurious personal sanctuaries, moving beyond their traditional utilitarian function to offer a spa-like experience within the home. This trend is driven by an increasing demand for wellness-focused design, integrating advanced technology, sustainable practices, and biophilic elements to transform daily routines into therapeutic rituals. Homeowners are seeking sophisticated designs that mimic the serene environments found in high-end resorts, focusing on calming color palettes, inviting materials, and indulgent features like deep soaking tubs and soft ambient lighting to cultivate an atmosphere of mental and physical rejuvenation. A key aspect of this luxurious transformation is the integration of metallic fixtures, with gold and brass accents leading the way. These finishes impart a sense of sophistication and warmth, becoming prominent design elements that enhance the overall aesthetic. Contemporary designs also explore mixed-metal combinations, such as gold paired with matte black or brushed nickel, to achieve a bold and modern appeal. Complementing this, chromotherapy showers are becoming a desirable addition, utilizing LED lighting to project various colors, each associated with specific therapeutic benefits. For instance, blue light is believed to promote calmness, while red tones are thought to energize, enriching the traditional bathing experience with an additional layer of wellness. Statement bathtubs, particularly freestanding models, are central to high-end bathroom remodels. These tubs are designed with ergonomic shapes and equipped with advanced features such as hydrotherapy jets, precise temperature controls, and even in-tub speakers. The use of durable and luxurious materials like stone, resin, and copper further elevates their sophisticated presence. Alongside opulence, environmental responsibility is a growing priority, leading to the fusion of luxury with eco-friendly design. Innovations like low-flow faucets, dual-flush toilets, and energy-efficient lighting are being adopted without compromising style, often incorporating reclaimed wood and recycled glass tiles to enhance both aesthetic appeal and environmental consciousness. Smart technology is integral to these evolving bathrooms, creating immersive spaces that cater to individual preferences. Voice commands, adaptable lighting, and programmable temperature settings allow for a personalized experience. Smart mirrors, which double as displays for information and entertainment, coupled with sophisticated ventilation systems for superior air quality, underscore the commitment to convenience and comfort. The trend extends to biophilic design, bringing nature indoors through natural materials like stone, wood, and bamboo, which contribute to a tranquil ambiance. Large windows, living plants, and subtle water features further reinforce this connection to nature, promoting relaxation and well-being. Wet rooms and spacious showers are becoming central elements, offering open, barrier-free designs that merge bathing areas into a cohesive space. This design philosophy maximizes usable area while presenting an uncluttered and elegant appearance, often featuring high-quality materials and artisanal craftsmanship. Aromatherapy is also being incorporated, with built-in diffusers enhancing relaxation through essential oils. Combined with soft lighting, soothing audio, and appealing textures, these elements create a multi-sensory experience that transforms the bathroom into a personal retreat. Finally, color trends for 2025 lean towards warm earth tones like terracotta, sage green, and soft beige. These subdued colors, paired with polished matte finishes, create a welcoming and contemporary visual effect, completing the transformation of the bathroom into a sanctuary of luxury and serenity. #SpaBathroom #LuxuryDesign #BathroomTrends2025 #SmartTechnology #BiophilicDesign #EcoFriendlyLuxury #ChromotherapyShowers #DeepSoakingTubs #MetallicFixtures