Bathroom Culture for the Over 50s - Kaldewei Study

In the latest rheingold study entitled ‘Bathroom and bathing culture practised by the 50+ generation’, Kaldewei - producer of bathtubs - has examined the changes in requirements for this important market and the impact on product design. The result: the 50+ generation primarily desires products of high-quality design combining innovative technology and appealing aesthetics with a high degree of convenience, comfort and safety.

‘Universal design’ is the answer - products that can be used by anyone to meet their individual needs regardless of their age or health status and at the same time uniting design, function, convenience and aesthetics in an optimum way.

‘Although age-appropriateness plays a fundamental role in the selection of products, it should be as invisible as possible and merely represent an additional premium feature instead of being the central focus in bathroom planning’, explains Martin Koch, Head of Communications for Kaldewei.

As Europe's market leader for bathtubs and showers made from 3.5 mm steel enamel, Kaldewei recognised this trend at an early stage and currently offers a wide range of products with ‘universal design’ in the form of 20 different bathtubs and 25 shower tray models.

According to the study, desirable attributes for bath tubs include integrated handles and spacious, ergonomic interiors that allow several sitting or lying positions, also a lower and wider edge than is the case on most baths. An ideal solution is perceived to be access to the bathtub from at least two sides or - sunken into a platform - via several levels or steps offering maximum convenience. Corner variants with wide shelf and seat areas are also eminently suitable.

Rondo, from Kaldewei, is an example available in rectangular, hexagonal or octagonal models. The flowing ergonomic contours of the interior offer bathers plenty of space, especially for the upper body, and also permit extremely relaxed lying positions while integrated, supportive armrests provide additional comfort. Attractive handles on both sides of the bath facilitate movements into sitting or lying positions thus communicating a feeling of absolute safety. A further advantage is the Comfort-Level feature which permits the bather to raise the water level by up to 50 mm.

When it comes to showering, the 50+ generation focuses on large, ultra-flat models which are fitted flush with the floor. Unrestricted access is just as important as integrated seats and optimum stability in the form of anti-slip surface finishes. In the form of the Superplan XXL, Kaldewei is setting new standards in this area. Thanks to its unusual dimensions of 150 x 150 cm, this extremely spacious shower offers unlimited freedom of movement for daily showering pleasure and is also easily accessible by wheelchair users.

For planning versatility, Kaldewei has introduced six new colours for the company’s 3.5mm steel enamel floor-level shower trays: beige, light brown, dark brown, chestnut, green-brown and anthracite. This makes it possible to achieve a perfect match between the shower tray and a wide variety of flooring materials - from tiles in all possible shades and structures to modern wooden flooring.

Web: http://www.kaldewei.com