Great Bathroom Trends for 2009!

Yes, we are doing more in our bathrooms these days than just brushing our teeth. Watch for showers that offer aromatherapy, hydrotherapy and color therapy, and refrigerated vanity drawers for storing those refreshing tub-side beverages. With heated towel racks, suede or leather drawer pulls and stereo surround sound, the bathroom is truly a sanctuary for the senses.

Bathroom as Refuge -In this bathroom, a curving, freestanding shower features a sit-down spa area with 10 massaging spa jets, a high-power showerhead and a relaxing steam option. The tiles on the back wall are a smaller version of the floor tiles, giving the room a seamless look.

Custom Comfort - BodySpa systems are ergonomically engineered for the ultimate in comfort. Seats, jets, headrests, footrests and lumbar supports are placed exactly where they need to be. An integral heater is standard on all BodySpa systems and helps maintain the original water temperature for the duration of the hydro-massage experience.

Continuous Water Recirculation - The system recirculates water up to two times per minute. The result is about 80 gallons per minute of hydro-powered cylinders of water, more than the combined delivery of 25 average showerheads, directed at all the right places to work away tension and stress.

KOHLER BodySpa Systems utilize a concept similar to whirlpool bathing. Simply fill the basin with water and activate the pump to start the flow of water. BodySpa systems, unlike whirlpool baths, propel water through the air to maximize the invigorating effect of hydro-massage. After enjoying the BodySpa experience, simply turn off the pump and open the drain. Also with the drain open, use the shower head for a conventional shower using soap and shampoo.

Asian Fusion -With international style so popular at home, it's no wonder that the Asian influence is still going strong in the kitchen, where Asian cooking is all the rage, and in the bathroom, where there is nothing like Zen-style comfort to help us unwind. Look for drawer pulls reminiscent of bamboo, built-in teriyaki grills and Japanese-style sliding pantry doors in the kitchen. In the bath, calming touches, such as a deep soaking tub, a waterfall in the shower and vessel sinks with sleek wall-mounted hardware say Zen with a capital "Z."

Serene and simple, this Asian-inspired bathing area opens out onto the garden, bringing nature into the room. Chocolate-colored countertops and the symmetrical placement of two orchids carry the eye through the glass door and out the window. The dual showerheads make room for two to relax and refresh in this beautiful space.

Forget Straight Lines - Forget straight lines and right angles. From egg-shaped bathtubs and round bathroom bowls to curvy kitchen and vanity counters, organic shapes are in. Not only are the shapes pleasing, they also encourage a more natural circular traffic flow. Imagine never bumping into a sharp corner again.