In years past, a bathroom audio system was more for the “wow” factor than actual functionality. Today’s smart devices, however, aren’t just for early adopters as they offer much more than streaming the latest chart-toppers as an accompaniment for singing in the shower.

For integrators looking to create a more relaxing, rejuvenating bathroom experience for clients, audio plays a key role, and there are plenty of options for incorporating these options discreetly based on project budget and complexity.

Wi-Fi Enables the Best Budget Projects

At the most basic level, homeowners only need a Wi-Fi connection and power source to get their audio system going. Equipping a bathroom with a device such as Google Home and Amazon Alexa can be an ideal solution for clients who aren’t ready to dig into a bigger renovation project but want a little extra oomph in the space.

When upgrading the bathroom simultaneously with other smart technologies, such as toilets and lighting, a Google Home or Alexa can offer even more functionality, controlling these other smart devices in tandem with audio. Integrators can also help homeowners consider safety features for homes with families of all ages, such as how smart voice control can be used to set the water temperature to prevent scalding and burns.

The Kohler Moxie showerhead and wireless, waterproof and removable speaker combo ($160) is a perfect solution for a quick and easy audio upgrade. The speaker’s charging dock has a small footprint and can be placed on the bathroom vanity so homeowners can listen to music both inside and outside the shower—a two for one deal that only involves swapping out a showerhead.

The Future of Digital Lighting & Control

As a custom integrator, lighting is in demand. Effective communication, education and showcasing the value proposition of LED light fixtures in conjunction with integrative control systems are the keys to overcoming challenges and closing sales in this specialized market. Join us as we discuss the future of digital lighting and control with David Warfel from Light Can Help You and Patrick Laidlaw and Mark Moody from AiSPIRE. Register Now! 

Installing Recessed Fixtures Can Avoid a Costly Remodel

For integrators who are working with homeowners that want to make a bigger splash, but not go all in, they can consider a more mid-range audio system. For example, integrators can tackle two priorities at once (air quality and audio) with bathroom fans featuring integrated speakers that can connect to most Bluetooth-capable audio devices ($150+ depending on the model).

Lighting can also play a dual role in a medium complexity project. There are many recessed lighting options available today that come equipped with Bluetooth speakers, making it easy for homeowners to connect their portable device when they enter the bathroom ($80+ depending on the model).

Depending on the overall bathroom design, integrators link up to eight lights for a fuller, richer audio experience. This is a great (and budget-friendly) option for those spaces that already have recessed lighting.

One product in particular that has captured homeowners’ imagination within this category is Kohler’s voice-enabled Verdera Voice mirror ($900+ depending on the model), which is part of Kohler’s Konnect line of smart home products.

According to Kohler’s website, it’s “the first-ever bathroom mirror to use technology to improve lighting quality, provide entertainment and keep users up-to-date with traffic and weather reports all in one unique piece.” This makes it a perfect option to recommend to busy clients who need greater multifunctionality without doing a full renovation.

Big Ticket Items for Top-End Clients

Lastly, for higher-end clients undergoing major bathroom or smart home renovations, integrators can go all out on sophisticated systems with flashier features. The Kohler DTV+ Digital Shower Control and Kohler Sound Tiles, for example, can control audio as well as all of the shower components, including steam and lighting.

Toilets can also be elevated to go above and beyond their original functions. For a true smart bathroom, homeowners can consider a product like Kohler’s Numi 2.0 Intelligent Model. Not only does this toilet feature surround sound speakers, perfect for playing someone’s favorite song or audiobook, but it is also equipped with ambient mood lighting, a heated seat and foot warmer, a remote control and Amazon Alexa voice-control technology.

Nowadays even steam shower systems come with audio controls, such as those from MrSteam and Thermasol. The iSteam 3 control by MrSteam can utilize a MusicTherapy module to attach speakers from MrSteam or any bathroom-rated audio system, which can then be controlled through Bluetooth or the steam control.

Thermasol, meanwhile, offers an innovative showerhead that doubles as a speaker and includes Chroma therapy lighting, perfect for creating a relaxing, spa-like vibe. This product is available in a package with one of Thermasol’s touch steam controls and a steam head.

Considerations for Sound and Safety

As integrators start to discuss the myriad of bathroom audio options available, it’s important to also discuss sound and safety. For starters, if a client is hesitant to add audio features because they aren’t sure how the sound will playback, they can be rest assured that the hard, smooth surfaces often found in the bathroom (tile!) create a perfect auditory environment. Unless it is covered in carpet and other soft furnishes, most bathrooms offer great acoustics.

Meanwhile, when it comes to safety, the same care that goes into setting up poolside or outdoor audio should be applied here. Ensure that any electrical components and speakers are rated for damp/wet environments and keep any power plugs positioned away from water sources such as the toilet, shower or sink. For integrators who have been working with low-voltage electrical equipment their entire lives, the rest should be second nature.

Whether a client is leaning towards a simple product swap or a more involved renovation, integrators have a great deal of flexibility in what they can offer as discreet audio solutions, and this is only the beginning. Audio in the bathroom is here to stay and will only get better as speaker technology continues to improve.

Mary Cifuentes is the Showroom/Builder Director at Ferguson Bath Kitchen & Lighting for its Northeast District.

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