Introduction

One of the most critical aspects of a shower within a bathroom renovation are the fixtures used (also referred to as “shower trim” within the industry). Many Washington homeowners are seeking to add “spa-like features” into their showers as part of a remodel via shower spas. This blog will help homeowners to understand the roles and benefits of these systems and also provide recommendations of reputable, quality products.

First off, we need to answer the question: What is a Shower Spa? A shower spa is a shower fixture specifically designed to deliver Hydrotherapy. Hydrotherapy is the healing and calming effect that water has on our muscles and also the stress reducing effect that water has on our mind and body. According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) in a recent continuing education webinar titled “Spa Inspired Shower Solutions”, Hydrotherapy is “The use of water to relieve discomfort and promote physical well-being.” This is why, typically in Shower Spas we see the use of a variety of different delivery systems for water such as rain shower heads (which provide a smooth, calm sensation mimicking rain), handheld showers with multiple functions (which promote accessibility and versatility), high pressure, fixed shower heads (providing a strong, direct spray) waterfall shower heads (high volume water dispensers meant to recreate the feeling of being under a waterfall) and water jets/body sprays (which spray water in different patterns and from different angles onto the body).

A Closer Look

Here is an example of typical Shower Spa from our partner Pulse Shower Spas:

As you can see, these stylish, modern showers are designed to combine a multiplicity of water features, some even allow you to run multiple systems simultaneously! These different settings allow us to experience the hydrotherapy of water in many different ways! This makes these spa units especially attractive to those looking for accessibility showers, walk-in showers or barrier free showers as part of their bathroom remodeling. 

The benefits of incorporating shower spas into your bathroom renovation in Seattle don’t end at hydrotherapy. In the same NARI Course on Spa Inspired Showers, it is noted that water also provides physiological effects that are thermal, mechanical and chemical. The thermal effects that water via spa showers can have on our bodies are that it changes our breathing patterns through hot and cold temperatures, affects our circulation and even our hormones! The heat from hot water increases our body temperature, cellular metabolism and pulse rate; it can also have great calming effects like reducing blood pressure and improving sleep.

One of the main benefits of shower spas are the pulsating, massaging effects that systems like body jets provide. According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) Bath Planning 2nd Edition “Showering can provide a sensual experience that goes beyond body cleaning…body sprays offer a variety of massaging actions that can help relax stiff muscles.” For those of us that exercise, or suffer from stiff muscles, stress or anxiety, and shower spa can be an excellent way to help alleviate these issues at home!

Not only are shower spas a massive health benefit, but they are also beautiful accent pieces to your shower and bathroom. They provide a high end custom look, alongside a massive variety of features and functions that you won't get from a basic hardware store shower head. Here are just a few real world examples of shower spas we have installed:

Case Study 1: Accessibility Shower in Kent

This shower features a beautiful matte black spa unit with a bamboo accent strip. The rain shower head extends to the center of the shower drenching the user in a calming drench from above. It also features 4 adjustable body jets to spray water on the body from different positions and angles! As additional spa-like and universal design features, this shower has a wheelchair-accessible no-threshold entry to the shower allowing for even those with very limited mobility to enter without risking a high step in over a tub or shower threshold. It also has a matching matte black and teak folding shower seat to allow for rest and relaxation while showering. You will also notice the matte black grab bar is positioned so as to be grabbable from the seat. Finally it has a stylistic cut in niche for storage wrapped in the same marble color material as the rest of the shower.

Case Study 2: Master bathroom remodel with shower Spa

This Spa Shower has 6 adjustable and multi-function body jets alongside a handheld shower with multiple settings. This allows the user to create their own personalized shower from the wide variety of function combinations. This shower also features a modern, barn style shower door that allows entry from both sides (directly to the bench, or to the front to turn on the water). There is also a solid shower bench and corner shelf for storage. 

Case Study 3: Relaxing deep soaking bathtub with spa shower in Bellevue, WA.

This project features a beautiful frosted glass shower spa combined with a luxurious deep soaking bathtub. According to Bath Planning 2nd Edition by the NKBA, deep soaking tubs “relax the user by having them sink to their necks in warm water”. This sensation maximizes the above listed benefits of hydrotherapy and hot water relaxation. This particular job featured an extra deep soaking tub with an angled back for optimal relaxation while soaking. The spa has a multiplicity of jets alongside a matching tub spout and built-in shelf. There was also a niche installed for storage and a sliding door put in place for water containment.

Summary

Shower spas help us to elevate your bathing beyond just washing your body into a relaxing experience of the benefits of hydrotherapy. 

If you are looking for expert bathroom design and remodeling services to help bring your shower spa or other bathroom renovation dreams to life, contact Oasis Bath Solutions today! We are based in Bellevue and serve the entire greater Seattle area.

Written by NAHB Certified Aging in Place Specialist -  Caleb Shewey