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Grohe Ondus.
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Technology is impacting the bathroom in myriad ways. First off, products – from faucets and bathtubs to mirrors – are becoming increasingly sophisticated, a result of new and advanced manufacturing techniques, innovative materials and integrated features.

Secondly, the bathroom is being digitised. Electronic devices are being used to create a fully-integrated experience, where sound, light, water flow and temperature can be controlled at the touch of a button. Thirdly, technology is in the front lines of the battle to make the bathroom more energy and water efficient.

People are increasingly looking to personalise their environments, and the bathroom is no exception. “People do not want purely functional or static products any more. They want something that they can interact with. I think you will see more and more interactivity in the bathroom, whether it be in the form of sound or light or smell,” said Simon Shaya, president, East Mediterranean, Middle East and Africa, Grohe.

CID takes a look at some of the most advanced bathroom products around.

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Grohe is in the process of developing Ondus Digitecture, an extension of its Ondus line of products.
Ondus is the “iPhone of the industry”, according to Shaya. “A couple of years ago, we spotted a trend, with all the new technology coming out at the time, so we launched Grohe Ondus, a digital performance mixer.”

Ondus Digitecture will blend digital technology with imaginative design to create a modular collection fit for the contemporary bathroom. The collection will consist of rectangular glass panels and high-quality faucets and fittings.

The system centres around a 5cm x 5cm grid system, complemented by plumbing and fittings that are concealed within the wall. Innovative technology makes Ondus Digitechture intuitive to operate, as users can store their preferred combination of water temperature and flow rate within the system. The system has a ‘pause’ setting to temporarily stop the water flow, for example while the user is shampooing their hair. A ‘play’ setting then reactivates the water at the same temperature and flow rate.

“We have managed to take something that is rather difficult to communicate and transform it into an easy, accessible product for the end user.

“We don’t talk about the technical aspects of the product, but about what’s in it for the end user. Where does it enhance their life?” said Shaya.