"Bathrooms

are a reflection of cultural attitudes and differences," said Arlene

Matthews, M.A., American Standard's resident expert in the fields of bathroom

psychology, health and well-being. "As bathroom design evolves, the

trends of yesterday are being resurrected again and again."

In a return

to the classics, today's builders and remodelers are installing bathroom

fixtures that are reminiscent of bygone eras. For example, antique and

early-American styles are back in vogue. American Standard's new Town

Square collection is based on the principles of Shaker and Prairie School

design, featuring clean straight lines for a look that is sophisticated,

yet comfortable and familiar.

"We designed

Town Square to meet a growing demand for classic, sophisticated bathroom

fixtures," said Gary Uhl, director of design for American Standard.

"Also, we have eliminated the hassle of finding period-appropriate

accessories like faucets, mirrors and towel bars by creating a complete

line of Town Square accessories that coordinate with Shaker design."

While not all

historical trends make it back into the mainstream, here are todayís

top three bathroom comebacks:

Luxury on

call. Roman citizens who could not afford to be connected to the sewer

system could avail themselves of luxurious public baths. In these baths,

parties were planned, politics were debated and business deals were finalized.

Today, day

spas and retreat centers offer access to the latest in bathing experiences

without the hassle of an extensive remodeling project or financial commitment.

Lavish bathroom amenities often include: Vichy shower systems that simulate

a relaxing multi-spray rain bath is enjoyed while lying flat on a treatment

bed; invigorating upright Swiss shower systems with body sprays at every

angle; Scots hose hydrotherapy treatments where a therapist uses pressurized

water to massage tense muscles; and specialized baths where the bather

soaks in mud, minerals or even wine.

Bathrooms

as retreats. The concept of privacy began to evolve during the Middle

Ages, when monks separated privy seats with paneled walls and medieval

castles were built with bathroom "closets" called garderobes.

Today's homeowners,

feeling overwhelmed and stressed, are using their bathrooms to escape

from the pressures of everyday life. Not only are more and more bathrooms

designed with a separate compartment for the toilet, consumers are choosing

products that soothe the spirit: steam showers, body sprays and hand-held

shower wands, heated tile floors and towel bars, and whirlpool tubs or

showers built for two. Even entertainment is making its way into the bathroom,

with stereo systems, televisions and VCRs housed in sleek cabinetry.

High style.

Eighteenth century fashion dictated that chamber pots be disguised inside

elegant chairs, cabinets and chests of drawers designed by Chippendale,

Hepplewhite and Sheraton.

The current

concept of furniture in the bathroom is a popular trend that borrows from

the past to make a statement today. American Standard's Enfield suite

includes a luxury bathtub designed in the Shaker style. Built for reclining

and relaxing, the tub's exterior has wooden legs and raised exterior panels

of Cherry or Maple. Inside are lumbar supports, molded-in armrests and

dual faucet areas. A matching wood console table conceals a high performance

sink.

Call 1-800-524-9797,

ext. 199, or visit www.americanstandard-us.com/press, for more information

or to locate the nearest American Standard and Porcher showroom.

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