Edited by Vicki Pickle Colin Miller/Strauss Peyton

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Designer Sketch Hometown: Collinsville, IL Design background/affiliations: Attended SIU Edwardsville and majored in fine arts; worked in various architectural, engineering and construction positions since graduating high school, including 25 years at Glen Alspaugh Kitchens and Baths; taught preparatory kitchen and bath design classes to peer groups studying for CKD and CBD certification tests and kitchen design classes at Meramec Community College www.glenalspaughkitchens.com

What are some of the new and exciting products, technology and advances in bath design?
Options are endless, with precise temperature and volume controls for faucets and shower valves, luxurious multiple-head showers, and low- voltage colored lighting that can be built into tiles, faucets, and shower spouts – including a faucet that changes the water color from blue to red as the water temperature changes. Among other options are the point-of-use water heaters and recirculating hot water loop devices that reduce hot water wait time.

How has bathroom design changed in the past decade?
The use of Computer Aided Design (CAD), especially useful in tile layouts and fixture placements, gives the bath designer more flexibility and assists the skilled tradesmen to achieve outstanding results. Bathrooms are transformed into functional spaces by combining the bath, dressing and closet areas in the master suite, for example, and using cabinetry

“Customer individuality plays a very large part in every project.”

with the look of furniture throughout the space. Other design options include the addition of small appliances into both bath and master suites, such as undercounter refrigerators, coffee machines, and microwaves for convenience – adding a resort-like quality to these spaces. Accessible design is another option for consideration that will function well in the next 15-20 years with customers desiring to stay in their homes as long as possible.

When designing a powder room, how do you unify functionality and beauty in such a small space?
The focus is more on the decorative feature – a faucet, sink, or light fixture with a “wow” factor – without forgetting useful storage for extra supplies and adequate space for guest amenities.

How does client individuality play a part in an overall bathroom plan that you design?
Customer individuality, with an emphasis on personalized design that reflects their tastes and needs, is foremost. Our customers are well-educated and well-traveled and request luxurious elements from their favorite spas.