Style and functionality: the latest trends in designer towel warmers

When it comes to heated towel warmers, the market is changing rapidly. Only a few years ago, standard finishes like chrome were the only option available, and standard heated towel ladders  didn’t account for the small and tricky bathroom spaces homeowners often have to work with.

Heated towel rails weren’t particularly innovative, nor available in various shapes, configurations, materials and colours. The market has come a long way with the advent of modern, minimalist design, modular configurations, a plethora of new finishes, and space-saving vertical rails. We spoke to Avenir’s Director, Ian Mitchell to find out the latest trends and solutions in the heated towel warmer market. 

Vertical designs

The key benefits heated towel rails offer in terms of both functionality and aesthetics are self-evident; they offer a place to hang and dry your towels without creating additional clutter, create less washing (in turn using less chemicals), less drying of towels (less electricity usage) therefore there’s less moisture throughout your house, and less chance for bacteria and mould to grow.

But vertical towel rails take this one step further, providing improved functionality and aesthetics, and are ideal for bathrooms with limited wall space, says Mitchell.  

“Our minimalist vertical towel rails allow for a quick throw over without it looking untidy. The compact design heats the whole length of the towels and allows for installation of multiple vertical rails, often at least one for each user of the bathroom.” 

The vertical design is more practical than traditional horizontal models, because the whole length of the towel is heated. It also allows for a quick throw over and means towels don’t require straightening.

‘Living’ finishes

Over the last few years, the market has moved away from the widely used chrome finish to black and now to other, more unique ‘living’ or ‘natural’ finishes. For example, ‘aged iron’ and ‘urban brass’. 

The wide range of finishes available for heated towel rails is a particular relief to designers, who in the past would have to have custom finishes created in order for all of the accessories in the bathroom to match.

Low voltage systems

Avenir is the first in the world to implement a 24V low voltage system, which has the benefits of offering a voltage adjustability, highly durable power supply, and installation flexibility. Avenir has also introduced another first of its kind, a "click-on" installation system, designed for easy removal, servicing or replacing of installed towel rails.

Each product is supplied with the highest quality stainless steel screws, plugs, diamond drill bit and drilling template to make installation not only easy, but dead-accurate. 

“Designers seem to prefer a modern minimalist design for products and often need something (like our low voltage, IPX5 rated towel rails) that could be installed safely in wet areas or walk-in showers,” shares Mitchell.  

Smart home integration 

Technological advancements have allowed for the potential of rapid prototyping and testing, pushing out the boundaries previously limiting the trade-offs between functionality, style and durability. The improved quality of materials, technology and special finishes allow for unprecedented advancement in every area, including smart home connectivity.

“In our busy world, automation is key to peace of mind and convenience,” says Mitchell. “Our rails are designed to be used in conjunction with timers for full customisation and performance optimisation. Using one of our Wi-Fi touch timers allows you to set a schedule that meets your needs.”

The “set and forget” approach is convenient and maintenance-free, and Avenir’s timers can also be easily integrated into any smart home app such as Google Home.

“Hassle and maintenance-free, warm, fluffy dry towels and bathrobes can be on demand within reach of your shower or bath, right where and when you need them.”

Eco-friendly trends

Due to its low environmental impact and durability, Avenir has specifically selected stainless steel as a base material for the vast majority of their heated rails, meaning no chrome plating is required. Reducing energy consumption is also at the heart of creating their eco-friendly products.

“We remain mindful when designing our products to consider the energy efficiency of the towel rails by minimising any unnecessary heat dissipation and maximising coverage – only heating the sections of the towel rails that have the highest efficiency.”

Using adjustable transformers and Wi-Fi-enabled timers to set the ideal schedule allows for perfect optimisation to suit each person's individual needs – no more, no less than required. 

“Selecting the highest quality products further ensures that any servicing is minimised, if not completely eliminated, and the longevity of the products is maximised,” says Mitchell. 

A minimalist aesthetic

Bathroom accessories play a significant role in reflecting personal style and individuality within the home. Whether the theme is minimalist, rustic, vintage, or a modern design, the right accessories can pull the look together, creating a bathroom that is harmonious space and reflective of one’s individuality. 

When considering which heated towel rail to choose for a particular space, there are various factors to consider, including material, design, technology and energy efficiency, says Mitchell.  

“At Avenir, we're constantly innovating, analysing and making improvements throughout the entire product life-cycle, from manufacturing, to packaging, to installation – all the way to testing and servicing them. From considering the environmental impact to energy efficiency and automation we try to go above and beyond – the sky's the limit!"

Explore heated towel rails from Avenir