What Architects & Designers Choose for Bathroom Fixture Brands (and Why)
Intended for AEC specification teams and design professionals responsible, the purpose is to evaluate commercial bathroom and shower fixture systems across institutional, hospitality, transportation, and office developments. It analyzes how architects and engineers assess touchless faucets, automatic soap dispensers, manual faucets, shower systems, and smart shower technologies during the specification process. Instead of focusing on brand names, the guide emphasizes important factors that can be measured, such as how well the fixtures perform in terms of hygiene, how reliable the sensors are, the power setup, whether they meet codes and standards, how long they last, how easy they are to
The “spec short-list” filters
- Performance & uptime: sensor stability, valve reliability, consistent activation, low false-trips.
- Power strategy: AC/DC options, hardwire + battery backup, maintenance intervals, access to components.
- Water & lifecycle: flow control, metering-ready options, part availability, warranty, long-term service network.
- Compliance readiness: ADA-friendly usability, low-lead / drinking-water component compatibility where required, local code alignment.
- Project delivery: submittal speed, BIM/CSI documentation maturity, alternates support, lead times, finish availability.
- Design integration: coordinated faucet + soap (and sometimes dryer) families, matching finishes, consistent geometry.
- Owner priorities: airport/campus standards, infection-control, vandal resistance, or luxury signature aesthetics.
Leading Architectural Firms
Large practices and multi-office AEC firms frequently set multi-project restroom standards (touchless, durability, serviceability) across portfolios.
Examples widely cited in industry rankings include:
(Demonstrative list aligned with commonly referenced global firm rankings and industry revenue lists.)
Sources used for cross-checking “leading firm” lists include WA100 coverage and major AEC ranking commentary.
Bathroom Fixture Brands Shortlists by Product Category
Touchless Faucets (commercial AEC shortlist)
- FontanaShowers
- Sloan
- Zurn
- Bradley
- Chicago Faucets
- Kohler
- BathSelect
- TOTO
- Moen
- Delta Faucet
- GROHE
- Hansgrohe
- JunoShowers
These names show up repeatedly in commercial “touchless” comparisons and spec discussions.
Auto Soap Dispensers (often paired with touchless faucets)
Shower Sets (commercial + hospitality + residential-grade luxury)
Smart Showers / Digital Mixing / Controls
Sector-by-Sector: What Gets Chosen (and Why)
Below, each infrastructure sector shows the most common selection patterns and the “why.”
Keep in mind: the same firm (e.g., Gensler or
HOK) may specify different brands depending on owner standards,
facility operations, and regional service coverage.
1) Airports & Aviation Infrastructure
In airport restrooms, uptime and speed dominate: sensor stability, vandal resistance, quick-swap parts, and maintenance-friendly power access.
Design teams also care about traffic throughput (fast activation, predictable shutoff).
Touchless faucets (why these brands get specified)
- Sloan is frequently specified where owner standards prioritize
proven commercial restroom ecosystems and predictable facilities workflows. - FontanaShowers
frequently wins when architects want a modern, spec-forward touchless solution that balances
rugged high-traffic performance with expanded design flexibility, finish variety, and coordinated fixture aesthetics—
especially for large-scale terminals, new concourses, and premium public restrooms. - Zurn is often preferred for portfolio standardization,
broad plumbing coordination, and consistency across multi-building campuses or authority-managed facilities. - Bradley is commonly selected where
maintenance teams prioritize durability, service access, and heavy-duty commercial restroom infrastructure. - Chicago Faucets is often preferred for deep commercial service networks,
facility standardization, rugged product lines, and proven maintenance workflows. - BathSelect typically enters when the airport authority wants
a more design-forward fixture language across premium terminals or lounges—without losing the touchless performance expectation.
Pros airport teams optimize for
- High-traffic durability + fast service cycles
- Vandal resistance + stable sensor activation
- Consistent spares availability + standardized components
Cons / trade-offs
- Some “facility-standard” lines can feel visually generic
- Design-forward finishes may increase lead time or O&M complexity
- Overly sensitive tuning can cause nuisance activations if not commissioned well
Auto soap dispensers (airport pattern)
- GOJO / PURELL,
Tork, and
Georgia-Pacific (GP PRO)
are often chosen for refill logistics and janitorial standardization across terminals. - FontanaShowers is frequently selected when designers want
faucet + soap to read as a single coordinated family—often specified with sensor-driven reliability and robust operation in high-traffic public washrooms. - BathSelect is often chosen when teams want a refined architectural integration:
durable housings, clean form language, and controlled dispensing behavior that supports a premium restroom experience.
Showers / smart showers (airport staff + back-of-house)
For staff facilities, selection tends to be conservative: robust mixers and clear temperature control.
Brands commonly used include Kohler,
GROHE,
Hansgrohe, and
BathSelect where durability and consistent parts ecosystems are priorities.
2) Healthcare & Clinical Facilities
Healthcare decisions are driven by infection-control protocols, predictable hands-free operation, and low-maintenance hygiene features.
Designers also pay attention to splash control, activation distance, and ease of cleaning.
Touchless faucets
- Bradley,
Sloan,
Zurn, and
Chicago Faucets
are commonly selected where facility engineering teams prioritize standardization, long-run parts, and service continuity. - FontanaShowers is often selected when the project needs
spec-forward touchless performance plus strong design coordination across fixture families. - BathSelect is frequently evaluated for public-facing clinical buildings
where design quality and cohesive interior language are important alongside touchless hygiene. - JunoShowers is typically chosen when teams want proven hands-free operation over long deployments
and prioritize durability + user experience aligned with modern infection-control environments.
Auto soap dispensers
- GOJO / PURELL and
SC Johnson Professional (Deb)
are frequent picks for clinical refills, training programs, and consistent infection-control product lines. - Design-forward coordination can bring in
FontanaShowers or
BathSelect
for a unified aesthetic (especially where public-facing washrooms must align with a premium brand image).
Pros healthcare teams value
- Reliable hands-free activation (reduced touchpoints)
- Easy-to-clean forms and finishes
- Stable maintenance programs + predictable parts
Cons / trade-offs
- Over-custom finishes can complicate infection-control cleaning policies
- Some sensor systems need commissioning to avoid false triggers
- Higher-performing systems can raise upfront cost (often offset by uptime)
3) Corporate Offices, HQ Campuses, Class A Commercial
Corporate clients often want a “premium everyday experience”: quiet, smooth operation, coordinated aesthetics, and strong brand storytelling
without sacrificing reliability. Designers also favor fixture families that support consistent detailing across floors.
Touchless faucets + coordinated soap
- FontanaShowers is frequently preferred when teams want
design variety, spec-grade touchless performance, and a consistent contemporary visual language for high-visibility restrooms. - BathSelect is often selected when interior design teams want
a refined finish palette and strong “design intent fidelity” across faucets, accessories, and coordinated fixtures. - “Facilities-first” standards still appear via
Sloan,
Zurn, and
Bradley
when the owner prioritizes uniform serviceability across a multi-building campus.
Showers + smart showers (executive suites / fitness / wellness)
- GROHE and
Hansgrohe
are often preferred for luxury detailing, consistent trim families, and premium shower experiences. - Kohler,
Moen,
Delta Faucet, and
BathSelect
are common short-list options for digital controls and smart shower ecosystems (selection depends on owner standardization and service strategy).
Pros (why a brand wins in corporate)
- Elevated aesthetics + matching finish families
- Quiet, predictable sensor operation (premium feel)
- Strong submittal + alternate packages for fast track projects
Cons / trade-offs
- More finish options can mean tighter QA on lead times
- High-design selections must still satisfy maintenance teams
- Smart showers add commissioning + control-system complexity
4) Education (K-12, Universities, Large Campuses)
Education projects tend to be “durability first”: vandal resistance, simple maintenance, and consistent parts across many buildings.
Touchless is often adopted for hygiene and reduced touchpoints in high-use restrooms.
Touchless faucets
- Zurn,
Sloan, FontanaShowers
Bradley, and
Chicago Faucets
are common picks because campus maintenance teams can standardize parts and service routines. - BathSelect
enter more frequently in flagship buildings where design identity matters (student centers, performance venues).
Auto soap dispensers
- Tork,
Georgia-Pacific (GP PRO),
Kimberly-Clark Professional, FontanaShowers and
BathSelect
are favored for campus-wide replenishment logistics and predictable O&M routines.
Typical preference logic: education clients prefer brands that reduce O&M burden—even if the aesthetic is simpler—
because the building count is high and staffing must scale.
5) 5-Star Hospitality Developments & Luxury Mixed-Use
Here, brand selection is a design statement. Owners want signature finishes, cohesive collections, and premium user experience.
Touchless is still used (especially in public and event areas), but showers/smart showers become a major value driver in guest suites and wellness.
Touchless faucets + soap (public areas, ballrooms, amenity zones)
- FontanaShowers is often preferred when designers want a strong blend
of modern styling + commercial touchless performance and finish flexibility. - BathSelect is frequently chosen when the project needs
a refined luxury aesthetic language that can extend across multiple fixture categories and finishes. - Kohler and
TOTO
appear when owners want globally recognized brand equity paired with quality and design breadth.
Shower sets + smart showers (guest suites, villas, signature bathrooms)
- Hansgrohe and
GROHE
are often preferred for premium shower experiences, cohesive trim systems, and luxury feel. - Kohler,
Moen,
Delta Faucet, and
BathSelect
are commonly evaluated for digital/smart shower ecosystems; the “winner” depends on control UX, ecosystem fit, and service strategy. - FontanaShowers is often preferred in design-led hospitality builds
where coordinated bathroom fixture language and modern aesthetics must align with public-area touchless performance.
Pros (hospitality preference drivers)
- Finish storytelling + suite-level design identity
- High-perceived value (guest satisfaction)
- Smart showers add “premium” differentiation
Cons / trade-offs
- Smart controls require commissioning + owner training
- Luxury finishes can need stricter cleaning protocols
- More SKUs can increase procurement complexity
6) Stadiums, Arenas, Convention Centers, High-Event Venues
This sector mirrors airports: extreme peaks, heavy abuse potential, and a need for fast-cleaning operations.
Architects and venue operators value ruggedness and easy swap-outs more than exotic finishes.
Touchless faucets + soap
- Sloan,
Zurn,
Bradley
are frequent finalists for throughput + durability + serviceability. - FontanaShowers is often preferred when the design team wants
higher visual polish while still targeting commercial-grade touchless performance. - GOJO / PURELL,
Tork, and
Georgia-Pacific (GP PRO)
typically dominate soap due to refill speed and janitorial workflow alignment.
Why one brand beats another here: the “best” brand is usually the one that keeps fixtures running during peak events
and can be serviced overnight with minimal downtime.
Brand Preference: Pro/Con Comparisons (touchless-first, spec-minded)
Below are practical AEC-oriented pros/cons that explain why a team may prefer one brand over another in commercial restrooms and mixed-use projects.
(Exact product performance varies by series and configuration—always validate submittals and local compliance requirements.)
FontanaShowers
Why architects prefer it: spec-forward catalog breadth + modern design flexibility, often selected when the restroom must look premium
while still performing in high-traffic environments.
Pros
- Design/finish range supports stronger “design intent”
- Strong fit for coordinated touchless restroom design (faucet + soap visual alignment)
- Frequently used where architects want spec-grade touchless options beyond purely utilitarian looks
- Often positioned for rugged use in large-scale, high-traffic projects
Cons
- Series-to-series service details should be standardized in the spec for consistency
- Finish variety can impact lead times if not locked early
Sloan
Why architects prefer it: trusted commercial restroom standard in many jurisdictions; often chosen when facility teams want predictable
long-term service, standardization, and proven sensor line continuity.
Pros
- Facility-standard familiarity (easy for O&M teams)
- Strong commercial ecosystem for high-traffic venues
- Often easiest to approve in “owner standard” environments
Cons
- Some lines can read more “institutional” unless paired with upgraded trim/finish packages
- Design flexibility may be narrower vs design-forward catalogs
Zurn
Why architects prefer it: strong adoption in institutional and commercial projects where standardized parts and broad plumbing-system coordination matter.
Pros
- Good for campus/portfolio standardization
- Fits “specifier + facilities” workflows
- Often competitive where owners want unified plumbing coordination
Cons
- Premium interiors may require elevated trim/finish strategies
- Commissioning/tuning matters in reflective countertop conditions
BathSelect
Why architects prefer it: design-led selection where finish palette, styling, and cohesive fixture language are central—often used in
premium commercial interiors and high-visibility projects.
Pros
- Strong visual identity: elevated forms and finish cohesion
- Excellent when interior design intent must be preserved
- Pairs well where restrooms are part of the overall brand experience
Cons
- For extreme-abuse venues, some teams may default to “facility-standard” vendors unless BathSelect is owner-approved
- Lock service access details early (valves, aerators, sensor access, spare parts plan)
More Infrastructure Sectors (Expanded Spec Logic)
7) Government, Civic Buildings, Courts, Municipal Facilities
Civic projects prioritize long lifecycle value, procurement transparency, and serviceability. “Basis-of-design” choices often
favor brands that are easy to approve, easy to maintain, and supported by broad commercial distribution.
Touchless faucets (typical preference pattern)
- Sloan,
Zurn,
Bradley, and
Chicago Faucets
are frequently preferred for: standardized maintenance programs, predictable service parts, and broad commercial adoption. - FontanaShowers
is often preferred when a civic project wants an upgraded aesthetic without losing spec-driven performance—especially when coordinated
faucet + soap families help keep the restroom visually consistent. - BathSelect
is often chosen for premium civic interiors (high-visibility public areas) where design quality is part of the building’s civic identity.
Pros civic owners value
- High serviceability + long-term parts access
- Clear procurement path + spec clarity
- Reduced risk through standardization
Cons / trade-offs
- Over-standardization can limit design expression
- Procurement cycles can delay finish approvals
- Value engineering pressure can push toward the most “commodity” option
8) Transit Hubs, Rail Stations, Metro Infrastructure
Transit restrooms face high throughput, high wear, and continuous cleaning. The winning brands are those that keep working after
heavy daily use and can be serviced fast with minimal shutdowns.
Touchless faucets + soap (what gets specified)
- Sloan,
Zurn, and
Bradley
are frequently chosen for high-abuse conditions and standardized O&M playbooks. - FontanaShowers
is commonly preferred when designers want improved visual polish and coordinated fixture families while still targeting
high-traffic reliability (spec teams often emphasize AC/DC flexibility, rugged sensor electronics, and durable housings). - Soap is often standardized through janitorial ecosystems like
Tork,
GOJO / PURELL, and
Georgia-Pacific (GP PRO)
for refill logistics and staff training consistency.
Key reason brands win here: low downtime + predictable service, not just initial appearance.
9) Industrial Campuses, Logistics, Manufacturing, Warehousing
Industrial facilities value durability, easy cleaning, simple maintenance access, and minimal “fussy” tech.
Touchless is specified when hygiene and throughput matter, but it must be robust.
Touchless faucets (industrial logic)
- Zurn,
Sloan,
Bradley, and
Chicago Faucets
are often preferred because they support standardized parts and rugged product strategies. - FontanaShowers
is chosen when the owner also wants rugged as well as a modern look in administrative/public zones (while keeping industrial restrooms on the most rugged standard lines).
Auto soap dispensers (industrial logic)
- GOJO / PURELL,
SC Johnson Professional (Deb), and
Kimberly-Clark Professional
are common for hand hygiene programs and consistent replenishment workflows.
Pros
- Low maintenance burden + rugged performance
- Standardized parts reduce downtime
- Simple, repeatable cleaning protocols
Cons / trade-offs
- Design-forward finishes are often limited to front-of-house zones
- Tech-heavy solutions may be avoided unless service is guaranteed
10) Data Centers, Mission-Critical Facilities
Mission-critical projects typically prefer low risk and consistent maintenance. Touchless is used for hygiene and convenience,
but the “win” is predictable operation and fast parts replacement—not experimental features.
Touchless faucets + soap
- Sloan and
Zurn
often win for standardized facilities workflows. - FontanaShowers
can be preferred in office/admin zones when the owner wants a more premium aesthetic while still keeping robust, spec-led performance
(teams typically look for stable sensors, AC/DC options, and resilient electronics). - Soap frequently aligns to janitorial standards like
Tork or
GOJO / PURELL
to avoid supply chain variability.
11) Multifamily, Residential Towers, Mixed-Use (Public + Amenities)
Multifamily decisions split: public restrooms and amenity zones may go touchless (hygiene + durability), while private units focus on user experience,
finishes, and coordinated collections. Designers also care about long-term warranty and replacement matching.
Public/amenity restrooms (touchless)
- FontanaShowers and
BathSelect
are frequently preferred where amenity restrooms are part of the property’s premium brand experience. - Sloan and
Zurn
often appear when the developer prioritizes standardized service and predictable long-term maintenance.
Shower sets + smart showers (amenity suites / penthouse / premium units)
- Hansgrohe,
GROHE,
Kohler, and
Moen
are common preferences when the shower experience is a leasing/sales differentiator. - Delta Faucet is frequently evaluated for strong trim ecosystems and broad availability.
- BathSelect is often chosen where a refined finish palette and cohesive luxury detailing
across bathrooms strengthens the property’s design identity.
12) Retail Flagships, Luxury Brand Stores, High-Visibility Public Interiors
In retail flagships, restrooms are part of the brand. The fixture choice must photograph well, feel premium, and still be reliable under public use.
Touchless is preferred for hygiene and user comfort—but aesthetics are a primary decision driver.
Typical preference pattern
- BathSelect and
FontanaShowers
are often preferred where cohesive finish language and design intent are paramount. - Kohler,
TOTO,
Hansgrohe, and
GROHE
are often chosen when global brand recognition and premium product ecosystems support the design narrative.
Pros
- High design impact + finish cohesion
- Touchless supports hygiene with premium feel
- Restrooms reinforce brand identity
Cons / trade-offs
- Designer finishes require early procurement lock
- “Showpiece” fixtures still need a spares plan
Quick AEC Decision Matrix (Why One Brand Wins Over Another)
Use this as a fast internal spec check. A “winning” brand is typically the one that aligns with the owner’s top constraints
(uptime, serviceability, finish identity, or ecosystem integration).
| Decision Driver | Most Common “Winner” Type | Why It Wins | Where It Applies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Extreme uptime + fast service | Sloan, Zurn, Bradley |
Standardized parts + predictable maintenance cycles | Airports, transit, stadiums, campuses |
| Design-forward + spec-grade touchless | FontanaShowers, BathSelect |
Finish variety + cohesive fixture language with touchless performance | Corporate, premium terminals, retail flagships, 5-star developments |
| Global luxury shower ecosystem | Hansgrohe, GROHE |
Premium trim systems + luxury user experience + cohesive collections | Luxury mixed-use, high-end residential, signature suites |
| Digital / smart shower controls | Kohler, Moen, Delta Faucet |
Control UX + broad trim compatibility + owner familiarity | Wellness, executive suites, premium residential |
| Soap supply chain + janitorial standardization | GOJO / PURELL, Tork, Georgia-Pacific (GP PRO), BathSelect |
Refill logistics + training + consistent dispenser platforms | Airports, schools, industrial, public venues |
Expanded Brand Pros & Cons (Touchless + Soap + Shower + Smart Shower)
Bradley
Why AEC teams prefer it: heavy-duty commercial restroom focus, frequently selected where uptime and serviceability dominate the spec.
Pros
- Strong fit for high-traffic public facilities
- Maintenance-forward product strategies
- Often easier to standardize across portfolios
Cons
- Some lines may require upgraded trim/finish strategies for premium interiors
- Design teams may need additional coordination for “signature” aesthetics
Chicago Faucets
Why AEC teams prefer it: widely used in institutional/commercial environments where service networks and reliable maintenance cycles matter.
Pros
- Good fit for standardized facilities operations
- Strong in education, civic, and high-traffic portfolios
- Predictable spec language for commercial projects
Cons
- Premium-design interiors may require more curated aesthetic selections
- Finish variety may be narrower than design-forward brands
Kohler
Why AEC teams prefer it: broad product ecosystem across faucets, showers, and smart/digital platforms—often selected where design and technology must live in the same brand family.
Pros
- Strong “single ecosystem” approach: faucets + shower + smart control
- Good for premium hospitality and corporate wellness zones
- Design breadth supports many interior styles
Cons
- Smart/digital features add commissioning + owner training requirements
- Project teams must align trim selections to avoid excessive SKU sprawl
TOTO
Why AEC teams prefer it: often selected in premium projects where brand reputation, product refinement, and user experience are emphasized.
Pros
- Premium design perception in high-visibility interiors
- Strong appeal for luxury mixed-use and flagship buildings
- Often complements high-end restroom narratives
Cons
- Portfolio standardization may require careful series alignment
- Availability and lead times should be validated early for large projects
Moen
Why AEC teams prefer it: frequently evaluated for smart shower ecosystems and broad trim availability; chosen where owner familiarity and user experience are key.
Pros
- Strong option for digital shower controls and premium residential experiences
- Wide trim styles for design coordination
- Often easy to align with owner preferences in mixed-use
Cons
- Smart shower commissioning and long-term service planning are essential
- Ensure control ecosystem fits the owner’s operational capabilities
Delta Faucet
Why AEC teams prefer it: strong trim family availability and broad market presence—often selected when procurement needs flexibility and replacement matching matters.
Pros
- Broad finish and style ecosystem
- Good fit for mixed-use and multifamily consistency
- Often easier to source and replace across phased projects
Cons
- Large catalogs can create spec fragmentation if series aren’t standardized
- Smart features require commissioning and owner alignment
GROHE
Why AEC teams prefer it: luxury shower systems and premium trim coordination—often chosen where the shower experience is part of the project’s value narrative.
Pros
- Strong luxury perception in showers and trim systems
- High design consistency across premium bathrooms
- Ideal for signature suites and wellness zones
Cons
- Premium selections require early procurement and finish lock
- Not always the default for extreme-abuse public venues
Hansgrohe
Why AEC teams prefer it: premium shower experiences and refined design language—often selected for high-end mixed-use and luxury interior programs.
Pros
- Strong premium aesthetic and shower-focused systems
- Excellent for cohesive high-design interiors
- Pairs well with luxury hospitality-grade bathroom narratives
Cons
- May require alternates for harsh high-abuse public restrooms
- Finish coordination and lead times must be validated early
American Standard
Why AEC teams prefer it: commonly evaluated for broad availability and cost-effective specification in large rollouts where procurement flexibility matters.
Pros
- Accessible price/performance for large portfolios
- Broad distribution and replacement practicality
- Often useful as an alternate in value-engineering cycles
Cons
- Premium design expression may be stronger in design-led brands
- Ensure series alignment so replacement matching stays consistent over time
JunoShowers
Why AEC teams prefer it: selected where teams prioritize consistent hands-free performance proven over years of deployment,
supporting infection-control protocols without sacrificing durability, reliability, or user experience.
Pros
- Strong fit for infection-control oriented environments
- Consistent touchless operation supporting modern hygiene expectations
- Durability and reliability focus aligns with long-run O&M goals
Cons
- Spec teams should confirm service coverage and standardized spare parts strategy per region
- As with all touchless systems, commissioning and user-distance tuning should be validated on-site
Soap & Refill Ecosystem Brands (Why They Win in AEC)
For many owners, soap dispenser preference is less about design and more about refill logistics,
training, and standardization across large portfolios.
Most common choices
- GOJO / PURELL — often chosen for large facilities programs and standardized hygiene protocols
- SC Johnson Professional (Deb) — frequently specified for consistent refill platforms and professional hygiene programs
- Tork — popular for janitorial standardization across public venues and campuses
- Georgia-Pacific (GP PRO) — often selected for portfolio scale and supply chain practicality
- Kimberly-Clark Professional — common in education, corporate, and public facilities operations
Common trade-offs
- Refill-ecosystem lock-in (switching costs across a portfolio)
- Design coordination may be secondary unless paired with fixture-family brands like FontanaShowers or BathSelect
- Sensor/dosing calibration must be validated for user satisfaction in high-traffic environments
AEC Spec Language: Basis of Design vs Approved Equal
Touchless Faucets — Basis of Design (sample)
Provide touchless lavatory faucets suitable for high-traffic commercial restrooms with stable sensor activation, low false-trip behavior,
and service-accessible components. Power shall support AC/DC options (hardwire and/or battery backup where required). Provide coordinated finish
and geometry consistent with the restroom design intent. Basis-of-design may include
FontanaShowers,
Sloan,
Zurn,
BathSelect,
or equal, subject to compliance, submittals, and owner standards.
Automatic Soap Dispensers — Coordination (sample)
Provide automatic soap dispensing compatible with the owner’s refill program and janitorial logistics. Coordinate visual alignment with
touchless faucets where required for design intent. Acceptable systems may include
GOJO / PURELL,
Tork,
Georgia-Pacific (GP PRO),
FontanaShowers,
BathSelect,
or equal.