SFGate

BY DESIGN Builders Aloha and thank you for asking about the amazing Serena fold-down shower seat.
We selected the 26"W Powder Coat Grey for this project.
While the 18"W model does have Chrome and Nickel options, the 26"W model is only available in the Power Coat Grey, hence we selected the finish by default.
You are correct that there is a considerable premium for the upgraded finishes. If the design goal is for matching and coordinating finishes and the user will be caring for the Chrome of Nickel by wiping it down after each use, then we would recommend the matching finish. However, most people do not wipe down their fixtures after each use and therefore the Powder Coat Grey would be a more suitable option.
All the best!

Innovate Building Solutions This looks like a Brazilian walnut seat I've seen before - is that correct?

BY DESIGN Builders Yes, you are correct!
Ocotea porosa is a official name for the species of plant in the Lauraceae family. It is commonly called Brazilian walnut because its wood resembles that of some walnuts (to which it is not related). The tree is a major commercial timber species in Brazil, used for high-end furniture, mostly as decorative veneers, and as flooring.
The beautiful Brazilian walnut is naturally resistant to moisture, mildew and decay. It is known for it’s considerable strength. It is up to 3 times stronger than teak.
The back slats slide up and out for easy cleaning and maintenance. The bottom boards have removable screws for the same reason.
We (and our client) are very impressed with this shower seat.

Innovate Building Solutions Yes - I agree with you on how impressive this material is - we have used this seat once and I was amazed how dense and durable the wood is - thanks for all of your input on this!

cookgirl By Design Builders: Thanks for addressing the maintenance issue. I've seen photos of the chrome and nickel finishes--both very nice--but there isn't a chance my hubby would ever wipe the metal off after use. We'll stick to the powder coat. Also, this seat supports alot more weight 400+lb. as opposed to 200+lb for most of the other fold down seats I've looked at as the result of what appears to be much better installation procedures.

BY DESIGN Builders Thank you!
You are correct, the Serena Seat has a higher capacity rating which was also a consideration in this project.
I was prepping the home for owner arrival yesterday and snapped this quick photo to show an update 1 year later...still looking great!

cookgirl Thanks for the photo. We'll be installing 2 of the 18 in. seats side by side in a small 4 ft x4 ft. steam shower. It's good to know the wood is so durable.