FASCINATION WITH FIXTURES

Bathrooms and kitchens are not just utilitarian anymore. Building a comfortable, relaxing spa oasis is in a big way. And kitchens have gone from simple food prep in a small space to expansive, multi-function areas that are the heart of the home where everyone gathers. Remodeling your existing bathroom or kitchen brings with it the excitement and challenge of choosing from a seemingly endless number of potential fixtures and materials. Plus, you are no longer limited to what’s on the shelf. High-end manufacturers like California Faucets now offer you the opportunity to create the custom fixture of your dreams. For example, choose any faucet, any handle, any finish and add accents like real Swarovski crystals. The goal here is to create a coordinated room that fully expresses your individuality and personality. But wading through all the choices to make that vision a reality can be daunting. There are almost too many options, and some consumers can feel overwhelmed. But there is something for everyone, within everyone’s budget. Remembering a few basics will help you make your dream a reality, and make the process a lot less confusing:

Selecting Kitchen & Bath Fixtures ~

? When picking the faucet style, consider both function and aesthetic form. Bathroom faucets today have more versatility, offering high or low spouts, lever or cross handles, tub fillers with hand showers, and shower heads in many sizes and spray patterns.

? Seek out fixtures that fit your style and fit the decorating scheme of your entire home. From sleek and modern to antique and ornate, just about everything is out there. Today’s two top trends are a very modern minimal spa aesthetic and a rustic, farmhouse style.

? Once you’ve narrowed down the style, consider the finish options. It’s no longer just chrome or brass. Some manufacturers offer over 30 different finishes to choose from. Todays most popular finishes are Brushed Nickel or Stainless Steel, Chrome, and Oil Rubbed Bronze. Make the decision easier by using the same finish for all the fixtures in the room, and try to coordinate that finish with other hardware in your home, like doorknobs and cabinet hardware, for a consistent look and dramatic impression.

? Coordinated lines are in. Faucet manufacturers have made it easy to match your kitchen sink faucet, to your prep sink faucet, to your bar sink faucet, to your soap dispenser and even to your pot filler. Kitchen sink accessories like bottom grids, rinsing baskets and sink mount cutting boards are a must have. Coordinated lines are also available for the bathroom. Most faucet manufacturers offer matching accessories for the bathroom to create a more uniform look. So, pick your style once, then order everything that coordinates; this cuts down the number of decisions you have to make.

? Pull-down faucets for the kitchen are the most popular style. They have a gooseneck spout for filling large pots, and reach anywhere in a 2 or 3 bowl sink, making prep and clean up much easier.

? Showers have become luxurious, not just necessary. The single shower head is rapidly being replaced by multiple shower heads, body sprays, and steam units. Specialty light fixtures and even music are available. Don’t be afraid to treat yourself. A good shower can invigorate you in the morning or relax you after a tough day but only if you have the fixtures to support those functions.

? Purchase durable fixtures from recognized brands, even if they cost a little bit more. These fixtures are used all day every day and they need to stand up to what your family dishes out.

With some innovative suggestions and product information from the professionals at your local plumbing supply showroom, you will make the right choices. So, turn on the tap and let the ideas flow!

Some information for this article was provided by the fixture professionals from The Showroom at Atlantic Plumbing Supply in Long Branch.