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Sashya Thind’s Showroom Favorites — March 2022

By |2022-03-09T21:32:00-05:00March 9th, 2022|Uncategorized|

A Note From Jason

Jason and Mindy in San Diego receiving The Forte Group award for “best showroom in the country.”

Hi everyone,

I am SO thrilled to announce that Designer Bath has been named “best showroom in the country” by the prestigious Forte Group. The Forte Group is an industry buying association and its members are boutique plumbing fixture showrooms throughout the USA. My sister Mindy and I headed to San Diego last month to attend the annual Forte conference and we were surprised and immensely proud when we won this accolade. Kudos to our entire team!

And back home in New England, we’re counting down the days until March 13, when we will spring our clocks forward and finally breathe a sigh of relief. I imagine we are all longing to bask in sunlight and warmth after such a long, cold winter. In our business, we have been impressed with the ability of talented designers to use natural light to make bathrooms and kitchens feel larger and brighter, even in the midst of a blizzard. However, I am looking forward to gazing out the windows as the snow melts, the grass greens, the trees blossom, and our kids head outside to play without snowsuits and boots. Just as Covid made us appreciate our family and friends and home sanctuaries, every winter in New England makes us anticipate and welcome the spring season all the more. It’s been a long time coming, but it’s here at last. Time to draw open the shades and soak in that sun.

Speaking of “warmth” I’m excited to introduce our March blogger Sashya Thind, whose design motto is warm minimalism. Sashya Thind is the principal of an award-winning firm that believes in personal and purposeful design. This approach has served her clients well for the last 15 years. Warm Minimalism, by definition, describes the experiential quality of the spaces she designs for her clients within a traditional or contemporary architectural setting.

We love Sashya’s picks from our showroom — please let us know what you think.

All the best,

Jason Sevinor

President, Designer Bath

CROSSWATER UNION SHOWER SYSTEM + JACLO FLUSH-MOUNT SHOWERHEAD

The Crosswater Union Shower System has such a beautiful finish with a sleek and simple look. The detailing and the exposed hardware illustrate a handcrafted quality. The Jaclo Flush-Mount Showerhead is luxurious and a perfect solution if you have a low ceiling in a shower. The flush feature eliminates the need for an arm when doing a minimal look.

CROSSWATER MPRO VANITY IN AMERICAN WALNUT

The rich tones and the distinct grain is what makes walnut one of my favorite species of wood. This particular vanity by Crosswater is beautifully made — the high quality and craftsmanship is evident in this piece — where both function and aesthetics are important. The walnut and white pairing complement each other, aligning with our ethos – warm minimalism.

MTI JULIET SOAKING TUB

You can’t go wrong with the MTI Juliet Soaking Tub. The beautiful lines and easy-to-maintain finish create the perfect “wow” moment when you walk into a primary bath featuring this stunning shape as its focal point.

THE GALLEY 10-PIECE CULINARY KIT IN NATURAL BAMBOO

The utilitarian value of The Galley 10-Piece Culinary Kit in Natural Bamboo is incomparable. You can completely conceal the sink opening and use it as extra counter space, which is a tremendous bonus in a kitchen when you’re hosting guests or trying to accomplish multiple tasks. The size of the sink is also impressive with ample space to hide dirty dishes until you’re ready to wash them so they don’t spill over to the island or kitchen.

NATIVE TRAILS NIPOMO STONE SINK IN SLATE

I was drawn to the Native Trails Nipomo Stone Sink in slate because of its texture and color. It has a warm natural stone feel to it and would look great paired with a wood floor in a powder room. It’s a sculptural element that can create an organic feel in a space. We incorporate these kinds of unpredictable pieces whenever possible!

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Charles Street Design’s Showroom Favorites — February 2022

By |2022-04-21T13:27:19-04:00February 2nd, 2022|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow! Looks like we’re in for 6 more weeks of winter. 

Hi everyone,

We did it. We’ve finally made it through the loooongest month of all time — and with the Omicron outbreak, record cold temperatures, and dismal, dark days — it felt like it would never end. But now there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. The daylight is quite literally lasting longer and spring is in sight as we all count down to its official start on March 20.

Speaking of spring and our collective dream of sunny, warmer days — today is Groundhog Day, and over in Gobbler’s Knob, PA, Punxsutawney Phil has officially seen his shadow. Sadly, he was shown retreating back to his den and we may be in for another February full of surprise snowstorms like last year. In fact, I have just finished shoveling everything that was dumped in my driveway from the blizzard on Saturday and now it looks like we are going to be hit again at the end of the week. Looking on the bright side: I think it will make me appreciate the spring all the more when it comes.

Speaking of appreciation, I’m delighted to introduce February’s guest blogger: the talented Lindsay Lawrence, Interior Design Director of Charles Street Design.

Lindsay and the team at Charles Street Design aim to create thoughtful and beautiful spaces, ensuring all designs will stand the test of time, stylistically and functionally. “While no two clients are alike, we adapt to each project with fresh ideas and seek ingenious pieces that are unique to each client, working in various styles,” Lindsay tells us. “From the early stages of planning to the final installation of furnishings, we collaborate with all professionals involved to make our client’s dreams become reality.”

Lindsay selected some fun pieces from our showroom as her favorites — let us know what you think.

All the Best,

Jason Sevinor
President

THE GALLEY WORKSTATION IN NATURAL GOLDEN BAMBOO

I am a total fan of The Galley Workstation, as is nearly every client I show it to. It works really great for all types of cooks in the kitchen. Whether you’re prepping and using the bamboo cutting board, entertaining and reveling in the additional counter space, or cleaning up and tucking dirty items out of sight until you have more time later, it can be used in a countless number of different ways. Plus, the bamboo adds a warm, organic accent to your space.

PERRIN & ROWE ARMSTRONG PULL-DOWN TOUCHLESS KITCHEN FAUCET IN POLISHED NICKEL

I’m sure everyone can relate to working in the kitchen with dirty hands — then having to clean your faucet from the mess you made turning it on or off. Perrin & Rowe’s Armstrong Touchless Faucet has a pull-down feature and a sensor, so instead of having to maneuver using your elbow or one non-dirty finger to turn it on — you can wave your hands, and voila! The practicality is completely worth it and a big game-changer in terms of functionality.

FURNITURE GUILD CARRADO VANITY

I love this piece by Furniture Guild because it helps bring that warm, comfortable feeling of an inviting and cozy home to a room that can typically be considered cold. Implementing organic materials adds so much depth and texture to even the smallest bathroom. This is a sleek piece that channels a fresh vibe while its rustic patina helps keep the overall style grounded with a solid foundation.

KEUCO ILOOK_MOVE COSMETIC MIRROR IN POLISHED CHROME

Most women would probably agree that leaning over a wet counter space can be uncomfortable. The Keuco iLook_Move gives you the experience and convenience of a sit-down vanity without needing a ton of space. It really is like a piece of jewelry — it’s pretty to look at and also efficient because it folds right back in. 

CROSSWATER WALDORF METAL EXPOSED SHOWER IN POLISHED CHROME

I love this for an outdoor shower. It’s so practical in the sense that you can literally unhook it from the wall and take it inside for the winter. It’s really a piece of art in itself – it’s just gorgeous. The look is modern, yet classic. In fact, the only downside is that the season for outdoor showers is so short in New England!

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Diane Burcz’s Showroom Favorites — January 2022

By |2022-01-04T23:06:11-05:00January 4th, 2022|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

This picture is from our company’s holiday party a couple years ago and it always makes me smile. In the midst of information being somewhat dire as we close out 2021 and move into 2022, I want to take the time to think of things that bring me joy.

Hi everyone,

It’s the first week of January and that means there’s one thing on everyone’s minds: New Year’s Resolutions. In 2022, my resolution is to make progress with my elusive quest for a better work/life balance. Every day, I try to be the best leader of my company, as well as the best husband, dad, son, brother, and friend. And in addition to that, I try to make time for self-care, which, as you might imagine, usually is last on the list.

It’s a daunting task trying to juggle all of these roles. We talk to clients all day long about how a beautiful bathroom can create an oasis of calm in their homes — and this is important! I struggle sometimes to take my own advice. My resolution for 2022 is to cut myself a bit more slack, to commit to carving out some personal time on a regular basis, and to reflect daily on the positive elements of my life.

Speaking of things that have made my life super busy lately — we are getting ready to open a new location for Salem Plumbing Supply in Danvers. We’re very excited about our new spot, which will make things easier and more convenient for our plumbers with easy access from Route 1 and Route 114. It’s really coming together and we hope to announce the official opening soon. We are also increasing our staff with the addition of the new location, so if you know of any potential job applicants, please let me know!

I’m also excited to introduce our first guest blogger of the new year: Diane Burcz, Founder and Principal of Diane Burcz Interior Design.

An award-winning interior designer, Diane Burcz (pronounced Birch like the tree, hence her Instagram handle @birchstyle) grew up in Minnesota but has lived all over the United States, completing her kitchen and bath certificate at the Boston Architectural College. In 2013, she launched Diane Burcz Interior Design, working on projects in Boston, its surrounding suburbs, and Cape Cod. Burcz’s aesthetic influences are mid-century modern, California and Scandinavian design with an emphasis on clean, simple lines and natural materials.

We love Diane’s picks from our showrooms — let us know what you think.

All the Best,
Jason Sevinor
President

CALIFORNIA FAUCETS DESCANSO PULL-DOWN KITCHEN FAUCET WITH HANDLE SPRAYER

If you’ve got the height at the sink, I love a pull-down faucet. And I like the industrial look of this piece from California Faucets, especially the “nut” at the top of the neck that gives it a machine quality. The feel of it is muscular — like it would make quick work of dirty dishes and cleaning fruits and vegetables in the kitchen sink. The location of the sprayer makes it comfortable to use and it returns effortlessly to the stem.

SAMUEL HEATH 3 HOLE BASIN FILLER WITH POP-UP WASTE

This one really caught my eye because it looks industrial with handles resembling water shut-off valves, but with a simple and almost sculptural look. The polished nickel finish is just so beautiful. I was impressed that they were able to marry the two styles: industrial and elegant.

NANTUCKET SINKS VICTORIAN FIRECLAY UTILITY SINK IN BLUE / WHITE

This piece by Nantucket Sinks is so fun, especially with these great colors — making this classic piece seem new and modern. This would be great in a laundry room or mudroom — modern or traditional — with black and white patterned concrete tiles on the floor. It’s big enough to tackle laundry tasks and maybe even bathe a small dog. Whatever chores you are doing, this sink will brighten your day.

LACAVA VANITY WITH AQUAGRANDE FLOOR-STANDING METAL CONSOLE STAND WITH TOWEL BAR IN MATTE BLACK

I’m a huge fan of Lacava sinks and have used them in many of my projects. The matte black console would work well in a smaller space since it floats above the floor, highlighting beautiful floor tile and reducing clutter by serving as a convenient place to hang towels. I used this type of console and sink combination in a bathroom that was a “wet room” — a bathroom whose entire floor sloped to the shower drain. I also like the deep faucet deck on the sink. There is plenty of room for soap next to the faucet and the smooth transition from sink deck to drain means it is easy to keep clean.

JULIEN INC. SOCIALCORNER SINK

Every time I walk into the Designer Bath showroom, the Julien SocialCorner sink catches my eye with the crisp lines of its stainless steel apron front. This would work perfectly for a cocktail service area, especially now with so much attention placed on home bars. It allows guests to circulate and use the sink on two sides. It’s a very striking piece. It is clever how the apron-like front continues beyond the sink bowl in an unexpected, modern detail.

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Designer Bath’s 2021 Holiday Gift Guide

By |2021-12-10T17:52:08-05:00December 8th, 2021|Letters from Jason|

A Note From Jason

Jason adding a toy to our annual Toys for Tots collection box for children in need this holiday season. (Boxes will be picked up on Dec 14. Here is a link to donate if you are unable to stop by and would like to contribute.)

Hi everyone,

There truly is no place like home for the holidays. When I think back on all the special moments with my wife and kids and my experience growing up — every gift given, every family gathering, every traditional food cooked — they all take place in the heart of our homes. And which rooms are most popular? I venture to say that the kitchen draws the crowds and the bathrooms are an oasis of calm – especially in the midst of Christmas chaos.

Enhancements and updates for your kitchen and bathrooms are the type of gifts that keep on giving — they will last far into the future and make your family smile for years to come. That’s why this holiday season, instead of doing our regular “Showroom Favorites” blog, we’ve put together a Gift Guide. In it, you will find some creative suggestions for gifts that will elevate your environment and add both comfort and elegance. We think these items could be perfect for your spouse, family, or friends — curated by none other than our Elf on the Shelf, Bubbles.

Because who doesn’t love a good gift guide this time of year?

Have a wonderful holiday season!
Jason Sevinor
President

THE GALLEY WORKSTATION

This is the PERFECT gift for a home chef and/or someone who loves to entertain. The addition of this piece changes the dynamic in the kitchen. Over the past few decades, people have been shifting where they spend time in their homes, yet kitchen design has not evolved dramatically. The Galley Workstation reflects the evolution and allows the kitchen work flow to accommodate socializing and group meal prep. In your Galley Workstation, you can chop, strain and mix easily, while participating in conversations with family and guests. You can then efficiently transition to serving, and finally: cleaning, without a lot of fuss and commotion.

DXV SMART TOILET

Yes, it’s true — a toilet with all the bells and whistles CAN make your bathroom more luxurious. The trend that began overseas has arrived on our shores and we love it! The DXV Smart Toilet brings advanced hygiene and modern convenience through state-of-the-art technology — from heated seats to self-cleaning water spray nozzles to hands-free operation. Once you have the experience of sitting on a warm seat on a winter day, you will put this on the top of your list!

FRANZ VIEGENER INDUSTRIAL CHIC FAUCET

Here’s a fun way to capitalize on a current hot trend. Add some machine-age-inspired design to your bathroom with Franz Viegner’s award-winning industrial chic widespread lavatory faucet. You can add a pop of your personality by choosing from 10 unique finishes. Although black, red, and brushed nickel are the favorites, we have seen the faucets done in hot pink for a young girl’s bathroom and navy blue for a seaside locale.

HUDSON VALLEY LIGHTING

Incorporate a touch of New York’s illustrious history into your bathroom with designs by Hudson Valley Lighting. Does your personal aesthetic lean towards colonial architecture, industrial grit, or cosmopolitan glamor? This line includes a wide breadth of great fixtures that mix well with traditional, modern, and transitional styles.

OCEANIA FREESTANDING SOAKER WITH CUSTOM EXTERIOR COLOR

First comes love, next comes … a gorgeous tub. Nothing says “you deserve more relaxation time” like this Oceania Freestanding Soaker. Its dramatic form and eye-catching color make it the focal point of your bathroom escape. We have this blue version on display and everyone comments on its sleek shape. It was difficult to choose which color because the tub looks amazing in all the tones of the rainbow and can be completely customized.

JACLO SHOWERHEAD

The ultimate functional piece for any bathroom, the Jaclo Storm Showerhead features a whopping eight adjustable jets with 64 individual sprays. This will fit right into a stocking and is sure to be the hot topic once it is revealed. During this time of festive gatherings, it is also the perfect hostess gift — most people do not have a fabulous showerhead and using one on a daily basis can be life changing! They will be surprised by the gift and then thank you forever.

CYAN DESIGN PORTHOLE MIRROR

Do you live by the water? If you do, you can expand upon the nautical theme in your bathroom or powder room with this porthole-inspired mirror. In a gleaming nickel finish, the frame of the mirror offers a seafaring vibe and stays current with its round mirrored glass. If you yearn for sea breezes, but remain land-locked, you can use this mirror as the foundation for a design that integrates items that bring to mind boats and beaches.

LACAVA VANITY

How about taking the plunge and going for a sleek, modern look for your bathroom? This Lacava vanity with black detailing could make your space POP. It is on trend, yet can co-exist with a variety of styles by carefully selecting accessories to help it either blend or go bold.

DORNBRACHT SHOWER FIXTURES

Dornbracht spends time and attention on their finishes to ensure that each fixture feels like it has been hand honed and polished. The metal is exquisitely molded to create a smooth surface that is imbued with the essence of quality and style. The Dornbracht shower collection provides options that offer the possibility of a luxurious experience in the midst of your daily tasks and chores. Their handheld shower set with individual flanges with volume control will make your shower feel more like a spa.

BTI INSTANT HOT WATER SYSTEM

For the friend or loved one who is a tea aficionado — gift them the most advanced Instant Hot Water Dispenser on the market. The BTI Instant Hot Water System features a compact, space-saving design with an insulated stainless steel tank, as well as automatic safety sensors and 60-cups per hour capacity. Bonus: it’s totally eco-friendly. No more delays when you are ready to indulge in a hot beverage. No more worries about when the tea kettle was last cleaned. This is a functional gift that will bring an unlimited amount of joy to its new owners.

Visit our showrooms in Watertown and Beverly to see these items in person. We know they will be a big hit this holiday season!

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Mally Skok’s Showroom Favorites — November 2021

By |2021-11-08T15:24:51-05:00November 7th, 2021|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

Photos from my sister Mindy’s wedding in September.

Hi everyone,

November brings with it the beginning of the holiday season — one of the highlights of the year, in my opinion. During the next two months, many of us try to make a special effort to connect with the ones we love. It’s the time of year we can take a moment to stop and reflect on the good things in our lives.

I’m grateful for my sister Mindy and the happiness we all felt when she got married earlier this fall. We welcome the new additions to our extended family with joy and enthusiasm. It was a beautiful intimate celebration and I was reminded of how thankful I am for my sister, our family, and our family-owned business. 

This holiday season, I hope we can all take some moments to unplug, step back, and appreciate what we have. The past year and a half has been unlike any other, but for some of us, it has made us take stock of our priorities and brought us closer to the most important people in our lives. As Thanksgiving approaches, I plan to take some time to count my blessings and to let people around me know how much I value their presence in my life. 

Without further ado, we would like to introduce our November guest blogger: Mally Skok. Mally is an East Coast interior designer and textile maker who originally hails from South Africa, a place that is close to my heart as I had an amazing trip there a few years ago. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to go on this adventure as a member of YPO (Young Presidents Organization — a global leadership community of chief executives). 

Mally and her family moved in the mid-1990s from London to America, where she launched her interior design business. Mally has since built a client base that is enamored with her creative mix of layering the new with the old and transforming homes into comfortable, colourful living spaces. I am especially impressed with her support of local charity Heading Home and the recent publication of her first book, which delivers creative tips for successful entertaining. Since Mally is currently residing in Palm Beach, she used links from our website to see what we offer and what we have on display. These are great tools to use when you are not able to visit one of our showrooms and you are in the mood to do some shopping for fixtures and accessories. 

I hope you enjoy Mally’s picks and her lively commentary! 

All the Best,
Jason Sevinor
President

NATIVE TRAILS SANTORINI FREESTANDING TUB IN BRUSHED NICKEL

I am currently slightly obsessed with bath tubs that stand out in the open and there’s nothing between you, soaking away, and the sparkling ocean below. I could see this beauty in a quiet courtyard off a bedroom, high above the Aegean Sea, with breezes floating in, while you lie in the dappled light of an overhead bamboo awning.

SAMUEL HEATH EXPOSED THERMO SHOWER SET IN POLISHED NICKEL

A while ago, I saw a bathroom in an updated country manor where the shower had no door or glass partition, just a beautiful old encaustic tile floor that floated towards a hidden drain. The rest of the bathroom was filled with a shabby, old, beat-up antique armchair, with what looked like village jumble sale watercolors on the walls. So chic and un-bathroom like.

BARCLAY POCO 30″ SINGLE BOWL KITCHEN SINK

I long for a flower room with a big sunny window looking out onto a garden. Rows of Pelargoniums lined up along the window sill. Shelves of orchids resting after their last bloom catching the dappled light. This sink would be so amazing with a sink skirt in an old-fashioned print, to finish off the look. Perfect for potting and clippings!

MOUNTAIN PLUMBING PRODUCTS MINI HOT WATER DISPENSER IN BRUSHED NICKEL

A couple of years ago, my hubbie and I bought a new construction house with a hot water spigot. We had no idea what we had been missing!! I love being able to make multiple cups of my favourite Rooibos tea at the blink of an eye. Add a nice South African rusk and your afternoon is instantly uplifted, with no caffeine!

HUDSON VALLEY SYOSSET LARGE PENDANT LIGHT

I am a fan of the simplest of pendants over the kitchen counter or center island. I recently heard a talk from the famous architect Bobby McAlpine, and he remarked that kitchens are mostly ripped out during renovations because they date a house. What a waste and what a shame! I believe in simple, quality kitchens that you can’t date. This is the type of light I like for that classic timeless look!

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Musings By Mindy — Fall 2021

By |2022-02-07T14:31:44-05:00October 24th, 2021|Musings By Mindy|

Musings by Mindy

Mindy Sevinor

Dear friends and colleagues,

Time has flown and already, we’re looking ahead to November in New England and the colder months. Which means, of course — more time to spend in our homes!

I’m excited to share some of my favorite new pieces in our showrooms and trends I’m seeing in the industry. Hopefully it’ll give you some inspo to add a pop of personality to your next project.

All my best,

Mindy Sevinor
Showroom Brand Manager

NEW IN THE SHOWROOM

GRAFF MUSA SINK

The freestanding pedestal is cool and eye-catching to say the least. It has three factors that make it a designer’s favorite – it’s made out of a durable and tactile material, a solid surface, and all one piece. It’s a great way for a powder room to add a WOW factor and is on display now in our Watertown Showroom.

NANTUCKET SINKS USA VICTORIAN SINK

This sink from Nantucket Sinks USA looks like an old Victorian mounted sink and comes in a number of colors. We recently put it on display in Beverly in basalt grey and we’re going to have it in Watertown in a fun blue. This classic “farm house” design goes perfectly as a laundry sink, powder room or even a kids’ bathroom — it’s fun and whimsical while doing its job and adding a touch of classic nostalgia.

TREND: WARMER TONES + POPS OF PERSONALITY

WARMER TONES + POPS OF PERSONALITY

We’re seeing a shift from clean, contemporary, sleek, minimalist, European modern spaces towards warmer tones and designs. People are continuing to mix metals and finishes — and now, they’re also mixing styles and adding pops of their own personality. They’re trying to make spaces more eclectic and unique rather than cookie cutter copies.

Three examples of this move to a more colorful and original aesthetic:

  1. The photo pictured here — How amazing is this!? Organic wood tones and creative tile by Joanna Lavén for Vanitas Studio
  2. Super modern lights paired with an antique painting
  3. Vanities that feature natural materials and warmer tones – achieved by adding a driftwood, oak, or walnut vanity into a modern bathroom

A NOTE ON LEAD TIMES

As we all know, lead times continue to be challenging. All of us here at Designer Bath have strong relationships with boutique, family-owned manufacturers who have been delivering products in a more consistent, timely fashion throughout the pandemic. When you come into the showroom for a project, be clear on deadlines so we can start this communication early and work together to manage expectations.

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Jacob Lilley’s Showroom Favorites — October 2021

By |2021-10-12T17:57:11-04:00October 11th, 2021|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

From left to right: Jason Sevinor, Kate Maloney Albiani, Rob Cocuzzo, Jenny Johnson, Mindy Sevinor, Clinton Smith, and Kathy Bush-Dutton at our Watertown showroom for our recent “Marriage of Styles” event. 

Hi everyone,

Have you had the opportunity to get out of the house to enjoy some of the crisp fall days in New England with your family and friends? I was reminded of the importance of connecting with people when we recently hosted our first in-person event at our showroom after taking a break from this type of activity for almost two years.

It was an absolutely wonderful feeling, something we had all been missing, but didn’t notice to what degree until we were there — chatting with panelists and friends, showing people our new showroom displays, laughing together in person. It almost felt like normal times again!

We want to extend a huge thanks to New England Home Magazine for co-hosting the “Marriage of Styles” event with us, and to our panelists, New England power couple (and awesome people) Jenny Johnson and Rob Cocuzzo, the inimitable Kate Maloney Albiani (who’s helping Jenny and Rob design their new home), and NE Home Editor-at-large Clinton Smith, who always delights us with his dashing persona and on-trend insights. If you want to see the video of the FB Live stream of the discussion, you can access it here.

Jenny and Rob just bought a 100+ year old home in Swampscott, MA — a town that’s dear to my heart as my sister Mindy and I grew up there. They had lived in Boston for 20+ years, and weren’t even planning on buying a home, but as they watched their beautiful 3 year-old daughter run through the backyard of this house — something felt right. Something felt like home. We are glad to welcome them to the Northshore!

After the panel presentation concluded, I was chatting with panelists and guests and it hit me again: I miss this. Our business at Designer Bath is built solidly on partnerships and people, and this is what I care about most. I look forward to bringing “in-person” back to some semblance of how it used to be — and hey, chic Designer Bath mask or not, you can tell we’re all smiling under there.

One of our favorite architects joined us for our Boston Design Week event and came by the showroom early to pick out his “five favs.” We think you will agree that he made fabulous choices! Without further ado, we would like to introduce our October guest blogger: Jake Lilley of Jacob Lilley Architects.

Originally from England, Jake founded Jacob Lilley Architects after six years as a Principal at Lilley-Dadagian Architects, and before then as a Project Director for the nationally recognized Architecture, Planning and Landscape firm of Wallace Roberts and Todd in Philadelphia.

Previously, Jake worked at GUND Partnership in Cambridge, Massachusetts for six years as a Senior Designer with the Independent School Studio, and as a designer for the office of Hoffman O’Brien Look Taube & Chiang in Ithaca, New York.

We love Jake’s picks from our showroom — let us know what you think.

All the Best,

Jason Sevinor
President

There are three things I look for with plumbing fixtures: quality, utilitarian design, and how it feels in your hand. That’s the thing about these fixtures — you’re touching them frequently, so they have to feel good. And you know substance when you have it in your hands. My first litmus test is always where’s the quality? Is it metal or is it plastic? I like to feel the quality in it. 

I also like streamlined fixtures — sleek, elegant, not overdressed. I like fixtures that are simple and elegant but also functional and beautiful.

We always tell our clients the kitchen faucet is the most used feature in the house — do not ignore it. Invest in your faucet. Make it a statement piece.

DORNBRACHT TARA ULTRA SINGLE-LEVER MIXER + SIDE SPRAY SET

There’s something classic about this model — beautiful lines, great controls, timeless design. We keep coming back to this fixture over and over again. The independent sprayer also feels substantive — it has a great weight to it. You know the second you pick it up that it feels interesting to the hand and almost as heavy as a two-pound weight, unlike most other sprayers. The black handle on the sprayer doesn’t show fingerprints, provides a wonderful contrast to the chrome of the top, and appears to be beveled at the bottom so it has a snug fit.

ROHL MOD-FINO EXPOSED THERMOSTATIC SHOWER SYSTEM

I’m from England; we have a history of exposed plumbing, which can be quite beautiful to look at and appreciate. I approach this almost as a piece of sculpture or art. This fixture has so much presence that it can take the lead in the bathroom design — it could be a showpiece fixture that you design the rest of the bathroom around. It transforms the shower experience.

GRAFF DESIDERI TEPHI SOAKER TUB

I love the warm white color and tactile nature of this piece. The profile of the tub is different from the inside to the outside, which gives it a carved effect — it has a hefty feel on the outside, like it’s cut out of a block of marble, but the inside is so soft it feels like velvet to the touch. The integral drain allows you to move the tub filler to any place on the tub. This is key, especially for double soaking — no one’s getting water poured on their back!

LISA JARVIS SOPHISTICATED SCOTTIE PULL

I love this piece because it’s not exclusively cabinet hardware, you can use it in the bathroom for towels or any sort of wall hangers. You can tell that Lisa Jarvis is a jewelry designer because each of her pieces is artistic — you could use them for themed rooms, like the anchors in a nautical themed bathroom. Besides just being an interesting design, it has substance to it; it feels good to the touch. The thread through all of my picks is the quality of the products.

ARTELINEA MONOLITE VANITY TOP IN BLUE CRYSTAL + MONOLITE 18 BASE

I love how the countertop and drawers are all one color. There’s a beautiful, smooth transition from the sink into the drain. The high sheen of the countertop and the matte, gun metal grey of the Graff faucet create a good balance. Anything that floats always makes the room feel bigger. I also like how well thought out this vanity is structurally — like the horseshoe cut-out inside the drawer that serves to hide all plumbing.

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Kate Maloney Albiani’s Showroom Favorites — September 2021

By |2021-09-12T21:46:35-04:00September 12th, 2021|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

My two sons were excited for the start of the school year!

Hi everyone,

Now that Labor Day Weekend has passed and pumpkin spice season has arrived, we’re ready to dive into fall! My sons started first and third grades last week. It’s crazy how they always seem to grow older on the first day of school.

As the kids return to their academic endeavors and a new routine, you may have more peace and quiet at home to consider renovations or improvements. Have you ever struggled with the process of compromising with your partner on design styles? This common conundrum led us to coordinate an event with speakers who will dig into this spicy topic.

On September 29, we’re excited to partner with New England Home Magazine to host a Boston Design Week panel presentation about exactly this at our Watertown showroom (and via Facebook Live if you’d like to attend virtually) — A Marriage of Styles. The line-up features power couple Jenny Johnson and Robert Cocuzzo and esteemed interior designer Kate Maloney Albiani (this month’s guest blogger) for a fun and informative talk on all things home.

Johnson (TV host) and Cocuzzo (author and editor) recently renovated and decorated their new home, collaborating with Maloney Albiani on the design details. Hear their insights on how they combined “his and her” tastes to create an inviting and on-trend home for their growing family. The panel will be moderated by New England Home’s Editor at Large Clinton Smith, and the lively discussion is sure to entertain and inspire you.

If you feel like coming in person, the event is free and open to the public at our showroom in Watertown. We are asking everyone to register in advance here and directions for accessing the event virtually will be sent to all registered attendees

And now, on to our guest blogger of the month (and host of our panel on September 29!): Kate Maloney Albiani, Principal and Lead Designer at Kate Maloney Interior Design (KMID). 

Kate believes that good design is an organic process between the designer and the clients who know what they love.

Kate has mastered the art of combining antique and modern pieces with wonderfully unexpected details. After practicing interior design in New England for over a decade, Kate is known for her textural interiors and her ability to handily balance form with function. Her goal is to design rooms that are just as beautiful to look at, as they are comfortable to live in.

Below are Kate’s picks from our showrooms — we can’t wait to hear more of her insights at our event on September 29.

Best,

Jason Sevinor
President

Generally speaking, with our projects, we try to weigh the architecture of the house we’re working in with the personal style of the family who lives there. Our job is to bridge the gap between the two.

I think about bathrooms as a selection of timeless classics. For example, details like paint, light fixtures, and art can change with your taste — but I find plumbing fixtures and vanities, items that are going to have longer lifespans in your home, need to match the architecture of the house and fall on the more classic and timeliness end of the scale.

STONE FOREST CALMA BATHTUB

This one is a show-stopper. When I walked into the showroom, it immediately took my breath away — I couldn’t get my hands on it fast enough. It is just SO beautiful. I love the sense of nature that it brings to the idea of bathing — so organic and grounding.

THE FURNITURE GUILD HAYDEN VANITY IN CERUSED OAK

To me, this is one of the strongest vanity pieces on the floor at the showroom. It strikes a nice balance between traditional/classic and the hardware injecting a little bit of glamour. It hits a lot of notes: organic quality with the finish, traditional leg, and glamourous hardware.

CALIFORNIA FAUCETS DESCANSO PULL-DOWN KITCHEN FAUCET WITH SQUEEZE HANDLE SPRAYER IN POLISHED BRASS

This one was cool — it was really a beautiful thing. I love a plumbing fixture where you can really appreciate how it works. The handle has a great texture. I love the bolt-looking connection piece between the neck and the arm. I felt there was a sturdy sense to the sprayer. It’s a little more modern than I usually lean, but something about this felt elevated.

PERRIN & ROWE EDWARDIAN THERMOSTATIC SHOWER PACKAGE IN POLISHED NICKEL

I’m a sucker for an old school plumbing fixture. I think there’s such a beautiful sensibility to seeing how these pieces come together. I love an exposed shower system like this. There’s something so traditional and beautiful and also new and clean at the same time. I love that it hits all those notes so successfully.

STONE FOREST BORDEAUX VANITY TOP

This is such a grounded, classic, traditional piece. I think it would be a beautiful statement piece in a bathroom or powder room. It feels so high-end and so timeless that I was attracted to it immediately when I saw it.

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Laura Burnes’ Showroom Favorites — August 2021

By |2021-08-05T12:58:08-04:00August 4th, 2021|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

Jason and his dad Ralph proudly display the special citation they received from the Governor’s Office in honor of the company’s 75th anniversary last year.

Hi everyone,

As crazy as it sounds, this first week of August marks 76 years of Designer Bath and Salem Plumbing Supply. I wonder how many bathroom transformations we’ve been a part of in 76 years — probably too many to count. I hope we’ve made our customers smile over the years whenever they look at their new fixtures.

This past weekend I was thinking about how we had a big 75-year anniversary party planned for August 2020. Obviously, that didn’t happen. But what happened instead was almost more special: we learned to adapt. We offered virtual options and expanded the ways we connect and communicate. As homes became more important than ever, we were still able to be there for our customers. We made it work, 76 years later, during a global pandemic. 

As I carry on the legacy of my father and grandfather before him to bring our family-owned business into this new era, I’m so proud of our resilience. I’m beyond grateful for the Designer Bath staff and clients, our extended family, who got us to where we are today. The future is looking bright. 

When we talk about adaptability, I think about how even as things return more to “normal” this fall, many companies have reevaluated their priorities. We see the hybrid work model taking shape, which lands most of us in our homes more often than we used to be. We are evaluating the spaces in our homes, especially our bathrooms and kitchens, and transforming them into little pockets of calm and serenity. These rooms are so valuable and are used so often we almost take them for granted. They should be our sanctuaries, our escapes. They should make us happy every day. 

And now, on to our guest blogger of the month: Laura Burnes, Director of Project Planning at Adams + Beasley Associates. 

After opening the interior design branch of Vanecko Ltd. in 2006, Laura Burnes ventured out on her own to start LB Custom Projects, four years later. She’s always loved the collaboration between clients, architects, builders and other designers to make someone’s dream a reality. After a solo stint of six years, she was ready to expand, and a partnership at Adams + Beasley came at just the right time. Laura is now Director of Project Planning, working directly with clients and industry partners at the intersection of design and craft — and she’s excited to see where this path takes her next.

We love Laura’s picks from our showrooms — let us know if you agree.

Best,

Jason Sevinor
President

MTI JULIET 222 FREESTANDING TUB IN MATTE WHITE

Freestanding tubs are such a great opportunity for a piece of art in your bathroom. I’m a tub person, so I love the functionality of a tub. What I love about MTI is they’ve created impeccable product lines that perfectly blend functional technology with elegant shapes.

NATIVE TRAILS NIPOMO NATIVE STONE SINK IN SLATE

Powder rooms are places you visit for short periods of time throughout the day. What I love to do when I design them is create a moment of discovery every time you visit the room — something almost unexpectedly special and beautiful. That’s what this Native Trails Nipomo Stone Sink does; it’s a little bit unexpected and beautiful and fun.

DORNBRACHT TARA ULTRA PULL-DOWN FAUCET + HOT & COLD WATER DISPENSER IN POLISHED CHROME

The tall arch of the Dornbracht Tara Ultra faucet is such an elegant form. It also feels good in your hand when you use it. It functions effectively and efficiently and sits nicely on the sink. It sets itself apart with stylish details, but doesn’t call attention to itself. It’s the same thing with the side faucet; functional, complementary hot/cold faucets are hard to find. The way this one mirrors the handle of the main faucet — they nailed it!

FRANZ VIEGENER EDGE CROSS WIDESPREAD FAUCET IN ROSE GOLD

Talk about a piece of art on your sink countertop. It’s stunning. I used it in a project in Boston this past year and it’s amazing to see water come out of something so unexpected (because it’s very thin and linear). This piece by Franz Viegener is
just perfect.

JACLO STORM SHOWERHEAD IN POLISHED CHROME

For my finale — you just can’t beat the Jaclo Storm Showerhead! It has the perfect pressure, it is a really simple mechanism (not an overabundance of plastic), and it’s super functional. It gives you an excellent shower every time. Again, it’s that simple form — not trying to call attention to itself. This is my go-to. I start with this showerhead with every one of my clients.

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Justine Sterling’s Showroom Favorites — July 2021

By |2021-07-14T14:54:02-04:00July 12th, 2021|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

Jason recently took time off to go camping with his family.

Happy July!


Life at home is starting to feel more normal and my heart is full of hope. This summer, I’ve been planning adventures and get-aways to help recover from our year of isolation and solitude. A few weeks ago, my family and I escaped from our “to-do list” to enjoy some starry nights, s’mores, and other outdoor activities at a local campground. We’re excited to continue spending time together this summer, especially celebrating the 2021 Summer Olympics.

While the Summer Olympics honor the greatest athletes in the world, the BONS 2021 Best of the North Shore Awards celebrate the best home/design/build businesses on the North Shore. Designer Bath is proud to have received FOUR nominations in the FIXTURES category — and we’re going for the GOLD! Please take a quick minute to vote for our third-generation family-owned business.

Last but not least, we would like to express our appreciation for the patience and understanding that our customers have shown as we work hard to overcome the challenges posed by the pandemic. It’s a time like we’ve never seen before in the construction industry and we are working diligently to keep all the balls in the air. We’re proud of all we’ve been able to accomplish with our industry partners during this wild time. Thank you for your continued support!

In this month’s Showroom Favorites, we’re excited to share picks from our July guest blogger, Justine Sterling. Headquartered in Melrose, Justine Sterling has always had a passion for finding structure and order in chaos. She launched Justine Sterling Design in 2008, after working in innovative and prestigious hospitality and commercial interiors and architectural firms in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Boston. We connected a few years ago when I had the opportunity to take a trip to South Africa and she recommended some of her favorite hometown destinations.

Justine Sterling Design specializes in full-service residential interior design — taking their clients on a journey of “Discovering Home” during their step-by-step design process. Her firm effectively handles conceptual design through construction administration, furniture installation, and lastly the all-important styling elements placement. She’s been featured in many publications such as New England Home magazine, Modern Luxury Interiors Boston, The Boston Globe, Boston Home magazine, and the Interior Design Best of Residential book.

Take a peek below at some of this much-acclaimed designer’s selections from the Designer Bath showroom in Watertown.

Best,
Jason Sevinor

President

BRIZO SOLNA SINGLE HANDLE KITCHEN FAUCET

The modern, utilitarian vibe of this articulating faucet instantly drew me in.

BRIZO KINTSU WIDESPREAD LAVATORY FAUCET WITH ANGLED SPOUT

I love this new addition to the Brizo collection. This handle option has no inlay, allowing it to be fully exposed to show the modern curved design detail. Lastly, the brilliance luxe gold finish is beautiful: it defines elegant luxury with its timeless, brushed, low luster gold tone.

WALL MOUNT/ABOVE COUNTER LAVATORY WITH OVERFLOW & AQUAGRANDE CONSOLE

Not too long ago, I used this Lacava counter sink and console on an indoor pool project for the changing room. We customized it in length, height and depth, and added a metal shelf to the console for baskets that provided extra towel storage. The functionality of the wide width sink in this vanity was perfect for our project.

JULIET 2 MTI WHIRLPOOLS

I climbed into a few freestanding tubs in the Watertown showroom to see how comfy they were and this MTI one felt like a cocoon. The curved organic-shaped design is dreamy from a design perspective as well.

I would suggest a tall side table near it (which most freestanding tubs need) to offer a place for soap, shampoo, etc. I’d love to try it filled with water for the full whirlpool effect!

SQUARE FLUSH MOUNT RAIN MACHINE

This Jaclo large rain head machine gets mounted flush into a shower ceiling creating a clean and contemporary design overhead. I loved the simplicity of the design, with the function of spreading a large shower of water. I would pair it with a wall shower head too (or two if you have room for a dual shower).

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