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So far Lauren Metter has created 29 blog entries.

Sage Conti Design’s Showroom Favorites — March 2025

By |2025-03-07T10:48:34-05:00March 7th, 2025|Uncategorized|

A Note From Jason

Mindy and I are fortunate to be the second dynamic brother/sister duo and the third generation of our family business!

Hello everyone!

As we enter March, it’s difficult to tell if we’re on the tail end of winter. We get teased with some bright sunshine, warm temperatures, and then a switch flips and it’s freezing cold and we’re shoveling again. I’m ready for some consistent warmth and to hear the birds sing. For now, I’ll settle for an extra hour of daylight beginning on March 9, followed by the first day of Spring on March 20.

March is Women’s History Month, and the month kicks off with Women in Construction Week. In 2024, we highlighted four women who run construction companies, and this year we are focusing on women in leadership roles at local architectural firms. I am proud to have my sister, Mindy, as part of the third generation of the Sevinor family in this business. My dad worked alongside his sister, Dale, and I feel privileged to carry on this tradition. It’s inspiring to see other talented women being recognized in the design/build industry, which has traditionally been male-dominated. I encourage you to check out DesignerBathMA on Facebook and @designerbath on Instagram to learn more about these exceptional women who are making an impact in our region.

Speaking of remarkable women in residential building and remodeling, we have been lucky to collaborate with designer Sage Conti. For nearly a decade, Sage has been developing award-winning interiors for clients in the Metro-Boston area. She has built a reputation for her ability to work within a diverse team of professionals and enjoys transforming clients’ visions from sketches and conversations into beautiful, solid structures.

Best,
Jason Sevinor

President

Sage Conti is the CEO and principal designer of Sage Conti Design, an award-winning Concord MA-based design studio. Sage’s design projects have been featured in New England Home Magazine, The Boston Globe, Modern Luxury Interiors, Boston Globe Real Estate, Luxe Interiors & Design, and The Gloucester Times.

LINKASINK GRAPHIC MOTHER OF PEARL INLAY WHITE MARBLE

This piece by Linkasink caught my eye because I always try to integrate things from nature. Mother of Pearl is a beautiful, material to use. I love the organic, oval shape they created with the pattern; it’s super unique. I would use it in a beautiful powder room with a statement mirror, a custom walnut vanity, and beautiful wallpaper. Powder rooms are always a fun place to go out of the norm. You’re only in there for a few minutes, but this would be a “WOW!” every time you enter the room.

STONE FOREST ELEMENTAL CONSOLE VANITY IN AGED BRASS + CEMENT GRAY WOOD

I absolutely love Stone Forest for their commitment to natural elements and attention to detail. I’ve used this vanity in a client’s home before, and the ability to fully customize the piece is a huge plus. The vanity I chose for that project featured knurled hardware and piping, which gave it an industrial edge while still maintaining a classic feel with the white marble. This piece is perfect for a primary bathroom—imagine two of them in a space with a stunning tile floor, a marble-tiled shower, and paired with brass sconces and a faucet that mirrors the knurled brass detailing. I also used this in a client’s art studio—it was fun and informal. It’s versatile, and you can sway it either way: sophisticated or more casual and upbeat.

MADE GOODS 36″ WHITE MIRROR

I’m a big fan of statement mirrors. In a bathroom, this piece by Made Goods could take on different vibes depending on the look you’re going for. For a coastal feel, imagine a bright blue console paired with light, airy accents. Alternatively, you could go for a vintage-inspired aesthetic with a beautifully painted antique console and a classic antique runner. Picture a stunning sea glass hexagon tile floor—maybe in a mini hex pattern—paired with a soft pale blue or green vanity. A custom vanity with scalloped detailing would add a touch of charm, complemented by polished nickel hardware and faucets for a timeless look. Oval under-mount sinks would echo the shape of the mirror, creating a cohesive and elegant design. I think that would be really pretty.

STONE FOREST CALMA BATHTUB IN MARQUINA TAUPE MARBLE

I sat in the Stone Forest Calma bathtub at the showroom, because I LOVE natural stone. I hug my slabs of countertops when I see them in the stone yard. I love anything carved from natural stone – it channels a grounding energy. Integrating these natural elements into the design of a space feels very elegant and peaceful to me. I can easily envision this in a primary bathroom in the stunning white marble option. The white marble is beautiful and the fact that it’s carved from a massive block of stone manifests artistry that is truly unmatched. You’re not just taking a bath, you’re literally soaking in a true work of art.

SAMUEL HEATH 3 HOLE LAVATORY IN ANTIQUE GOLD

I’m a huge fan of brass and antique brass — anything unlacquered that can patina and age over time. I’d picture this Samuel Heath faucet in a more masculine wet bar with a really cool tile backsplash with some, dark green cabinetry, brass hardware, and a hammered brass undermount sink. I always love to use unique hardware on wet bars; it’s a fun opportunity to feature something unexpected. You can add the element of surprise because you use them when you’re entertaining family and friends.

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Trevor Fulmer Design’s Showroom Favorites — February 2025

By |2025-02-18T15:13:03-05:00February 18th, 2025|Uncategorized|

A Note From Jason

Mindy and I with Brian Gallop from GRAFF at our Lunch & Learn earlier this month!

Hi Everyone!

I recently returned from another one of my father-son adventures – this time with my 11-year-old son, Jack, to Quebec City. It was an active trip filled with dog sledding, cold plunging in -6 degrees, snow tubing on double black diamonds, spending a night in an ice hotel, and, most importantly, strengthening the bond of love and gratitude I share with my son. After spending most of our time outdoors, I’m not sure if I’ve fully warmed back up yet!

On the work front, things are busy and dynamic! Our customers are taking advantage of the incredible deals we’re offering at the Designer Bath Outlet in Beverly. It brings me joy to see their excitement when they discover fabulous fixtures for their homes at fantastic prices.

I’ve also been reflecting on the importance of the relationships we’ve built with the manufacturers and representatives of the products we offer.

A couple of weeks ago, we hosted, we hosted a Lunch & Learn event in partnership with GRAFF Designs at our Watertown showroom. Our GRAFF representative had recently visited Paris and attended a conference on design. He shared insights about the latest trends and innovations in interior design. We were also fortunate to get a sneak peek at new and stylish products from GRAFF that will be launched in the U.S. later this year. These new fixtures are high fashion, and everyone was impressed with the fresh approach. We can’t wait to display them in our showrooms!

In addition to the manufacturers we partner with, we also value our connections with local designers, architects, and builders. We are always grateful when they choose to collaborate with Designer Bath. Their expertise and skills enable us to excel and truly shine for our clients.

Trevor Fulmer is known for his innovative and creative solutions in the realm of home interiors. We were delighted to have him serve as the panel moderator at our Watertown showroom at a recent event. His honed talent is gaining recognition through stunning articles in both local and national shelter publications. We are proud to call him a friend and collaborator.

Best,
Jason Sevinor

President

Trevor Fulmer is Principal of Trevor Fulmer Design, an award-winning Boston-based interior design studio. Trevor’s nontraditionalist and livable modern aesthetic pairs refined balance with unexpected moments of joy. A believer in the power of collaboration, Trevor’s design process is founded on building trust, growing relationships, and exceeding expectations.

THE GALLEY WORKSTATION

I love The Galley Workstation because it’s so multifunctional. It’s more than just a sink – it’s a full workspace. You can set it up to fulfill different purposes, like a prep area or even as a serving station for trays, bowls, and plates. The walnut finish is a great touch, too. I’m really into walnut right now, especially with the kitchens we’ve been designing that feature walnut paneling. The included accessories (cutting board, veggie rack, and recessed bowl) fit perfectly into the sink area and work well for anyone who enjoys cooking, or even for someone aspiring to be a chef. It’s a highly versatile and practical piece.

COLONIAL BRONZE DRAWER PULL WITH LEATHER WRAPPING

I love Colonial Bronze for their customization options – you can choose any size, length, or diameter for knobs and pulls. What makes this drawer pull stand out is the ability to wrap it in various leathers, like pebble grain or alligator print. As a result of my history working with them, I appreciate the quality and weight of their pieces – they feel substantial. It’s definitely one of my faves.

GRAFF HARLEY KITCHEN FAUCET

GRAFF is such a quality brand, known for their craftsmanship and use of premium brass. I love that they design and build all their own plumbing fixtures. The Graff Harley Kitchen Faucet is sleek and streamlined, with a solid, well-built feel when you adjust the handle. The burnished onyx finish is so sexy – it has a subtle sheen but remains matte, giving it a clean, modern, and sophisticated look.

LINKASINK COCO SINK

The Linkasink Coco sink is an interesting choice for us because, while we typically lean towards clean, modern lines, we love the character that comes with this unlacquered finish. It will age and patina over time, developing unique qualities. Many modern designers shy away from pieces that naturally evolve, but we enjoy mixing these elements into contemporary spaces. It’s a great way to introduce a European patina into a modern design.

THG DEAN WIDESPREAD LAVATORY SET

This faucet embodies THG’s signature no-fuss design – clean, intentional, and purposeful. The silhouette is absolutely beautiful, and as an aviation geek, I love how the widespread handles resemble propeller blades. I could literally envision this in a private plane or in a home of an aviation lover. It’s sleek, elegant, and makes a strong statement, especially in a powder room – understated yet elegant.

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AG&Co Interiors’ Showroom Favorites — January 2025

By |2025-01-16T09:46:59-05:00January 15th, 2025|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

It’s official! Our new “OUTLET” section is now open for business in Beverly.

Happy New Year everyone! 

I’m back from spending a few days in Florida celebrating the holidays with family and friends. While the weather was an improvement and the company was great, it’s time to get back in the swing of things. What’s new with us for 2025 you ask? Well, there’s a lot going on! Last Tuesday, we launched our new OUTLET brand extension in Beverly with a festive ribbon cutting ceremony in collaboration with the Greater Beverly Chamber of Commerce. We were thrilled to host other businesspeople from the community who joined us to toast our success. Many of the items we originally displayed in the dedicated OUTLET areas of our showroom have already been sold and replaced with others. The amazing discounts are significant. So, if you need a pretty faucet, a new toilet, a vanity, medicine cabinet, mirror, bathroom accessories or a shiny sink, don’t wait!

Another fun  agenda item for 2025 is celebrating our company’s 80th anniversary! It’s a big number, don’t you think? My grandfather began his career as a lawyer. However, he had an entrepreneurial spirit and saw an opportunity in the plumbing supply business in 1945. He would go to work at Salem Plumbing in the early hours of the morning with his suit under his coveralls. After selling plumbing supplies, he would ditch the coveralls and drive to his Boston office and switch to his role as a lawyer. Pretty impressive guy in my opinion. He worked hard and eventually spent all his time at Salem Plumbing Supply. When his health deteriorated, he passed Salem Plumbing Supply down to his son, Ralph, who eventually turned it over to his son, me! We have all made our contributions to the business, first by starting it, then by adding Designer Bath, a decorative bath and kitchen showroom, moving the facility to Beverly, opening Salem Plumbing Supply locations in Gloucester and Danvers and a big beautiful Designer Bath showroom in Watertown. We are continuing to innovate and expand our ability to provide the items and service our customers have known us for by converting part of our Beverly showroom to an OUTLET area. This is the next chapter in our story. Onward to the next 80 years!

Speaking of someone who took a chance and is achieving success through a strong combination of talent and dedication, we would like to introduce you to this month’s guest blogger, Regan Couto of AGC. We have known Regan for years as she has taken over more and more of the design projects at the firm. When she bought the company from its founder last year, we cheered for her initiative and are enjoying watching AGC continue to grow.

All the best in 2025,
Jason Sevinor
President

Regan Couto is passionate about mentoring and teaching others about the design industry, and has been an integral part of the growth and development of AG&Co for the last 12 years. On July 1st 2024, Regan acquired AG&Co. She is looking forward to continuing the legacy of the company. She loves all things related to design, and strives to create spaces that exceed the expectations of her clients.​

OCEANIA 60″ PURE ALCOVE BATHTUB

I love how Oceania’s Pure Alcove 60″ soaking tub is streamlined and simple. There are no extra lines on the interior or exterior. It’s great as a soaking tub, especially in a space where you only have a traditional alcove and can’t do a bigger freestanding tub. It’s always an in-stock item at Designer Bath, so it’s readily available. Typically, this would be paired with clean and non-fussy shower fixtures, but it could also go with something classic as well. It really gives you the best of both worlds because the style is so sleek.

STRASSER ALKI VIEW VANITY IN RIFT WHITE OAK

This Strasser vanity was a new product for me — they recently added it to the displays at the Designer Bath showroom. I love how it gives you that luxurious white oak finish that everyone is captivated by right now without having to do anything custom. I would pair this with a lovely Crosswater or GRAFF faucet. They have a sink in the showroom that is all-in-one with the top, so it creates a seamless transition, which would be a great way to finish off this vanity. It could easily go with a custom stone top as well.

BLANCO DIAMOND SUPER SINGLE BOWL SINK IN ANTHRACITE

The Blanco Diamond Super Single Bowl Sink is an excellent choice for kitchens. This is for people who are scared of scratching their stainless and terrified of chipping their porcelain or fireclay sinks. It’s made of a resin material and hard to scratch or damage, and does not weigh as much as most other sinks. It also comes in many colors so you can really play up the style in your kitchen, whether it’s white, black, grey, beige, or something in between. My favorite size is the 33” — that’s what I recommend most often for clients.

GRAFF MOD+ WIDESPREAD LAVATORY FAUCET IN BRUSHED BRASS

There are endless options of finishes on the GRAFF Mod+ faucet, which makes it a go-to fixture with a WOW factor. You can customize every detail on the handles — the round portion can be stone, black, or chrome finish — you can do all sorts of mixing and matching. GRAFF does a great job of displaying all the possibilities in a user-friendly way. I think they have 31 different finishes — so many options! You can also choose different arcs on the spout itself. It gives clients the ability to personalize how their faucet will look, which makes it unique to every client.

CALIFORNIA FAUCETS STEAMPUNK BAY WIDESPREAD LAVATORY FAUCET IN ANTIQUE NICKEL FLAT

I’m a lover of California Faucets and this piece is so funky and fun. I’d use this for clients that want something truly unique. I know it has “steampunk” in its name, which can give it a very specific style — but I think it can be used in contemporary, industrial, or traditional settings. The little details and lines are incredible. I feel like every time I see it, there’s something new I notice. If I used this in a bathroom, I’d pair it with an incredible marble top and a simple wood vanity and keep it pretty straight forward and classic.

Read More about AG&Co Interiors’ Showroom...

Announcing New Outlet – Gift Ideas From Our Team — December 2024

By |2024-12-17T14:10:43-05:00December 17th, 2024|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

Big news!! Our Beverly showroom is expanding to include deals & steals. Read on for more…

Hi Everyone!

The holiday chaos has arrived! Each person has the choice to embrace the reason for the season, and I choose family and joy. This month is always exceptionally busy for me as I manage our company and plan for the new year while also trying to savor special moments with family and friends. It’s great to have traditions that create structure around the significant days that mean the most to us. Some of my favorite annual traditions include shopping for gifts with my kids, enjoying the magic of the first snowfall, and skiing and sledding with my boys.

As we prepare for the coming year, I have a BIG announcement that will be revealed in January… and I’m excited to give you a sneak preview! Drumroll, please! Our Beverly showroom will be adding “AND OUTLET” to its identity and offerings. We have been working hard over the past few months to officially kick off this new brand extension. In January, we will host a GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION, so stay tuned!

Since we added our showroom in Watertown in 2017, we have been trying to highlight the differences between our two locations and how we can customize each site to accommodate specific shoppers. The “AND OUTLET” in Beverly will feature dedicated areas showcasing deeply discounted items. These may include returns, discontinued items, or displays we want to move out to make room for a fresh look. Additionally, we will offer a few lines with more value-oriented pricing for those who desire quality at a lower price point than what we have provided in the past. We hope you are as excited as we are about this initiative!

To spark your interest in our latest venture, we asked members of our Beverly team to share which products from the “OUTLET” area excite them the most and that they can’t wait to promote to customers. Instead of featuring a guest blogger this month or listing possible gifts that could be wrapped and placed under the tree (like a shiny faucet or a massaging showerhead!), we will highlight the favorites picked by our associates. However, if you want one of these items, you’ll need to come by soon—once they’re sold from the OUTLET, they’re gone!

Wishing you and your family a happy and healthy month filled with cheer.

Yours truly,
Jason

JASON’S PICK: LACAVA VANITY

Jason’s pick from the Beverly Outlet area is this gorgeous walnut vanity by Lacava. It has tons of storage and retails for $5,755, and it’s on sale now for $799 — wow! Don’t wait on enjoying a luxury vanity for less.

BEEZEE’S PICK: OMNIPRO SINGLE HANDLE FAUCET

This OmniPro kitchen faucet is both sleek and functional — a true crowd favorite. Normally running for $200-$300, it’s now on sale for $99 — what a deal! Right now we have five of them.

ANNMARIE’S PICK: NEWPORT BRASS KITCHEN FAUCET IN POLISHED NICKEL

This luxurious and stylish kitchen faucet in polished nickel would be the centerpiece of any kitchen. It lists for $1,526 and is on sale for $99. This one’s going to go quick!

SARAH’S PICK: FAIRMONT DESIGNS RIVER VIEW 48″ FARMHOUSE VANITY

We admire the warm, solid pine of this River View vanity. It brings an easy, natural look and lots of space to any bathroom. This fabulous piece retails at $5,010, and is on sale only at our Beverly outlet for $1,499. What a steal!

GEORGE’S PICK: TIMBERLINE FLUTED VANITY

This beautiful fluted walnut vanity with black hardware from Timberline just sold for $499. The normal price would’ve been $3,500. Hurry up and get here before other great deals like this are gone!

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Ruhl Jahnes’ Showroom Favorites — November 2024

By |2024-11-20T13:00:26-05:00November 20th, 2024|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

Siblings Jason and Mindy Sevinor always enjoy welcoming people to their showrooms.

Hello!

This is the time of year when all I want for Christmas is a few more hours of daylight!

We started the month of October with great news – we won Best of Northshore Home! In the bathroom category, we placed first with both Northshore Magazine Editors and Readers when they picked their favorite supplier of decorative plumbing fixtures. Awesome!!! The Northshore is where we began our business almost 80 years ago. It means a lot to us that year after year, our local community has picked us as the best of the best when it comes to the pretty things they need for their bathroom. Winning this award feels amazing – every time! As always, I attribute being the best to the dedication and hard work of our team. They’re the differentiator!

And then… we won BEST OF BOSTON HOME!!! We are so proud of this very prestigious designation. It is truly an honor to be chosen to be in this unique group of suppliers who go above and beyond for their customers. We are incredibly grateful to be recognized and applauded for our efforts.

Besides enjoying these fabulous achievements and accolades, we recently hosted an event for PRO NE (Professional Remodeling Organization of New England). Giving back and connecting with our professional peers is a priority. More than 100 people came to our Watertown showroom to learn more about project management from renowned speaker Tim Faller. We feel providing opportunities for people to learn more about their craft and how to succeed in business is part of our responsibility. It was a massive success! We had a great time catching up with our colleagues in the industry, made some new friends, and learned a lot. Good times!

As we approach Thanksgiving, please know how thankful I am that you allow us to serve you, to be a resource, and to continue to do what we love, creating amazing bathrooms and kitchens!

And now for this month’s featured blogger. We got to know architect Will Ruhl when we helped him with his own home many years ago. We were glad to have the chance to get to know his business partner and fellow architect, Sandra Jahnes, by inviting her to be our guest blogger. For us, one of the best things about their firm is that it is just down the street from our Watertown showroom. It’s nice to have such great neighbors!

With gratitude,
Jason

RUHL | JAHNES Architects is an award-winning firm renowned for designing warm, modern architecture for joyful living. Each project is tailored to the unique circumstances of the client and their site, and delivered with exceptional attention to detail.

As we walked through the Designer Bath Showroom, we found ourselves creating a theme amongst the items: space saving but luxurious. A lot of times in urban environments, we are required to optimize a tight spot with limited square footage. The items we picked enhance the user experience even when space is limited.

FRANZ VIEGENER EDGE CROSS WIDESPREAD LAVATORY FAUCET IN POLISHED ROSE GOLD PVD

This is a unique attention-seeking faucet by Franz Viegener. We were drawn to this piece as the ideal item to pair with a more modest vanity. We loved its crisp edges and stunning finish. It feels like a basic faucet, but every little detail is well thought out and special to the user — from how it captures reflected light in its edges to the feel of the two rectangular cross-knobs. We could use this in a powder room where you’re trying to make a statement or in a primary bath.

LACAVA ELEGANZA WALL MOUNT VANITY

We often run into situations where we are forced to work on a smaller scale, and rather than going the custom route, we’ll look for modest pieces like this LaCava vanity. It does a great job of maximizing the function of a hand sink while having sculptural flair — the curvature on the front was very attractive to us. When we opened it, the front door had an interesting storage shelf built into it, so I could imagine it being effective for powder room storage. It comes in a single or 3-hole version, so you could pair it with a faucet that really makes an impact.

DORNBRACHT SERENITY SKY+ RAIN PANEL

In general we try to stay away from too much visual clutter so the space can feel bigger and more calming. By doing that you get a Zen, resort-like feel, where you’re taking more notice of your overall environment than the specific fixtures themselves. This piece can almost be integrated into the architecture, the way it can sit flush in the ceiling. It creates a gorgeous rain head vibe. I was amazed by all of its little features – that together work to create a very luxurious shower experience.

CROSSWATER TAOS BACK TO WALL BATHTUB

We really liked the shape of the Crosswater Taos Back to Wall Bathtub — barely rectangular with these elegant radiused corners. It has a beautiful crisp finish and tapers to a gorgeous narrow edge around the lip of the tub. What appealed to us about this tub is sometimes you don’t have the space for a freestanding tub or don’t want to clean behind it; the fact that it’s anchored to the wall makes it both sculptural and functional. I could see it paired nicely with a natural stone wall. It’s a simple, stand-alone piece that would complement a lot of other design elements.

TOTO RP COMPACT WALL HUNG ELONGATED TOILET

The TOTO RP is a really reliable, go-to toilet for us. We’ve found that a large majority of our clients want wall-hung toilets. It gives you more space in front of the toilet and you also don’t have to look at the tank. It’s so much easier to clean when you don’t have to get around the base. This particular toilet we like and specify a lot because it has good technology and pairs well with bidet seats. It’s a solid base you can add on to with other things.

Read More about Ruhl Jahnes’ Showroom...

Robin Gannon Interiors’ Showroom Favorites — October 2024

By |2024-10-15T15:22:09-04:00October 15th, 2024|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

Jason and Mindy at a recent event with designers and architects.

Hi Everyone!

Happy fall! The days are getting shorter, and the cooler air is more noticeable. Changing seasons is part of being a New Englander. It does no good to fight it and as I’ve gotten older, I’ve become better at going with it. Winter is coming, but not yet! Let’s enjoy the colorful leaves, the bright sunshine, and the great sleeping weather.

I’ve been spending some time thinking about connections. We like to think we have a “relationship” approach to business, versus a “transaction” agenda. This overall philosophy impacts the way we do business. We foster a belief that if we do the right thing for a client, the bottom line will work itself out. This was a topic of discussion at a recent industry dinner I attended. Truthfully, sometimes I wonder if “doing the right thing” in business matters as much as it used to. Big business doesn’t always do the right thing, however, those companies can be incredibly profitable. I’m happy to report the people in attendance at the event said they felt it does make a difference to have empathy and to sincerely care about your employees and your customers. While we have a business that has needs too, if we do the right thing, in my experience the business needs are met. We’re going to continue to go old school. Empathy is our ride-or-die.

Recently the team at Robin Gannon Interiors paid us a visit at our Watertown Showroom. Lots of laughs were shared when discussing options for our blog. They are an upbeat group and clearly love working together. They have established a reputation as one of the top design firms in the area, with an emphasis on color and layering to create a look that resonates with their clients.

Yours,
Jason Sevinor
President

Robin Gannon Interiors is an award-winning, full-service interior design firm based in metro Boston, renowned for their use of color, pattern, and layers. Since 2009, they have been dedicated to making each home not just a place to live, but a true reflection of every client’s personality and soul.

SAMUEL HEATH FAIRFIELD FAUCET

We were attracted to the lines of this piece by Samuel Heath and the walnut accents instantly caught our eye. We don’t typically see wood on bath fixtures, so the lever detail really stood out to us. This would be a jewel piece, front and center in a powder room. With the gorgeous detailing, we would probably choose to pair it with other wood elements in the space.

STONE FOREST CALMA BATHTUB

This Stone Forest tub is such a showstopper — it was one of the first things we noticed when we walked into the showroom. We love pieces that have natural and individual qualities — pieces with a story to tell. Even if someone encounters a similar tub, it won’t be exactly the same as this one — that uniqueness stood out to us.

FRANZ VIEGENER CLASSIC WIDESPREAD FAUCET

We were captivated by the lines of this Franz Viegener faucet. We love that it blends modern and traditional styles — it would work nicely in a variety of spaces. You can feel the weight of the piece as you operate the levers — quality you can touch is a really important factor for us in selecting fittings. This would be particularly beautiful in a primary bath. It would pair well with another special piece, such as an elegant wooden vanity or an antique mirror.

CROSSWATER BELGRAVIA EXPOSED SHOWER SET IN POLISHED NICKEL

We’re huge traditionalists at heart, so exposed shower sets always speak to us. Anything where you can see the inner workings is exciting! We love a piece that harkens back to showers of yore and vintage bathrooms. This Crosswater Belgravia Exposed Shower Set deserves to be seen. Often, we try to hide shower fittings because they’re not the most attractive fixtures, but we love highlighting those jewelry moments. It becomes a feature of the shower rather than the necessity of the shower.

THE GALLEY WORKSTATION

The Galley Workstation is incredible. It’s so versatile and a great use of space within a kitchen. Everyone loves to have a nice big sink; but often, we’re remodeling older New England homes where the kitchens are tiny. Because of that, we see a lot of multipurpose items that serve as sink surfaces and washing stations. The design of The Galley Workstation optimizes the work area in an attractive manner – the sink is amazing.

Read More about Robin Gannon Interiors’...

S+H Construction’s Showroom Favorites — September 2024

By |2024-09-09T15:33:50-04:00September 9th, 2024|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

Time with the boys. Making summer memories!

Hi Everyone!

How is the transition to fall going? I love cool mornings and warm days, but I admit to struggling a bit to appreciate the early evenings as the days get shorter.

My sons are back at school. This time of year always seems like the start of things – much more so than the beginning of the calendar on Jan 1. During my recent two-week staycation, we had lots of opportunities to connect and laugh together. For me, this makes their transition back to the structure and responsibilities of being in a classroom easier. Instead of being silly and talking about nothing and enjoying being in the moment, we are now busy and our conversations often focus on logistics and stuff that needs to get done. I’m grateful that we were able to share such valuable down time as it helps us know one another in a deeper way.

Speaking of my staycation, everyone who told me that two weeks off is dramatically different than one week was right! Going into an extended time away from the office felt like a big deal. During the first week, it was hard not to think about work. But I knew my team had everything under control. It was my time to check out. What a relief! It felt so healthy and nourishing to clear my head and enjoy the little things. I am grateful I was able to take this stretch of days to renew and revitalize my passion for our family business, my love for the outdoors, and my enjoyment of the many activities that are available in our beautiful New England region. Have you visited York’s Wild Kingdom? I have to say, my boys and I had such a blast there. It was like an amusement park with animals. And so close to home!

This month’s guest blogger, Sarah Lawson, is the owner and president of S+H Construction. She took over the business about eight years ago after working there with the founders Alex Slive and Doug Hanna for over seven years. She was introduced to the world of building by her dad and followed this interest after a short stint in the tech world. I was fascinated to learn that she is also a competitive runner and travels the world for elite races. So cool.

If you visit one of our showrooms soon, please ask the receptionist if I am available. I would be glad to come over to say hello!

Yours,
Jason Sevinor
President

Think women don’t own construction companies? Meet Sarah. She was raised in Lincoln, MA, and learned how to build things from her father, a mechanical engineer. Her first construction job was framing residential renovations in the summer during college. After 15 years as a technical writer, Sarah decided to go another way and returned to construction, working for a small builder. Not long after, she started her own small general contracting firm, and eventually, she landed at S+H Construction in 2006. Ten years later, Sarah purchased the award-winning firm and is now building on the company’s past success and paving the way for a fresh new future. Aside from owning and running S+H, Sarah is the mother of six children, as well as a grandmother of seven, a Masters Track and Field competitor, and in her spare time (what spare time?), she plays the stand-up bass.

THE GALLEY WORKSTATION

The number one reason I love The Galley Workstation? “Hide the dirty dishes.” When your friends are coming in seven minutes, and you’re chopping the crudité — you can hide the evidence. I can just imagine cutting and pushing the food right into the in-built colander. And it looks great!

FRANKE UNIVERSAL ROLLER MAT IN STAINLESS STEEL

I’m such a fan of this roller mat by Franke. I actually just got one and it’s beautiful, versatile, and compact. The stainless steel rods are perfectly manufactured and the rubber is heavy. And it’s not just one strip of rubber — it actually bumps up over all the rods — so graphically, it’s a beautiful object. You can roll it right up and store it under your sink. And then when you’re hand-washing pots, you can dry them over the sink. Makes so much sense.

SIDLER QUADRO MEDICINE CABINET

This Sidler medicine cabinet is perfect for doing your makeup because of the way the light goes around the whole thing. And it’s big and beautiful. The light is very informative and flattering. It’s incredibly well done. You don’t normally look at a medicine cabinet and say, “That’s gorgeous; it’s so simple.” But with this one, you do.

MTI JULIET FREESTANDING BATHTUB

First of all, the MTI Juliet is matte — it’s not one of those shiny tubs. It looks like it’s carved out of some beautiful stone that you’ve found on a beach in Greece. I got in it, of course. Some tubs have a sharp angle inside, but when you sit in this one, you can feel it has a smoother transition. It has the perfect amount of lean.

CALIFORNIA FAUCETS TAMALPAIS WIDESPREAD LAVATORY FAUCET IN CARBON PVD

You really notice the difference in high quality plumbing fixtures, like this piece by California Faucets. The movement, the weight, the feeling. It’s beautiful, simple, and of good quality. It looks so modern and fresh to me.

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Eighty-Two Ninety-Two’s Showroom Favorites — August 2024

By |2024-08-15T14:18:00-04:00August 15th, 2024|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

Woohoo! We are celebrating our company’s 79th anniversary. Feeling fortunate to keep the family tradition thriving and to move into our 80th year in business!

Hi everyone!

At the beginning of the month, Salem Plumbing Supply and Designer Bath celebrated 79 years since its inception. The weekend prior, I brought my boys into my office and Jack was looking at some old pictures – some of which were from when my dad was my age. Jack said, “Is this grampy?!” I said, “Yes it is!” It’s hard to believe we’re three generations into our business with the fourth generation picking weeds out of our landscaping at the front of our building. Business is not easy or for people who want to take the easy path. What keeps me going is getting to work with great people like our team members and our customers. Thanks for bringing us into our 80th year! Next August we’ll be celebrating a BIG ONE! 80, we’re coming for you!

One thing about being at the helm of a company is that you can feel like you are caught in the middle of a hamster wheel. You are working working working, but there is always so much more to do. While I try to preach balance as a priority to my family and colleagues, I have a tough time practicing it myself. So… for the first time ever, I am about to embark on a TWO WEEK staycation. What a luxurious concept. Two weeks away from email and voicemail and lists and responsibilities … can I do it? I know my team can manage everything while I am out of the office . They are amazing. And I know that it is important to regroup and recharge. I am trying to model what I espouse and what I know to be a best practice. I know it doesn’t sound painful or difficult and I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to take this break, but it is surprisingly hard to step away. I am committing to it and putting it out here, in print, to make myself accountable. Wish me luck!

Our bloggers for this month are a very talented husband and wife team. Respectively, they serve as architect and designer for the newly established firm Eighty Two Ninety Two. We have known each of them for many years as they honed their craft at some of the best known and highly acclaimed architectural firms in Boston. We are excited to see what they can accomplish as they merge their skills and experience to create beautiful and functional homes for their clients. Without further ado, here are Thomas and Molly Jonak and their five favorites from our Beverly showroom.

Best,
Jason Sevinor
President

Molly and Thomas are the founding principals behind Eighty-Two Ninety-Two Architecture & Interiors. They are a design-driven, value-added architectural and interior design firm and they believe that their work can positively impact their clients’ lives, businesses, and families.

SHAWS SHAKER FARMHOUSE FIRECLAY KITCHEN SINK

This is a classic look that could be used in a kitchen or laundry space, depending on the project. I could see it being paired with more of a traditional, widespread, lever handle faucet. You can’t go wrong with that combo. House of Rohl’s Shaws Collection has been around forever – which means in terms of quality, you know you’re getting something good.

NANTUCKET SINKS VICTORIAN FIRECLAY UTILITY SINK

I absolutely love this sink; it’s my favorite one in the showroom. I could totally see it in a laundry room and I love it for the powder room concept I’m currently working on. I’d pair it with a traditional widespread faucet or a classic faucet with lever handles and a spot on top of the faucet with a soap holder. It almost has a historic or antique vibe. It’s a utility sink that can be dressed up to achieve a more fun, vintage look.

VICTORIA & ALBERT VETRALLA FREESTANDING SOAKING BATHTUB

We came across this tub for the first time in the Designer Bath showroom. Victoria + Albert seems like a really versatile brand. The shape is streamlined, simple, clean, and on the more modern side — it would go nicely with more contemporary finishes. We love the floor mount tub filler options to go with this. This tub would be a focal point in a primary bathroom. It conveys a point of view and makes a statement.

CROSSWATER UNION WIDESPREAD BASIN FAUCET ROUND IN UNLACQUERED BRASS

I spotted this Crosswater faucet from across the showroom and immediately thought it had a wonderful scale and aesthetic. We’ve done some historic homes — there’s something about living in New England where you see these pieces that have a weight to them; they’re substantial but can still be stylish and elegant. It can hold its own in any setting and stand out in a positive way.

CROSSWATER RESSA WALL MOUNT TOILET

Wall mounted toilets have a bunch of positives. They’re really great for places where cleaning can be an issue — mud rooms, Airbnbs, a children’s bathroom — spaces where you want something that’s easily cleanable but also looks nice. You get high function without too much fuss. It’s not meant to stand out, it’s designed to be extremely pragmatic. And a big plus is that this one doesn’t look like a commercial toilet, like some options tend to do.

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111works Showroom Favorites — July 2024

By |2024-07-02T07:02:20-04:00July 2nd, 2024|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

I recently bought a boat and have been enjoying one of my favorite summer activities with my boys.

Hi Everyone!

How is your summer going? I live on the Northshore and feel grateful to have the opportunity to take a short drive to the beach on the weekends and occasionally after work. When it is hot hot hot during the middle of the day, there is usually a cool breeze coming off the water. No matter what the weather, the ocean looks beautiful and has a calming effect on me.

This year, I have reconnected with one of my former hobbies related to my affinity for the seashore. I bought a boat! As a teen and young adult, going out on the water and sailing around was one of my favorite pastimes. I am hoping that my boys will share my love for water sports. I feel like sailing together creates great bonding moments. We are together, without the distraction of other people, and we have something to do, which keeps us busy in a companionable and (mostly) stress-free way. I especially like that boating is a time to put down the phones and other technology and enjoy nature.

What do you like to do in the summer? Do you like to stay local and take advantage of all the special spots in New England or do you enjoy travel? Do you settle in with a good book at a pool or on a porch, or are you more interested in getting outdoors and doing something active? Or maybe a combo of all these things?

I wish you lots of time this summer to enjoy whatever helps you to relax and recharge. May the sunshine and warm temperatures put you in vacation mode even amid a busy work week or schedule filled with lots of to-do items. Cheers to slowing down and savoring the summer season.

We are excited to introduce you to an architect who has been doing amazing work for years in the metro Boston area and recently opened her own firm. We have been impressed with her talent and the stunning homes she has designed. We look forward to watching her company grow. Without further ado, our July blogger is Chandon Georgian of 111works.

Jason Sevinor
President

Chandon Georgian, founder of 111works, takes pride in designing custom homes that provide a sense of comfort, quality and joy. She carefully considers every detail, be it as small as a cabinet pull or as prominent as the design of the front elevation and entry portico. With over two decades of experience in New England and across the country, she has the depth of knowledge, breadth of experience and open-minded vision to bring your project to life.

JULIEN FIRA COLLECTION BAR/KITCHEN SINK

The Julien Fira combines the practical advantages and conveniences of all workstation sinks with a more relaxed look. It channels a transitional aesthetic, so people can use it in both modern and casual settings. It would be charming installed under a window in a butler’s pantry overlooking a garden.

FRANZ VIEGENER NEREA FAUCET IN POLISHED CHROME

The Nerea is elegant and understated, but the fluted knobs add a bit of luxury and whimsy. Though it is creative and highly detailed, it doesn’t draw undue attention to itself and allows the rest of the bathroom to shine. It would pair well with modern bathroom finishes that integrate sophisticated materials like natural stones and handmade tiles. The combo of its sleek silhouette with organic touches would create a room with warmth and depth.

CROSSWATER TAOS BATHTUB IN WHITE SEMI-GLOSS

The Crosswater Taos Bathtub allows for the look of a freestanding tub in a smaller bathroom because it is installed tight to the wall. It would work well with a wall mounted toilet and vanity along with a curbless shower giving the room an open modern feel. With all of the bath furnishings floating except for this tub with its slender and clean lines, a smaller bathroom can feel open and spacious.

DORNBRACHT TARA ULTRA HOT AND COLD WATER DISPENSER IN CHROME

The Dornbracht Tara Ultra water dispenser has a sharp look. It has one job, to give you hot and cold water, and the quiet and elegant design is in keeping with its one job. When paired with this water dispenser, the main kitchen faucet can be the star of the show as it should be.

ROHL EXPOSED SHOWER SYSTEM

When I visited the Watertown showroom to pick out my favorite items, it was just starting to get hot and summertime felt like it had finally arrived. I thought this would be a wonderful outdoor shower set to use after a day at the beach. Practically, it will be easier to disassemble in the fall to winterize it and protect against frozen pipes with the exposed plumbing but seeing the pipes and fasteners gives it a natural and pleasant feeling that is right at home in an outdoor shower.

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Woodmeister Master Builders Showroom Favorites — June 2024

By |2024-06-06T14:48:21-04:00June 5th, 2024|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

Going to Disney with my boys was an experience we won’t forget! Seeing their facial expressions as they experienced all that Disney has to offer was the best part.

Hi Everyone!

I am back from my trip to the Magic Kingdom with my two sons and yes, I would agree that it is truly magical. Disney takes its mission of providing an exceptional experience to guests VERY seriously. We were awed by the production of all the things – from the rides to the parades to the fireworks. It was all done well, with an attention to detail that is an inspiration to anyone in hospitality.

Although we are not in the hospitality industry, we still regard visits to our showroom as an experience. We constantly consider the way we welcome people, the layout of displays, and our interactions with clients with a goal to be perceived as warm and inviting. We like to think that we view our connections with customers as relational versus transactional. My trip to Disney has me thinking about ways to enhance our delivery of these key components and how we may be able to tweak and adjust our approach to make it even better.

For the second half of June, I will admit that our Beverly showroom may not look its best and our service may not be quite as responsive as our typical way of doing business. We kick off our Annual Sale on Saturday, June 15th. It can get hectic !!! We will have a tent in our Beverly parking lot and everything will be marked down dramatically. We will have other items with deep discounts on tables inside, which makes things a little crowded and chaotic. However, it’s totally worth the trip. Especially on the first day (we are open until 4 pm- usually we close at 1 pm on Saturdays), there are always amazing deals and steals. Everything in Watertown will be discounted as well, but the tent is only in Beverly. The sale runs through Saturday, June 29. If you need a toilet that is more efficient, want to replace a shower head to get a better flow, covet a shiny new faucet for your powder room, or begin the remodel you always wanted, now is the time to buy!

To get back to my adventure with Mickey, Minnie, and the rest of the characters, I have to say it is featured in a prominent spot on my highlight reel of fatherhood. This month, we salute all dads on June 16 when we celebrate Father’s Day. I am grateful to my dad everyday. And I am grateful to be a dad. Lots of blessings to think about this month for sure.

I would like to introduce you to the design team at Woodmeister Master Builders. While Woodmeister is considered one of the premier builders in New England, they also have an impressive design team that can add style and pizzaz to a construction project. We had fun with them as they roamed around our Watertown showroom to find their favorite items. It’s always tough for a group to narrow their selections down to five. Kudos to the team for their final choices!

 

Until next month,
Jason Sevinor
President

Woodmeister Master Builders, a multi-generational family owned and operated firm based in Holden, MA, pride themselves on over 40 years of building extraordinary homes with a craftsman’s approach to exacting detail and artistry. From millwork to new construction to home renovations, their approach to building is always marked by uncompromising standards and quality.

THE GALLEY IDEAL WORKSTATION 5S IN AMERICAN BLACK WALNUT

Our team is very utility-driven, which is why we use The Gallery Workstation regularly for client projects. When someone is looking for a highly functional sink area where they can strain, drain, wash, prep, and do it all, we recommend The Galley. And because we’re a custom cabinet company, we can build out cabinetry to accommodate a sink like this.

ZIP WATER HYDROTAP IN BRIGHT CHROME

We were impressed by the Zip Water HydroTap. We like how so many different water types are consolidated into one simple interface, and how the carbonated filtered water and the hot water are both automated so you don’t need additional appliances. We have clients who have their own wet bars and could see them using a dedicated faucet like this that could dispense all three water types in one.

SIDLER QUADRO MEDICINE CABINET

We like the modern clean lines and the floating, glowing look of the mirror. We use this aesthetic a lot with the light feature. It’s good for small bathrooms where you’re looking to add more concealed storage behind the mirror.

STONE FOREST CALMA BATHTUB IN MARQUINA TAUPE MARBLE

The Stone Forest Calma Bathtub is overall a striking piece because of its scale and the fact that it’s carved out of one single block of stone. It’s also very comfortable. Overall we like the look of the dark marquina taupe marble used. We have used Stone Forest for several of our clients in the past for custom stone vanities and stone fire pits, and we’ve used a similar stone bathtub.

WATERSTONE ENDEAVOR WHEEL PULLDOWN FAUCET IN MATTE BLACK WITH BRONZE ACCENTS

We picked the Waterstone Endeavor pulldown faucet mainly for the aesthetics. A lot of the Woodmeister team members have engineering backgrounds, and this captured the eyes of a lot of people in the department because of the overall design. We also like the look of the flat black with bronze accents — it’s very appealing. This would be one that would need a suitable home – but it would be an accent piece or focal point in a kitchen because of its intriguing composition.

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