Letters from Jason

FBN Construction’s Showroom Favorites — June 2023

By Lauren Metter|2023-06-13T10:23:20-04:00June 13th, 2023|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

Recently, we partnered with GRAFF to host an afternoon tea at the Boston Public Library as a thank you to our guest bloggers throughout the years.

Hello!

When I think about Designer Bath and Salem Plumbing Supply, I consider the most important aspects of our brand. I always want to make sure we are focused on these priorities in everything we do. By defining our brand, what it means to us and what it means to our customers, we are able to identify our “true north” and have an understanding of our core values.

One of the qualities that I try to emphasize both at work and in my personal life is the feeling of gratitude and appreciation. We cannot be successful as a business without customers and we want to take advantage of all available opportunities to express our thanks. Recently, we hosted a delightful tea at the Boston Public Library for people in the design/build industry who have served as our guest bloggers. It was a lovely afternoon event. There was no big presentation or educational seminar. It was all about community and relationships. Our goal was to pamper these people who spent time and effort to do something for us.

The tea at the Boston Public Library was an example of our efforts to nurture and support our trade partners. These are people who work with homeowners and recommend our products and services to them. For the homeowners themselves, we also wanted to say thank you. In this instance, we decided that bringing back our Annual Sale would be the best way to offer something of value to this group. Beginning on Saturday, June 17 and continuing through Friday, June 30, we will be marking down prices to their lowest levels of the year. In Beverly, we will also have a tent sale and everything outside will be deeply discounted. We hope that these amazing deals will make homeowners happy, because if our clients are happy, we are happy!

Speaking of relationships, we have had many years of collaborating with the team at FBN. It is one of the largest residential builders in the Metro Boston region. They take care of their clients and manage all the details of significant projects from start to finish and beyond. Larissa Cook serves as the company’s president and came into our Watertown showroom to pick her five favs.

Best,
Jason Sevinor
President

For the past 15+ years, Larissa Cook has been upholding high standards of excellence in the design and building industry. Under her leadership and guidance, FBN Construction doubled in size and grew into the award-winning company it is today. In 2021, she was honored as one of Boston Magazine’s Faces of Women in Design. In her role as president of FBN, she encourages collaboration, communication, and attention to detail.

WATERSTONE ENDEAVOR WHEEL PULLDOWN FAUCET IN MATTE BLACK WITH BRONZE ACCENTS

The matte black finish with bronze accents provides a sleek contrast appearance in the Waterstone Pulldown Faucet. The wheel portion gives it a vintage industrial look. I could see it in a craft space, a fun art studio, or a loft-style apartment in Boston.

LACAVA NAVI WALL MOUNT MIRROR IN WOODEN OR METAL FRAME

The simplicity of the Lacava Navi Wall Mount Mirror’s frame makes it very versatile in wood or metal. When I saw it in the showroom, it had a metal finish, powder-coated in brass. I like that it looked modern and sleek, so it would work well in a contemporary condo bathroom.

ARTELINEA FLUTED BLUE VANITY WITH GRAFF 2/ GRAFF MOD LAV FAUCET IN MATTE BLACK

The rich deep blue color along with the textured appearance of this Artelinea vanity make it a focal piece. The functionality of two drawers is very appealing for storage. The Graff faucet is very pronounced. I love the fact that it was wall-mounted. This would work well in a powder room, paired with wallpaper and the Lacava Navi mirror. I was basically planning how I am going to redo my powder room as we walked through the Designer Bath showroom.

BAIN ULTRA EVANESCENCE OVAL FREESTANDING THERNONASSEUR IN WHITE

Bain Ultra’s elegant oval freestanding tub is in every sense a true soaking tub, perfect for relaxing. We used something similar in a project in Weston recently and it felt spacious. It’s also versatile — we used it in black in a Boston condo with a Japanese-themed bathroom. Because it’s minimalistic, it works in both modern or traditional spaces.

DORNBRACHT CYO THREE-HOLE LAVATORY MIXER WITH DRAIN IN BRUSHED DURABRASS

Dornbracht Cyo’s brushed finish along with the handles are modern, simplistic, and sleek. I loved that the knobs were circular. This could be used anywhere, from a powder room to a master bath.

Carpenter & MacNeille’s Showroom Favorites — May 2023

By Lauren Metter|2023-05-11T08:29:19-04:00May 11th, 2023|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

It’s all about family! Jason and his dad Ralph and sister Mindy at a recent Boston Design Week event.

Hello!

Have you been able to get out and enjoy the longer days and warmer temperatures? I always feel that New Englanders are so starved for good weather that they truly embrace the spring. We all join together to celebrate the moments when Mother Nature cooperates and offers us blue skies and refreshing breezes. It is glorious!

Speaking of Mother Nature, now is the time to applaud the hard work and dedication of moms everywhere. Especially when their children are young, moms are always running around and trying to get it all done. Of course I’m biased, but I believe any mom would appreciate an upgrade in the bath/kitchen realm to make her feel pampered. Who wouldn’t like a new kitchen faucet (the most used “appliance” in the house) or a super-duper shower head, or even a luxurious towel warmer? I extend a big Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there! I am sending these well wishes with extra heartfelt sentiments to my own mom and all the moms on our Designer Bath team. I appreciate you and I am grateful to have you in my life.

And Mother Nature is, of course, all about the great outdoors. We recently hosted an event for people in the design/build industry in partnership with Boston Home magazine and California Faucets. The theme was outdoor living. Since we added the Julien Outdoor Kitchen display to the front area of our Watertown showroom, we have been talking to many landscape designers about integrating it into their plans. Have you seen it? It’s made of marine grade steel with carefully finished edges and closed sections to withstand both the elements and pesky critters. I guarantee that this kitchen set-up will add next level functionality to your outside entertaining and socializing!

This month, our guest blogger is Anne Alberts from Carpenter & MacNeille. The team at Carp Mac has partnered with us on countless projects over the years. They provide design/build services and have many award-winning homes in their portfolio.

Best,
Jason Sevinor
President

Anne Alberts, Head of Interiors at Carpenter & MacNeille, is an award-winning and published designer. Anne champions a multifaceted design approach that blends timeless beauty into clients’ homes across New England, finding inspiration from styles of past and present. An integral member of Carpenter & MacNeille’s leadership team, Anne develops clients’ visual narratives with a foundation rooted in tradition while uniquely capturing and highlighting each individual’s story, creating spaces that truly feel at home.

PERRIN & ROWE GEORGIAN ERA BRIDGE KITCHEN FAUCET WITH SIDE SPRAY IN POLISHED NICKEL

Polished nickel and unlacquered brass are my two go-to finishes, which is what attracted me to this Perrin & Rowe bridge faucet in polished nickel. I admire the stylish combination of the bridge and lever components. And the gooseneck is pretty — shapely and attractive, while the side spray makes it quite useful. Carpenter & MacNeille does a lot of traditional design work, and this faucet fits nicely with various time periods.

CROSSWATER HEIR WIDESPREAD BASIN FAUCET IN POLISHED NICKEL

I’m a big fan of lever handles over cross handles because if your hands are soapy or dirty, you can still easily turn on the faucet. I love the sleek lines on this one. The juxtaposition of a traditional space with a contemporary plumbing faucet is a special unique detail, and I think it’s very fun in a bathroom.

CALIFORNIA FAUCETS FULL SHOWER SET UP IN UNLACQUERED BRASS

I was impressed with the attention to detail that I immediately noticed on this shower display. I love the unlacquered brass finish. It had a really interesting control valve with knurling and graphically interesting numbers telling the temperature. In combination with the unlacquered brass, it looked old without being old.

A brass shower system like this pairs well with almost anything — it would work with a natural stone tile, a simple off-white ceramic, or a bright bold forest green ceramic tile. That’s what I love about brass: it has longevity and an ageless quality, which is something we’re always looking for at Carpenter & MacNeille.

STONE FOREST MILANO VESSEL SINK IN CARRARA MARBLE

Stone is one of those traditional elements that will always be classic in a powder room or a main bathroom. It is beautiful and versatile. It can be paired with wood in the background, more tile, or bright/colorful ceramic tile. The natural veining of the stone is chef’s kiss!

STONE FOREST RENAISSANCE CONSOLE TOP IN CARRARA MARBLE + 4 LEG CONSOLE IN AGED UNLACQUERED BRASS

This Stone Forest vanity is one of my favorites; it’s on my list to use with a client someday. I was entranced with the elegant top and how the gorgeous natural stone was highlighted with the curve and special carving effects. I was struck by how the countertop is integrated with the sink basin — it’s shapely and traditional and beautiful. All of that paired with the brass legs is stunning. I’m a big fan.

I think you could pair this with a hardwood floor, put it in front of vibrant wallpaper or painted paneling with a layer of tile below it. You could place it before a simple plaster wall with decorative lights and a fun statement mirror as well. I love how you can see all the components behind it — even the drain becomes part of the design scheme. It’s all graphic and purposeful.

Lombardi Design’s Showroom Favorites — April 2023

By Lauren Metter|2023-04-20T09:24:21-04:00April 19th, 2023|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

My son is working on developing a bond with one of two kitties who we have recently added to our family.

Hello!

Spring has sprung! I join many of my fellow New Englanders in extending an enthusiastic welcome to the new season. It makes me happy to see the leaves popping out on the trees and signs of life in gardens everywhere. April heralds a more consistent pattern of warmer temperatures and longer days. Yay!

Spring is also traditionally a time that celebrates rejuvenation and a bit of “out with the old, in with the new!” In keeping with this theme, we take a closer look at displays at this time of year. We evaluate what we offer and update the product mix to reflect the requests from our customers and current trends. Have you been to one of our two showrooms lately (Beverly and Watertown)? If it has been a while since your last visit, I promise you will see new items. I really like the new line of Landmade tubs that we have brought into both showrooms. Please let me know what you think!

We also consider our business practices and assess ways that we can do better. This is the key ingredient in our recipe for success. I truly believe that we try harder than our competitors and we care more. This is shown in our efforts to help each person find exactly what they are looking for at a fair price. It is also shown after the sale. People don’t tend to think about warranties and service policies when they buy a decorative plumbing fixture. Certainly most people focus on these concerns when they are buying a car, but not so much with décor selections. Let me tell you – plumbing is complicated! Things happen and you should prioritize working with a company that stands behind the products they sell. We help you decide on what to purchase and then remain available to support you if there are issues in the future.

With the sounds and scents of spring in the air, it is our pleasure to introduce you to our April blogger, team members from Lombardi Design. They are part of an impressive landscape design firm with clients all over the country. As we move towards spending more time outside, it is a good idea to consider the best use of the space and partner with professionals to help you maximize your enjoyment.

Cheers!
Jason Sevinor
President

Gregory Lombardi Design is an award-winning landscape architecture practice with a simple mission: to craft magnificent outdoor spaces for highly discerning clients. Eschewing any single style, our design philosophy calls for the fresh interpretation of timeless principles of order and proportion to create meaningful spaces for our clients. Our aim is to create environments that enhance their surroundings, inspire their inhabitants and awaken the imagination.

JEE-O FATLINE FREESTANDING SHOWER MIXER WITH RAIN SHOWERHEAD IN BRUSHED STAINLESS STEEL

This outdoor shower is a terrific statement piece that we’ve specified a lot. It’s very clean and simple and mounts securely to the ground which is unique. It has a wonderful visual quality that makes it different from anything else out there on the market.

JULIEN OUTDOOR KITCHEN

We’ve recently been introduced to this product line and are really excited about the possibilities. It’s great to have an option for an outdoor kitchen that is watertight and keeps out pests, right off the shelf. The stainless steel is very high quality, and the components are well crafted for outdoor use.

STONE FOREST SALUS POTTING SINK IN HONED BLACK GRANITE AND WOOD STAND IN FIR

We think this is a beautiful option for clients who are looking for a refined yet functional utility or potting sink for their home gardens. The dark granite sink has a very substantial feel, and the fir stand will develop a delightful patina over time.

APTATIONS 10X DOUBLE ARM WALL MIRROR IN CHROME

We love finding ways to extend the time clients can spend in an outdoor shower. Introducing a small luxury item like this is a great way to get yourself ready for the day, whether you are heading to the beach or boardroom.

PERRIN & ROWE GEORGIAN ERA THERMOSTATIC SHOWER SYSTEM IN POLISHED CHROME

For discerning clients looking for an elevated level of luxury, this exposed shower system really fits the bill. It is a versatile and classic look that will fit the bill for both inside and outside bathing environments. The wide rain shower head, polished chrome finish and thermostatic controls will introduce a visual elegance to what can otherwise be a utilitarian looking space.

AnaVera Design’s Showroom Favorites — February 2023

By Lauren Metter|2023-02-09T11:06:21-05:00February 7th, 2023|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

Jason in a helicopter flying over a coffee plantation in Medellin, Colombia during his recent visit.

Hi everyone!

Last month, I was able to fly south to Colombia in South America for a combination of work and fun. Learning about Colombia was fascinating – the people were so friendly and the weather was absolutely perfect – warm and sunny. Travel and experiencing different history and culture is a passion of mine. As they say, it’s nice to be away, but great to come home. (Well, except for the weather part!) I’m looking forward to planning my next adventure with my son Jack to go to Ecuador and the Galapagos islands in July. I’ll be sure to let you know how it goes!

Speaking of counting the days until summer arrives, we have recently hosted a few events to introduce the Julien Outdoor Kitchen. We held a Lunch & Learn at our showroom in Watertown, where we have this beautiful item on display. Two team members from Julien traveled here from their headquarters in Canada and were able to talk in-depth about the construction process and quality of materials. We also went on the road and had off-site meetings at local offices. During this process, we met with a number of well-established and reputable landscape design professionals and they seem very enthusiastic about this product. The line offers a high-quality marine grade steel finish that has been proven to have the capability to withstand the weather conditions that our northeast climate throws at us. If you are lucky enough to live on or near the ocean, you know that these challenges are magnified by the salt air.

I find that outdoor kitchens intrinsically make people think about entertaining on the patio or veranda. This type of visualization is going to have to suffice for the real thing until the temps go up A LOT higher than they are now!

I would like to introduce our guest blogger for the month of February. Ana Bonilla of AnaVera Design has been a valued client of Designer Bath for many years.

All the Best,
Jason Sevinor
President

Based in Newton and serving the Greater Boston Area, Ana Bonilla is the Owner and Principal of AnaVera Design – a full service interior design firm specializing in creating vibrant and timeless spaces. Ana prides herself on building lasting relationships with her clients to ensure each project reflects the homeowner’s unique personality. Ana’s eclectic and colorful designs are influenced by her childhood in Peru, living abroad in Paris, and global travels.

LACAVA ELEGANZA FREE STANDING SOAKING BATHTUB IN MATTE BLACK

The Lacava Eleganza immediately attracted me due to its striking black color and elegant shape — this made an impression on me – it’s a really cool tub. I like how it could work as the room’s showstopper within a more traditionally designed space because it’s not super modern.

SAMUEL HEATH: LMK INDUSTRIAL THERM SHOWER IN URBAN BRASS MATTE

Samuel Heath’s LMK Industrial Therm Shower caught my eye because it is so beautifully made — the craftsmanship is just gorgeous. It almost looks like jewelry with all of the thoughtful details and the exquisite handle. All of the screws used to keep the pieces together are invisible. What you notice are the clean lines and high quality finish. This could work well in either a super modern space or a more traditional space.

FRANZ VIEGENER REVERE WOOD WIDESPREAD LAVATORY FAUCET IN BRUSHED GOLD

I love the combination of wood and metal elements on this Franz Viegener faucet — usually bathroom faucets are all metal with nothing interesting to see. It’s a well-executed design that smoothly balances the combination of two materials in a fixture that is usually one dimensional.

LINKASINK COCO SMOOTH BUILDER’S SERIES IN SATIN UNLACQUERED BRASS

The Linkasink Coco made my list because doing something so different and fresh with a sink is totally unexpected. It would shine as the statement piece of a little butler’s pantry or coffee station. It provides a moment of drama that adds a hint of luxury in a way that is subtle yet also impactful.

ARTELINEA MONOLITE VANITY IN BLUE

The texture, color, and how slick it looks — I love everything about the Monolite Vanity by Artelinea. In a bathroom, where things can be flat and one-dimensional, bringing in this pop of energy and modern design will make the room. It’s almost like an artistic piece of living room furniture rather than a bathroom vanity. Selecting out-of-the-ordinary pieces like this make rooms special for the client.

KitchenVisions’ Showroom Favorites — January 2023

By Lauren Metter|2024-05-01T06:29:00-04:00January 11th, 2023|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

New Color for the New Year!

Hello everyone!

Happy Holidays! It’s a new year and a great time to look at our business from a fresh perspective. Our company’s 77th anniversary last summer was a perfect moment for me and my family to reminisce with stories of the past, while also exploring ways to move the dial forward.

One thing that needed some attention was the exterior of our Beverly store and showroom. We work on the inside, so our focus is usually on updating the décor and displays that people see when they walk through our doors. However, the outside of the building was getting tired and didn’t effectively portray our team’s energy and expertise, which has always been such a source of pride. Every day, our employees demonstrate their product knowledge and commitment to service. We have high standards for them to uphold and I believe we should apply these benchmarks to every aspect of our business. After all, as design professionals know, every detail is important. After a few months of planning, we began renovating and enhancing the curb appeal of our location on River Street. It is a work in progress. We are still waiting on signage and some additional enhancements. What do you think of the changes?

Without further ado, I would like to introduce our bloggers for January. Based in Natick, MA, KitchenVisions just celebrated a decade in business. We’re applauding and congratulating this award-winning design team for reaching this significant milestone.

Best,
Jason Sevinor
President

Founder & Principal designer Jodi Swartz, CKBR, UDCP, became a Certified Kitchen & Bathroom Designer/Remodeler as well as a Universal Design specialist and space planner after remodeling 11 of her own homes. Lead Designer Natasha Young joined the KitchenVisions team in 2020 after spending time as an independent designer and working for an award winning design-build firm.

MADELI ESTATE 36 VANITY IN SAPPHIRE

We love the Madeli Estate as a stand-alone vanity. The metal trim is classy and modern. It’s a very transitional piece — it would fit well into a traditional or modern setting. There are also several options to choose from in terms of the legs and complementary details. We’re doing one now in a cherry finish with a gorgeous burgundy stain and a beautiful bronze metal inlay.

KEUCO MIRROR CABINET

The Keuco LED Mirror Cabinet is only 26 inches high — it would be perfect to tuck into a smaller space, like a powder room in the city. The mirror does it all: it’s very pretty and it offers so much light to frame your face. Light around the side of a cabinet works much better than a recessed light or sconce above a mirror.

WATERSTONE PULL DOWN KITCHEN FAUCET

How cool is the Waterstone Pull Down Kitchen Faucet? When it comes to plumbing, there’s only so much you can really do to innovate and make a kitchen faucet different. These guys really pick it up a step — you don’t usually see faucets that look like this. We imagine seeing this fixture in a renovated, barn-like home or carriage house. It certainly could make a statement in a relatively minimalist space as well. This faucet in and of itself is a piece of art.

NATIVE TRAILS CANTINA BAR SINK IN POLISHED NICKEL

We’re obsessed with this Cantina Bar Sink by Native Trails — it’s like a sparkly piece of jewelry. It is elegant and refined, yet you don’t have to be precious with it. The texture is just stunning. It elicits a sculptured yet informal moment for a chic bar area.

CROSSWATER PATINATO 60 BACK-TO-WALL BATHTUB

The Crosswater Patinato is a fantastic tub — we actually have a picture of it on our website and we just won a PRISM award from BRAGB (Builders and Remodelers Assoc. of Greater Boston) for a primary bathroom with this tub. We love that it’s a freestanding tub but it also attaches to the wall, so you don’t have to worry about cleaning behind it. It’s also comfortable and not so huge that it won’t fit into a smaller space.

Designer Bath Holiday Gift Guide

By Beezee Honan|2024-05-01T06:25:41-04:00December 14th, 2022|Letters from Jason|

A Note From Jason

Our Toys for Tots gift drive was a HUGE success!

Happy December!

We just had our company’s holiday party. The last one we held was in December 2019. I felt grateful in a myriad of ways that we were able to revive the tradition this year. As I looked around the room, I saw faces of people who have been with us for many years and some new ones as well. There were a lot of laughs as we reinvigorated the Yankee Swap and, while there were a bunch of really great gifts that were hotly contested, there were also some very silly ones that kept the mood upbeat and lighthearted. My mom and dad came for the festivities and it was heartwarming to see both my immediate family around the table, as well as my extended work family. Every year at this time I feel thankful to be in such great company.

A huge thank you to everyone who participated in our annual Toys for Tots program. Part of our company culture is to give back to the community. Supporting the Toys for Tots initiative has been something both our customers and our team can get behind and do it together. Each year we get more excited and more passionate to get more toys in order to brighten the hearts of more kids. Next year, please be sure to seek us out, drop off a toy, or make a donation and we’ll do the shopping for you.

On our blog this month, we are going to feature items that were picked by our team members because they would be thrilled to receive them as gifts. There were a couple of fan favorites and a few unique selections. It is fun to see what they chose. As you may have noticed on one of our recent Instagram posts, the singer Drake gave his friend DJ Khaled four luxury toilets as a birthday present. Maybe people should re-think their lists???

May you all enjoy a happy and healthy holiday season. Cheers!

Best,
Jason Sevinor
President

There’s no place like home for the holidays. And while the holly on your own front door may be a pretty sight, the Designer Bath team thinks the *prettiest* sight to see this year would be these luxury bath items under your tree. We asked our staff what’s on their Designer Bath Wish Lists this holiday season. Here are their picks for most coveted gifts!

JASON & AMY’S PICK: CROSSWATER RESSA SPA TOILET

When elegant Scandinavian design meets environmentalism, you get perfection in the form of the Crosswater Ressa Spa Toilet. This sleek newly released toilet allows you to customize your entire bathroom experience, from seat to spray temperature, to positioning and drying functions. The icing on the cake: proceeds of every Ressa are donated to Upstream and support their efforts to eliminate plastic pollution.

MINDY’S PICK: STEAMIST STEAM SHOWER

Is there anything more relaxing and luxurious than a steam shower? Turn your home bathroom into a calming spa oasis with a steam shower from Steamist that’s totally customizable — you can control the steam temperature and duration, and can even add luxury spa features like aromatherapy, lighting, and music. There’s only one thing to worry about: wanting to spend all day in there.

ANNMARIE & PATRICK’S PICK: THE GALLEY IDEAL WORKSTATION 4S

The Galley Workstation represents the next generation of kitchen appliances — it’s a complete culinary system where you can prep, cook, serve, entertain, and clean, all in one compact area. Forget the kitchen explosion that occurs around holiday gatherings; the Galley Workstation will keep everything contained into one convenient (and stylish) area of your kitchen. Beautifully handcrafted in the USA, its dual-tier design allows you to ergonomically chip, strain, and mix to prepare a meal before cooking, then easily transition to a serving station to feed your guests.

GREG’S PICK: ARTELINEA DOMINO VANITY

Artelinea’s Domino line offers a wide selection of combinable units that can be stacked together and bring order to even the most complicated challenges in terms of space and design. The basin tops and units feature a pure white finish, adding a clean, modern touch.

BRIANA’S PICK: RECESSED LED RAINHEAD BY GRAFF

When it comes to this ceiling-mounted showerhead system by Graff, there are always a few questions that have to be addressed: rainfall, rain curtain, or cascade water functions? The personalization options with this Recessed LED Rainhead by Graff, including the choice of six chromotherapy lighting colors, adds to its appeal.

VICI’S PICK: MTI JULIET TUB

Nothing beats a soaking tub timeout after a long winter’s day. MTI’s Juliet is both modern and graceful, with smooth, clean lines that make you want to sink right in. It makes a perfect focal point for any bathroom design.

Mellowes & Paladino Architects’ Showroom Favorites — November 2022

By Beezee Honan|2022-11-16T14:10:00-05:00November 14th, 2022|Letters from Jason, Showroom Favorites|

A Note From Jason

The team at the Watertown showroom are ready to welcome guests prior to our recent PRO NE event.
I couldn’t be there but my dad and sister were happy to represent the Sevinor family.

Hi everyone!

Is anyone actually happy when we turn the clocks back and it gets dark so early? I often feel that this is the moment when the reality of winter approaching really sinks in. And how about making plans to go south? I always find it fun to think about getting away when the weather starts becoming less hospitable.

I just went south, but only to NYC, so it probably doesn’t really count as a trip to chase warm temps and sunshine. My visit to the Big Apple was to attend a gathering of my fellow YPO (Young Presidents’ Organization) colleagues. We met to attend EDGE, the largest gathering of CEOs in the world. It was an opportunity to engage openly, working collectively to become better, not just in business, but in life. I have been a YPO member since 2014 and a board member since 2015.

When we have events at our showrooms, I typically welcome our guests and say a little bit about our company. While I was in NYC attending YPO meetings, my sister Mindy took on this task for an event we did with PRO NE (Professional Remodelers Organization of New England). She rocked it! I had no doubt that she would do an amazing job and I was thrilled to hear the positive reports. In fact, my colleagues who were at the event worked their magic and made sure that all guests had a wonderful time. It was a big success and I am proud of my team. Their professionalism and commitment to pursuing excellence in everything they do enabled me to leave for five days without worry. I am appreciative of their efforts!

Our guest bloggers this month are the architects from Mellowes & Paladino. Individually, they are all talented, experienced, and creative professionals. As a group, they take listening to their clients to another level and the results are spectacular.

All the Best,
Jason Sevinor
President

For more than a quarter century, Mellowes & Paladino Architects have been designing custom residences, new additions, and renovations of existing homes in city, town and coastal settings in Boston and throughout New England.

The team at Mellowes & Paladino Architects share many years of combined experience in the New England Design community. Bob Paladino leads a group of creative, skilled architects and designers who each have expertise in custom, high-end residential architecture and design.

PERRIN & ROWE BRIDGE FAUCET

Our first reaction: this is a forever favorite faucet with classic, clean lines. The bridge design elevates the faucet off the counter, making it a signature focal point in the space. You can control hot and cold water temperature separately, so it’s easy to make small adjustments to get the desired water temperature. The Perrin & Rowe products combine traditional shapes and aesthetics with a record of excellent performance that we’ve come to expect from House of Rohl.

SAMUEL HEATH FAIRFIELD FAUCET WITH WOOD HANDLES IN NON-LACQUERED BRASS

This Samuel Heath Fairfield faucet has handsome wood levers, which would work well for a bathroom off a den or golf room. We also love the range of brass finishes that Samuel Heath offers (pictured here). There are many options if you want the warmth of brass in your space but aren’t ready to fully commit to glassy, old-fashioned brass. We like to think of these contemporary, subtle brass options as “brass lite”, and they work well in all kinds of spaces.

JACLO SHOWERHEAD

We like the chrome faceplate of this Jaclo showerhead — it’s a sleek and fresh aesthetic. The six-function capability is great, and it also has a pause control to conserve water. We particularly love the wet room at Designer Bath in Watertown, where you can see this showerhead installed beside many others. You can turn on each showerhead to test water flow, spray action and other nuances of the various designs. It’s a hands-on experience that we haven’t found in other showrooms, and it’s a great way to find the best option for your bathroom.

CROSSWATER TOILET

It might not be the first brand that comes to mind for toilets, but Crosswater London makes a range of toilets that we source frequently. The Heir Toilet toilet by Crosswater London is very pretty as far as toilets go. We love the skirted design with its subtle curves and simple, flat lid. Most importantly, the seamless, one-piece design also makes it easy to clean.

NANTUCKET SINKS VICTORIAN FIRECLAY SINK

This Victorian Fireclay Sink from Nantucket Sinks is fun! It comes in several colors — a good range to choose from for any space. Because of the three holes, you can get a regular, wall-mounted faucet to go with it. There are lots of flexible applications, and we could see it working particularly well in a pool house, kids’ bathroom or a laundry room.

Charles Street Design’s Showroom Favorites — February 2022

By Beezee Honan|2024-05-01T06:24:57-04:00February 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!

Diane Burcz’s Showroom Favorites — January 2022

By Beezee Honan|2024-05-01T06:26:27-04:00January 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.

Designer Bath’s 2021 Holiday Gift Guide

By Beezee Honan|2024-05-01T06:26:05-04:00December 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!

Read More about Designer Bath’s 2021...

Previous 123 Next