Musings by Mindy – Fall 2020

By |2020-09-25T20:31:34-04:00September 25th, 2020|Uncategorized|

Musings by Mindy

Fall 2020

Mindy Sevinor

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

It would be an understatement to say that a lot has changed since my last blog in March. While this year has brought many new obstacles and challenges, I think many of us have built stronger relationships during this pandemic — with our friends, our family, with nature — and most importantly for this blog post: with our homes. 

Our homes have become more than just the places where we dwell. They’ve become places where we can spend more quality time building memories with our families. They’ve become virtual classrooms and jungle gyms for our kids. They’ve become our home offices, our quiet sanctuaries, our much needed refuges. 

Here at Designer Bath, our clients are fostering a newfound gratitude for where they live. Their homes are becoming more of a priority and getting the attention they deserve: ranging from full renos to finding that perfect light fixture or faucet to finally creating the dream bathroom or kitchen they have always wanted. Homeowners are focused on making their living space a place that’s more functional and enjoyable for their whole family. We are truly proud to have the opportunity to help people during a time when they need it the most. 

Rolling into fall, we’re looking forward to expanding our showroom offerings. This includes the addition of one of the most-anticipated kitchen lines (and one of my personal favorites): Waterstone Faucets. Their wheel pulldown faucets are super unique and different — there really isn’t anything else like it.

I am so happy I can offer this fall edition of Musings by Mindy to bring some positivity and inspiration into your home. So every time you wake up and turn on your new faucet, you have a greater sense of appreciation for your home. Stay safe — we’re all in this together. 

All my best,

Mindy Sevinor
Showroom Brand Manager

New In The Showroom

VENDOR: WATERSTONE WHEEL PULLDOWN FAUCET

Waterstone is reinventing the wheel with their latest pulldown faucet. This innovative design is an anomaly — it is sure to stop your guests in their tracks.

Inspired by the wheel of a ship, the pre-rinse spray arm is spring-loaded and can reach all areas of the sink. Versatile, elegant, and functional, the faucet is available in an amazing 32 finishes. This piece will be the talk of the kitchen.

PRODUCT: CALIFORNIA FAUCETS ARCHED RAIN SHOWERHEAD 

California Faucets does it again! Their arched rain showerhead creates a unique, funnel effect adding a touch of luxury to the bathroom. There is nothing else like this on the market. Other thin showerheads can be a bit basic — this one is structural and sleek. Better yet, it’s offered in 28 different finishes.

Trendspotting

TREND: SPECIALTY FINISHES – VANITY CABINETRY

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again — specialty finishes are what’s hot. Mixed or matte black, they add elegance and personality to a space. This is especially true when it comes to vanity cabinetry. By utilizing one of the many shades of brass, matte black, or a combination of the two, a whole new level of character and personalization is added to the décor. We have now seen this shift carry over into other categories, such as vanities. Not only are we seeing mixed finishes, but now we are also seeing the integration of mixed materials as well.

For instance, the Lacava wall-mounted vanity (left image) shows how finishes can absolutely pop when paired with a bright, white base. Furniture Guild is a great example of mixing metals with wood (right image). While simple in design, it allows room for the finishes to shine. The literal definition of simple but powerful. 

Deborah Berger’s Showroom Favorites — September 2020

By |2020-09-10T13:06:30-04:00September 10th, 2020|Uncategorized|

A Note From Jason

Jason and his family enjoyed their last trip of the summer!

Jason and his family enjoyed their last trip of the summer!

Happy September, everyone!

I hope you had a fantastic Labor Day weekend. It was great to squeeze in some final vacation days before the end of summer. This year has been a whirlwind. I feel that it’s especially important to take some time off to relax, rejuvenate, and recover. I received feedback from our team that they needed a break from the craziness of conducting business in the midst of a pandemic. We decided to give everyone an extra-long holiday weekend so that they had the opportunity to recharge. We will definitely benefit from a renewed sense of energy for the start of the school year.

We’ll be facing additional challenges as students return to the classroom — most of whom will be attending virtually. Both adults and their children are spending more time at home than ever before. Boston Magazine recently wrote a great article on how Covid19 has people reevaluating the design and functionality of their living environments. Whether that means converting your kitchen to an entertainment center with a Galley Workstation sink or upgrading to a double vanity in your master bathroom, now is the perfect time to focus on what will make your space work better, making life easier for you and your family. Need even more inspiration? Stay tuned for our upcoming Instagram giveaway where you could win a signed copy of Elements of Family Style: Elegant Spaces for Everyday Life by Erin Gates! 

Speaking of the virtual world, Designer Bath is thrilled to announce the launch of our online store. Simply click the “Shop Now” button on our website’s home page and you’ll be able to peruse our selection of products. You can create wish lists and/or purchase items. You’ll notice that we have a list of categories on the left-hand side of the page where you can browse through toilets, tubs, faucets, and more. There’s even an “Under $100” category!

It’s my pleasure to introduce our guest blogger for this month, Deborah Berger. After a career in advertising in NYC, Deb moved to Massachusetts and started her successful Boston-based design firm, Maven Design. She joined forces with Lauren Hamilton in 2019 to create AUGUST INTERIORS. Together, Deb and Lauren embrace livable sophistication and lightheartedness in all of their work. We are glad to share Deb’s favorite pieces from our showroom.

Wishing you all a fantastic month!

Best,
Jason Sevinor

President

Deborah Berger's Showroom Favorites September 2020
Deborah Berger's Showroom Favorites

CROSSWATER BALTHAZAR TUB

WITH POLISHED STAINLESS EXTERIOR

Nothing says classic elegance and charm like a free-standing tub. This generously sized piece is wrapped in polished stainless steel, giving it a sense of sophistication. I would place it on top of a marble mosaic floor to give it a high contrast impact.

STONE FOREST ONYX WABI PURPLE SINK

I will never forget when I first saw purple onyx used as a counter material years ago when I was in South Beach, Miami. It was absolutely captivating. I imagine installing this sink in an all-white bathroom for a refined color moment!

FRANZ VIEGENER INDUSTRIAL CHIC WIDESPREAD LAVATORY FAUCET

At August Interiors, we seek lightheartedness and whimsy in just the right places — and that is shown here with this piece from Franz Viegener. The red handles on this gorgeous faucet remind me of a backyard hose or an industrial lab. I’d love to see it in a children’s bathroom or a basement bar. Also, the handles can be modified to come in other colors (think soft pink or navy blue)!

VOGUE COMBI ELECTRIC TOWEL WARMER

WITH INTEGRATED SHELF

A well-designed interior does not ignore a single detail. This heated towel rack is an example of form and function working together beautifully. With the warmest of days behind us this season, we’ll be needing toasty towels soon. It’s a luxurious accessory for special bathrooms.

AFINA RADIANCE VENETIAN SINGLE DOOR MEDICINE CABINET

In hard-working, elegant bathrooms, mirrors should be part of design development right from the start — not just a decorative element added at the end. This piece feels to me like a finely detailed mirror at its core, with the built-in medicine cabinet as a subtle surprise. At first glance, you would not suspect that it does double duty.

Feinmann Inc.’s Showroom Favorites — August 2020

By |2020-08-12T13:38:16-04:00August 12th, 2020|Uncategorized|

A Note From Jason

Jason presenting Salem Plumbing Supply’s 75th Anniversary citation to his father Ralph Sevinor.

Happy August!

I can’t believe it, but the day finally arrived. On Tuesday, August 3rd, we celebrated Salem Plumbing Supply’s 75th anniversary! We’re thrilled to have received an official citation from Governor Charlie Baker, commemorating this milestone for our beloved company. We wouldn’t be here today without the loyalty of our customers, staff and families — and for that, we are eternally grateful.

Come celebrate by shopping with us during the upcoming tax-free weekend! We’ll be doubling the tax-free discount so you can save a total of 12.5%. You can enjoy double the tax savings on Saturday, August 29th at both our Watertown and Beverly showrooms.  Pre-orders will be taken the week of August 24th. Make your showroom appointment today! If you would like to peruse items from the comfort of your own home, you also have the option to shop virtually.  Visit our site now to start shopping!

We had the pleasure of having Lori Pettine and Nicole Malagodi of Feinmann, Inc (virtually) visit our showroom to pick their favorites for this month’s blog. Feinmann, Inc. is an award-winning design-build firm in Boston, Massachusetts with over 33 years of experience delivering innovative kitchen and bathroom designs and quality whole home remodeling and renovations. Lori brings a depth of knowledge of design, product knowledge, and mastery of the materials selection process to her role managing client projects from design through execution. Nicole has worked for years in both residential and commercial construction. Clients benefit from her hard-earned expertise and attention to detail. We are thrilled to share their favorites with you. 

Wishing you a fantastic August!

Best,

Jason Sevinor

President

Feinmann, Inc.'s Showroom Favorites August 2020

STONE FOREST VENTUS BATH SINK

Lori:

The bold presence of the Stone Forest Ventus Bath Sink immediately caught my eye. The piece has substantial presence, but still maintains a comfortable, relaxed feel from the combination of the natural materials used. 

It also presents great practicality with the extra storage space for towels, linen, bath tissue, etc. The side rail can even become a towel bar. This particular piece is able to accommodate all that you’d want in a powder room, but can’t always get in a powder room!

Nicole:

We based many of our selections on this piece. I’m drawn to its masculine feel. Even with its sharp lines, it remains elegant and still has ample space between the shelving. Though it’s not mounted on the wall, it doesn’t take up too much space. 

CALIFORNIA FAUCETS VESSEL LAVATORY FAUCET

AGED BRASS FINISH

Lori:

This faucet from California Faucets works flawlessly with the industrial legs of the Stone Forest vanity. They really complement each other well.

Nicole:

With the nature of the Stone Forest sink, we needed to choose a wall mounted faucet. This particular piece from California Faucets is very similar to the detailing on the stabilizing bar connecting the vanity to the wall. The escutcheon is classic and offers a sense of simplicity.

FAIRMONT DESIGNS REFLECTIONS METAL FRAME MIRROR

MATTE BLACK

Lori:

 When looking straight at the mirror, it looks paper thin. However, when you look from the side, you see the depth. Its frame is about an inch and a half deep. Stylistically, it plays well off of the Stone Forest sink top which has thick lines that only appear thick from one angle. Looking down from above, the sink top looks thin. 

Nicole:

The mirror is similar to the vanity in that it has clean lines and minimal detailing. It also has an industrial, masculine feel — similar to that of the vanity. Yet it presents a juxtaposition with its thin frame which adds a touch of delicacy.

DXV COSSU ONE-PIECE ELONGATED TOILET

Lori: 

 What I truly love about this toilet is that you don’t see the inner workings. The simplicity keeps with the overall theme of the room.

Nicole: 

This piece is sleek with a contemporary feel. It also makes cleaning effortless which is an added benefit when it comes to a powder room!

KARTNERS SOFIA COLLECTION TISSUE HOLDER

Lori: 

This tissue holder from Kartners finishes out the suite. It carries through the feel and flavor of the main furniture piece. You’re also able to slide the toilet paper on and off providing a sense of ease.

Nicole: 

This Sofia Collection tissue holder continues the contemporary theme that was established with the toilet. It even has a similar circular look to the California Faucet piece with very little detailing. This piece finishes out the room with its simplicity and minimalism.

Allison Iantosca’s Showroom Favorites — July 2020

By |2020-07-09T18:28:44-04:00July 9th, 2020|Uncategorized|

A Note From Jason

We’re excited about our upcoming Facebook Live event with renowned business development strategist and author Julie Brown. Networking with Confidence in a Virtual World goes live at 4pm on Tuesday, July 21st.

Happy July!

I can’t believe we are already midway through summer. It is flying by as it always seems to do. Here at the Sevinor household, we have some exciting news to share. We have just welcomed a new, furry addition to our family: Titan. He is an 8-month old puppy from Alabama and has brought so much love and warmth into our family. We are so thrilled for this new adventure — though I cannot say the same for our cats!

In the Designer Bath world, we are wrapping up our Annual Tent Sale this Saturday, July 11th. The biggest discounts can be found on our website via our Online Tent Sale tab. AND THAT PART OF THE SALE IS GOING TO BE EXTENDED! Start shopping now to get amazing deals.

We’re also excited about our upcoming Facebook Live event with renowned business development strategist and author Julie Brown. Networking with Confidence in a Virtual World goes live at 4pm on Tuesday, July 21st. You can register in advance for the opportunity to win a copy of her latest book. We hope you can join us!

Lastly, we are glad to have the opportunity to introduce our July Showroom Favorites by guest blogger Allison Iantosca, owner and president of F.H. Perry Builder. Recently, Allison met with one of our showroom associates via Zoom and selected her favorite pieces by using our 3D showroom tour. Eager to inspire success in others, Allison holds a container in which people grow and become their best selves. She is passionately involved in a range of Boston charities and nonprofits and has been recognized for her leadership and business acumen. During her tenure, F.H. Perry Builder was named one of the Commonwealth Institute’s Top 100 Women-Led Businesses for three years in a row. We are thrilled to share her favorites with you.

Wishing you a fantastic July!

Best,
Jason Sevinor

President

Allison Iantoscas Showroom Favorites July 2020

Designer Bath is so unique for their thoughtful and intentional selection of the items in their showroom. What I love about our partnership is that I can just know that all of their products are deliberately curated at a high level of detail and so will always meet the goals of our projects. I could not have had more fun selecting a few of my “showroom favs”. Each, I hope, represents a classic beauty, a sensibleness, and a bit of whimsy for when it’s called for. Designer Bath, you so get us!

STONE FOREST ROMAN CARRARA MARBLE BATHTUB

When I think about our clients having to make endless decisions, there’s always a couple of factors at play which oftentimes conflict. While trying to be eco-friendly, health-conscious, and avoiding off-gassing, you’re also being asked to contend with a mediocre product in order to get the reassurance that it is safe and healthy.

That’s where this piece emerges as an anomaly. Completely organic with a gorgeous aesthetic, you don’t have to think for a second if it’s going to be unsafe in your home. It’s entirely in its natural form, spectacularly beautiful, and worry-free. I admire this tub for its ability to alleviate all of a homeowner’s concerns and still be a stunning piece of craftsmanship.

GRAFF TERRA WIDESPREAD LAVATORY FAUCET

Quality? Outstanding. Finish? Perfection. Cost? About a third.

So often we have this assumption that a beautiful piece comes with a high price tag. There is a constant dance between quality and cost. That’s why it’s crucial to offer an alternative that is also reasonably priced. I love when budget doesn’t have to win over substance. This Graff faucet is the perfect balance.

UTTERMOST HERLEVA GOLD OVAL MIRROR

You have to have a little glam sometimes. This Uttermost Herleva oval mirror is my go-to “safe” glam. A current “aged” gold/brass finish with a simple style — a lot, but not too much, all at the same time. Refined and adaptable, the mirror reflects the very same qualities as one who might look into it.

EMTEK PASSAGE OVAL ROSETTE HAMPTON KNOB

Timeless — just like we hope to be. Whatever genre you seek to live in, we want it represented with enduring class and perfection. To me, this knob says it all with way less than a thousand words. Class, richness, solidity. It is so complex, yet so simple.

What’s paramount about hardware is its subtlety. If you walk into a home that has this hardware, it signals on some subconscious level the beauty of the home. That’s what we want in all of our projects.

KARTNERS ROUND GRAB BAR

Years ago, safety was a trade-off to elegance. We didn’t like asking our clients to make that compromise. We no longer have to pick an unsatisfying solution! The Kartners round grab bar is the perfect example of this — strong and reliable, without sticking out as an extraneous add-on. It is something so beautiful and refined without oddly standing out.

I love that Designer Bath offers this because they know that it matters. They know people shouldn’t be stuck with these garish, huge accessories in their bathroom. That’s not what people want. People want safety without sacrificing style.

Matt Simitis’ Showroom Favorites — June 2020

By |2020-06-10T20:48:15-04:00June 10th, 2020|Uncategorized|

A Note From Jason

Happy June!

We have added dots on our showroom floors to encourage social distancing. By requiring masks, adding dividers, and using hand sanitizer, we are keeping everyone safe and healthy!

We have added dots on our showroom floors to encourage social distancing. By requiring masks, adding dividers, and using hand sanitizer, we are keeping everyone safe and healthy!

Designer Bath is now open Monday – Saturday by appointment!  It’s exciting to see friendly faces back in our showrooms.  We have missed interacting with our clients in person.  While we are meeting people with safety measures in place, I can tell you there is still a lot of laughing, fun being had and important work getting done.  With our customers returning to our stores and the warm temperatures returning outside, my heart is happy.  Please visit our website for details on making an appointment at Designer Bath with our new protocols in place.

Father’s Day is coming up! Being a dad of 5 and 7-year-old boys has been the most important job of my life and brings me so much pride and joy. To all the dads out there, wishing you an amazing day.  And a BIG thank you to my dad for all you’ve done for me.  You’ve been an inspiration to me and I work hard to have an equally meaningful life.  Thank you for being a great role model.  As we celebrate 75 years in our family’s business, I am proud to carry on our family tradition.  Thank you, dad, for the opportunity.  And to all our loyal customers, staff and families, this couldn’t have been possible without your support. Thank you!

Again, we are truly thankful for you — our customers. If you have worked with us (or currently work with us), we would love to hear from you. We invite you to write a Google review detailing your experiences and thoughts on our business. We appreciate any and all feedback.

Without further ado, we would like to introduce this month’s Showroom Favorites blogger. We had the pleasure of having Matt Simitis of Curl Simitis architecture + design virtually visit our Watertown showroom to choose his favorite pieces. Matt is well-versed in residential and small commercial design work, with over 15 years of experience. A Massachusetts native, he appreciates not only the state’s rich design heritage, but also its cutting-edge spirit. We couldn’t be more excited to share his favorites with you.

Wishing you a terrific June!

Best,

Jason Sevinor

President

Matt Simitis Showroom Favorites June 2020

When selecting my five favorite pieces at Designer Bath, I kept in mind the recent renovation of my home. After years of helping others with decision making for their homes, it was my turn to dive in and decide what styles, products, and colors I wanted to have in my personal space. It was an interesting and enjoyable experience, as I discovered new options that I previously would not have chosen. Taking on the challenges of maximizing space and increasing its efficiency — these pieces are truly problem solvers.

GRAFF CONTEMPORARY BRIDGE FAUCET WITH SIDE SPRAY

What instantly drew me to this piece from GRAFF is the side spray. These days, pullout sprays seem to be a bit ubiquitous – and for good reason, as they are highly efficient and practical. However, the spout pullout sprays tend to be bigger and bulkier, and I loved how separating the two allowed the faucet to be sleek and minimal. An added benefit is that the side spray independently functions with its own controls for volume and temperature – it really hit all the marks for me.

GROHE CHILLED & SPARKLING WATER SYSTEM

Another way I looked at clearing the counter was by reducing the objects that needed space there. At my home, we drink an abundance of sparkling water. Previously, we had a Sodastream carbonator that sat in a corner. We used it all the time, but it never really fit in.

The multifaceted Grohe sparkling water system is the perfect solution for this situation. It’s not as slender as some of the other faucet options we looked at, but it packs a lot into its size. We can use regular water for washing or cooking and then access both chilled or sparkling water with the turn of a knob. Functionally speaking, it ties everything in our wish list together in one fixture.

LACAVA LINEA VANITY WITH UNDERMOUNT PORCELAIN SINK

With two young children, we knew creating a master bathroom was a necessity. Given that space would be carved from an existing bedroom, we had to minimize the size and maximize its efficiency. When I came across this LACAVA vanity, it fit perfectly into our design plan and overall goals.

A double vanity was out of the question, but with a longer top, this single sink vanity offered dedicated counter space that is crucial in a master bath. What we loved, however, was the elegant way the frame was designed to create personal towel hanging at each end as well as the little bit of extra storage below. Just enough extra room for my wife and I to feel like we had our own personal space!

ROBERN UPLIFT CABINET WITH ELECTRIC NIGHT LIGHT AND DEFOGGER

The Robern Uplift cabinet was a crucial piece of our renovation. We knew we needed the storage space a medicine cabinet provides, but also desired a large mirror to help the space feel larger. Once we decided on a single basin, we also knew we wanted to avoid an unappealing hinge down the center of our view.

This cabinet is an ingenious solution to that problem. Functional, while crisp and modern looking, the mirror easily rises up from the bottom to expose the interior with no interruption of the glass. I also loved that we could leave it open just enough to reveal the bottom shelf, and have it act as a niche for everyday items.

GEBERIT SIGMA FLUSH ACTUATOR

In an effort to help a small space look and feel as open as possible, we gravitated to a wall-hung toilet. Typically, these come with a metal plated plate. Seeing that Geberit had a wide range of other optional finishes, I felt that the metal finish would interrupt the clean, light, feel we were going for in the room. This stunning white glass plate with chrome accents really jumped out as the perfect choice. With a high level of detail and materials that feel refined, not plasticy, we knew that we had found a fixture that helped tie together everything we were looking for from the room.

Kyle Sheffield’s Showroom Favorites — May 2020

By |2020-05-07T19:51:55-04:00May 7th, 2020|Uncategorized|

A Note From Jason

Our new banner is up in Beverly! We’re proud to offer contactless pickups, deliveries, and virtual appointments.

Happy May!

As we celebrate the end of April showers, we are embracing the warm New England May weather we know and love. It’s the perfect time to get outside and soak in some Vitamin D — especially if you’ve been experiencing a bit of quarantine cabin fever.

We kicked off May with a successful Facebook Live collaboration with Northshore Magazine. A group of industry experts from Cumar Marble & Granite, Landry & Arcari, Tile By Design, and (you guessed it) Designer Bath, chatted about the latest trends and design tips. If you missed it, you can catch the recording on our website.

Still have unanswered questions about renovating your kitchen or bathroom? You can head to our website and send us a message using our new “live chat” feature. There has never been more ways to get in touch with our showroom staff than now. Whether it’s a live chat, phone call, email, or virtual Zoom meeting — we are here for you!

And don’t forget — this is a friendly reminder that Mother’s Day is coming up on Sunday, May 10th. Is there any better way to show your appreciation for Mom than a luxurious towel warmer? How about a sleek kitchen faucet? Take a look at our gallery for more gift inspiration.

Recently, we had the pleasure of having Kyle Sheffield of LDa Architecture & Interiors (virtually) visit our showroom to pick his favorites for this month’s blog. As a native New Englander and architect for over fifteen years, Kyle has completed numerous residential projects that have focused largely on designs that mediate between contextual New England architecture and the need for more diverse contemporary spatial relationships. He is a hands-on architect who believes in a highly collaborative process, and utilizes his strong design, leadership and communication abilities to ensure every detail is thoughtfully addressed to create a cohesive and timeless result. We are so happy to share with you his favorite pieces from our showroom.

Wishing you a safe and happy May.

Best,

Jason Sevinor

President

Kyle Sheffield's Showroom Favorites May 2020

With the current pandemic we’re facing, we have all been doing our best to stay sequestered safely. That can be challenging at times, and when I was asked to select some items from the showroom, this was really at the forefront of my mind. My picks are coordinated between two rooms: the bathroom and the kitchen. One space is focused on decompression and relaxation while the other is very family oriented. 

In my home right now, we cherish our bathroom as a calm, peaceful space — an interim “spa” as we are not able to go elsewhere to decompress. We’re also doing a considerable amount of cooking and baking, especially with our kids. Our kitchen is getting substantial usage, so it is crucial that it contains products that are both highly functional and multi-purposeful.

MTI JULIET FREESTANDING TUB

The Juliet freestanding tub from MTI has a wonderful sculptural presence with its unique shape. While many acrylic tubs may feel hollow, this tub’s solid surface material further emphasizes its presence in the room while giving it more durability. 

However, what ultimately drew me to this tub was the ergonomic factor that the designers considered when creating this piece. The widths of the tub’s ends are different sizes so that users with wider shoulders fit better on one side than the other.

MADELI ESTATE VANITY

The Madeli Estate double vanity truly took my breath away, especially the design element of the offset handles conjoining at the center. Both the brandy and sapphire finish options set off the satin brass beautifully. It is genuinely a visual, furniture-like piece that you can rest your eyes on while you are soaking in the tub — creating a much-needed moment of serenity. 

BRIZO LITZE FREESTANDING TUB FILLER

This tub filler from Brizo fits perfectly into my idea of creating a room that is your own sequestered space given this pandemic. Both the design and finish are stunning. Although this piece can certainly stand on its own, when paired with the Madeli vanity and MTI freestanding tub, it can truly elevate a space and maximize its potential.

CALIFORNIA DESCANSO PULL DOWN KITCHEN FAUCET

With kitchens getting so much use these days, having a space that is functional is imperative. The Descanso faucet from California Faucets is exactly that. The handle has a cross-hatched knurl texture providing the necessary grip that we all need in a chaotic kitchen. This is especially helpful for the kids when helping with prepping, cooking, and cleaning up.

JULIEN FIRA UNDERMOUNT FIRECLAY KITCHEN SINK

Many find the idea of having a fireclay sink desirable but want to have more features that will allow them to perform necessary tasks such as cutting, preparing, straining, etc. The JULIEN Fira undermount fireclay sink provides the multifunctionality that both adults and kids need in an active kitchen.

With the kitchen being a family-oriented space, the closer I can keep my kids in one area and focused on one task at a time the better. An added bonus — when they make a mess, it’s all in one space….the sink!

Abby Woodman’s Showroom Favorites — April 2020

By |2020-04-15T18:58:23-04:00April 15th, 2020|Uncategorized|

A Note From Jason

Hi all,

A look behind the scenes of one of our Designer Bath videos — featuring Betsy Bassett of Betsy Bassett Interiors.

A look behind the scenes of one of our Designer Bath videos — featuring Betsy Bassett of Betsy Bassett Interiors.

I would like to first start off by acknowledging this is a very difficult time. However, I remain optimistic that we can do what it takes to get through it, one day at a time. The coronavirus has impacted everyone and has changed our lives immensely. I am wishing you all wellness and peace as we get through this unprecedented time together.

Designer Bath and Salem Plumbing have kept our customers’ needs at the forefront during this crisis. We want to be here for you. Your health and safety, and that of our employees, is our highest priority. At this time, we have completely redirected our normal operations to eliminate the need for clients to come into our showroom — we have invested in technology that enables us to offer you the opportunity to work effectively and efficiently with our staff. We are utilizing Zoom for virtual showroom visits and to facilitate sales. You can schedule your virtual appointment now on the Designer Bath website. Of course, we are still available by phone, email, Facebook Messenger, and Instagram.

Lastly, we are finally launching our much-anticipated Designer Bath video series featuring testimonials from Boston-based designers and architects! You can view the videos on our Facebook and Instagram pages.

We are thrilled that we were able to have this month’s blogger “virtually” visit our showroom for this month’s Showroom Favorites! Abby Woodman of Woodman Design is an experienced, hands-on designer, focused on process — from design through construction to project completion. Abby’s understanding of the interplay between function and aesthetics informs her work with all trades. We cannot wait to share her picks with you all.

Wishing you the best. We are in this together.

Best,
Jason Sevinor

President

Abby Woodman's Showroom Favorites April 2020
Abby Woodman's Showroom Favorites April 2020

JACLO SQUARE RAIN MACHINE SHOWER HEAD

This Jaclo Rain shower head is a tremendous way to bring a luxury component into your bathroom. I personally love that this product is incredibly versatile as it comes in many different finishes and sizes. It’s also one of the working fixtures on display at Designer Bath so you can see it in action!

CALIFORNIA FAUCETS CONTEMPORARY MULTI-FUNCTION HAND SHOWER + SLIDE BAR KIT

I strongly believe that all shower arrangements should have a hand shower, both for functionality and design purposes. This California Faucets contemporary hand shower operates as a second shower head with jetted, massage, and jetted/aerated options. The slide bar allows the user to move the hand-held to any position. Its versatility enables this multi-functional shower system to meet the needs of any user. The design is extraordinary in that it is clean and simple, not big or clunky. And an extra tip — hand showers are also a fabulous tool for cleaning the shower itself!

INFINITY DRAIN S-TIF 65

As a designer, I love tile and absolutely swoon when all the finishes come together to create a beautiful space. For me, a seamless cohesive shower lay-out is essential and to make that happen, I always recommend the Infinity Drain. This drain gives flexibility on-site to the installer to make sure it is a perfect fit. The tile-able grill helps to make the drain disappear. Not only does a linear drain add to the aesthetic of a bathroom, it allows for a curb-less shower entrance. Removing the curb minimizes unsightly changes in materials. Using this system results in a barrier-free shower, which is both on-trend and accommodating to people with mobility challenges. 

KARTNERS PORTO COLLECTION ROBE HOOK

We all love and need niches and shelves in showers — it’s important to have a place to put our shampoos, lotions, razors, etc. However, where do you store your pouf or loofah? I personally don’t want it hanging on my valve trim or shower head, so I love adding a small inconspicuous hook inside the shower. Kartners makes a variety of hooks and I especially love the Porto as it’s petite and comes in a variety of finishes to match the fixtures of the bathroom. The Porto hook adds high functionality without sacrificing the overall look of the shower. 

CALIFORNIA FAUCETS STEAMPUNK BAY STYLETHERM FLAT QUAD TRIM ONLY

One of my newest favorites is the California Faucets Steampunk Bay series. I love this Thermostatic Valve Trim for its functionality. Thermostatic valves allow the user to control both the temperature and the water pressure from the shower head — which is great if you’re looking to reduce your water consumption for environmental purposes. I am also a fan because this line offers a gorgeous polished nickel PVD finish and I am drawn to the overall design.

California Faucets has a great variety of finishes and I find the PVD Polished Nickel to be one of the most attractive. The style of this series is really unique. For the valve trim, my go-to is the square backplate and lever handles. The steampunk look is edgy, but still very classic. It has the vibes of 1950s automobiles with the fine details of clock-making. It works because all of the components are precisely scaled to balance perfectly and enhance a home’s bathroom interior.

Musings by Mindy: Spring 2020

By |2020-04-02T19:32:16-04:00April 1st, 2020|Uncategorized|

Musings by Mindy

Spring 2020

Mindy Sevinor

Hi Friends and Colleagues,

I have been thinking of you all during these challenging times. COVID-19 has impacted everyone and the health and safety of our family, friends, clients, and industry partners is of our utmost priority.

As we do our part to help flatten the curve, we have to adjust to a new virtual lifestyle. Though our doors are currently closed to the public, our goal is to continue to build person to person connections and provide top of the line customer service. We are now offering remote showroom tours and are available via phone, social media messenger, and live chat.

I hope this spring edition of Musings by Mindy helps bring a sense of normalcy and positivity to your day. 

I’m wishing you all the best. Stay safe — we are in this together!

All my best,

Mindy Sevinor
Showroom Brand Manager

New In The Showroom

VENDOR: CALIFORNIA FAUCETS

We’re bringing Cali to the East Coast with our brand-new line, California Faucets — a company that is changing the game when it comes to personalization and customization.

For me, meeting this manufacturer was a match made in heaven. I first connected with them when I learned that Designer Bath and California Faucets hold the same core values: we are both family-owned, strive for impeccable customer service, and offer our clients a full suite of products that align with any style preference. 

Proudly handcrafted in Huntington Beach, CA, California Faucets offers 28 (yes, 28!) beautiful handcrafted finishes and provides a variety of collections that range from classic to cutting edge.

Available through both of our showrooms.

VINTAGE CLOCKS

A touch of the antique can be the perfect accent to the décor of any kitchen or bathroom. We’re thrilled to be installing a new line of vintage clocks from a boutique-style line of wall art that we’ve seen trending amongst many designers. We believe these incredible pieces will add a touch of personality to kitchens and baths that are modern, traditional, or somewhere in between. We have installed them throughout both showrooms to give people the opportunity to observe the whimsy and glamour they add to a space.

Available through both of our showrooms.

PRODUCT: FRANZ VIEGENER CLASSIC COLLECTION

As industry peers know, Franz Viegener is a true leader in contemporary modern design. They recently turned heads when they released a new traditional series: The Classic Collection. It’s a different design and aesthetic from what we normally see from them, but I can honestly say — it works. 

To add an updated nuance to its traditional detailing, it incorporates a flowing curvature shape that would work seamlessly in a transitional setting. Franz Viegener is branching out of their modern comfort zone by diving into the past. This collection blends the old with the new to subtly make a statement in any home.

Available through both of our showrooms.

Trendspotting

trend: Kitchen Workstation

If you know me, you know that I will always be a Galley gal. As someone who enjoys hosting, I appreciate how The Galley has been able to design a solution to streamline tasks inherent in entertaining, while eliminating clutter in the kitchen — especially when guests are over!

Their workstations are super-functional, smart and stylish and allow you to prep, cook, serve, socialize, and clean-up, all in one convenient place. Engineered and hand-crafted in the U.S., I am proud to see that The Galley has become a prominent leader in the kitchen/home design industry.

Available through both of our showrooms.

Kevin Cradock’s Showroom Favorites — March 2020

By |2020-03-10T14:50:14-04:00March 9th, 2020|Uncategorized|

A Note From Jason

Happy March!

Jason had a great time representing Designer Bath at the New England Home Show last month.

Jason had a great time representing Designer Bath at the New England Home Show last month.

Spring is in the air and I am loving these warm temps. I am especially looking forward to ‘spring forward’ this weekend for Daylight Saving Time and enjoying a few more hours of sunlight each day. As much as I appreciate the start of a new season, I also never forget to feel grateful for our Designer Bath customers — both old and new.

As you may know, we’re involved in many different styles of marketing. You can see us in print publications, on your social media feed, and our newest venture is video. Our goal is to connect with as many potential customers as possible, and this is why we’re asking: where do you go for inspiration? Is it online, in magazines, or at home shows? We want to make sure we’re reaching you. I encourage you to please send me an email at jsevinor@salemplumbing.com to tell me where you find your kitchen and bath inspiration. In the meantime, be inspired by some of our clients choices in photos featured on our website.

Now without further ado, we are thrilled to announce this month’s blogger, Kevin Cradock of Kevin Cradock Builders. Kevin grew up in the Jamaica Plain section of Boston, Massachusetts surrounded by classic architecture that instilled in him a love of the art of carpentry and an appreciation for skilled craftsmanship. Kevin works closely with architects, designers and homeowners, building and renovating homes and crafting cabinetry, furniture, and millwork to meet each customer’s taste and lifestyle. We cannot wait to share his picks with you all.

Wishing you a fantastic March!

Best,
Jason Sevinor

President

Kevin Cradock Showroom Favorites March 2020

GROHE BLUE PURE CHILLED & SPARKLING DUAL FUNCTION FAUCET CHROME

Where functionality meets sleek design — this Grohe Blue Pure Chilled and Sparkling Dual Function Faucet combines the contemporary look of a designer faucet with a high-performance filter, cooler and carbonator. Aside from its beautiful chrome finish, I was impressed with its ability to dispense chilled drinking water as either still or sparkling, based on your personal preference.  

There’s also a large sustainability factor at play with this model. By having an endless supply of drinking water in the kitchen, homeowners will ultimately be able to eliminate single use bottled water, which will have a positive impact on our environment. 

GALLEY IDEAL WORKSTATION CULINARY KIT NATURAL BAMBOO

I am a huge fan of the The Galley Ideal Workstation. This product re-invented how we prepare, cook, clean, and entertain in our kitchens. 

Another exceptional feature, in my opinion, is that you can cover the workstation with the accompanying bamboo panel when it’s not in use. This keeps the area both clean and visually-appealing.

WETSTYLE WALL MOUNT VANITY ELEMENT RAFFINÉ COLLECTION

The WetStyle vanity from the Element Raffine collection is a simple solution to any storage or limited space issue that commonly arises in bathrooms. The pull-out drawer offers ample room for a number of bathroom products to be conveniently stored.

Apart from the functionality aspect, it was also easy to fall in love with its modern lines and its soft, natural wood finish. It also offers great versatility with the option to switch out the vanity top, making it customizable to complement your personal style and design aesthetic. 

CROSSWATER FORMOSO PETITE TUB WHITE

Many homeowners don’t believe they have the room to add highly coveted freestanding bathtubs to their bathrooms. In general, most designs for these tubs are known to use up a lot of the available square footage. However, this Formoso petite tub from Crosswater is truly unique and has the ability to shine in small spaces.

I also love this 5 foot soaking tub’s clean lines — it blends well with both traditional and more contemporary formats.

CALIFORNIA FAUCETS DESCANSO VESSEL KNURLED FAUCET BURNISHED BRASS

The Descanso knurled faucet from California Faucets calls into play multiple senses. Visually crisp, the faucet design combines modern and industrial influences with its significant brass finish — while the cross-hatched, knurling detail both looks and feels like a natural piece of metal.

Lisa Buyuk’s Showroom Favorites — February 2020

By |2020-02-11T03:24:10-05:00February 10th, 2020|Uncategorized|

A Note From Jason

Hello all,

Jason speaking to the crowd at a recent event for builders, architects, and designers.

Jason speaking to the crowd at a recent event for builders, architects, and designers.

It’s finally February! Our days are getting longer and we are slowly, but surely, inching our way towards spring. Though it hasn’t felt like much of a classic New England winter, I’m definitely not complaining.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner (you’re welcome for the reminder, gentlemen) and there’s really no better way to express your love than the gift of an updated bathroom. Whether it’s a gorgeous showerhead or luxurious towel warmer, your significant other will fall in love with a number of our products. Yes, luxury bathroom pieces are the new roses and chocolates.

Just following V-Day, we are kicking off our Presidents’ Day Sale at our Watertown and Beverly showrooms. From February 15th through the 22nd, you can enjoy HUGE savings on some of our hottest kitchen and bathroom products. Also happening in February is the Boston Home Show at the Seaport World Trade Center starting February 21st through the 23rd. You won’t want to miss this amazing group of exhibitors — register for your tickets here.

Now without further ado, we are thrilled to introduce our February Showroom Favorites blogger: Lisa Buyuk. Since 1995, Lisa Buyuk has been helping clients create their dream spaces. Lisa launched Buyuk Interiors in 2002 after working with two nationally recognized Boston interior design firms. She holds a Masters of Interior Design degree from the New England School of Art and Design, as well as a BA in Art History and French Language and Literature from Boston University.

Have a wonderful month and I hope to see you at one of our showrooms during our President’s Day Sale!

Best,

Jason Sevinor

President

Lisa Buyuk's Showroom Favorites February 2020

LISA JARVIS HARDWARE

I recently specified this hardware for a master bath vanity. The client is young and has a lot of spunk — we needed the right kind of “jewelry” to compliment both her personality and the flat panel vanity cabinetry. These knobs bring the bling!

JULIEN FIRA COLLECTION SINGLE UNDERMOUNT FIRECLAY KITCHEN SINK W/ LEDGE

For me, this sink is about materiality and versatility. I absolutely love the fusion of fireclay and wood. I felt an immediate sense of connection to the natural materials.

The functionality of the sink is also noteworthy. When you have a compact kitchen, finding usable counter space can be problematic. The sliding cutting board is simply a great resolution for that.

DXV CANVAS WHITE SINK & DXV WALL MOUNT BATHROOM FAUCET POLISHED CHROME

When I saw this sink on the showroom floor, I had an immediate sense of nostalgia. Isn’t that what designing homes is all about — a connection to a memory or feeling?

The lines of DXV faucet evoked that memory of something from the past but its form is clean and unencumbered; perfect for the way we live our lives today.

This sink has such great scale and proportion. Using it in a bathroom is an obvious choice, but I also think it would make a fabulous laundry sink!

STONE FOREST VENTUS BATH SINK WITH ANTIQUE GRAY LIMESTONE

This vanity is so strong and handsome. It is the perfect balance of industrialism and earthiness. I love the mix of materials: stone, metal, and wood. Its masculinity makes me immediately think to put it in a man’s bathroom. The wide shallow sink doubles as counter surface and the wall mount faucet is a great solution for spaces where depth is an issue.

ROHL ENGLISH GOLD KITCHEN CONTEMPORARY PULL DOWN FAUCET

I’ve recently been designing many compact kitchens where scale is of the utmost importance. This Rohl faucet not only has a luxurious and warm tone, but its scale works perfectly in a smaller kitchen. Understanding scale is vital in design. It’s excellent that Designer Bath understands this and the significance of experiencing a piece in person before purchasing.

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