7 tips for choosing the perfect plumbing fixtures
I recently got to spend the day with a client choosing plumbing fixtures for their new construction build in Newburyport. There are so. many. choices. – it can get overwhelming quickly. Here are a few tips to stay focused, make choices you feel good about and move forward with your project – on time and on budget:
So. many. options
🛠Tip 1: Beware of Wall Mounts
Before choosing fixtures, you need to discuss any interest in wall mount fixtures with your contractor. (Cue 659 Pinterest posts of wall mounted faucets and farm house sinks!)
In general, you don't wall mounted faucets these on exterior walls, (unless you have the space to insulate and create a false wall etc etc). If the framing does allow, you need to keep a very close eye on details with wall mounted faucets such as placement of faucet on the wall, height of the vanity, where the sink is cut and laid within the stone you choose for the countertop, and the type of sink you choose. It is a bit more complicated than just choosing a gorgeous wall mount, so keep that in mind.
This is the Delta Trinsic. Shout out to @kristinacrestindesign for introducing us to this beauty. We have it in our kitchen and have used it quite a bit.
🛠Tip 2: Begin in the kitchen
Start with the kitchen faucet. It will help set the tone for the plumbing fixtures for the home, and help consolidate your style for the entire house. Do you like a more modern, sleek design or a rounder, more detailed traditional look? Our favorite right now is the Delta Trinsic (see pic) from @deltafaucet. It is a great price point and a great option for someone who wants to go a bit more modern without feeling austere.
Another beauty - Kohler
🛠Tip 3: Finish makes perfect
Matte black, brushed nickel, brilliant stainless, brass, antique brass, champagne bronze, polished nickel or Rose Gold (😍), there are so there so many finish options. I highly recommend looking at images on Pinterest or of entire kitchens with the color cabinets you plan on, and the finish of appliances you are planning on so you can see how you like the overall look. Remember you can mix metals, but need to be intentional about it so it doesn't look haphazard. Many clients will go with something safer for their kitchen faucet finish, but then really go for it with a matte black or a champagne bronze in the powder room.
🛠Tip 4: Go big or go home
Always go with 8" widespread if possible, or a single hole faucet in the bathrooms. The 4" center-set options are a bit cheaper but not great for re-sale. Even if it is a tiny vanity! Go with the 8”, it just looks 💯 more polished.
🛠Tip 5: Have samples, will travel
Bring your cabinet sample doors with you! You may LOVE how your Hale Navy cabinet looks with Rose Gold but hate how it looks with a Matte Black. So lug those bad boys with you and hold them against the faucets as you choose finish. It will help you feel confident about your choices.
🛠Tip 6: Floor plans!
Send the building plans to the plumbing fixture showcase rep before you go in so they can help track what you need. Your contractor should help you with this.
🛠Tip 7. Be upfront about $
Know your budget and communicate that to the fixture rep immediately so they can help steer you away from super high end options that are stealing your attention. Different finishes are at different price points!
Two Bonus Tips (because who can have too many??)
🔥Spend your $ in the master bath, powder room and main kitchen faucet.
🔥Just keep a copy of your plans in your car - like - at all times through your reno or build. Trust me on this one.
And if you have any questions - reach out! I’d love to talk.
Peace, love and 🛠,
Lyndsey