Transforming your bathroom into a haven of comfort and style begins with the right plumbing fixtures. In this post, we delve into the art of choosing bathroom fixtures that not only meet your functional needs but also elevate the aesthetic appeal of your space.

*A view of our* *Riverside Third Floor bathroom*

QUALITY CONSTRUCTION

When it comes to plumbing fixtures, we recommend choosing fixtures with brass body components instead of plastic. Brass is known for its exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion, making it a reliable choice for long-lasting plumbing solutions. Unlike plastic, which may degrade over time and be susceptible to wear and tear, brass fixtures can withstand the rigours of daily use, ensuring a robust and reliable performance.

FINISH

Plumbing fixtures commonly feature a variety of standard finishes, many of which fall under the category of Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD). This process involves applying a very hard coating to the metal, creating a protective layer that shields against corrosion and flaking. These finishes should endure daily wear and tear unless subjected to physical damage like hammering. Among the typical standard finishes, some popular choices include:

In addition to standard finishes, there is also a category known as “living finishes.” In this category, metals are left without a protective coating, allowing them to naturally patina over time. While these finishes often come at a higher cost, they exude a unique charm. It's important to note that they require specific maintenance, such as using non-abrasive cleaning products and waxes, to preserve their distinctive appearance. Typical living finishes include unlacquered brass, oil rubbed bronze, and burnished nickel. The image below, courtesy of Kallista, shows how an unlacquered brass faucet changes over the course of two years:

Once you've decided on the finish you want, it's time to narrow down your choices by looking at manufacturers. While chrome, matte black, and satin brass options are widely available, not every manufacturer will offer polished nickel or unlacquered brass. Understanding these distinctions helps you align your preferences with the right brands, ensuring your fixtures not only look great but also come from reputable sources that cater to your specific style.

BATHROOM FAUCET

When deciding on a bathroom faucet, the first choice often involves the mounting style: wall-mount or deck-mount.

Wall-mount faucet

Deck-mount faucet

Wall-mount faucets provide a sleek and modern look, saving countertop space and making cleaning easier. They are usually more expensive than deck-mount because there are extra valve components required for installation. Deck-mount faucets are installed directly on the sink or countertop. They offer a classic appearance and are often easier to install. Also, wall-mount faucets cannot be installed in an insulated wall unless it is made thicker to accommodate it.

Once you've settled on the mounting style, the next decision is the number of controls: single-hole or widespread.

Single-hole

Widespread

Single-hole faucets feature a compact design, combining the spout and handles into one unit. Widespread faucets, with separate handles and spout, offer a more customizable setup. While they may be a bit more complex to install, they provide a refined and symmetrical look, ideal for larger vanities.

BATHROOM SINK

When it comes to shape, the choice between an oval and rectangle design often hinges on personal preference and the overall style of your bathroom. Rectangular sinks are currently the most popular shape, though oval sinks can offer a bit of extra counter space. Also, bowls that are more sloped and have less of a flat bottom are easier to keep clean.

Your next choice is deciding between an under-mount sink, a solid-surface integrated sink, or a vessel sink. We generally recommend opting for under-mount bathroom sinks, typically crafted from durable materials like porcelain or vitreous china for a sleek look and easy maintenance.

*Under-mount sink at our* *Argyle project*

However, an excellent alternative worth considering is the integration of a solid-surface sink, particularly if you're planning to use a Corian countertop. Creating a seamless and visually cohesive appearance, a solid-surface integrated sink not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also simplifies cleaning, making it an ideal choice for a stylish and low-maintenance bathroom setup.

*Integrated Corian sink at* *Ritchie Rowhouse*

Alternatively, vessel sinks, which sit atop the countertop, can also add a unique look to the bathroom. Keep in mind that some people find them a bit trickier to clean around the base due to their elevated position.

*Vessel sink in our* *Roseheath project*

TOILET

The toilet is a bathroom essential, making it crucial to choose wisely, even if it means splurging on a quality fixture. We often recommend one-piece floor-mounted toilets like the Toto Nexus for reliable performance and ease of cleaning. In cases of limited floor space, the Toto EP Wall Hung is a favourite due to its space-saving design, although wall-mounted toilets may have slightly less powerful flushes than their floor-mounted counterparts. Opting for an elongated bowl adds comfort if space allows, and for those seeking added luxury, explore toilets with advanced bidet options for a touch of indulgence.

TUB

When choosing a bathtub, we recommend clients take a moment to lie in different tubs to ensure comfort in both length and depth. It's common for those desiring deep soaking tubs to discover that a short Roman tub may be more suitable, while taller individuals might find comfort in a tub exceeding the typical 5-foot length. Additionally, consider the material choice; acrylic tubs, lightweight and affordable, come in various shapes, while cast iron tubs offer durability and superior heat retention, but are often more expensive.

Also, consider your space and preferences among alcove, freestanding, or undermount/drop-in options. Alcove tubs are space-efficient and fit snugly between three walls, ideal for compact bathrooms.

Freestanding tubs offer a luxurious and visually striking centerpiece but require more space to effectively clean around them.

Under-mount or drop-in tubs seamlessly integrate into the surrounding structure, offering a tailored look and versatility in placement.

*Under-mount tub at* *Bloor West Village*

SHOWER

When selecting shower fixtures, we typically recommend a handshower on an adjustable bar for versatility and ease of cleaning the entire shower space. The flexibility of a handshower allows for targeted rinsing and is particularly beneficial for individuals with varied height preferences. Additionally, we find that handshowers with more classic shapes prove to be more practical for our clients, avoiding the unconventional designs resembling microphones. For an added touch of luxury, consider incorporating a rainhead, providing a gentle and immersive shower experience. Beyond these basics, explore additional features such as body sprays or even a steam unit to transform your shower into a relaxing steam oasis. When it comes to shower controls, you generally have the option between pressure balance, which is more budget-friendly and regulates both water temperature and volume, and thermostatic controls, which offer a more controlled experience with separate controls for water volume and temperature.

ACCESSORIES

When it comes to bathroom accessories, including towel bars, toilet paper holders, and medicine cabinets or mirrors, mixing finishes is perfectly acceptable and can add a touch of personalization to your space. For custom medicine cabinets, having a skilled millworker on the job often makes it comparable in cost to purchasing off-the-shelf options. However, exceptions arise when dealing with unique materials like metal or special shapes such as arches or ovals – in these cases, opting for off-the-shelf choices can be a more practical solution.

PLUMBING FIXTURES - BATHROOM