Saturday, October 27, 2018

Mountain Products' New Traditional Round Rain Shower Head

Mountain Plumbing Products introduced a new Traditional Round Rain Head shower head design. Don't be fooled by the large look of this rain can, this solid brass beauty has powerful pressure similar to their ultra-slim styles. Made in 8" and 10" sizes, with an 1/2" IPS swivel ball joint for easy adjustment, this shower head is available in five different finishes, giving your shower a traditional touch of class. The Re-Vive™ shower arms are available in various popular styles and finishes too. The Re-Vive™ shower heads are seamlessly constructed of 304 Grade stainless steel, making these tough beauties the perfect fit for both outdoor and indoor showers. Clog-free silicone nozzles ensure both a strong, smooth flow and easy cleaning. Each shower head comes with a standard 1.6 GPM flow restrictor, but this can be switched out with a 2.5 GPM restrictor which is also provided for areas that do not require the lower flow rate. 
 

Hydro Systems Has One Week Lead Times for Selected Models on the East Coast

What used to take multiple weeks to produce and ship from Hydro Systems' west coast plant can now be shipped in one week from the new Georgia manufacturing facility.  Take advantage of these quick turnarounds for your made-to-order bathtubs and choose from the following select freestanding models for shipment from Georgia in just 5 to 7 business days:
  • DANIELA, Designer Collection (58"x30")
  • TRIBECA, Metro Collection (68"x35")
  • PICASSO, Maestro Collection (66"x36")
  • BREANNE, Studio Collection (66"x36")

American Standard Receives a 2018 WaterSense Sustained Excellence Award

American Standard has received a 2018 WaterSense Sustained Excellence Award recognizing the brand's years of award-winning efforts to develop and promote WaterSense-labeled products and encourage water conservation across the country. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) previously named American Standard WaterSense Partner of the Year in 2017 and 2012, and also honored the brand with a WaterSense Excellence in Innovation and Research Award in 2016. EPA's WaterSense program supports product certification and encourages consumers to reduce water usage through water-saving products, services and simple changes in behavior. The annual WaterSense Awards recognize organizations that are on the cutting edge of water efficiency, innovation, collaboration, and outreach.

hansgrohe to Unveil Their New Website

hansgrohe is about to unveil its new website. Formerly a destination for both hansgrohe and AXOR, www.hansgrohe-usa.com, will now be dedicated solely to the hansgrohe brand and its robust portfolio of products - AXOR brand products can be found on the AXOR design site. Built to be a helpful resource for consumers specifically, the newly redesigned hansgrohe USA site will showcase a streamlined look, increased functionality, inspirational content and interactive features. The revamped site offers engaging new features, such as the Bathroom Style Finder. The Bathroom Style Finder invites users to discover their signature bathroom style via fun quizzes. After completing the quiz, the user is matched with his or her dream bathroom style, shown through a wealth of inspiring project images. In each featured inspiration image, there are links to the featured products, as well as clever tools like the product comparison function, so the user can source the products to create the bathroom of their dreams.

Friday, October 26, 2018

Barclay's New Chabbi Chic Double Bowl Farmer Sinks

Give your kitchen a cozy rustic warmth with one of the new "Chabbi Chic" Double Bowl Farmer Sinks from Barclay Products. Made in Italy, these fireclay Farmer Sinks boast three "Chabbi Chic" hues: country green, sugar paper blue and yellow straw.  The sinks are finished on three sides.  Shown here is the double bowl Kinsey in country green. Each bowl measures 14 3/8"x16"x9" with a total outer width of approximately 33", and garbage disposals can be used with these sinks.  The "Chabbi Chic" Farmer Sinks are fashionable yet endearing with a country charm.

Saturday, October 20, 2018

BLANCO's New PRECIS ADA Compliant Single Bowl Sink

BLANCO expanded their stylish PRECIS™ sink collection with the launch of its ADA Compliant Single Bowl Sink. Available in all eight, on-trend SILGRANIT® colors, the PRECIS ADA Single Bowl features a convenient 5" inside bowl depth that works within rigorous ADA constraints, ensuring compliance. Inspired by professional kitchens in both form and functionality, the versatile PRECIS collection brings experience and design to the next level. Now featuring an ADA Compliant model for the ultimate user-friendly experience, the PRECIS Collection has the ability to fit within any home.  BLANCO PRECIS™ ADA Single Bowl details include:
  • Undermount
  • ADA Compliant
  • Outside Cabinet: 30"
  • Bowl Depth: 5 3/8"
  • Available Colors: Anthracite, Biscotti, Biscuit, Café Brown, Cinder, Metallic Gray, Truffle and White
  • Optional Accessories: Sink Grid

Thermasol Appoints Patrick Weidl Director of Business Development

ThermaSol® announced the addition of Patrick Weidl as Director of Business Development, effective October 8, 2018. Weidl will handle sales-related duties across the United States for the ThermaSol brand.  Weidl comes to ThermaSol with more than seven years of experience in the home design industry, most recently with LACAVA, the Chicago-based luxury plumbing fixture and furniture manufacturer. He also served in the United States Army and brings the discipline he learned in the Army to his exceptional leadership qualities in the hospitality and decorative plumbing and appliance industry. Currently involved in many industry associations, Weidl was also elected to the Board of Directors of DPHA (Decorative Plumbing and Hardware Association) at its annual conference last week.

ICERA's New Malibu II Back-Outlet Toilet

ICERA's new Malibu II Back-Outlet Toilet features a powerful, water-efficient and quiet gravity flush. The Malibu also features a chair-height, compact elongated-bowl for maximum comfort. The simple connectivity eliminates potential installation challenges, while the sleek styling complements a wide variety of bathroom décors. Its back-outlet engineering results in a slim design that is ideal for smaller spaces, and the skirted design neatly hides unsightly pipes and other connectors. The Malibu II is one of the few back-outlet toilets on the market to offer a high-performance, quiet gravity flush with a certified 1000g MaP score - using only 1.28 gallons of water per flush. It has earned an EPA WaterSense designation as a high-efficiency toilet, with an oversized 3" flush valve and optimized rim jets for an exceptionally clean bowl. Crafted of vitreous china with a MicroGlaze™ coating for easy cleaning, the Malibu II includes a number of thoughtful touches, such as a soft-close and quick-release seat and cover. The unit is available in white and includes a polished chrome solid metal trip level. Other metallic finishes available are polished nickel, satin nickel, polished brass, white enamel and Venetian bronze. All ICERA toilers are 100% factory flush tested and come with a limited lifetime warranty.

Adam Bryson Appointed CFO of LIXIL Americas

Adam Bryson has been appointed the chief financial officer of LIXIL Americas, operating American Standard, DXV and GROHE brands. Bryson will be responsible for the organization's financial and strategic planning, business and tax issues, annual budget, treasury and financial operations, compliance, and governance. He will become a member of the region's executive team and report to LIXIL Americas' Chief Executive Officer and President Steven Delarge. Bryson previously served as the chief financial officer for GROHE in Dusseldorf, Germany, overseeing the finance, IT, corporate development, and pricing functions. He served on the GROHE AG Board of Management with global statutory responsibilities, as well as directed joint ventures in the Middle East and Africa. He honed his experience in finance, accounting, treasury, and tax through roles of increasing responsibility at GROHE. Before joining LIXIL, Bryson served at Diageo as global business support partner and regional business performance manager, Africa, successfully implementing financial performance and accountancy improvements in those roles. Earlier in his career, he held various financial positions at Seagram and Nestle. Bryson holds an LLB in public law from the University of Glasgow.

Friday, October 19, 2018

GRAFF Takes Part in the Design Chicago Conference at the Merchandise Mart

GRAFF recently took part in the annual Design Chicago Conference at the Merchandise Mart as part of a two-day open house and CEU presentation series. GRAFF's Art of the Bath Design Center (Suite 103) played host to the programming and served as the launchpad for the brand's latest achievements in elevated design for the bath. Additionally, GRAFF's CEU Shower Basics for Design Professionals, taught by Business Development Manager, Celine Marcotte, explored the art of correctly and strategically specifying shower systems. An in-depth look at best practices, the CEU looked to  assist architects and design professionals in understanding the characteristics and performance of each shower component for effective selection. Fitting for the largest residential design conference in the Midwest, GRAFF's presentation offered invaluable insights into one of the most popularly renovated home spaces.

Saturday, October 6, 2018

OMNIA's New Solid Brass and Stainless Steel Pocket Door Locks

OMNIA's new solid brass and stainless steel pocket door locks provide privacy in bedroom and bathroom applications. Modern and traditional trim designs complement any decor and feature concealed mounting screws. All trim styles are also available as flush pulls for use on pocket, barn and sliding doors. Popular finish options include satin nickel, oil-rubbed bronze and a very on-trend satin brass. 

Danze by Gerber's New Vaughn Collection

Danze by Gerber has introduced its latest in bathroom products - the Vaughn™ Collection. Carefully created with a streamlined look, the new Vaughn bath collection features a dynamic and sophisticated design.  The arched curves and smooth planes of the faucet body contrast the angled faucet handle, giving the faucet effortless beauty. Inspired by fluidity and movement, Vaughn's transitional styling integrates seamlessly within any bathroom decor.  The bath collection offers a single handle faucet, widespread faucet, 4" centerset faucet, Roman tub faucet and tub/shower combinations, including diverter trim.  Each product is available in chrome, brushed nickel and satin black finishes. The tub and shower trim kits are fully compatible with the powerful Gerber® Treysta valve, the latest innovation in valve technology. Other features of the Vaughn Collection include:
  • Drip-Free Ceramic Disc Valve - The engineering of the ceramic disc valve creates a tight seal to prevent drips and allows the handle to turn with ease.
  • Laminar Water Stream - This feature ensures a low splash, and clear, crisp water stream.
  • All-Metal, Durable Construction - The all-metal faucet body stands up against daily wear and tear, allowing each faucet to preserve its elegant exterior for a lifetime of use.
  • High-Quality Finish - The high-quality finishing process ensures the longevity of the finish.
  • Water Efficient Flow Rate - With an efficient, WaterSense™ certified flow rate of 1.2 gpm for lavatory faucets and various flow rates for tub and shower, Vaughn saves water without sacrificing performance.
  • Lifetime Warranty - Danze by Gerber faucets carry a limited lifetime warranty.

DXV Design Summit Unveils Luxury Bathroom

DXV annually invites four individual designers or small teams of designers with DXV panel memberships to unveil luxury bathrooms using its products at the DXV Design Summit. Wilson Kelsey Design was one of the selected panelists, bringing Artaic on board to offer its expertise in mosaics for all tile work. With a directive to create a space inspired by an art movement from 1875 - 1915, firm co-founders Sally Wilson and John Kelsey looked to the Impressionism art movement and French painter Monet to influence their abstract and luxurious bathroom. The design duo aimed to celebrate Monet's Lily Pad series using the architecture of the classic period, modern aesthetics, and technology through fixtures, lighting and materials. The result is a stunning vignette, marrying classic and modern aesthetics to achieve the ultimate in luxury, which was unveiled at the DXV 2018 Design Panel Reveal Event in New York City at the Agora Gallery on September 12th. Along with the unveiling at the DXV Design Summit, the final designs will be published in DECADEFIFTEEN Inspired Resources magazine and will be used in the national ad campaign for DXV, appearing in Architectural Digest, Veranda, Elle Decor, Traditional Home, and House Beautiful magazines.

Duravit's Architec Collection Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary

Duravit's successful Architec Collection celebrates 25 years on the market! From Architec's innovative washbasin to its new panel tub, the collection's distinct, clean lines and wide range of sizes and configurations make Architec a truly enduring design. An architect's design relies on the fundamental elements of the circle and the square. Architec applies this philosophy to the bath, with a history of providing feasible solutions for all possible floor plans. The Architec washbasin provides additional comfort in barrier-free bathrooms due to its round, integrated, ergonomic grip. Because it allows various combination options using wood or glass, the classic Architec design has caught the attention of projects such as the residential complex "Reflections at Keppel Bay" in Singapore or the Harpa Concert Hall in Iceland. Additionally, the Architec panel tub was recently developed specifically for the North American market. A modern approach to the standard alcove bathtub, Architec is compact, sleek, and easy-to-clean - making it the ideal option for small spaces. The tub also has adjustable feet, and its leveling foot support system removes the need for an additional bedding compound, cutting out a time-consuming installation factor.

Kraus USA's New Britt Commercial Faucet

Inspired by professional kitchen design, the Britt™ commercial faucet from Kraus USA makes a striking style statement, with the functionality to match, and features a flexible, commercial-style open coil spring spout with stainless steel hose and secure docking arm. A heavy-duty open coil spout swivels 360 for a full range of motion in and around the sink, while the gooseneck design offers ample height for filling and cleaning your largest pots and tallest pitchers. The dual function sprayhead with large non-slip rubber button switch allows the user to easily shift between 2 functions, with an aerated stream for everyday cleaning, and a powerful spray for heavy-duty rinsing. Soft rubber nozzles make the sprayhead easy to clean and maintain a lasting powerful flow. Available in all-Brite™ Spot Free Stainless Steel finish, which helps prevent fingerprints and requires less cleaning.

Saturday, September 29, 2018

Victoria + Albert's New Pembroke Collection

Victoria + Albert introduced a new bathtub-and-basin duo known as the Pembroke Collection. Named in honor of the birthplace of England's first Tudor king, this transitional line evokes a sense of regal elegance and refined luxury. Both pieces were created in partnership with award-winning Italian design powerhouse Meneghello Paolelli Associati. The Pembroke is a freestanding bath with an intriguing blend of crisp lines and graceful curves. The silhouette lightens towards the base, adding a pleasing roundness that brings a soothing softness to the room. Measuring a generous 69 1/2" x 31 3/8" x 22 3/4", the tub is deep and dual-ended, proving ample space for a luxurious soaking experience for one or two bathers. It is available in seven exterior finishes including gloss black, matte black, matte white, stone gray, light gray and anthracite. As with all Victoria + Albert designs, the Pembroke Collection is made from ENGLISHCAST™, a one-piece casting of a proprietary blend of Volcanic Limestone™ and resins that is harder and more durable than acrylic. Each piece is carefully finished to an easy-to-clean high-gloss shine and is covered by a 25-year warranty.

The New Harmonie Washbasin from GRAFF

Tall, matte, and handsome, (okay and glossy too), GRAFF's new-to-market Harmonie washbasin is as suave as it is urbane. Displaying an impressive stature and a cylindrical body, the Harmonie washbasin surprises with its countertop installation, sharing a revised design route for vanity areas. Constructed using GRAFF's own Sleek-Stone material comprised of 75% natural dolomite minerals, the Harmonie Washbasin offers exceptional durability in addition to high design. The epitome of elevated design, the basin is best accentuated by GRAFF's wall-mount and vessel faucets offerings, creating a seamless scheme in form and function. Option of gloss and matte white finishes similarly add an enviable finishing touch.

BLANCO Expands Their Stellar Collection

BLANCO expands the STELLAR collection with a 32" Super Single Bowl. The new size is the perfect fit for standard 36" kitchen cabinets. The 18-gauge stainless steel sink provides rounded edges for ease of cleaning, a deep bowl for soaking and its wide design makes it a practical yet stylistic addition to any type of kitchen. BLANCO STELLAR features: 
  • Great style and durability come standard in 12 proven shapes for the traditional American home
  • Refined Brushed Finish (RBF)
  • 18-gauge stainless steel
  • 32" x 18" dimension, 9" deep

Friday, September 28, 2018

Advance Plumbing & Heating Supply Opens Their New Detroit Showroom

Advance Plumbing & Heating Supply Company hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, September 25th, to celebrate the grand opening of their new showroom in Midtown Detroit. Mayor Mike Duggan joined the fourth-generation family business - founded in 1920 - to commemorate Detroit's first ever decorative plumbing showroom. The decorative plumbing showroom is adjacent to its well established wholesale plumbing and heating operation. The 5,000 square foot showroom, located at 3740 Cass Avenue, features a newly renovated historical façade that dates back to 1918. Owner Jeffrey Moss stated that after 98 years of being located in the City of Detroit, it was now time, with the incredible resurgence of the city, that they open Detroit's first ever decorative plumbing showroom. In addition, they have renovated an unsightly building on Cass Avenue to create an amazing historic building.

OMNIA's New ARC Collection of Door Hardware

OMNIA suffered a deeply felt loss in September 2017 when the company's founder and Chairman, Alberto Romolo Comini, passed away suddenly. The company, now helmed by members of the next generation of the Comini family, recently introduced a collection of door hardware designs that pays homage to the beloved family member it lost. ARC includes six curated designs, three knobs and three levers, available in all the popular finishes including a very on-trend satin brass. The line features lower profile roses in two diameters with push-button privacy available on either size. Latchsets can be ordered as passage, privacy, and dummy.

Monday, September 24, 2018

MTI Baths' New Gently Flowing Stream Bath

Wellness is more important than ever. The evidence is everywhere, from the soaring popularity of juice bars and yoga studios to social media frenzies over fitness trackers and cleansing diets. While wellness is leading the headlines, it's nothing new to MTI Baths. From the very beginning, promoting wellness for individuals and improving the quality of people's lives has been a core component of MTI's mission and an important focus in the design and function of both its products and therapies. MTI offers five distinct types of hydrotherapy experience: the traditional soaking bath, the deep massage of the whirlpool bath, the relaxing air bath, the new gently flowing Stream Bath, or a combination of air bath and whirlpool. With more than 200 different tub models, MTI allows customers to tailor their bath configurations to meet their own personal style and therapeutic needs. One new offering is a state-of-the-art system known as Microbubbles that super-saturates the water with up to 50 percent more dissolved oxygen than regular water. Billions of tiny bubbles act to gently exfoliate and moisturize the skin, while at the same time releasing energy that helps keeps the bath water warm. This optional therapy can be added to most soaking or air bath tubs for a super-luxurious bathing experience. 

DXV Introduces Their Aqua Moment Drop-in Airbath with Waterfall

DXV, part of LIXIL, introduces the Aqua Moment Drop-In Airbath with Waterfall, the only bathtub on the market to offer a relaxing waterfall that envelops the bather's shoulders in the comfort of warm, flowing water. Drawing on the Japanese heritage and expertise of LIXIL, the company developed the system behind this remarkable tub to offer an indulgent feeling of a deep soak while requiring less water. This unique tub offers a variety of attractive benefits: 
  • Convenient drop-in design provides greater flexibility to suit bathrooms of all sizes.
  • All features, including the waterfall shoulder bath, airbath, and chromatherapy lighting, come standard with the tub, offering clients and customers a better value than other hydrotherapy tubs.
  • The exclusive, permanent EverClean Airbath 360° system prevents mold and mildew from forming in the airbath's circulatory system to help keep the pipes cleaner than other tubs, providing your clients with a more hygienic experience.

California Faucets Expands Their Rincon Bay Collection

California Faucets is expanding its Rincon Bay Collection of mid-century modern style bath faucets and fittings. With sleek, clean lines interrupted by just a small sculptural detail along the bottom of the spout and lever handles, Rincon Bay faucets combine a no-frills sensibility with a futuristic vision characteristic of mid-century design. By injecting a new choice of cross handles into the design mix, it takes the line in a slightly more transitional direction with a classic, yet modern look that is well suited for use in both traditional and contemporary bathrooms. The new cross handles are available across the Rincon Bay line, including the 8-inch widespread lavatory faucet, wall-mount vessel faucets with a 6-1/2" or 8-1/2" spout, Roman tub faucet, tub/shower faucets, and shower handle. Lavatory faucets include a ¼-turn ceramic disc cartridge.

CEU Events Launches a Cross-Association Tool for Showrooms and Trade Professionals

CEU Events® officially launched an industry first, cross-association tool for showrooms and trade professionals enabling them to find and request their next in-person CEU event.  To view the library of courses available and request your next CEU event directly with the Instructor in your area, click on the Request a CEU Event. If your company would like to list their courses, please contact CEU Events at support@ceuevents.com.  In addition, the United States Patent and Trademark Office officially recognizes CEU Events® as a registered service mark for in-person education forums in the field of architecture, interior design, plumbing, engineering, real estate, electrical, nursing, insurance, education, law, medical and social work. Reg. No. 5,557,547.

Barclay's New Bamboo Tub Caddies

Barclay's beautiful new bamboo tub caddies keep all those bare necessities at your fingertips while you enjoy a leisurely sad.  Bamboo is lightweight and easy to care for, as well as a decorative addition to the bath decor.

Sunday, September 16, 2018

California Faucets' Adds Combination Hot and Cold Water Dispensers

The Kitchen Collection from California Faucets continues to expand with the addition of Combination Hot and Cold Water Dispensers. Blending the hot and cold dispensing functions into one stylish element, the hand-finished dispensers perfectly coordinate with existing Kitchen Collection designs. A rarity in the industry, the single-handle design offers a more streamlined, uncluttered look, allowing designers and homeowners alike to make a consistent style statement throughout the kitchen. Plus, a large array of customizable handles and hand-applied finishes offers unlimited personalization options. Sculptural and ergonomic, the Hot and Cold Water Dispensers are in harmony with the same Italian-inspired design and California craftsmanship as the original kitchen collection. After choosing a traditional or modern faucet body, designers and homeowners get to select from nearly a dozen unique handle options ranging from traditional-style Porcelain Lever to more contemporary Black Blade and Stick designs. For further customization, they can select any one of the 30-plus available artisan finishes, which includes 15 PVD finishes with a lifetime guarantee against tarnishing. The single handle Combination Hot/Cold Dispenser design measures 10 ¾-inches overall with 2 5/16-inch base diameter and 4 3/4-inch spout to center.

Saturday, September 15, 2018

Grandeur Hardware's New Georgetown Lever

Grandeur Hardware offers a fresh take on traditional architecture with its beautiful new Georgetown Lever. Inspired by Federalist style and the signature rowhouses of its namesake district in Washington DC, the Georgetown Lever walks the line between modern and traditional aesthetics. Its elegant silhouette and balanced proportions lend a sense of luxury and refinement, while its clean lines and minimalist design add a contemporary vibe. The Georgetown Lever may be paired with a variety of backplates and rosettes to create a custom look. It measures 4 3/4" long with a projection of 2 5/8". Like all Grandeur products, the Georgetown is crafted from solid forged brass, using time-honored techniques and a meticulous by-hand finishing process. The end result is a piece of exceptional strength and durability with a flawless surface free of blemishes or imperfections. Suitable for both interior and exterior doors, the Georgetown Lever is available in seven stunning finish options, including antique pewter, timeless bronze, lifetime brass, polished brass, polished nickel, satin nickel and vintage brass.

AD Waters Introduces OLI

AD WATERS introduces OLI, one of the largest manufacturers of toilet carriers and flush plates. OLI is the only carrier on the market to include a flush plate in the box, ready to be installed. UPC certified and backed with a solid 10-year warranty, reliability has been the pillar of their reputation over the years. The alluring flush plate designs are in a class of their own and are the reason the OLI brand is unique. The TRUMPET pneumatic flush plate, winner of an Archiproduct Design Award, features unique piston-like push buttons which draws its inspiration from a real trumpet, a design masterpiece. The I-PLATE was also the  winner at the ICFF Show in NYC for Best in Bath Category, awarded by the International Furnishings and Design Association. This flush plate allows you to personalize the push buttons in one easy click, giving you the possibility to mix and match a variety of colors to suit your mood. Additionally, OLI's commitment continues to place innovation at the service of water preservation with their latest technology: the AZOR Silent. This ecological and silent inlet valve (NF class) is equipped with a revolutionary delayed refill system which starts filling the cistern only when the flush valve is closed - allowing additional water savings per flush.

BLANCO Publishes Their Catalog on 2020 Cloud

BLANCO has published its catalog on 2020 Cloud, the industry's leading kitchen design software. 2020 helps professional designers, retailers and manufacturers in the interior design industry plan and visualize designs in real-time. 2020's software allows designers to create kitchens with 3D renderings and ensures that projects comply with industry design standards, from start to finish. Currently featuring more than 90% of its most popular sink and faucet products, BLANCO's growing catalog content is available to dealers and designers in the U.S. BLANCO has received the 2020 Accredited Manufacturer logo and the 2020 Certified Content logo. To learn more about 2020 Cloud and BLANCO's design catalog online click here.


Monday, September 10, 2018

BLANCO Partners with DIFFA for Fifth Year

BLANCO joins DIFFA for a fifth year as a Specify with Care partner. Each time BLANCO's new PRECISION® R0 DURINOX® Apron Front Sink (pictured) is specified, BLANCO will make a donation to DIFFA. BLANCO's PRECISION R0 DURINOX Super Single Bowl is a testament to classic style. This sink is the first of its kind to be made from BLANCO's latest material innovation, DURINOX. With two times the strength of traditional stainless steel, PRECISION R0 in DURINOX is handcrafted to each precise detail, and is tailored to a kitchen that is both hardworking and sophisticated. Complete with a velvety, matte finish and sleek silhouette, this sink awakens the senses and lends commanding style and unsurpassed functionality to any home. And DIFFA, since its founding in 1984, has emerged from a grassroots organization into one of the largest funders of HIV/AIDS service and education in the U.S. With chapters and community partners across the country - including Chicago, Dallas, Kansas City, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Seattle - DIFFA has granted more than $41 million to support hundreds of nonprofit organizations across the country combating HIV/AIDS through preventive education, treatment, direct care and advocacy.

Newport Brass Offers Two Tub Fillers in All 27 of Their Decorative Finishes

Newport Brass® announced that two of its most popular freestanding tub fillers, Priya (pictured) and Secant, are now available in all 27 of the brand's decorative finishes, including antique brass, polished gold, and satin bronze. Responding to customer input for additional options, the expanded finish offerings provide homeowners the ability to complement any décor or design style. Hand-finished by master craftsmen in California, the Priya and Secant tub fillers come complete with an ADA compliant lever handle and integrated hand shower. The Priya tub filler asserts elegance and grace through its curved spout and dynamic appearance. Adding architectural flair to the bath, Secant combines modern structure and geometric shapes to produce an impressive contemporary design.

Alno Inc. Launches Two New Acrylic Series

Alno, Inc. announced the launch of two new acrylic series, which are available in both cabinet hardware and bath accessories - Contemporary Acrylic (a contemporary twist to acrylic) and Acrylic Royale (a transitional style acrylic series). Both series are in stock and ready to ship in the following seven finishes: matte black, polished brass, unlacquered brass (PB/NL), polished chrome, polished nickel, satin brass and satin nickel.  You can also special order these new items in any of Alno's other finishes by using the group 4 column and filling out the special order form which you can find on the last page of their cabinet hardware catalog, dated 02/01/18. 
 

Duravit Partners with the Philharmonie de Paris

The folks at Duravit are joining in harmony with the stunning Philharmonie de Paris, providing a range of products from the bathroom brand's most classic collections. Inaugurated in 2015, the Philharmonie de Paris (designed by star architect Jean Nouvel) houses the largest concert hall in all of Paris. Duravit's elegant washbasins from the Vero range adorn the Philharmonie, along with Starck 1 and Starck 3 toilets from designer Philippe Starck.

Friday, August 31, 2018

Lenova Introduces Their New Ultra Ledge Sinks

Lenova takes the kitchen sink to a whole new level with the latest addition to its popular Ledge Series. Introducing the Ultra Ledge  - and as its name implies, this sink is bigger and better than ever. Available in 46" and 58" models, the Ultra Ledge is the ultimate prep and clean-up station, a professional-grade work area worthy of the busiest home chefs who have large families to feed or who simply love to cook and entertain. In addition to its generous proportions, the Ultra Ledge Sink  is most notable for its dual levels of accessories that facilitate easy food preparation. Engineered platforms allow users to slide in optional accessories as needed, including a colander, cutting boards and roll-up grid racks. This thoughtful design elevates the traditional functions of a kitchen sink and transforms it into an efficient station for chopping produce, draining pasta, drying dishes and soaking even the largest pots and pans. Crafted from durable 16-gauge 18/10 stainless steel, the Ultra Ledge Sink is a smart and sophisticated addition to any kitchen. Standard features include an easy-to-clean satin finish, sound baffling pads, and removable splash guards and strainer baskets.

MTI Baths Celebrates Their 30th Anniversary

MTI Baths celebrates its 30th anniversary this month, a milestone that highlights the transformation of a small family business into one of today's leading bath manufacturers. It all started with one man's dream to create a better bathtub and today the company celebrates their founder whose spirit of risk-taking was inspirational and integral to MTI's culture. From its humble beginnings to its current position, MTI Baths has had an unerring focus on excellence that has influenced everything they do - from design innovation and craftsmanship to customer service. MTI offers an extensive product line with hundreds of tubs in every shape and style as well as shower bases, sinks, counter sinks, vanity sinks and genuine teak accessories. The company has earned more than 100 awards for new products, design excellence and product innovations, in addition to being featured countless times on popular programs like HGTV, Property Brothers and DiY. As the company embarks on this milestone anniversary, the brand continues its dedication to "the 3 R's of MTI" - respect, responsibility and resourcefulness, and a corporate culture that rewards creativity, flexibility and passion. Company CEO Kathy Adams (pictured) explains the company strategy this way "We don't want to be just best in the world at one thing - we want to try to be best in the world at every single thing we do. When you make that your goal, continual improvement happens."

Americh's New Drop-in Drain Kit for Free-Standing Tubs

Americh recently introduced a new drop-in drain installation kit for free-standing tubs.  This kit, which can be used for all free-standing bathtub installations, requires no access panel and can be used wherever access is an issue.  Other benefits and advantages of using the new drop-in drain kits are: 
  • Allows for an installation as close to the wall as possible.
  • The plate can be uninstalled if adjustments are needed.
  • There is a reusable cap for multiple pressure tests, if required.
  • Installation can be done for both 1 1/2" and 2" drains.

GRAFF's New Arnina Vessel Sink

GRAFF's new Arnina Vessel Sink is defined by its sophisticated curvilinear shape and elegant footprint. Constructed using GRAFF's own Sleek-Stone material comprised of 75% natural dolomite minerals, the Arnina Vessel Sink offers durability in addition to high design. A circle in a world of squares, the countertop sink asserts elegance with its softly polished frame and generous basin, workable for both master suites and powder rooms. GRAFF's wall-mount and vessel faucets pair perfectly with Arnina for a cohesive style that feels contemporary, fresh and distinctly luxurious. Gloss and matte white finishes are available to match with the bathroom preferences of traditionalists and modernists alike.

Friday, August 24, 2018

California Faucets Celebrates Their 30th Anniversary

California Faucets proudly marked thirty years as a manufacturer of artisan-crafted bath and kitchen fixtures. California Faucets' history of innovation has resulted in products and technologies that have shifted the industry's approaches to both design and performance. Most notable among those is StyleDrain®, the first decorative shower drain with fast-flow efficiency. StyleDrain transformed a category that was once restricted to lackluster, industrial-like drains into a sleek focal point. The industry took notice of California Faucets' innovations, recognizing StyleDrain and line extensions StyleDrain® Tile and CeraLine® with numerous awards, including three prestigious Best of Year (BoY) Awards from Interior Design (ID) magazine. Along with its reputation for innovation, California Faucets prides itself on its culture rooted in old-fashioned values and fine craftsmanship. With the mantra, "artisan hands, not mass produced," the manufacturer continues to deliver custom-built, handcrafted, solid-brass fixtures in 30-plus hand-produced finishes, even as it has gradually expanded in size and industry footprint. The wide array of finishes, including 15 decorative PVD finishes with a lifetime guarantee against tarnishing, establish the brand as a world leader in PVD while playing an important role in the manufacturer's ability to satisfy most any design vision. In essence, by offering the ability to customize any spout in any handle in any finish, California Faucets presents users with nearly limitless design freedom. 
 

Top Knobs' a Winner of 2018 KB&B Readers' Choice Awards

For the sixth consecutive year, Top Knobs has been named a winner of the Kitchen and Bath Business Magazine Readers' Choice Awards. More than 20,000 votes were cast online by KBB readers, who selected their favorite brands and manufacturers in 25 categories. Top Knobs has come out on top in two categories, Bath Accessories and Decorative Hardware. Voters were asked to select their choices based on specific criteria in each category. In the Bath Accessories category, voters assessed overall design, while in the Decorative Hardware category, voters focused on aesthetics and style. Both categories also put emphasis on the ability for products to coordinate with kitchen and bath fixtures. Top Knobs has been selected as a winner every year since the start of the award program in 2013.

Newport Brass Introduces Their ADA Compliant Grab Bars

Newport Brass® introduced new ADA compliant grab bars that are available in 27 decorative finishes, seven length options ranging from 12 to 42 inches and a variety of styles to complement the design of any bath fixture or hardware. The concept of installing secure and substantial accessories in the bathroom is more common in residential construction and renovation projects. Homeowners consider the safety benefits and convenience of installing grab bars as a "must-have" amenity and not just for assisted-living needs. Decorative and stylish grab bars are being used in many different applications (other than parallel to a toilet), including the shower and bathtub - providing a sure-confident grip for the user. The grab bars cater to a large demographic of those who are 65 years of age and older that want to age in place. To view the new grab bars, click here: https://www.newportbrass.com/products/categories/06/Accessories/39/Grab-Bars/.

Barclay's Newman and Nickleby Tubs Available with Integral Drain Slots

Barclay Products'™ Newman (pictured) and Nickleby acrylic tubs are now available with integral drain slots.  These innovative tubs have a drain channel built into the tub wall to save both space and installation time.  A drain and decorative overflow cover are included in a choice of five fashion finishes - polished chrome, brushed nickel, oil rubbed bronze, polished brass and polished nickel.

Scott Burns Completes His First Full Length Triathlon

Scott Burns of Upscale Sales, a DPHA member and independent representative in Florida, recently completed the Loggerhead Triathlon in Jupiter FL. About a year ago, Scott set a rather lofty goal of participating in a Triathlon. On August 4th of this year, he completed his second (and first full length) triathlon. The first one (the Turtle Man Triathlon on June 30th, 2018) was an abbreviated length to see if he was ready for the full length one. Yes, the local theme in his neck of the woods is "turtle." There is a plethora of turtle nests on the local beaches and the turtles garner much deserved attention.

Friday, August 17, 2018

Elkay's New Lustertone Iconix Sink

With its clean, simple design, the stylish Lustertone Iconix™ sink from Elkay adds a modern touch to the kitchen. Its sophisticated shape maximizes bowl space and makes sink cleanup quick and easy. Constructed from premium 16-gauge stainless steel for strength and performance. Elkay's exclusive Perfect Drain® adds to the seamless look and feel of this sleek sink. The luminous linear grain of Lustertone Iconix is resilient against everyday scratches for lasting beauty. To view the entire collection, please visit http://www.elkay.com/iconix. Features include: 
  • Engineered for a sophisticated look and more workspace.
  • The edgeless design of Perfect Drain means crumbs and other waste have nowhere to go but down the drain.
  • Scratches blend into the linear grain and can be removed with help from a restoration kit.

Mountain Products New Chill Water Chiller MT670-2

Now you can enjoy a crisp cup of cold water made instantly with the new Mountain Products' Chill Water Chiller, a most refreshing way to cool down on a hot summer day. Mountain Chill hides cleanly and simply beneath the sink and provides 1.5 gallons (per hour) of crisp, cool water from your own faucet. Having the Mountain Chill Water Chiller is the ultimate in convenience. When paired with the Mountain Pure Filtration System, it provides a green alternative to bottled water anytime day or night. The MT670-2 features:
  • Cools your water to between 39° F to 50° F
  • Large Y2 gallon stainless steel tank
  • Processes 1.5 gallons per hour
  • Lead free
  • 3 year compressor warranty
  • Adaptor allows for connection to either :3/8" or 1/4" tubing
  • Required space: 16" L x 10.125" H x 11.25" W

BLANCO Expands Their Precis Collection

BLANCO added the PRECIS 30" Single Bowl and PRECIS 1-3/4 Bowl with Low Divide (pictured) to its renowned SILGRANIT® sink collection. As an expansion to one of BLANCO's most popular lines, the new 30" PRECIS Single Bowl sink allows for the same SILGRANIT technology and array of color options in a unique size for 33" cabinets. The PRECIS 1-3/4 Bowl with Low Divide adds functionality by keeping prep and cleaning areas separate, with the ability to accommodate large pots, pans and baking sheets. The BLANCO PRECIS introductions are offered in all 8 on-trend SILGRANIT colors including anthracite, biscotti, biscuit, café brown, cinder, metallic gray, truffle and white. Other features include: 
  • BLANCO PRECIS 30" Single Bowl - 30" x 18", 9.5" deep, outside cabinet: 33"
  • BLANCO PRECIS 1-3/4 Low Divide - 33" x 18", 9.5" deep, outside cabinet: 36"
  • SILGRANIT features:
    • Rock hard granite durability
    • Heat resistant up to 536°F
    • Unsurpassed cleanability backed by industry leading 7 patents
    • Resistant to scratches, stains and all household acids and alkali solutions

American Standard's New Town Square S Collection

Inspired by the heritage of classic American architecture, yet thoroughly updated with modern technologies and conveniences, the Town Square S Collection of bathroom fixtures and faucets from American Standard incorporates authentic architectural details to make it easy to create a fully coordinated look for your clients. A signature crown molding design element unites the entire collection, from the sink pedestal and freestanding bathtub to the toilet tank and the base of each faucet. The comprehensive collection includes:
  • A freestanding soaking tub with a three-sided design that allows it to be installed flat against a wall or placed in the center of the room.
  • A spacious integral apron bathtub that will fit a standard alcove (for added design flexibility).
  • Two styles of sink tops that can be installed on a pedestal leg, a metal console, a wood washstand, or in a countertop. 
  • A two-piece elongated toilet that meets WaterSense-certification requirements by using 20 percent less water on each flush than standard 1.6 gpf toilets.
  • A comprehensive selection of bathroom sink and shower faucets in various configurations and long-lasting finishes.


Hydro Systems' New Charlize Tub

Inspired by the fleur-de-lis, the flared-out shape of Hydro Systems' new Charlize tub is a versatile transitional design that can fit any decor. Equipped with a built-in faucet deck, the Charlize's trumpeted, fountain-like form is perfectly scaled to provide optimal lumbar comfort at each end with just the right dose of indulgence. And don't forget the integral linear overflow making for a cleaner look and easier install. Made of acrylic and sized at 70"L x 36"W x 22"D, other features include an integral linear overflow and a faucet deck.