Planning a bathroom reno for a home or cottage in Muskoka starts at Knowles Plumbing. Our experts can walk you through the latest in bathroom trends 2019, from lit “halo” mirrors to barn-style shower doors, urban rustic bathroom faucets, and seamless, groutless shower stalls. If your bathroom renovation is just in the planning stages, read on. We’ve asked our experts for you!
Q: What are the 2019 interior design trends for cottage bathrooms and kitchens?
A: Increasingly our customers are seeking a soothing, spa-like experience in their Muskoka baths. The use of clean, monochromatic elements (all one colour) helps achieve that sanctuary feel. Add faucets in shiny, polished chrome, a frameless, all-glass shower door, and a lit “halo” mirror for that spa-friendly warmth and glow. For an industrial look, black faucets and shower doors with black frames are also on trend now. In kitchens, granite composite sinks give a Muskoka home an earthy ambiance plus strength and durability. We’re constantly updating trends in our Bracebridge showroom and on our website; drop by if you’re planning—or just dreaming—about a bath or kitchen update.
Q: What design features are most often requested by your clients recently for these rooms?
We’re seeing a move away from tiled shower stalls as our customers are so tired of cleaning grout! Cultured marble walls are seamless, groutless, and easy to clean. Plus, they’re custom sized to fit your space. As our population ages, more and more clients are converting alcove tubs into walk-in showers, which offer clean lines, simple access, and a sleek, upmarket look. And we have a stunning line of grab bars in our showroom that don’t look like grab bars; they multi-task as shelves, towel bars, and handy soap dishes.
“There are so many shapes and styles of freestanding tubs to choose from, many with soothing air bubbles instead of jets, heated backrests, and integrated coloured lights…”
Q: How have interior design trends changed over the last five years?
Freestanding tubs are back and they’re hot! Think: classic bathtub with a chic, modern twist. Add a book and a beautiful view of a lake and you’re set! There are so many shapes and styles of freestanding tubs to choose from, many with soothing air bubbles instead of jets, heated backrests, and integrated coloured lights. Toilets are taller, smarter, and more comfortable now, with turbo flushes, elongated shapes, and slow-close seats. Single-handle faucets—instead of separate handles for hot and cold—are far more popular and practical in the bathrooms and kitchens of 2019.
“For a quick freshen-up, consider a new vanity with smooth, modern lines and a lustrous faucet.”
Q: What advice would you give to someone who wanted to update their family cottage’s old kitchen and/or bathroom without doing a complete renovation?
A: Renovations can run away from you fast so it’s best to keep them in check. For a quick freshen-up, consider a new vanity with smooth, modern lines and a lustrous faucet. Add a statement mirror and some knock-out art. Replacing a shower curtain with a glass shower door is another way to modernize. Of course, never underestimate the power of a fresh lick of paint!
—Lisa Brown is director of sales at Knowles Plumbing (lisabrown@knowlesplumbing.com) . Pop by to browse the Bracebridge showroom, or make an appointment for a consultation and quote on parts and fixtures for your new kitchen or bath. Knowles Plumbing is situated at 279 Manitoba St., Bracebridge. 705-645-2671