Can Modern be Traditional?

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Written by: Shelanne Jennings-Augustine of Dockside Magazine

Taking style concepts to a whole new level

Tranquility, simplicity and elegance: they’re three words that most of us would love to use when describing our homes. But in reality, many of us are struggling to find the right style that can transcend both time and trends.

Streamlining and simplifying your style choice while keeping some character can have a profound impact on our state of mind and ultimate look. And more and more designers are applying that wisdom to the fixtures and furnishings in our homes, rejecting singular design ideals for a more accurate reflection of our hybrid-styled lives.

“We all want to come home to a space that makes us feel at ease,” says Rick Cooke, manager of The Water Closet. “Kitchen and bath suppliers are taking note of that.”

You don’t need to live in a designer’s home to take advantage of this trend: from Delta to American Standard, the best plumbing fixture manufacturers offer modern yet traditional designs that can be used in any home, no matter its style.

Crisp lines

Whether using hard, straight edges or a concept that’s completely curved, transitional designs often rely on striking shapes, rather than patterns and loud colour schemes, to make an impact.

“When you’re remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, these blended designs are a great way to go,” says Rick. “They simplify the space without making it boring, while fitting most design styles.”

For those leaning towards the straight-edged, hard-lined look, Rick suggests looking for fixtures like the Ara tub filler by Delta.

“The Ara Line is all about architectural simplicity,” says Rick. “They have very simple handles and open-trough spouts, and can be ordered in a number of finishes.”

For those who prefer rounded silhouettes, Rick suggests freestanding fixtures, like the Florence tub by Produits Neptune, that allow their shape to shine. “The Florence tub features luxurious lines and a lower basin that makes getting in and out an ease, while offering a modern and minimalistic look.”

A new line available at The Water Closet, DXV’s Oak Hill collection, encompasses both sharp edges and rounded silhouettes perfectly and ties in the latest must-have Satin Brass finish.

“This new DXV luxury line really answers all types of design needs with its four distinct design movements — Classical, Golden Era, Modern and Contemporary — that can be used separately or mixed together,” says Nick Nano, showroom representative with The Water Closet. “It really is a fun line that we’re proud to carry.”

Natural elements

If you’re intrigued by the simplicity of modernity but aren’t willing to give up traditional designs completely, consider one of the many modern looks that are accessorized with wooden details.

“Brizo has a beautiful modern line called LITZE that’s available in chrome and teakwood,” says Rick. “It’s an unlikely pairing but the combination of the warm teak with the cold, smooth chrome looks amazing.”

For the texture of wood without the warm tone, Rick suggests looking for products that feature muted, cool wooden tones.

“One of my favourites is the Park Central vanity by Fairmont Designs,” says Rick. It’s a white and chrome structured vanity with muted wooden drawer fronts. “The wood is almost grey, but it adds texture and depth to the unit.”

If you’re not ready to change your already traditional style, but want to add modernity to your master bath, the easiest way is to look at plumbing and bath features that make life easier.

“Take the ActiClean toilet by American Standard,” says Rick. “It has a clean, crisp design, but it also features technology that keeps it clean, so you don’t have to.”

The toilet is equipped with a cleaning cartridge that releases a powerful cleaning liquid into the bowl whenever the toilet’s cleaning system is activated.

“No one likes to clean the toilet,” says Rick. “With the ActiClean, you really don’t have to. Just press a button and it’s done. It’s a whole other level of luxury.”

thewatercloset@desco.ca www.WaterCloset.ca