Manufacturers are introducing variations on the products that make the home more pleasant and comfortable, such as shower spas, jetted tubs, kitchen sinks accessorized with convenient tools and boards, and even artistically decorated toilet seats.
The classic Victorian look is one of the trends in faucets. Danze recently unveiled its Opulence collection of Victorian-styled faucets. Delta Faucet introduced a Victorian kitchen faucet. St. Thomas Creations is offering a suite of bath fixtures with a distinctive Victorian look, under the name, Londonderry.
Homeowners/remodelers are upgrading their fixtures a lot these days, says Jeff Pratt, vice president/sales at Danze. "They like the older looking, classic styling and the fine detail and craftsmanship that goes into the Victorian line."
Elkay Manufacturing's classic-looking Victoria kitchen faucet is now offered in an antique copper finish as well as chrome. Matching optional insulated metal side sprays are also available.
"The copper finish gives it a nice traditional look," says Alan Danenberg, director/marketing services.
BLANCO AMERICA introduced its Silgranit kitchen sinks featuring the touch and feel of natural stone. The BLANCODIAMOND model is offered in a single bowl or double (one bowl paired with a three-quarter-size bowl) which fits in a standard 33 inch by 22 inch opening. The slim bowl divider is slightly lowered, creating overflow protection with a spillway from bowl to bowl.
Moen offers interchangeable bath faucet and accessory pieces with its Asceri Accents. Featuring its M-Pact common valve system, the faucet hub can be unscrewed for a quick change. Ten different styles are available: Arabesque, Kimono, Map, Champagne, Safari, Script, Watercolor, Hawaii, Terrazzo and Chinois.