Designed a kitchen that would be bright, sunny, and open. In terms of functionality, it needed to have ample room to work and plenty of storage. Flooring, backsplash, and floating shelves were planned using natural tones and materials to lend warmth to the area. Design choice for countertops was Cambria’s Annica, a new spin on classic marble featuring a neutral white background infused with subtle gray veins and regal gold and purple sparkle.

Our EMMA powder room is that warm touch of sophistication that you need in your home. Your LED mirror will be the focal point of the room by creating astounding makeup application lighting anyone could ever want. The Milano Walnut cabinetry is the perfect cherry on top as it ties in the warm colours from the tile flooring. The vanity cabinet push-open drawers with the chrome faucet adds the final enhancement to this stunning room. Our price for the EMMA package is only $4888 (plus applicable taxes). Floor tile: Brown, 12 x 24″, Oynx gloss polished Wall tile: Atlas Ivory, 12 x 24″, High gloss polished, Atlas Ivory Herri- , 2 x 6″, High gloss polished Vanity top: Floating design Vanity cabinet: Milano Walnut, Both side stone waterfall counter top, Push open drawer Sink: White, 18″ Faucets: Chrome, Waterfall design Mirror: 24 x 32″, UL certified LED panel with touch switch Wall paint: Sierra brown, Benjamin Moore Toilet: White, American standard with dual flush Lighting: Energy green pot lights Terms and conditions for powder rooms: Price for the powder room package is for a maximum of 30 sq ft. Additional costs will apply for a larger room. Vanity wall tiles are within 4-5 feet. Tile back splash only behind mirror vanity. We will not change plumbing or redesign washroom. Offer is only for the GTA. $300 off demolish & garbage cleaning promotion for walk in clients or proof of powder room package shared post. 8885 Jane street, Vaughan, ON, L4K 2M6. ( 905)-669-2798.

Julian Hodges - Featured Project of the Month by Truitt & White This month featured project brings you beautifully crafted gates and entryways from local craftsman Julian Hodges. For over 35 years, Mr. Hodges has been designing and crafting custom wooden gates in Berkeley and the greater Bay Area. His projects mainly feature old growth, vertical grained redwood or western red cedar which is air or kiln dried. The gates are fully mortised and tenoned (male / female joints) and a very powerful epoxy is used to glue the parts together. Wherever a floating panel rides in a dado, drainage is provided in the form of several holes that are out of sight that allow any rain water to be ushered out at the bottom of the gate enabling the gate to dry itself rather than staying damp which otherwise could lead to long term decomposition of the wood. Adding to the unique feel of each gate, Julian creates his own custom hardware from heavy gauge steel, which also provides a pleasing solid sound as it operates. All gates are then finished in a penetrating oil seal which optimizes the longevity and good appearance of the gates. For more information on Julian Hodges' work, visit www.julianhodges.com.

This Passive solar home also features solar panels that will fully offset all heating & cooling and electrical needs. Insulated Concrete Form walls with extensive air sealing and tilt-n-turn windows, and colored concrete floors work together to provide a secure and tranquil indoor environment, Greenguard certified paints, a mini-split heat pump, and heat recovery ventilator ensure the air is pure and healthy. An exposed fastener metal roof, LP SmartSide siding over Benjamin Opdyk Hydrogap, and a combination of triple pane Access windows and doors and triple pane Northstar windows with Pro-Clima flashing ensure long term durability and low maintenance. A custom real fieldstone wood burning fireplace adds warmth to the already very comfortable home.

Julian Hodges - Featured Project of the Month by Truitt & White This month featured project brings you beautifully crafted gates and entryways from local craftsman Julian Hodges. For over 35 years, Mr. Hodges has been designing and crafting custom wooden gates in Berkeley and the greater Bay Area. His projects mainly feature old growth, vertical grained redwood or western red cedar which is air or kiln dried. The gates are fully mortised and tenoned (male / female joints) and a very powerful epoxy is used to glue the parts together. Wherever a floating panel rides in a dado, drainage is provided in the form of several holes that are out of sight that allow any rain water to be ushered out at the bottom of the gate enabling the gate to dry itself rather than staying damp which otherwise could lead to long term decomposition of the wood. Adding to the unique feel of each gate, Julian creates his own custom hardware from heavy gauge steel, which also provides a pleasing solid sound as it operates. All gates are then finished in a penetrating oil seal which optimizes the longevity and good appearance of the gates. For more information on Julian Hodges' work, visit www.julianhodges.com.

Bathrooms are no longer just functional spaces; they’re mini sanctuaries where we unwind, reset, and start or end the day. One of the biggest trends driving modern bathroom design is the move towards open, spacious layouts – and at the centre of that look is the wet room shower screen. At BathroomNation, we’ve helped countless homeowners transform traditional bathrooms into sleek, practical wet rooms using high-quality wet room shower screens. In this blog, we’ll explain what a wet room shower screen is, why it’s such a smart choice, how to plan and style it, and what to look for when choosing the perfect one for your home. What Is a Wet Room Shower Screen? A wet room shower screen is a fixed or semi-fixed glass panel designed to separate your shower area from the rest of the bathroom floor, without enclosing it like a traditional cubicle. Instead of a full tray and door, you have:

• A level or gently sloped floor (often fully tiled)
• A walk-in, open shower space
• One or more glass panels providing splash protection

The shower screen helps contain water spray, while keeping the room visually open and easy to access. It’s the ideal solution for creating that walk‑in, hotel‑style shower experience at home. Why Choose a Wet Room Shower Screen? A wet room shower screen offers several practical and aesthetic benefits that make it an increasingly popular choice. 1. A Sense of Space and Openness Traditional shower enclosures can visually chop up a room, especially if they use heavy framing or smaller panels. A wet room shower screen, usually made from large, clear glass panels, allows the eye to travel further and lets light flow freely. This is particularly valuable in:

• Small bathrooms that feel cramped
• Rooms with limited or no natural light
• Long, narrow spaces where every inch counts

With a wet room shower screen from BathroomNation, your bathroom instantly feels larger and more luxurious. 2. Easy Access and Better Accessibility Because a wet room shower area is typically level with the rest of the bathroom floor, you don’t need to step over a high tray edge or navigate a narrow door opening. This makes it:

• Ideal for people with limited mobility
• Safer for older users and children
• More comfortable for everyday use

A wet room shower screen provides the necessary splash protection while keeping the shower zone wide and open. 3. Clean, Minimalist Look Wet rooms are the epitome of modern bathroom design: clean lines, minimal clutter, and a focus on beautiful surfaces. A simple glass screen supports that look perfectly. With BathroomNation’s wet room shower screens, you can achieve:

• Almost invisible glass boundaries
• Minimal metal hardware and framing
• A seamless link between shower and non-shower areas

The result is a calming, contemporary space that feels more like a boutique spa than a basic bathroom. 4. Easy Cleaning and Maintenance Fewer frames, tracks, and corners mean fewer places for grime and mould to build up. A wet room shower screen is largely just flat glass:

• Quick to wipe down after a shower
• Simple to clean with standard glass cleaner
• Less prone to discoloured seals and hard-to-reach dirt

Many BathroomNation screens also feature easy‑clean coatings to make maintenance even simpler. Types of Wet Room Shower Screens Not all wet room screens are the same. At BathroomNation, we offer various layouts and styles to suit different rooms and preferences. 1. Single Fixed Panel The most minimalist option is a single fixed glass panel mounted directly to the floor and wall. This works well when:

• The shower head is positioned sensibly to minimise overspray
• Your bathroom is medium or large in size
• You want an ultra‑open, walk‑in feel

A single wet room shower screen panel is a popular choice for modern renovations and new builds. 2. Fixed Panel with Deflector For extra splash protection without adding a full door, you can choose a fixed panel with a hinged or angled deflector section at the end. This:

• Extends coverage
• Helps keep more water inside the shower area
• Still keeps the openness of a walk‑in design

It’s a smart compromise where you want a bit more control over water spray. 3. Wet Room Screen with Hinged Return Panel Some layouts use a main fixed panel plus a smaller hinged return panel that can swing inwards or outwards. This allows you to:

• Increase the effective width of protection during showering
• Fold the panel away slightly when not in use to open up the space

These more flexible wet room shower screen designs are ideal in multi‑use bathrooms where you want adaptability. Key Features to Look for in a Wet Room Shower Screen When choosing a wet room shower screen from BathroomNation, paying attention to the details will ensure you get a product that looks great and performs well long-term. 1. Glass Thickness and Quality Most quality wet room screens use:

• 8mm toughened safety glass as standard
• 10mm toughened glass for an even more solid, premium feel

Thicker glass tends to feel more robust and luxurious, with less movement or flex. All BathroomNation screens use toughened safety glass designed for bathroom environments. 2. Easy-Clean Coating An easy‑clean or anti‑limescale coating helps:

• Prevent water spots and mineral build-up
• Make daily and weekly cleaning quicker
• Keep your wet room shower screen looking clear and new for longer

It’s a small upgrade that pays off in reduced cleaning effort over time. 3. Height and Width Options Wet room shower screens come in multiple heights and widths to suit different spaces:

• Taller screens (often 1900mm or more) provide better splash control
• Various widths let you create both compact and expansive walk-in areas

BathroomNation offers a range of sizes so you can find a screen that fits neatly without awkward gaps. 4. Support Bars and Bracing Because wet room shower screens often rely on floor and wall fixings without full frames, discreet support bars or braces may be used to stabilise the glass. These:

• Enhance rigidity and safety
• Are typically mounted at the top, near the ceiling or wall
• Can be designed in finishes that match your brassware (chrome, black, brass, etc.)

The aim is to keep the look light and minimal while ensuring the screen is secure. 5. Hardware Finishes The few bits of visible metal – wall profiles, support bars, hinges (if applicable) – can contribute significantly to your overall style. BathroomNation wet room shower screens are available with:

• Chrome
• Brushed nickel
• Matt black
• Brushed brass or gold tone

Matching your screen hardware to your taps, shower valve, and accessories creates a beautifully coordinated bathroom. Planning Your Wet Room with a Shower Screen Before choosing a wet room shower screen, planning the layout is crucial to ensure both practicality and style. 1. Positioning the Shower Area Think about:

• Where the shower head will be placed (ceiling, wall‑mounted, or both)
• How water will naturally fall and drain
• How much splash you’re comfortable with elsewhere in the room

Ideally, the wettest zone is placed furthest from the door and key dry areas (toilet, vanity, storage). 2. Drainage and Floor Slope A true wet room requires carefully designed drainage:

• The floor needs a gentle, even fall towards the drain
• You can use a central drain or linear (channel) drain
• Waterproofing (tanking) is essential beneath tiles or flooring

A wet room shower screen helps contain water but doesn’t eliminate the need for correct drainage and waterproofing. BathroomNation always recommends working with an experienced installer for wet room projects. 3. Sizing the Screen Your screen should be wide enough to:

• Catch most of the spray from your shower head
• Shield the main walkway and dry areas

Common widths range from around 700mm to 1400mm and beyond. Larger screens create a more defined shower zone, while smaller ones work in compact layouts. Styling Ideas with a Wet Room Shower Screen One of the great advantages of a wet room shower screen is how adaptable it is to different styles. Here are some design ideas using BathroomNation products as inspiration. 1. Minimalist, All-Glass Look

• Clear, frameless-style glass panel
• Large-format light grey or stone‑effect tiles
• Wall‑mounted rainfall shower head with matching controls
• Floating vanity and wall-hung toilet

The result is a calm, airy space that feels much bigger than it is. 2. Industrial Chic Wet Room

• Wet room shower screen with black profile and support bar
• Concrete or stone-look tiles on floor and walls
• Black rainfall shower and matching mixer valve
• Simple timber stool or bench for warmth

This style is bold, contemporary, and perfect for design‑led homes. 3. Spa-Like Sanctuary

• Ultra-clear glass wet room shower screen
• Natural stone or stone‑effect tiles in warm tones
• Brushed brass shower fittings
• Niche shelving built into the wall for toiletries

Add soft, fluffy towels, warm lighting, and a plant or two to create a relaxing retreat. Wet Room Shower Screen vs Traditional Enclosure You may be wondering whether a wet room set‑up is really better than a conventional enclosure. Both have their place, but a wet room shower screen offers some clear advantages. Wet Room Shower Screen

• Open, walk-in design
• Easier access, especially for mobility needs
• More airy look, less visual clutter
• Simpler to clean (fewer frames and corners)

Traditional Enclosure

• Fully enclosed, more contained water
• Usually involves a tray and door
• Can feel more “boxed in” in smaller rooms

If you value openness, accessibility, and modern style, a wet room shower screen from BathroomNation is a strong choice. If maximum containment and traditional feel are priorities, an enclosure may still suit some situations. Cleaning and Maintaining Your Wet Room Shower Screen

Our CECILIA package is brings a cool and elegant look into your home. The medium and light gray tones create a touch of boldness and drama, yet elegance and softness. Be in control of your decorations, they will be sure to pop out in this neutral toned powder room. This room is designed to fit any lifestyle, with its minimal look, you will have little upkeep, making it perfect for anyone who runs a busy life. The stunning LED vanity mirror is perfect for any makeup application. You deserve this room in your home! Our price for the CECILIA powder room package is only $4888.00 (plus applicable taxes). Floor tile: Medium gray, Light gray, 12 x 24", High gloss polished Wall tile: Medium gray, Light gray, 12 x 24", High gloss polished Vanity cabinet: Heavy grey, Both side stone waterfall counter top, push open drawer Vanity top: Floating design Sink: White, 18" Mirror: 24 x 32", UL certified LED panel with touch switch Wall paint: Atrium white, Benjamin Moore Toilet: White, American Standard with dual flush Lighting: Energy-green pot lights Terms and conditions for powder rooms: Price for the powder room package is for a maximum of 30 sq ft. Additional costs will apply for a larger room. Vanity wall tiles are within 4-5 feet. Tile back splash only behind mirror vanity. We will not change plumbing or redesign washroom. Offer is only for the GTA. $300 off demolish & garbage cleaning promotion for walk in clients or proof of powder room package shared post. 8885 Jane street, Vaughan, ON, L4K 2M6. ( 905)-669-2798.

Nestled in the lush landscape, a modern reinterpretation of a once-fallen barn now features a charming guest cottage with stylish details and contemporary amenities. Situated along a narrow lot in Germantown, New York, the cottage completes a cluster of existing buildings, forming an intimate courtyard on one side. Steel effect folding patio doors fully open the living areas to the expansive fields and the Catskill Mountains beyond. The homeowners, a young family with parents living abroad, envisioned a cozy yet modern ADU for extended stays. Designed by Lauren Cawse, AIA, architect and partner at The Art of Building, the year-round retreat draws inspiration from traditional local barns while embracing a seamless indoor-outdoor connection. Captivating Guest Cottage Design Enhances the Senses with Steel Effect Folding Patio Doors The modern ADU design started with the site itself. Positioned between residential and commercial neighbors, the elongated property required a careful balance of privacy and openness. Architect Lauren Cawse approached the layout by redefining the existing house and garage as the east and west sides of an outdoor room, with the new cottage forming its southern boundary. This arrangement created a clear courtyard near the main residence while directing the 800-square-foot guest house toward the open meadow and the distant Catskill Mountains. “The unique character of the site and its history inspired the architectural direction,” says Cawse. “The intent was to create a secondary structure in the compound in clear contrast to the modern farmhouse style of the house and garage.” A Barn-Inspired Exterior Adds Visual Flair The exterior envelope evokes a traditional barn with a simple gable shape, weathered wood siding, cedar shingles, and a foundation veneer made of local fieldstone. A large sliding barn door adds a complementary feature to the courtyard-facing side, creating a dynamic opening that maintains uninterrupted views through the cottage to the meadow beyond. Steel effect folding patio doors surrounding the structure add a modern touch of transparency, and simulated divided lites allow the contemporary glass wall systems to harmonize with the traditional elements of the modern ADU design. “The goal was to fully open the living areas to the outdoors, framing views to the meadows and mountains,” says Cawse. “The positioning of the NanaWall systems frames the views and, when open, dissolves the boundary between inside and out.” Interior Design That Mirrors Nature’s Tranquility Inside, the design program features a simple layout with one bedroom, a full bath, a kitchenette, and a living area with a wood-burning stove. The interior, a collaboration between The Art of Building and the homeowners, is defined by an understated palette and tactile materials that reflect the natural setting. Color is introduced through the framed glass views on all sides of the structure. Reclaimed timber collar ties span the ceiling overhead, while stone surfaces and naturally patinated metal accents add quiet texture throughout. Custom hand-painted Delft tiles along the kitchen backsplash add personal detail, and terra cotta flooring in the bathroom brings warmth and old-world charm. Soaring ceilings and abundant daylight create a peaceful play of light and shadow, shifting subtly with the seasons and emphasizing the cottage’s connection to the natural landscape outside. Sleek Steel Effect Folding Patio Doors Elevate the Modern ADU Design Aesthetic Three customized steel effect folding patio doors define the living space, each aligned to respond to a different edge of the site. The largest, spanning nearly 20 feet wide and just under eight feet tall, opens directly onto the stone patio, allowing the main gathering area to extend fully into the landscape. Along the side of the living room, a smaller 10-foot-wide system introduces more light and ventilation, nearly creating an open corner condition if not for the structural post that supports the façade and roofline. At the rear, a fourth ten-foot-wide system features a French door swing panel configuration that opens toward the courtyard, strengthening the design connection to the main residence. All steel effect folding patio doors were specified with a low-maintenance, water-rated Performance Sill to safeguard against inclement weather while providing a seamless, barrier-free transition to the outdoor patio. Unique Customizations for Visual Appeal and a Steel Effect Each folding patio door system is configured to open outward, maximizing usable floor space in the compact interior and allowing furniture placement to remain uninterrupted. By stacking outward, the steel effect folding patio doors, specified in a SE Classic Bronze powder coat, ensure every inch of the cottage is optimized. Simulated divided lites create a consistent rhythm across windows and doors, maintaining alignment with the traditional barn-inspired exterior. In the bedroom, a three-panel, 10-foot-wide system mirrors these customizations, matching the steel effect divided-lite pattern and outward-opening configuration, extending the indoor-outdoor connection while preserving visual continuity throughout the ADU. “The divided lites were crucial to the architectural vision, and while budget prohibited a steel and glass system, NanaWall Systems’ thin frames provide the open and airy feeling we hoped to attain,” says Cawse. “Simulated divided lites transition the thoroughly modern element of the glass walls to remain in harmony with the otherwise traditional palette.” Matching Windows and Doors: Create a Cohesive Design Program Alongside the larger openings in the living areas and bedroom, a smaller 3-foot-tall NanaWall tilt turn window was added to the bathroom. This window-sized NanaWall system perfectly matches the divided lite panels and sleek frames of the steel effect folding patio doors, creating a cohesive modern ADU design throughout. The compact opening provides ventilation and natural light, enhancing the spa-like atmosphere along with natural stone flooring. The matching glass lines and sleek profiles of the NanaWall Generation 4 comprehensive product line further unify visual consistency, allowing each system to fit into the architectural style seamlessly. “This project had three bifold glass walls, a pair of double French doors with sidelites, and a single tilt turn window,” says architect Lauren Cawse. “Being able to work with a single manufacturer provided aesthetic cohesiveness and simplified coordination.” Sustainability Where It Matters Most New York weather can vary from hot 85-degree summers to cold 26-degree winters. Creating an efficient living space was a primary goal. To achieve this, the design included Timber HP-insulated walls and floors with a heat pump system for effective heating and cooling. Additionally, the steel effect folding patio doors and windows were specified with double-glazed panels to ensure a tight building envelope. Indoor-Outdoor Living Spaces for Relaxing and Entertaining In-house landscape designer Liz Pulver worked closely with the team to conceive open-air spaces that enhanced the connection between inside and outside. To the south end of the lot, the landscape transitions into an “enhanced meadow,” allowing the cottage to feel embedded within the surrounding fields rather than set apart from them. A circular pool was designed to mimic a natural pond with a modest footprint. Around it, a minimalist fence and sunken stone ha-ha wall offer discreet safety for young children. Limited space due to existing infrastructure and zoning setbacks left only a small footprint for the swimming pool, prompting the designer to propose a circular form that maximized the usable swimming area. “We felt that the perfect way to integrate a pool into the property and to honor the landscape would be to treat the pool as a piece of art itself,” says Pulver. “The result is a beautiful round pool that serves as both a functional retreat and a sculptural moment.” Final Thoughts: A Barn-Inspired Design for Contemporary Living This modern ADU design skillfully combines modern features with the enduring charm of traditional barns. The outcome is a welcoming living space that stands out amid a stunning landscape. Natural materials that mimic the beauty of the outdoors, expansive steel effect folding patio doors that fill the space with fresh air and natural light, and a restrained interior design work together to create an inviting retreat for everyday living, throughout the seasons. “When entering the site, the cottage feels as though it was always there,” says Cawse. “It achieves its two opposing goals by creating a feeling of intimacy and enclosure near the house while also functioning as a threshold to the expansive fields and views beyond.” Explore how NanaWall folding patio doors elevate other ADU spaces in our inspiring project photo gallery! Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is Slimline Steel Effect? Steel Effect is a folding patio door design option that replicates the appearance of traditional steel-framed glass doors. It combines the look of steel with the performance benefits of aluminum, including energy efficiency, low maintenance, greater design flexibility, and lower cost. How does a NanaWall Steel Effect aluminum system compare to traditional steel-framed glass doors? NanaWall Slimline Steel Effect folding patio doors replicate the narrow frames of traditional steel doors with improved weather and thermal performance and easier operation. They are lighter, more corrosion-resistant, and feature a thermally broken design for better energy efficiency and lower long-term maintenance. What are the benefits of Steel Effect folding glass walls? Steel Effect folding glass walls deliver the narrow sightlines and grid patterns of traditional steel, combined with the performance and low maintenance of aluminum. The slimline steel effect option offers all the benefits of our Generation 4 product line, including the FourFold / SixFold floating panel set option and smooth operation with Gothic arch stainless steel rollers on a stainless steel track. Can Slimline Steel Effect glass walls be customized? Yes, these systems offer a high level of customization to suit different architectural styles, including simulated divided lites specified in various patterns, popular SE colors for a true steel effect look, and a contemporary glass stop option for a refined look. Contact your local NanaWall representative for additional options here. How energy-efficient and weather-resistant are Slimline Steel Effect folding patio doors? Steel effect folding systems are engineered for strong thermal and weather performance. Thermally broken frames and high-performance glazing help improve energy efficiency. Each NanaWall system has been independently tested for air, water, structural integrity, and forced entry with excellent results.

tiny kitchen, repurposed dining room sideboard, elevated tiny refrigerator, floating shelves.
Open concept kitchen - small southwestern single-wall light wood floor and gray floor open concept kitchen idea in Phoenix with a drop-in sink, open cabinets, dark wood cabinets, wood countertops, metallic backsplash, metal backsplash, black appliances, an island and brown countertops

Breathtaking views of Baltimore Harbor provide the backdrop for this condo renovation by Greenleaf craftsmen in Silo Point. Designer, Marci Lief, created a contemporary kitchen complete with panel front appliances, quartz countertops, solid slab backsplash, floating shelves and accent lighting. Custom cabinetry with slab fronts and concealed hardware features clean lines and ample storage. Credits: Alan Gilbert photography, Custom Fit Kitchens cabinetry

Inspiration for a contemporary home design remodel in Austin

This Passive solar home also features solar panels that will fully offset all heating & cooling and electrical needs. Insulated Concrete Form walls with extensive air sealing and tilt-n-turn windows, and colored concrete floors work together to provide a secure and tranquil indoor environment, Greenguard certified paints, a mini-split heat pump, and heat recovery ventilator ensure the air is pure and healthy. An exposed fastener metal roof, LP SmartSide siding over Benjamin Opdyk Hydrogap, and a combination of triple pane Access windows and doors and triple pane Northstar windows with Pro-Clima flashing ensure long term durability and low maintenance. A custom real fieldstone wood burning fireplace adds warmth to the already very comfortable home.

A gut remodel of the lower level of this beach home was needed when the client’s husband, a retired marine biologist and avid surfer, was diagnosed with early Alzheimer’s. The master suite with spa bath/shower wet room, and guest bedroom with full bath were redesigned for a whole new look and for better efficiency of the space to prepare for long term care while aging in place.

Designed a kitchen that would be bright, sunny, and open. In terms of functionality, it needed to have ample room to work and plenty of storage. Flooring, backsplash, and floating shelves were planned using natural tones and materials to lend warmth to the area. Design choice for countertops was Cambria’s Annica, a new spin on classic marble featuring a neutral white background infused with subtle gray veins and regal gold and purple sparkle.

Floating dog run of House 4 connecting the garage and main house with views into the central oak tree and House 3 perched beyond. The flooring is tropical hardwood, chosen for long-term durability and ease of maintenance. Photo Credit: Craig Washburn Photos

Designer: Robert Griffin Photo Credit: Desired Photo Regal isn’t a term reserved only for kings and queens. Our "Arched For A Queen, Fit For A King" bathroom design runeth over with old world stone elegance from the Emser Tile Ancient Tumbled Travertine series. Adding to opulence are the Delta Faucet "Cassidy" series fixtures and "Sienna River" granite accents, with all this stone we turned to Custom Building Products to not seal and protect our modern classic, but for all the installation products to ensure our space is relaxing for years to come.

In this condo refresh, we painted orange accent walls in the kitchen and entry and furnished the space to accommodate short term renters. For the kitchen we added a shelf on pipe supports to free up the limited countertop space.

Designed By: Sarah Buehlman Marc and Mandy Maister were clients and fans of Cantoni before they purchased this harbor home on Balboa Island. The South African natives originally met designer Sarah Buehlman and Cantoni’s Founder and CEO Michael Wilkov at a storewide sale, and quickly established a relationship as they bought furnishings for their primary residence in Newport Beach. So, when the couple decided to invest in this gorgeous second home, in one of the ritziest enclaves in North America, they sought Sarah’s help in transforming the outdated 1960’s residence into a modern marvel. “It’s now the ultimate beach house,” says Sarah, “and finished in Cantoni from top to bottom—including new custom cabinetry installed throughout.” But let’s back up. This project began when Mandy contacted Sarah in the midst of the remodel process (in December 2010), asking if she could come take a look and help with the overall design. “The plans were being drawn up with an architect, and they opted not to move anything major. Instead, they updated everything—as in the small carpeted staircase that became a gorgeous glass and metal sculpture,” Sarah explains. She took photographs and measurements, and then set to work creating the scaled renderings. “Marc and Mandy were drawn to the One and Only Collection. It features a high-gloss brown and white color scheme which served as inspiration for the project,” says Sarah. Primary pieces in the expansive living area include the Mondrian leather sectional, the Involution sculpture, and a pair of Vladimir Kagan Corkscrew swivel chairs. The Maisters needed a place to house all their electronics but didn’t want a typical entertainment center. The One and Only buffet was actually modified by our skilled shop technicians, in our distribution center, so it could accommodate all the couple’s media equipment. “These artisans are another one of our hidden strengths—in addition to the design tools, inventory and extensive resources we have to get a job done,” adds Sarah. Marc and Mandy also fell in love with the exotic Makassar ebony wood in the Ritz Collection, which Sarah combined in the master bedroom with the Ravenna double chaise to provide an extra place to sit and enjoy the beautiful harbor views. Beyond new furnishings, the Maisters also decided to completely redo their kitchen. And though Marc and Mandy did not have a chance to actually see our kitchen displays, having worked with Sarah over the years, they had immense trust in our commitment to craftsmanship and quality. In fact, they opted for new cabinetry in four bathrooms as well as the laundry room based on our 3D renderings and lacquer samples alone—without ever opening a drawer. “Their trust in my expertise and Cantoni’s reputation were a major deciding factor,” says Sarah. This plush second home, complete with a private boat dock right out back, counts as one of Sarah’s proudest accomplishments. “These long-time clients are great. They love Cantoni and appreciate high quality Italian furnishings in particular. The home is so gorgeous that once you are inside and open the Nano doors, you simply don’t want to leave.” The job took almost two years to complete, but everyone seems quite happy with the results, proving that large or small—and in cases necessitating a quick turnaround or execution of a long-term vision—Cantoni has the resources to come through for all clients.

While the master bathroom may be the most simple of all the bathrooms in terms of the design, it was actually the most difficult to execute. The homeowners wanted a serene, clean escape, but needed ample storage and wanted to incorporate a slightly more luxurious feel. Alongside the homeowner Daniella, the designers looked through many different tile options, finally settling on Bianco Dolomiti – Direto polished marble. They all loved the bright white background with the slight variation and veining, which gave it more character than a traditional Thassos. The designers opted to use 12 x 24 tiles to create a focus wall behind the vanity, which created the perfect backdrop for the custom-made floating vanity, medicine cabinets, wall mounted faucets and sconces. The designers originally wanted the floor to be cement, but when they saw the Area grey porcelain tile installed at the NEMO Tile Red Bank showroom, they knew it would be perfect. They opted for the larger 48 x 48 tiles to minimize the number of seams, which maintains the focus on the beautiful Bianco Dolomiti – Direto marble.