Search results for "Typically smart" in Home Design Ideas

This client requested that we design her new kitchen space to look and function with her and her family’s usage in mind. She was not happy with her existing kitchen due to builder-grade ceramic flooring, lack of countertop space, poor lighting, inadequate and unorganized storage and the closed off feel of the area. Renovisions resolved all of these issues by designing and building an impressive, transitional styled kitchen; delivering a beautifully well thought-out space that provides a multi-functional approach and meets the needs of this busy and dynamic household.
Typically, we encounter challenges in every project, and this was no different. The upstairs bathroom plumbing ran across the entire length of the kitchen sink wall and it was necessary to work with it by moving the plumbing as far up as possible and then building a soffit to hide it.
Creating a space that has a more open feel was top of mind for our client. Installing a new wood floor that matched the existing dining room floor helped with this and in addition, warmed up the room. By relocating the refrigerator to the opposite wall and adding a bar area at the end toward the family room, the flow of traffic for family members and guests became more managed.
The open floor plan allowed for additional island cabinets to accommodate smart storage and better functionality when prepping meals, sitting to eat or gathering with friends and family. We believe having ample countertop surface space is a critical improvement in any renovation and this particular project now boasts a large countertop area with a stunning wide vein pattern that accentuates the design instead of overpowering it. The soft look of the Blanco Arabescato quartz enhances the space and looks lovely with the white inset styled cabinetry.
Beauty and function go hand-in-hand in this kitchen with several exceptional elements such as under-cabinet lighting with dimmers to control the mood light. Glass doors were added to the wall cabinets which flank the wine rack for displaying their decorative glassware and a beverage cooler below provided added convenience and access to cold beverages. The GE Café line of appliances in ‘Slate’ and ‘Stainless Steel’ finishes are a stunning contrast here.
The sensational looking decorative marble 6”x6” backsplash tile over the gas range and in the bar area creates nice focal points by creating a unique look for her that family and guests love.
Convenient and functional elements were added such as a blind corner pull-out for easier pot/pan storage, a sweep-o-vac under cabinet vacuum system for those constant quick clean-ups, a pull-out caddy under the sink base for storage of cleaning products and a protective mat to collect potential spills.
Our client let us know it was time for a change and we listened. She shared a few pictures she loved from a home magazine, we shared our insight and then designed/built the kitchen of her dreams! … A fabulous and functional space.

Sustainable Design Meets Smart Technology
This home featured a request from the client to use as many environmentally friendly materials and fabrics as possible. Many common shade manufacturers use materials with PVC plastic, which is known for off-gassing hazardous chemicals that linger in the air in the home for years. The main floor roller shades met the client’s request for an eco-friendly fabric by utilizing motorized shades with GreenScreen fabric. In other rooms, the designer and client wanted the classic look and soft fabrics with roman shades and drapery tracks on several windows in the house. By partnering with the interior designer and fabric workroom, we were able to provide a custom solution for motorization of roman shades and drapery.
Lighting Control
The client is able control all of the lighting and window treatments in the house with a single control system. This eliminates the need for extra devices on the wall or remote controls that clutter up the space and get lost. By utilizing the custom window treatments, the house is able to conserve energy by keeping the house warmer in the winter, and cooler in the summer by providing insulation and blocking sunlight. The lighting control system further helps to conserve energy by beautifully dimming LED lights as well as using quick buttons that turn off all of the lights in the house, or un-occupied rooms, with the press of a single button.
Motorized Window Treatments
Motorized window treatments add a high level of convenience to any project, especially those with many windows in hard to reach places. The challenge with many manufacturers is a limitation of style and fabric selection, some may be as basic as only roller shades. Often times these come with un-reliable, wireless controls.
On this Birmingham, MI project completed in March 2019, we partnered with the interior designer and drapery workroom to provide a truly unique solution. The homeowner and designer’s requests included many different styles of window treatments including rollers shades, roman shades and motorized draperies. Typically, this would result in a collection of various shade manufacturers with unsightly remotes scattered across each room or stuck to the wall for control. Utilizing standard offerings, coupled with an incredible team effort by the designer and drapery workroom, we provided all of the requested styles of window treatments, and were able to control them all on a single system. This means that each room has a single, elegant keypad built into the wall that controls not only the window treatments, but the lighting as well.
When leaving/entering the home, all of the window coverings can be raised or lowered with a single button press. Shades and draperies can also be set to operate based on the time of day for automatic day-to-day operation using sunlight as a guide. In the end, we achieved convenience, function and sophisticated style.

Photo Credits: ©️ Maxwell MacKenzie
This custom home is situated on a typical, tight Arlington lot, but we were still able to fit a spacious house along with a pool, outdoor kitchen, and trampoline area in the backyard. The main floor consists of an in-law/guest suite, the kitchen, great room, dining room, and bi-fold sliding doors and pocket sliding doors that allow the main floor to be completely open and seamlessly transition to the outdoors. The floor to ceiling windows in the owner’s suite is another signature design choice for AV. With smart home features and all-around home speakers as well as many other small details, the home is deceptively simple and incredibly easy to use and maintain. Solar power fits right in because the system lasts for decades, and it requires almost no maintenance, consistent with our standard choices of low-hassle, high-quality exterior building materials.
Find the right local pro for your project

The original idea was to update the tile floor and the tub. That’s it.
A further discussion of wants and needs revealed intentions for an eventual larger shower and an improved vanity storage. It made sense to map out the possibilities and design our update with potential next steps in mind. The process was exciting, ultimately leading to the decision to do a full primary bath remodel.
Design Objectives:
-Maintain existing locations for all major bathroom functions
-Make the shower larger and more open
-Use luxurious materials throughout
-Improve vanity storage and define accessories for specific items
-Incorporate luxury shower fixtures
-Include the latest technology
Design Challenges
-Enlarging the shower in a typical rectangular shape would block the view and light from the alcove windows behind the tub
-Logical placement of the built-in shower caddy and all shower components in accordance with how and where they were to be used
-Keeping the long, back wall free from any shower modules to maintain the decorative tile design
-Combining the owner’s existing smart home system with a comprehensive shower system
-Planning cabinetry for hidden storage and use for various small appliances and make-up
-Integrating expensive shower wall tile with less expensive wall tile for aesthetic and budget purposes
-Incorporating special design features to balance the highly decorative shower tile
Design solutions:
-A clipped corner was planned for the shower bench seat – this allowed for a larger glass wall. The glass wall at the angled bench also brought more natural light into the shower
-Thoughtful shower space design prevented the crowding of features – the shower caddy and handheld shower head were placed on the full-height wall by the shower bench, the regular shower head and body sprays remained on the opposite wall, and the rain head was placed in the center of the shower
-A multi-port DTV system was installed, providing control of all shower components, including chromotherapy and music inside and outside the shower
-The lavish water-jet stone and glass decorative tile was paired with a less-expensive glass tile found in the mosaic
-Pull-out grooming organizers and electrical docking stations were incorporated into the cabinetry
Additional storage was created in the lower corner cabinet
The homeowners are thrilled with their new primary bathroom. Clear goals and carefully evaluated materials informed a fun and functional design that is both thoughtful and sumptuous!

The developers of this cutting-edge spec home sought to push the boundaries of typical designs offered in their market. The exterior blends classic colonial style with contemporary flair. The interior space is thoughtfully created to provide open concept living with transitional finishing elements that will satisfy the needs of today's sophisticated families.
The staging design was created to showcase the beautiful construction, by pulling in modern and cutting edge elements. Sleek furniture and sophisticated accents create a seamless flow between the staging and architecture of the home.

Dream Technologies played a big part in producing this home theater. From our remotes, we can control the projector, the surround sound, various video sources, shades, and lighting.

Bathrooms weren’t always a focal point for homeowners and buyers, and it shows in homes that haven’t been built or updated recently. Now, home buyers and homeowners are looking for more than just a bathroom focused solely on utility.
Bathrooms with double-sink vanities, soaker tubs, steam showers, and other spa-like features are at the top of the list for buyers. Even just updating to a neutral color scheme and reglazed the tub can increase buyer interest and modernize this essential part of the home.
At Curbio, we are a pay-at-closing concierge solution that helps homeowners captivate buyers while walking away with the most money in their pocket. We pride ourselves on making smart home improvements to modernize dated bathrooms and get sellers more money back at the closing table.
After determining which pre-listing bathroom updates will result in the greatest return on investment, our licensed general contractors will get started whether the project is a quick bathroom refresh or a full remodel. With typically a faster project completion than traditional general home contractors, the project will not face unnecessary delays. Our teams also handle the entire project from start to finish so you do not have to. This makes for happier homeowners, and agents.

This beautiful Craftsman style Passive House has a carbon footprint 20% that of a typically built home in Oregon. Its 12-in. thick walls with cork insulation, ultra-high efficiency windows and doors, solar panels, heat pump hot water, Energy Star appliances, fresh air intake unit, and natural daylighting keep its utility bills exceptionally low.
Jen G. Pywell

Sustainable Design Meets Smart Technology
This home featured a request from the client to use as many environmentally friendly materials and fabrics as possible. Many common shade manufacturers use materials with PVC plastic, which is known for off-gassing hazardous chemicals that linger in the air in the home for years. The main floor roller shades met the client’s request for an eco-friendly fabric by utilizing motorized shades with GreenScreen fabric. In other rooms, the designer and client wanted the classic look and soft fabrics with roman shades and drapery tracks on several windows in the house. By partnering with the interior designer and fabric workroom, we were able to provide a custom solution for motorization of roman shades and drapery.
Lighting Control
The client is able control all of the lighting and window treatments in the house with a single control system. This eliminates the need for extra devices on the wall or remote controls that clutter up the space and get lost. By utilizing the custom window treatments, the house is able to conserve energy by keeping the house warmer in the winter, and cooler in the summer by providing insulation and blocking sunlight. The lighting control system further helps to conserve energy by beautifully dimming LED lights as well as using quick buttons that turn off all of the lights in the house, or un-occupied rooms, with the press of a single button.
Motorized Window Treatments
Motorized window treatments add a high level of convenience to any project, especially those with many windows in hard to reach places. The challenge with many manufacturers is a limitation of style and fabric selection, some may be a s basic as only roller shades. Often times these come with un-reliable, wireless controls.
On this Birmingham, MI project completed in March 2019, we partnered with the interior designer and drapery workroom to provide a truly unique solution. The homeowner and designer’s requests included many different styles of window treatments including rollers shades, roman shades and motorized draperies. Typically, this would result in a collection of various shade manufacturers with unsightly remotes scattered across each room or stuck to the wall for control. Utilizing standard offerings, coupled with an incredible team effort by the designer and drapery workroom, we provided all of the requested styles of window treatments, and were able to control them all on a single system. This means that each room has a single, elegant keypad built into the wall that controls not only the window treatments, but the lighting as well.
When leaving/entering the home, all of the window coverings can be raised or lowered with a single button press. Shades and draperies can also be set to operate based on the time of day for automatic day-to-day operation using sunlight as a guide. In the end, we achieved convenience, function and sophisticated style.

From drab to fab - doing a double-take on this once outdated kitchen. The Neace family came to us with what we term as the "oak dilemma" a house built in the 80's or 90's that is overloaded with oak trim, floors, panels, etc and typically feels very dark and has an orangish feel. We've had a lot of expereince with these updates and were able to provide some great solutions to refresh their kitchen within a limited budget. Refacing was a great option for this kitchen - they kept their floors, and granite countertop and we refaced the rest, adding a grey subway tile backsplash, new hardware and new appliances to transform this kitchen into something smart and beautiful.

Paul Despenas: EcoSmart Custom Built 2-Lite Sliding windows, picture units and patio door were installed before the siding crew came to do their part.
EcoSmart windows feature Smart Core insulated master and sash frames:
EcoSmart windows come standard with our patented insulation in all primary frame and sash cavities. This is high density insulation provides a NFRC determined R-Value of 7.25 per inch of thickness.
SmartCore insulation provides almost two times the insulating proprieties of typical fiberglass insulation, making EcoSmart windows more energy efficient and your home more comfortable.
Performance Glass Options are the heart and soul of any good window. You’ll find a great selection of options to deliver the energy savings your home deserves.
Fusion-Welded Frames:
The frame and sash on EcoSmart windows are 100% fusion welded for superior sealing against water or air infiltration and no expansion and contraction.
Added strength provided by our I-Beam & Rigid Core Fiberglass Reinforcement.
All EcoSmart windows are custom built to fit into your home.
American Classic Insulated siding features:
Lifetime Non-Fade Protection
Progressive Foam Fullback Insulation is laminated to the back of the siding to add rigid backing to the siding panel to give straight wall lines
Four Times the energy savings value than conventional siding underlayments
High permebiliyty lets your walls breath to minimize the opportunity for mold growth
Deters termites and carpenter ants
The list goes on and on……….American Classic Insulated Vinyl siding and EcoSmart Windows = ENERGY SAVINGS FOR THE LIFETIME OF THE HOME

The original idea was to update the tile floor and the tub. That’s it.
A further discussion of wants and needs revealed intentions for an eventual larger shower and an improved vanity storage. It made sense to map out the possibilities and design our update with potential next steps in mind. The process was exciting, ultimately leading to the decision to do a full primary bath remodel.
Design Objectives:
-Maintain existing locations for all major bathroom functions
-Make the shower larger and more open
-Use luxurious materials throughout
-Improve vanity storage and define accessories for specific items
-Incorporate luxury shower fixtures
-Include the latest technology
Design Challenges
-Enlarging the shower in a typical rectangular shape would block the view and light from the alcove windows behind the tub
-Logical placement of the built-in shower caddy and all shower components in accordance with how and where they were to be used
-Keeping the long, back wall free from any shower modules to maintain the decorative tile design
-Combining the owner’s existing smart home system with a comprehensive shower system
-Planning cabinetry for hidden storage and use for various small appliances and make-up
-Integrating expensive shower wall tile with less expensive wall tile for aesthetic and budget purposes
-Incorporating special design features to balance the highly decorative shower tile
Design solutions:
-A clipped corner was planned for the shower bench seat – this allowed for a larger glass wall. The glass wall at the angled bench also brought more natural light into the shower
-Thoughtful shower space design prevented the crowding of features – the shower caddy and handheld shower head were placed on the full-height wall by the shower bench, the regular shower head and body sprays remained on the opposite wall, and the rain head was placed in the center of the shower
-A multi-port DTV system was installed, providing control of all shower components, including chromotherapy and music inside and outside the shower
-The lavish water-jet stone and glass decorative tile was paired with a less-expensive glass tile found in the mosaic
-Pull-out grooming organizers and electrical docking stations were incorporated into the cabinetry
Additional storage was created in the lower corner cabinet
The homeowners are thrilled with their new primary bathroom. Clear goals and carefully evaluated materials informed a fun and functional design that is both thoughtful and sumptuous!

Upon entering what appears to be a typical box truck, one is immediately surprised by the design of the inviting guest/living room complete with a comfortable banquette, lounge chair and barstool. These pieces are positioned to enable the client to view a video, PowerPoint presentation or access the Internet on a flat screen smart TV.

Mixing door styles and finishes is one of the hottest trends in kitchen décor. It's also an easy way to give traditional cabinetry styles a totally new, fresh and modern look.
We started with Martel cabinetry along the back wall. This door style is typically associated with the 19th Century Shaker style. Paired with the sleek and simple elegance of the Epic door styles used in the island, the entire kitchen has a contemporary look. Clean and minimal hardware and glass door inserts add to the modern look of the room.
Under the sleek exterior you'll find many smart storage solutions such as Base Wine Rack, Base Pots and Pans Storage, Knife Section Cutting Center and a Cutlery Divider.
As this kitchen shows, everything old is new again when you pair it with new and unexpected elements.

? HouseFX — Remodeling & Restoration Specialists
1. Residential Remodeling
Full-service home makeovers: kitchens, bathrooms, living spaces, master suites, and more.
Design‑build approach tailored to your vision.
Focus on modern functionality, timeless aesthetics, and increased home value.
2. Home Additions
Additions including bedrooms, sunrooms, second-story expansions, and extended kitchens.
Seamless integration with existing architecture and full handling of permits & planning.
Costs typically between $100 – $300/sq ft, with potential value increase of ~30 % on project cost.
3. Commercial Remodeling
Renovations for offices, retail spaces, restaurants, and multifamily units.
Tenant improvements, pre‑sale upgrades, or full commercial fit‑outs.
Customized to align with both aesthetic and functional business needs.
4. Building Restoration & Exterior Renovation
Restoration services for water damage, structural repairs, historic home preservation.
Exterior work: roofing, siding, windows, and energy‑efficient upgrades to withstand Texas weather.
Restoration costs for historic homes can reach ~$475/sq ft; water damage repairs typically $1,200–$5,000.
5. Outdoor Living & Smart Home Enhancements
Custom patios, kitchens, fireplaces, pergolas, and other outdoor living features.
Integration of smart home tech: thermostats, lighting, security systems, and automation.
Emphasis on sustainable materials, energy-efficient upgrades, and modern trends.
✔️ Why Choose HouseFX?
End‑to‑end project management: design, permitting, construction, inspections—all streamlined for smooth execution.
Attention to detail: tailored designs that respect architectural integrity and client vision.
Energy‑efficiency focus: eco-friendly materials, upgraded insulation, smart systems for long‑term savings.
HouseFX
Value-driven budgeting: transparent cost estimates, on‑budget delivery, financing options available.

Bathrooms weren’t always a focal point for homeowners and buyers, and it shows in homes that haven’t been built or updated recently. Now, home buyers and homeowners are looking for more than just a bathroom focused solely on utility.
Bathrooms with double-sink vanities, soaker tubs, steam showers, and other spa-like features are at the top of the list for buyers. Even just updating to a neutral color scheme and reglazed the tub can increase buyer interest and modernize this essential part of the home.
At Curbio, we are a pay-at-closing concierge solution that helps homeowners captivate buyers while walking away with the most money in their pocket. We pride ourselves on making smart home improvements to modernize dated bathrooms and get sellers more money back at the closing table.
After determining which pre-listing bathroom updates will result in the greatest return on investment, our licensed general contractors will get started whether the project is a quick bathroom refresh or a full remodel. With typically a faster project completion than traditional general home contractors, the project will not face unnecessary delays. Our teams also handle the entire project from start to finish so you do not have to. This makes for happier homeowners, and agents.

Bathrooms weren’t always a focal point for homeowners and buyers, and it shows in homes that haven’t been built or updated recently. Now, home buyers and homeowners are looking for more than just a bathroom focused solely on utility.
Bathrooms with double-sink vanities, soaker tubs, steam showers, and other spa-like features are at the top of the list for buyers. Even just updating to a neutral color scheme and reglazed the tub can increase buyer interest and modernize this essential part of the home.
At Curbio, we are a pay-at-closing concierge solution that helps homeowners captivate buyers while walking away with the most money in their pocket. We pride ourselves on making smart home improvements to modernize dated bathrooms and get sellers more money back at the closing table.
After determining which pre-listing bathroom updates will result in the greatest return on investment, our licensed general contractors will get started whether the project is a quick bathroom refresh or a full remodel. With typically a faster project completion than traditional general home contractors, the project will not face unnecessary delays. Our teams also handle the entire project from start to finish so you do not have to. This makes for happier homeowners, and agents.

Bathrooms weren’t always a focal point for homeowners and buyers, and it shows in homes that haven’t been built or updated recently. Now, home buyers and homeowners are looking for more than just a bathroom focused solely on utility.
Bathrooms with double-sink vanities, soaker tubs, steam showers, and other spa-like features are at the top of the list for buyers. Even just updating to a neutral color scheme and reglazed the tub can increase buyer interest and modernize this essential part of the home.
At Curbio, we are a pay-at-closing concierge solution that helps homeowners captivate buyers while walking away with the most money in their pocket. We pride ourselves on making smart home improvements to modernize dated bathrooms and get sellers more money back at the closing table.
After determining which pre-listing bathroom updates will result in the greatest return on investment, our licensed general contractors will get started whether the project is a quick bathroom refresh or a full remodel. With typically a faster project completion than traditional general home contractors, the project will not face unnecessary delays. Our teams also handle the entire project from start to finish so you do not have to. This makes for happier homeowners, and agents.

Renovating a bathroom is one of the most rewarding home improvement projects you can undertake. It adds immediate value to your property and elevates your daily routine. However, designing the perfect space requires balancing aesthetics with practical utility. At the heart of this balance is the vanity — it is the functional hub where you get ready each morning, a vital storage unit, and the visual centerpiece of the room.
To ensure you make the right investment, here is an in-depth look at choosing a bathroom vanity that blends style, longevity, and everyday functionality.
1. Assessing the Layout and Space Constraints
Before you fall in love with a specific design or finish, you must determine what your bathroom can physically handle. Scale is everything. A vanity that is too large disrupts traffic flow, while one that is too small gets lost visually and lacks adequate storage.
The next major step is determining the scale of your plumbing fixtures. Understanding how to choose a bathroom sink and vanity setup comes down to a simple choice: single or double sinks. Your choice will depend on who uses the bathroom and the overall footprint of the space.
Single Sink Vanities
Typically ranging from 20 to 48 inches (50–120 cm) in width, single vanities are the ideal choice for powder rooms, guest bathrooms, or small master suites. For very compact spaces, you can find narrower options starting around 16 inches (40 cm). The major advantage of a single-sink layout is that it provides more usable countertop space for cosmetics, toiletries, and decorative items. If you want to skip the guesswork and invest in a premium, beautifully handcrafted fixture, explore the luxury collections at Willow Bath and Vanity. From elegant single vanities to spacious double setups, their masterfully built furniture combines solid wood construction with elite styling to transform any bathroom into a spa-like retreat.
Double Sink Vanities
Usually starting at 48 inches (120 cm) and extending up to 72 inches (180 cm) or more, double vanities are a lifesaver for shared master bathrooms. They allow two people to get ready simultaneously without fighting for sink space. Keep in mind that a double vanity naturally reduces both cabinet storage space and countertop real estate since a second sink basin and plumbing lines take up substantial interior room.
Sink Types to Consider
The countertop is the workhorse of the bathroom. It regularly comes into contact with running water, toothpaste, soapy residue, and high-heat styling tools. Knowing how to choose a bathroom vanity top requires evaluating how much maintenance you are willing to perform against the look you want to achieve. Material Pros Cons Maintenance Level Quartz Highly durable, non-porous, stain and scratch-resistant. Offers the look of stone without the hassle. Premium pricing; can show seams on very large custom layouts. Low (No sealing required) Marble Timeless, elegant, and luxurious. Every slab features a completely unique veining pattern. Porous; prone to scratching, etching from acids, and water stains. Requires careful daily use. High (Requires regular sealing) Granite Naturally strong, heat-resistant, and chemically stable. Unique earthy patterns. Porous; can chip if subjected to heavy impacts. Medium (Requires occasional sealing) When coordinating your countertop, ensure it complements your bathroom’s floor tiles, shower surround, and plumbing hardware to maintain visual harmony.
4. Selecting the Core Vanity Style and Finish
Once the functional components are locked in, you can focus on the architectural style of the vanity base. The base dictates the design theme of the entire room.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect vanity is a step-by-step process that combines precise measurements with your personal design taste. By taking careful measurements, choosing between a single- or double-sink setup, and picking a durable counter material like quartz or granite, you can transform your bathroom into a beautiful, organized retreat. Prioritize high-quality materials and smart craftsmanship, and your new vanity will look spectacular and serve your household reliably for years to come.
1. Assessing the Layout and Space Constraints
Before you fall in love with a specific design or finish, you must determine what your bathroom can physically handle. Scale is everything. A vanity that is too large disrupts traffic flow, while one that is too small gets lost visually and lacks adequate storage.
- Take Precise Measurements: measure the available width, depth, and height. Remember to account for surrounding fixtures.
- Check Clearance Zones: ensure there is enough clearance for the bathroom door to swing open, for shower glass doors to clear the vanity, and for drawers and cabinet doors to extend fully without hitting the toilet or walls.
-
Locate Existing Plumbing: moving pipes can significantly increase renovation costs. If you want a seamless installation, look for a vanity configuration that aligns easily with your current plumbing setup.
The next major step is determining the scale of your plumbing fixtures. Understanding how to choose a bathroom sink and vanity setup comes down to a simple choice: single or double sinks. Your choice will depend on who uses the bathroom and the overall footprint of the space.
Single Sink Vanities
Typically ranging from 20 to 48 inches (50–120 cm) in width, single vanities are the ideal choice for powder rooms, guest bathrooms, or small master suites. For very compact spaces, you can find narrower options starting around 16 inches (40 cm). The major advantage of a single-sink layout is that it provides more usable countertop space for cosmetics, toiletries, and decorative items. If you want to skip the guesswork and invest in a premium, beautifully handcrafted fixture, explore the luxury collections at Willow Bath and Vanity. From elegant single vanities to spacious double setups, their masterfully built furniture combines solid wood construction with elite styling to transform any bathroom into a spa-like retreat.
Double Sink Vanities
Usually starting at 48 inches (120 cm) and extending up to 72 inches (180 cm) or more, double vanities are a lifesaver for shared master bathrooms. They allow two people to get ready simultaneously without fighting for sink space. Keep in mind that a double vanity naturally reduces both cabinet storage space and countertop real estate since a second sink basin and plumbing lines take up substantial interior room.
Sink Types to Consider
- Undermount: installed beneath the counter for a smooth, seamless surface that is incredibly easy to wipe down.
- Vessel: sits atop the counter like a decorative bowl. It makes a bold style statement but raises the overall height of the counter surface.
- Drop-In: features a lip that rests on the counter cutout. It is easier to install, but its edges can catch dirt.
-
The countertop is the workhorse of the bathroom. It regularly comes into contact with running water, toothpaste, soapy residue, and high-heat styling tools. Knowing how to choose a bathroom vanity top requires evaluating how much maintenance you are willing to perform against the look you want to achieve. Material Pros Cons Maintenance Level Quartz Highly durable, non-porous, stain and scratch-resistant. Offers the look of stone without the hassle. Premium pricing; can show seams on very large custom layouts. Low (No sealing required) Marble Timeless, elegant, and luxurious. Every slab features a completely unique veining pattern. Porous; prone to scratching, etching from acids, and water stains. Requires careful daily use. High (Requires regular sealing) Granite Naturally strong, heat-resistant, and chemically stable. Unique earthy patterns. Porous; can chip if subjected to heavy impacts. Medium (Requires occasional sealing) When coordinating your countertop, ensure it complements your bathroom’s floor tiles, shower surround, and plumbing hardware to maintain visual harmony.
4. Selecting the Core Vanity Style and Finish
Once the functional components are locked in, you can focus on the architectural style of the vanity base. The base dictates the design theme of the entire room.
- Freestanding vanities: sit directly on the floor, supported by legs or a solid kickboard base. This is a traditional, stable configuration that offers the maximum hidden cabinet and drawer storage space.
- Wall-Mounted (Floating) vanities: anchored directly onto the wall studs, leaving the floor underneath completely clear. Floating vanities are staples of modern, minimalist design. They create an illusion of space, making small rooms look larger, and make cleaning the bathroom floor incredibly easy.
- Console vanities: feature an open shelving design supported by a metal or wood frame. It offers a light, airy look reminiscent of a boutique hotel, though it sacrifices hidden storage.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect vanity is a step-by-step process that combines precise measurements with your personal design taste. By taking careful measurements, choosing between a single- or double-sink setup, and picking a durable counter material like quartz or granite, you can transform your bathroom into a beautiful, organized retreat. Prioritize high-quality materials and smart craftsmanship, and your new vanity will look spectacular and serve your household reliably for years to come.

Sustainable Design Meets Smart Technology
This home featured a request from the client to use as many environmentally friendly materials and fabrics as possible. Many common shade manufacturers use materials with PVC plastic, which is known for off-gassing hazardous chemicals that linger in the air in the home for years. The main floor roller shades met the client’s request for an eco-friendly fabric by utilizing motorized shades with GreenScreen fabric. In other rooms, the designer and client wanted the classic look and soft fabrics with roman shades and drapery tracks on several windows in the house. By partnering with the interior designer and fabric workroom, we were able to provide a custom solution for motorization of roman shades and drapery.
Lighting Control
The client is able control all of the lighting and window treatments in the house with a single control system. This eliminates the need for extra devices on the wall or remote controls that clutter up the space and get lost. By utilizing the custom window treatments, the house is able to conserve energy by keeping the house warmer in the winter, and cooler in the summer by providing insulation and blocking sunlight. The lighting control system further helps to conserve energy by beautifully dimming LED lights as well as using quick buttons that turn off all of the lights in the house, or un-occupied rooms, with the press of a single button.
Motorized Window Treatments
Motorized window treatments add a high level of convenience to any project, especially those with many windows in hard to reach places. The challenge with many manufacturers is a limitation of style and fabric selection, some may be as basic as only roller shades. Often times these come with un-reliable, wireless controls.
On this Birmingham, MI project completed in March 2019, we partnered with the interior designer and drapery workroom to provide a truly unique solution. The homeowner and designer’s requests included many different styles of window treatments including rollers shades, roman shades and motorized draperies. Typically, this would result in a collection of various shade manufacturers with unsightly remotes scattered across each room or stuck to the wall for control. Utilizing standard offerings, coupled with an incredible team effort by the designer and drapery workroom, we provided all of the requested styles of window treatments, and were able to control them all on a single system. This means that each room has a single, elegant keypad built into the wall that controls not only the window treatments, but the lighting as well.
When leaving/entering the home, all of the window coverings can be raised or lowered with a single button press. Shades and draperies can also be set to operate based on the time of day for automatic day-to-day operation using sunlight as a guide. In the end, we achieved convenience, function and sophisticated style.
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