Often fixtures and plumbing are relegated to the last position on an interior design priority list. We asked four design experts to shine a spotlight on everything from kitchen faucets to bathroom plumbing, and to share some advice to make your spaces look cohesive and beautiful.
Photo courtesy of Hansgrohe
EASY ACCESS
“As we age, it is so much easier on your wrists to use lever handles wherever you can rather than the knob type that you have to turn.” — Lois Haron, Lois Haron Designs
Available at MDC: Infusion Showrooms by Etna Supply bathroom faucet.
Photo courtesy of Toto
LUXURY LAVATORY
“The one product that I love to install in bathrooms is a Toto toilet. If you are looking for your powder room, purchase one that is Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant so that it’s higher and longer to accommodate both men and women. If it’s in a primary bathroom, think about adding extras like a bidet and heated seat for added comfort.” — Lois Haron, Lois Haron Designs
Available at MDC: Infusion Showrooms by Etna Supply toilet.
Photo courtesy of Delta Faucet Company
SAVE VS. SPLURGE
“When allocating funds for your design budget, splurge on the main powder room. It’s the bathroom your guests will see, and it deserves elevated details — like using an eight-inch faucet spread rather than a single handle. The space to save is a children’s bathroom where you can fit it with more economical fixtures and plumbing.” — Lois Haron, Lois Haron Designs
Available at MDC: Infusion Showrooms by Etna Supply bathroom faucet.
Photos courtesy of Newport Brass and Visual Comfort
METAL MIXER
“If you’re concerned about mixing metals in a space, don’t worry, you absolutely can. The kitchen in particular, is a room where there are typically several opportunities for the use of multiple metal finishes. There are several ways to pair finishes — plumbing, decorative light finishes, cabinet hardware, decorative trim on range hoods, or mesh on cabinet doors. Specifically, all the plumbing could be in one finish such as brass while the lighting and cabinet hardware could be another finish like dark bronze. You might also add interest by joining copper and stainless-steel finishes, or even polished brass with polished silver. Our eye likes the diversity!” — Kathleen McGovern, Kathleen McGovern Studio of Interior Design
Available at MDC: Infusion Showrooms by Etna Supply kitchen faucet with side spray, City Lights Detroit pendant.
Photograph by Martin Vecchio
BUDGET & UTILITY
“When selecting kitchen fixtures, we focus on budget and utility. Modern plumbing fixtures can improve efficiency significantly, especially with workstation-style sinks that support accessories like cutting boards and strainers on an internal ledge. For faucets, determine whether pull-down or side spray units suit your needs. Supporting features such as a garbage disposal air switch and a soap dispenser are also commonly incorporated to enhance convenience.” — Katie Rodriguez, Katie Rodriguez Design
Available at MDC: Infusion Showroom by Etna Supply faucet, soap dispenser, and sink.
Photograph by Martin Vecchio
FUNCTION FACTOR
“Function is just as important as aesthetics when selecting bathroom fixtures. Consider how you prefer to operate the faucet — lever handles often work best for children and seniors, and counter-mounted options are typically easier to reach than wall-mounted ones for small children. Spout height can influence mirror placement and accommodate specific needs, such as allowing children to rinse under the faucet. With many styles and configurations available, identifying your priorities makes it much easier to narrow down the options.” — Katie Rodriguez, Katie Rodriguez Design
Available at MDC: Infusion Showroom by Etna Supply fixtures.
Photo courtesy of Kohler
CONSIDER COLOR
“Color is back — even in toilets, tubs, and sinks! For anyone looking to make a bold statement in their bathroom, this is such a fresh and fun way to do it. I love all the modern silhouettes and stunning palettes of hues that feel current, yet timeless. This return to personality and vibrancy makes my anti-beige heart very happy.” — JP Beaudoin, No Beige Days Interiors
Available at MDC: Infusion Showroom by Etna Supply toilet.
Photo courtesy of Kallista
WHERE TO BEGIN?
“I always begin with the faucet. It’s the true workhorse of the space. It needs to perform beautifully and look stunning at the same time. I like to think of the faucet as the jewelry of the countertop; a detail that ties everything together and adds a touch of elegance. I start by choosing the finish, then the form, prioritizing comfort and ease of use. If the handles feel fussy or awkward, it’s not worth the compromise, especially in a kitchen. I also prefer a pull-down sprayer for its clean, streamlined look and seamless functionality.” — JP Beaudoin, No Beige Days Interiors
Available at MDC: Infusion Showroom by Etna Supply kitchen faucet.
Photo courtesy of Kallista
SMALL SPACE, BIG IMPRESSION
“I always splurge on the powder room. It should feel like an experience — a small space that leaves a big impression. Adding a show-stopping faucet to the vanity instantly elevates the room and gives it that ‘wow’ factor guests will remember. It’s also the perfect place to take bold design risks. This faucet with its Carrara marble knob is a great example — it’s unexpected, sculptural, and definitely not something you see every day. I love that.” — JP Beaudoin, No Beige Days Interiors
Available at MDC: Infusion Showroom by Etna Supply bathroom faucet.