I am one of those people who often wonder why things have to be the way they are.
For example, why don't household items like televisions, toasters and home office equipment come in more interesting colours or patterns? Why can't the computer tower come in a bright paisley or toile design, for example?
For the most part, we're stuck with basic black, white, chrome or grey colour finishes for these items, which are usually in plain sight most of the time. That's why the designers on the decorating shows are always looking for a way to hide the big-screen television or stereo equipment when not in use. They just aren't pretty.
The same can be said for many household fixtures like bathtubs and bathroom sinks. Yes, you may find unique designs, like vessel sinks, and some solid colours, but what would life be like if we could get these items in vibrant, colourful designs?
Well, I came across these unique and vivid Kohler sink designs recently and was quite pleased that someone out there took a chance and created a truly unique design. The photos of these lovely sinks, courtesy of Kohler, are a testament to designers who think outside the box. These patterned sinks aren't for everyone, but wouldn't the leopard design be yummy in an ensuite or a guest bathroom? It's masculine and sexy and would be a definite focal point in the intended room.
The other sink is fun, retro and offers tons of options with regard to colour schemes by way of its colourful design. There are more than 30 colours in this piece, so the colour palettes for the room are endless and could be changed easily, which would always keep this sink in vogue. This colourful sink would be great for a young, artistic type or a young-at-heart artistic type. Both of these unique sinks would be awesome in the right commercial setting as well, like a spa or restaurant restroom.
Most people would be cautious when considering an item like this for their home because it's a rather permanent choice. You have to be a little brave and bold, but the payoff could be a really great space. The leopard print is a little less risky because this pattern has always made its way into designs in one form or another over the years, even if in small doses. It's still bold, but also exotic, which can be a welcome attribute in a private bathroom. We all want that spa-escape kind of atmosphere in the bathroom these days. What better way to escape than to create an exotic space in which to relax your troubles away?
I'd love to see the designers take this concept a little further. It would be amazing to have, say, a claw-foot tub with a leopard print on the inside and black on the outside to co-ordinate with this unique sink. It would also be awesome to have the option of purchasing a tub in other patterns like toile, paisley or floral.
In researching this article, I found a few websites offering hand-painted claw-foot bathtubs, but the design is only available on the exterior of the tub and the overall cost is significant. If you happen to have an old claw-foot tub you want to revamp, this is certainly an option. You may even consider painting the exterior of your old claw-foot yourself, but it is a tricky job and is usually best done by professionals.
I happened upon a product on the Internet that has been featured on HGTV and is called FX Sheeting. It is available to purchase online at www.Alsacorp.com. It's a contact-paper-like product that is actually made from thin sheets of metal (copper, steel, brass, etc.) that is self-adhesive and can be used to revamp appliances, countertops, furniture and just about any other surface you could apply regular contact paper to. You could turn your ugly white fridge into one with a stainless-steel look simply by cutting the product to size and adhering it to a clean surface. Flat-front wooden cabinets could have a dramatic makeover with the use of a brushed steel or copper finish. There are other finishes available like burl wood, walnut and tarnished copper. Check out the site for ideas and prices.
Connieoliver@shaw.ca
