Glass a valid option for countertop
Dear Debbie: We are considering putting a glass countertop in our guest bathroom. They are so gorgeous, but we are hearing mixed reviews. Are they practical?
Beverly
When you are choosing a material for your kitchen or bathroom countertop, it’s important to understand how the material will hold up under the type of lifestyle you lead. Glass is a stunning choice for a modern, custom look. It is not as readily available as the more common engineered stone, marble, granite, wood or laminates, and it is pricier than most other options. However, its nonabsorbent quality makes it one of the most hygienic surfaces around, and it is easy to clean. Glass can be cut to any size and shape and the colourways vary from translucent solids to flowing patterns and striated mixes. Glass does scratch, but can be protected in the kitchen with butcher block cutting boards. Glass can chip or break, so best to go with tempered glass at least one inch thick. Just as with windows, fingerprints do show, so if you have a busy household with young children, then maybe this is not your best choice.
It is a good idea to consult with a kitchen/bath designer or glass company to discover what would best suit your bathroom. Shown above right is the Artisan Glass collection from Hastings Tile and Bath. Showcasing the versatility of this material, the collection combines glass tile and glass panels with coordinating bath fixtures, includ-
ing ing towel-warmers, countertops and mirrors. The brilliant blue and white is a bold choice adding to the unique, custom look of the suite. Other shades are available in this hand-hewn collection.
Dear Debbie: Vessel sinks seem to be all the rage rage right now. But will this this last? We are redoing our master bathroom and want it to still be stylish in 10 years. Which type would you choose?
Julie
There are no guarantees when it comes to design trends. My advice is always to go with what you like, as you will be living with the choice every day and it should make you happy. But remember that vessel sinks have been around forever — they were the first wash bowls. There are many styles from which to choose that range from classic vitreous china resting on a vintage chest, copper sinks set into a wood base or modern tinted glass vessels displayed on sleek vanities. Vessel sinks are an artful addition to any bathroom, an alluring focal point that will serve you well.
Dear Debbie: Debbie: I I am am thinking thinking of of wallpapering wallpapering my my bathroom bathroom in in a a grey grey and and silver silver diamond diamond pat- pattern. tern.
Can I put a patterned shower curtain that has has grey, silver silver and purple in in it it with with this this paper? paper? How How would would it it look? look?
Marie
I like like the the idea idea of of the the splash splash of of purple. purple. Grey Grey and and silver silver are are con- contemporary temporary and and modern, modern, right right on on trend. trend. But But you you do do need need a a third third colour colour to to bring bring it it all all together, together, a a deep deep wine wine shade, shade, aqua aqua or or a a bit bit more more of of the the purple purple will will all all work work well. well.