The Show Room Insider

MSP: What’s popular in contemporary sinks and faucets—above-counter sinks or undermount? Super shiny or matte finishes for the faucets?
Andrea Johnstone, Fantasia Showrooms: The most unique, contemporary fixtures for the bath are etched-glass vessel sinks, clear or frosted; concrete sinks, mostly vessel but also integral lav/countertops in straightforward formats (rectangular or round integral or wave); and trough sinks. Wonderful sculptured metal vessel sinks, each one unique and a true work of art, are also popular. As for faucets, we sell double the number of matte finishes compared with the super shiny, but we are hearing that shiny yellow (gold) is coming back on the coasts. Who knows if and when we will see that again.

MSP: If you’re buying all-new appliances for your home and want to be as energy-efficient and environmentally conscious as possible, what should you look for? What are the most eco-friendly lines?
Mike Mahin, Guyer’s Builder Supply: You should ask for all-gas appliances when looking for cooking equipment because gas is a more efficient energy source than electricity. Look for drawer dishwashers that allow you to wash half loads, dishwashers with sensor programs, or European dishwashers that can heat their own water so you can lower the temperature setting on your water heater. Ask for refrigerators with variable-speed compressors. Front-load laundry reduces energy use significantly (as much as 200 gallons of water less per week). European manufacturers (Miele, ASKO) and also Fisher & Paykel offer eco-friendly designs. Full-line appliance manufacturers like KitchenAid, Electrolux, and Jenn-Air are also good lines to visit.

MSP: What are the options for homeowners who want the look and feel of natural materials for their kitchen countertops, but don’t want the price or upkeep?
Andrea Hanson, Rubble Tile: Porcelain tiles that look like granite, sandstone, limestone, pewter, and marble are a good choice. Some are such great replicas that you can hardly tell the difference.

MSP: How should homeowners get started picking out their favorite fixtures in a crowded lighting show room? What information should they bring?
Kari Cartier, Cartier Lighting: Lighting consultants can guide you through the process. To make sure that the light levels are correct for the tasks, accents, or general lighting needs, we ask questions like “Do your kids do homework at the kitchen island?” and “Do you want to highlight the space above the fireplace for art?” We also confirm ceiling heights to provide the correct amount of chain. And we may surprise you by asking about your interior’s surfaces. Darker wood floors absorb light and polished granite counters reflect light. Bring examples of your flooring, tile, carpets, and counters to best select your lighting finishes.