Design Notes
When it comes to most areas in the home, there are things that often get overlooked because they are thought to have little value or impact. The bathroom sink falls into this category, but it holds more value than you may realize. The right sink can add a touch of character to your bathroom space and enhance its overall appearance and style. We have come a long way since the caveman days, when sinks were made from whatever material was handy, such as wooden bowls or even a turtle shell. Today, there are numerous options available as manufacturers have explored various styles and materials to create sinks that suit each homeowner and serve different purposes. With such a wide variety, it can be challenging to determine which one is best for you and your specific needs. Today, we want to explore the selections offered and what they have to offer you.
Vessel Bathroom Sink
This has been a popular trend for some time, with vessel sinks offering a look and feel that embodies a more contemporary style. A vessel sink is simply one that sits on top of the counter instead of the traditional undermount sink. Although there are options where they can be semi-recessed, meaning they will sit inside part of the countertop, this requires a precise cut. This sink offers several benefits, including an elegant style that is unique and possesses a beautiful shape, making your bathroom feel more luxurious. The material choice can also play a factor in the impact it makes, such as clear glass and even ones with color in them. Some have even been made from natural stone, which gives it more of an organic feel. Marble and granite are additional options available that can give your bathroom a makeover. They work well in pairs or as stand-alones for a guest bathroom. Another benefit is that it leaves you with additional countertop space, as it sits on top. This also means that it does not disrupt the design of your bathroom vanity, unlike the undermount sink. Installation tends to be simple, as you typically cut a hole in the countertop before placing it on top. Of course, like anything, there are some downsides to a vessel sink, such as the need for more frequent cleaning. Because it sits on top of the bathroom counter, dirt and grime can accumulate in that space and may require occasional extra attention. Due to the rim being fully exposed, there is a possibility that it could become chipped if something were to fall directly onto it; however, this is a low-risk factor and should not be a significant concern. While some may consider them a fad, they are still a great option to consider if you are looking for a unique look and feel for your bathroom.
Undermount Bathroom Sink
The undermount sink is among the most popular sinks chosen for bathrooms, and with good reason; it has been tried and tested over the years with steady, dependable results. They are also considered a very versatile sink option. They are used in both residential and commercial projects. Due to this versatility, they can work well with just about any design layout or style you can think of, making them a great choice. Like the vessel sinks, they also allow you a great use of your bathroom countertop, which means more room to lay out your things as you get ready in the morning. Some have even opted to match their countertop and sink, making it appear as one piece. Of course, if you choose opposite colors, it can also create a stunning contrast. As they are recessed into the countertop itself, undermount sinks are very easy to clean and maintain, which is a big plus today. You can scrub the countertop edge and have the excess water run right into the sink. If you are renovating your bathroom with the intention of selling it, choosing an undermount sink is your best option, as it increases the value. Just be sure to select a countertop that is neutral in color and style, so it will appeal to a wider range of buyers. Some of the downsides to an undermount sink are the level of difficulty when installing it. Unlike the vessel sink, which is installed from the top, this type of sink must be installed from the bottom, and precision is crucial in this process. The lip of the sink and the countertop must match to prevent any possible leaks and to ensure a visually appealing appearance. If you’re looking for a sink that combines style with simple maintenance, consider an undermount bathroom sink.
Drop-In Bathroom Sink
A drop-in sink is one that hangs from its rim on top of the bathroom countertop and is one of the older sink options, compared to undermount and vessel sinks, which are newer arrivals to the sink market. It is often referred to as a self-rimming or a top-mount sink. With not much difference between it and the undermount sink, it can really be a matter of personal preference, though it tends to be a cheaper option of the two. Installation is simpler because it proceeds from the top down, allowing you to attempt it yourself. Another benefit is that this sink is also easy to clean, even easier than the undermount, because all areas of the sink are visible due to the rim resting on the countertop. All the important areas are also within easy reach, making it simple to maintain a clean bathroom sink. Undermount sinks tend to require specific materials for countertops, whereas drop-in sinks are compatible with a wider range of materials, making them a more versatile choice. The drawbacks to having a drop-in sink are that the countertop can be a bit harder to clean due to the rim. While the sink itself is easy to clean, the bump can present a problem. When you scrub the edge, water can collect around it, making it cumbersome to wipe directly into the sink. One advantage is that it is also a more affordable option, making it a great fit for the renovation budget. Learn more about the differences between an undermount sink and a drop-in sink from this article by The Spruce. A drop-in sink is a great choice that has provided many homeowners with a durable option for their bathroom.
It is always fun to watch those home improvement shows. It is always a delight to watch designers come up with a plan that completely transforms the space from drab to fab. Often, after watching those shows, you have a tendency to look around your own home, wishing you could give it an update, but a renovation is not conceivable at the moment for one reason or another. The good news is that you don’t have to undergo a renovation to give your home a lift or freshen it up; sometimes it’s the little things —the details —that can completely revamp your space and make a big impact without breaking the bank. Discover six simple ways you can freshen up your home and even make it feel completely new without going through a renovation.
Here are some steps you can take to ensure your kitchen is healthy and ready for creating dishes that are not only delicious but also beneficial for your family’s health. We know that it is not always easy to stick with the decision to be healthier, but with a well-designed kitchen, it can be. With over twenty years of experience, our design team is well-versed in planning a kitchen design that functions well for your specific needs while also reflecting the style you will love. We serve more than 15 counties and invite you to visit our 5,000-square-foot showroom, where you can walk through multiple kitchen displays to get a feel for the possibilities that await you. Connect with us and let’s start planning a healthy kitchen design.
Organization is a key part of a successful life. You make a plan, you know what you need, and how you will accomplish your goals. This strategy requires you to lay everything out so you can be prepared, which is why people love apps that help them stay on track or write it down in an old-fashioned paper planner. An organization can also infiltrate multiple areas of life, such as time management and home layout, meaning it has made its presence known in the design world. More and more designers are seeking ways to integrate organization into their designs, to the extent that a new term has been coined to describe this approach: organizeology. Let’s unpack what organizeology means!
If you are looking to hit the refresh button on your home, color is always a great way to start. From simple accent pieces, such as pillows and rugs, to repainting an entire room, choosing a new color can inspire you and help you regain your focus. The color of the year for 2022 are a wonderful place to start and can guide you down the right path for your home. Come visit our showroom in Uptown Shelby, NC, where you can walk through our 5,000-square-foot space and experience the possibilities for your home.
Lighting is a crucial aspect of interior design; it significantly influences the mood in the home and alleviates eye strain when there is minimal natural light or when it gets dark. More often than not, a home suffers from insufficient lighting instead of overillumination. For seniors, lighting is even more critical, as the muscles in the eye weaken over time and the pupil size decreases, making it harder for light to enter. Better lighting reduces the chance of bumping or falling over an obstacle and lessens the strain on the eyes as you look around. Good lighting also helps create a comfortable and relaxing environment, exactly what you want for your well-deserved retirement. Let’s talk about how you can have the best lighting, what the benefits are, and which lighting choices are best for certain areas in the home.







Walker Woodworking 
Walker Woodworking 
Greenbrook Design
Walker Woodworking