Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/177297
The Cristadur sink with the Perfect Drain, from Novanni Stainless Inc. for the German company's Cristadur range. The sinks blend 80 per cent quartz with high-grade acrylic to produce an ultra-fine smooth and durable finish that's anti-microbial. "Cristadur recently launched the Aspire 2 bowl and Aspire 1.75 bowl (both Canadian sizing), says John Pearce, Novanni's senior VP of sales and marketing. We've also just introduced the line's new bar/prep bowl, which can be either under or topmounted." The Cristadur sinks now come in five colours: black, bronze, steel, magnolia and the new chocolate option. "It looks good enough to eat!" says Pearce. "The Cristadur line has been very successful – and especially since we expanded the palette to include chocolate." On the bathroom sink and vanity front, interior designer Allie Baxter of Designs by Allie says the future's bright and character-filled. "If you've been holding off on a bathroom renovation, 2013 is the year 36/ p34-37Sinks.indd 36 december 2012 to do it," says Baxter. "The emerging trends are both exciting and exhilarating. The popularity of a natureinspired design will continue, but with a few updated elements. Raw wood will be the material of choice for cabinetry; organic shapes with textured finishes, such as hammered copper, will be fashionable for sinks; and the introduction of vibrant colour used as an accent to the earthy tones will be all the rage." "For a more glamorous space, we'll see a re-emergence of the Art Deco style, complete with bright colours against silver and champagne-hued backgrounds. Vanities will feature inlaid wood and lacquer finishes; sinks will have an elongated linear curve; and the well-known stepped form will be characterized in faucet designs." Charboneau says a growing trend in bathroom design is creating a more personal, soothing and natural living space – using natural materials that are now more readily available. "Bathrooms have become an oasis for homeowners – and, in a coastal area, the focus is now on 'bringing the outside in.' There are also designs and colours available for every style and whim." Kohler's Artist Editions Sinks range is a perfect example. The firm recently refreshed the line with the Gilded Meadow. Inspired by Japanese water-colours, Gilded Meadow's dramatic conical shape combines a carved floral pattern with precious-metal accents. On the vanity side, Kohler's latest models reflect a demand for products offering ample storage space: such as the Persuade. A sleek take on the traditional pedestal sink, Persuade's contemporary design incorporates a pull-out drawer with two trays, plus a singledoor cabinet. Robinson Lighting & Bath Centre is also serving bathroom designs incorporating character and a more clean-cut look by stocking a range of floating vanities. "We're seeing a trend towards floating vanities; a more minimalistic look," says Matt Robinson. "Duravit's Ketho is a good example – and Kohler's Robern is another we're selling a lot of. Some of the cabinets also feature built-in lights and pull-out handles." Technology also continues to inspire innovative and eco-friendly sink and bathroom options. Bradley Corp. recently launched its new Advocate™ AV-Series Lavatory System – the first commercial lavatory unit to incorporate a sink, soap, faucet and dualsided hand dryer all into one sleek, high-tech unit. Combined with its touch-free technology and sustainable features, the Advocate simplifies hand washing, washroom maintenance, and promotes a safer and more hygienic restroom environment. "The Advocate changes the face of hand-washing in public spaces," says Kris Alderson, Bradley's senior marketing manager. "Having soap, water and a hand dryer all within easy reach raises the bar for convenience, comfort and safety." To use the Advocate, people intuitively pass their hands left-to-right through a touchless soap dispenser and touchless faucet, and finish with the high-efficiency hand dryer. Available in single-, two- or three-user models, the Advocate is ADA compliant and comes equipped with a hands-free infrared 0.38 gpm faucet that reduces water usage by 24 per cent – and an infrared highspeed dryer, which dries hands in 15 seconds or less. Made with durable Terreon®RE recycled solid-surface material (comprised of 25 per cent pre-consumer recycled content and a bio-based resin), the Advocate promotes sustainable restroom design. ■ Sinks 11/16/12 3:24 PM